Well done to the Hawkesbury’s 2024 school leavers! We thought we’d share some photos to celebrate this exciting moment (and we’re sure the kids must be so relieved!). Richmond High School said goodbye to its leaving class on Thursday, 26th September, as they wrapped up classes and got ready for the HSC exams. Enjoy these farewell photos from their big day!Year 12 Class of 2024 - Caps Off! Richmond High School Graduates.Photo Credit: Amity GilesOur 2024 Student Leaders cutting the Graduation Cake on behalf of the Year 12 cohortPhoto Credit: Amity GilesRichmond High’s Year 12 cohort perform the closing act at the R U OK? WELL- Fair Concert on 24/9/24.Photo Credit: Laura Pedersen

Sex Crimes Squad detectives charge two Windsor men for allegedly committing and filming bestiality on farm animalsDetectives from the NSW Police Sex Crimes Squad yesterday arrested two Windsor men, aged 38 and 42, in connection with allegations of bestiality and child abuse material. The men were charged following an investigation led by Strike Force Trawler, which uncovered graphic content allegedly involving farm animals and secret footage of a child.The arrests were made early Thursday morning (September 26), after a search warrant was executed at a Windsor property. Police seized multiple electronic devices, reportedly containing bestiality material and videos filmed without the child's knowledge. Two dogs were also removed from the property and placed in the care of the RSPCA.The 38-year-old man has been charged with two counts of bestiality and using a carriage service to access child abuse material. The 42-year-old faces charges of peeping or prying and possession of bestiality material.Both men appeared at Penrith Local Court yesterday. The younger man was refused bail, while the older man was granted conditional bail to return to court on November 22.Strike Force Trawler's investigation continues, and police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

More than a kilometre of mature gums and native trees along Grose Vale Road, Grose Vale are set to be cleared next month, as part of Redbank’s controversial housing development. The large-scale tree removal, planned for October, has angered local residents, who reached out to the Hawkesbury Post this week after noticing the trees, many large old gums had been individually tagged for removal.Hawkesbury City Council (HCC) says the planned clearing is part of a road-widening project agreed upon between Redbank developers and HCC under a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA). They said the felling of these trees is necessary to accommodate the expansion of Grose Vale Road. Residents are also angered that the road widening and tree removal is not located on the side of the Redbank development, but instead along the opposite side of the road - just metres from established homes not associated with Redbank. The removal of native trees in the area has sparked growing anger within the community. Loss of habitat is known to be one of the greatest threats to native wildlife, including endangered koalas, which rely on the region’s trees for survival. The destruction of native habitat in the Hawkesbury is increasingly being seen as a significant environmental issue, with locals expressing deep frustration over the ongoing large-scale clearing.Late last week, over 40 native trees, including gums, were felled at another development site in Kurrajong, further fueling concerns. HCC has since issued a halt to any further clearing at that site on Hermitage Road.HCC has defended the removal stating that loss of trees will be compensated through a tree planting schedule that includes 1,049 replacement trees. “The Regional Panel in its deliberations, concluded that the proposal would not have a significant impact on any threatened species, populations or communities listed under the Biodiversity Conservation Act. The loss of trees at this site would be addressed holistically in the proposed tree planting schedule which includes 1049 replacement trees across the Southern Valley Precinct,” HCC told the Hawkesbury Post.Council said the works are scheduled for the October school holidays to reduce traffic disruption, although final approval for road occupancy is still pending.

Hawkesbury City Council has stepped in to halt further tree clearing at the access to a development site in Kurrajong Hills after more than 40 trees, including old ironbarks and grey gums, were cut down this week. The felled trees at 150 Hermitage Road were part of a koala habitat and a crucial wildlife corridor for endangered species.The development, by Galea and Co was approved over a decade ago, and Hawkesbury Council had told residents it was powerless to stop it. However, residents alarm over the destruction of the native trees, half estimated to be more than 50 years old and smaller native vegetation, late last week has resulted in the Council enforcing a stop to the felling of more trees.The affected area runs approximately 200 metres along Hermitage Road, leading to the development site. The now-cleared stretch was once home to ironbarks and grey gums, which provided essential food sources for the region’s koalas. This tree-lined route was a key wildlife corridor, allowing species to move safely between Blue Gum Creek and bushland along Mill Road. Residents describe the road as having been a vital passage for numerous native species, which have now lost significant habitat.The development at the site was initially approved in 2010 for an eight-lot residential subdivision. While most development approvals would have expired by now, the construction of a bridge in 2014 led the Council to classify it as a “substantial commencement.” As a result, the project continues under the original approval, despite no longer meeting current environmental standards. This situation has become increasingly common across New South Wales, with so-called “Zombie DAs” allowing developments to proceed without today’s more sophisticated environmental and cultural impact assessments.An urgent inspection was conducted by Council regulatory staff yesterday. However, most of the trees along the road have already been lost.One of the cleared trees, a grey gum overhanging Douglas Farm Road, had long been home to a variety of wildlife. Resident Eric Finley recalls, “Last year, two frogmouths raised their chicks in that tree. They rebuilt their nest in August, and the chicks would have hatched by now. We can only hope the parents survived when the tree was felled.”Finley also highlighted the impact on Blue Gum Creek, just below the development site. “There’s now a hillside of exposed earth leading directly to the creek, where platypus have been confirmed by a University of Western Sydney research project. With heavy rain forecast this week, much of the soil is likely to wash into the creek, further damaging the ecosystem.”Residents also expressed concern about the loss of trees that had been part of local wildlife rescue efforts. “A couple of years ago, WIRES rescued a sick koala from a eucalypt along the roadside. It was released back in the same spot after treatment. That tree is now gone, along with many others where we had seen koalas and other rare animals like Feather-tailed gliders and masked owls,” Finley said.

Western Sydney University has today secured a $16.7 million federal government grant to develop an Agri Tech Precinct at its Hawkesbury campus. The precinct, previously announced, aims to revolutionise Australian agricultural research and innovation, with construction slated to begin in April 2025.Spanning 50 hectares, the new facility will serve as a hub for advanced research, education, and industry collaboration. Vice-Chancellor George Williams said the project’s goal is to establish Australia as a global leader in sustainable and resilient food systems, addressing the increasing demand for smarter agricultural solutions.The cost of the project is expected to reach $30 million, with funding split between the federal government and the university. The Albanese government said the funding contribution fulfills an election promise under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program, with 150 jobs expected during the construction phase and up to 240 additional roles created once the precinct is operational.Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said agriculture accounts for 13% of Australia’s export economy and 55% of its land mass and the investment would help to secure its competitive future. “With growing demand for sustainable, resilient food systems, the Agri Tech Precinct will help keep Australia at the forefront of innovation in the agriculture sector,” she said.Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman highlighted the Hawkesbury region’s agricultural heritage and the precinct’s role in integrating modern technology with traditional farming practices.  “This is an important investment in the WSU Richmond campus. The Hawkesbury is the heart of peri-urban farming in NSW, with a rich tradition in food production and land management, and this initiative opens up opportunities for 21st Century agri-tech,” Templeman said. “Not only will the Agri Tech Precinct play a growing role in the future of agriculture in Australia, but it will create hundreds of exciting new jobs plus new higher education opportunities in the Hawkesbury and Western Sydney,” she said.Williams praised the campus’s longstanding role in agricultural education. “Our Hawkesbury campus has a long history of agricultural education and cutting-edge research. We are delighted this facility continues that proud tradition, cementing Western Sydney’s position as a world-leading hub for agricultural research and innovation.”In addition to benefiting students and researchers, Williams noted that the precinct’s proximity to Badgerys Creek Airport could enhance export opportunities for fresh produce, strengthening ties with global markets.Stage 1 of the project is expected to open to students by late 2025, with Stage 2 to follow.

Police are urgently seeking public assistance to help locate a six-year-old girl missing from her home in Glossodia. Ava Midson was last seen around 1:40 pm today (Monday, 23 September) at her residence on Wattle Crescent, Glossodia. After she could not be found, her family alerted officers from the Hawkesbury Police Area Command, who have since launched an investigation into her whereabouts.Authorities are particularly concerned for Ava’s welfare as she is non-verbal and lives with autism, making her more vulnerable. Ava is described as being of Caucasian appearance, approximately 120cm tall, with long blonde hair tied in a ponytail and green eyes. At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing a long-sleeved purple shirt, a nappy, and purple shoes.Anyone with information on Ava’s location is urged to contact Hawkesbury Police or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. Information can also be submitted confidentially via the Crime Stoppers website.Police have reminded the public not to report information through social media but to contact authorities directly.

A motorcycle rider has been seriously injured following a crash with a truck in Windsor on Sunday. About 3.40pm yesterday emergency services responded to reports of a crash between a motorcycle and truck at the intersection of Hawkesbury Valley Way and Cox Street, Windsor. NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the rider, an 18-year-old man at the scene before he was taken to Westmead Hospital in a serious but stable condition. The 45-year-old truck driver was uninjured and has been taken to Hawkesbury Hospital for mandatory testing. Officers from Hawkesbury Police Area Command have established a crime scene are awaiting the arrival of specialist police.The area is expected to remain a crime scene for a considerable amount of time and drivers are urged to avoid the area.As investigations into the incident continue anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact Windsor Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

In a major reversal, the NSW government will now test most of the state's drinking water for cancer-causing "forever chemicals." Still despite not knowing the outcome of those investigations, the government maintains water for Sydney and the Blue Mountains is safe to drink. "To be clear, drinking water for Sydney and the Blue Mountains remains safe to drink," a government spokesperson told the Hawkesbury Post today.This shift to widespread testing follows a Sydney Morning Herald investigation, which uncovered PFAS levels exceeding safety guidelines by more than 50 times in a pristine Blue Mountains dam.In May, Sydney Water assured the SMH that "there are no known PFAS hotspots in our drinking water catchments." The SMH investigation revealed that NSW Water had largely relied on desktop research to assess contamination risks.Before the government’s announcement, the Hawkesbury Post had already published the first in a series of articles addressing PFAS contamination in the Hawkesbury region. You can read that article on The Hawkesbury Post here; https://hawkesburyapp.com.au/hawkesbury-post-news/news/page-1/66848cbed6cd61016e45e1c6

PFAS contamination is a ticking time bomb, and the Hawkesbury is at the heart of the crisis. These deadly chemicals, once used in firefighting foams at the RAAF base, have polluted our land, water, animals for decades. Yet, governments are still failing to take decisive action. In this five-part series, the Hawkesbury Post investigates the full scope of the PFAS threat, exposing the dangers and the ongoing neglect that leaves our community at risk.Part One: PFAS in the Hawkesbury: Unseen, Unchecked, UnstoppableIn April, Sydney Water quietly published a report revealing it had been testing drinking water across the Sydney basin for a group of toxic chemicals known as PFAS. Alarming elevated concentrations were found in North Richmond and the Blue Mountains.Following further emergency tests, WaterNSW shut down Medlow Dam in August after discovering elevated levels of PFAS. Fresh independent testing by Dr. Ian Wright following this found PFAS concentration sat 3.7 micrograms per litre, which is more than 50 times higher than NSW environmental guidelines. The dangerous chemicals were detected in Adams Creek, which feeds into the dam, marking the latest in a growing series of alerts about these life-threatening chemicals in the region.Richmond is a key area for PFAS contamination - synthetic chemicals dubbed “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down naturally. These substances, often linked to cancer, have been used in everything from firefighting foams to household products like Teflon and activewear. At least one source of Richmond’s contamination is the RAAF base, which used firefighting foams for decades.While a class-action lawsuit awarded $127 million to 30,000 Australians across seven contaminated sites. This only scratches the surface of the PFAS problem and Governments are rightly scared, because these relatively small payouts are only the tip of the iceberg. In the United States, over 15,000 lawsuits have been filed, many targeting governments, as the full scope of PFAS contamination comes to light.Government Inaction on PFASDespite the mounting evidence, Australian authorities have been slow to respond.“The government is doing very little to slow the increasing contamination in highly exposed and new areas which is impacting our precious waterways and land”, LaTrobe Valley PFAS advocate Tracey Anton says. ”Once contaminated, PFAS is there forever. Government must work harder to protect uncontaminated farmland.”Richmond is no exception. Elevated PFAS levels were detected along the banks of the Hawkesbury River at Cornwallis Road which sits to the north of the RAAF base. But fears are that the chemical reach around Richmond and Windsor is far wider than reported, with recent flooding accelerating the spread of the chemicals into agricultural land and waterways, including North Richmond.“It’s not just a human impact. There are ecosystems out there that you would want to be protecting as well. Let’s say you have a prawn that lives in the sediment of water. That’s how we might be exposed,” UNSW Professor Denis O’Connell, a water engineer, told the Hawkesbury Post.The Richmond ConnectionThe presence of PFAS in North Richmond is likely linked to the Hawkesbury River, which is tidal up to the Grose River tributary. PFAS runoff from the nearby RAAF base flows into the river below Richmond and, according to Western Sydney University’s Dr. Ian Wright, is drawn back up into the North Richmond water supply.“PFAS contaminated water has run off into the river below Richmond from the RAAF base but it has come back up the river and been drawn up by Sydney Water into the North Richmond plant:” As well, treated sewage - from the Hawkesbury City Council (HCC) plant - is pumped back into the river in its tidal section. So this means the North Richmond water plant picks up water containing PFAS that has run off from the RAAF side of the river, as well as from the recycled - and PFAS untested water - discharged from the HCC sewerage plant.Treated sewage from the HCC plant, which is pumped back into the river, has not been tested for PFAS, an HCC spokesperson confirmed. “Council is required to undertake testing of its effluent in order to comply with its Environmental Protection Licenses; PFAS is not a pollutant which Council is required to monitor and report on and no testing for PFAS occurs at any of the sewage treatment plants,” an HCC spokesperson told the Hawkesbury Post. This treatment of PFAS as a secretive political hot potato has been backed up by the Hawkesbury Post’s ongoing investigation that shows how dozens of federal and state government departments and statutory bodies, all have some responsibility. These include all state health, agriculture and environment departments as well as Defence, Infrastructure and Air Services Australia at the federal level. Yet the buck appears to stop nowhere. Dr Wright says that the EPA has been negligent in not conducting widespread testing in the Hawkesbury and that testing in September this year by his team in the Blue Mountains showed how far contamination can spread.  Are We Really Safe?The National Health and Medical Research Council’s recent review of PFAS concluded that there is “limited or no evidence” linking the chemicals to human disease. This contradicts findings from the United States and the World Health Organisation, which both state that PFAS causes cancer and that no exposure level is safe.Australia’s allowable levels of PFOA, a key PFAS chemical, are 140 times higher than those permitted in the U.S., despite assurances from political leaders that our water supply is safe.Former Hawkesbury cattle farmer Alastair McLaren, a victim of PFAS poisoning, described the government’s approach as gaslighting. “When we asked tough questions, we were told there was no problem,” McLaren told the Post. He and his family missed out on compensation because they leased rather than owned their land, and no government assistance is available for PFAS victims.“When we first started having consultations with Defence in 2018 they segregated anybody that asked some harder questions. When certain issues came up they said, no that’s the Health Department. We went to Health who said no, that’s NSW Environmental Protection Authority, they said no - because it’s agriculture related - that’s the Department of Primary Industry. The DPI said no, that’s Health. And so it went on.” “That’s what half of our case is, the gas lighting. There is no problem, they told us, there’s no fucking problem.”McLaren’s wife, Kellie, revealed that their entire family has PFAS blood levels in the 95th percentile after consuming beef from Richmond for just three years. The McLarens have since moved out of the Hawkesbury.Australia Continues to Ignore the SciencePFAS poisons drinking water, waterways, groundwater, crops, and animals, yet no government offers free blood testing. While the U.S. and EU enforce strict PFAS regulations, Australia lags behind. In April 2024, the U.S. introduced its first enforceable drinking water standard, aimed at protecting 100 million people and preventing thousands of deaths.Despite a draft PFAS management plan being released in 2022, Australia has yet to finalise it. Experts remain doubtful it will meet the necessary standards.“I have no comfort that Sydney Water says that PFAS levels meet Australian standards when we all know that the acceptable levels in the US are far lower, “ Dr Wright says.Local Hawkesbury councilors are frustrated that governments are not properly briefing them. “On June 10 2024 (for the second time this year) I requested we have a Councillor briefing on the status of PFAS-related chemicals being present in drinking water at North Richmond,” HCC Cr Mary Lyons-Buckett told the Post. “HCC General Manager Liz Richardson said she would request that of Sydney Water and the Department of Defence. But to date we have not heard a response about whether that would be occurring.” Like other councillors who spoke to the Post, Lyons-Buckett noted that “native wildlife, particularly the platypus, are also vulnerable to these classes of chemicals.”A Long-Awaited Reckoning?There may be hope on the horizon. On September 18, NSW Health announced plans to help water utilities like Sydney Water test for PFAS. And Senator Lidia Thorpe is leading a push for a new Senate inquiry into PFAS contamination. This could finally break the wall of silence surrounding the crisis and bring justice to affected communities.

Unknown perpetrators vandalised Hawkesbury Radio, causing extensive damage to its critical broadcasting equipment. The incident occurred between Monday evening, September 2, after 6 pm, and the early hours of Tuesday, September 3, before 5 am, leaving much of the equipment beyond repair. When volunteers arrived Tuesday morning, they were devastated to find the station in ruins, halting regular programming.President of Hawkesbury Radio, Mark Ledden said he was shocked by the senseless destruction. “I am appalled by this action and at a loss for words as to why someone would want to destroy a community charity-based radio station. Hawkesbury Radio has been around for over 40 years, and with so many people in the community having volunteered their time, this act will affect not just our current volunteers and members but also those who have worked here in the past.”Others, mainly volunteers were also in disbelief. Hawkesbury Radio has long been a cherished institution, providing an outlet for community expression, entertainment, and public service for over four decades. For many volunteers, the station is more than just a place to work; it’s a second home, built on camaraderie and shared passion for radio. In the wake of the attack, the outpouring of support from local residents and businesses has been remarkable, Ledden said. Well-wishers have flooded in, with many offering donations to replace the damaged equipment, while others volunteered to help clean up the station. Station member and volunteer, Alex Aliheim said he would like to, “personally thank every single hard working volunteer of Hawkesbury radio for their efforts in the clean up and getting us back on the air to keep servicing the best community in NSW the Hawkesbury.”Another volunteer, Leon Watson also acknowledged the community support, “We will bounce back, but in the back of my mind I'm still in disbelief over what happened.”The station’s technical team is working to assess the damage and find solutions, with the aim of getting Hawkesbury Radio back on air as soon as possible. While regular programming remains disrupted, the station is still streaming online through iHeart Radio and its official website, www.hawkesbury.radio, allowing listeners to continue engaging with their favourite shows and music.  Police are urging anyone with information to contact Windsor Police Station (02) 4587 4099. 

Did you know that reading to your child can boost their vocabulary and thinking skills as early as 14 months? That’s the kind of impact simple activities like reading, singing, and talking can have on early development, according to numerous studies. And it’s exactly what Paint Hawkesbury REaD highlighted through their annual 'Reading Days' or 'Parties with Puddles.'This week, the North Richmond Community Centre came alive with pirate puppies, mermaids, and a friendly dragon named Puddles, showing local families how fun and easy it is to help their children learn. Beyond the treasure hunts and songs, these events aim to educate parents that the research is showing that everyday moments you spend with your child can make a huge difference to their education.Research shows our brains do most of their critical development in the first three years of life. A baby’s brain doubles in weight in the first year, tripling by age three. “Research shows that children start listening to sounds already in utero, and appropriate stimulation through reading, talking, singing and rhyming in the first couple of years of their life helps their young brains develop,” the Paint Hawkesbury REaD spokesperson said. “Children who have had access to daily reading, rhyming and singing come to school with a much better vocabulary, and much better skills in many areas, including social behaviours. Being successful at school is an important foundation for a happy and successful career and life.”Paint Hawkesbury REad said that they want families to know that these activities don’t need to cost a lot of money or take up much time, it’s all about making reading and learning part of your daily routine. “Sometimes parents are too busy, or do not realise the importance of these simple activities and so do not value them. Or they may not have the confidence or think that they don’t have the skills to for example sing with their child. Also they may think that children will learn to read in school, not realising that all the ‘preliteracy habits’; are being formed long before children get to school,”Research from the Australian government agency, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare backs this up, showing that children who are read to daily at ages 2 - 3 score higher in Year 3 NAPLAN reading tests. Even having just 30 children’s books at home when kids are toddlers can improve reading and numeracy scores by the time they reach school age. And it’s not just about reading - singing nursery rhymes, telling stories, or even pointing out street signs can all help boost early literacy skills.“We want parents to understand that these small moments are what make the biggest difference,” says a Paint Hawkesbury REaD spokesperson. “Singing a silly rhyme or reading a book together is more powerful than they might think.”These events are aimed at getting as many children as possible off to a strong start. The Paint Hawkesbury REaD initiative, part of the wider Paint the Town REaD movement, began in Parkes in the 1990s. It now spans 37 areas across Australia, including the Hawkesbury, which joined in 2013. Its goal? To inspire communities to "read, talk, sing, and rhyme with your child from birth," to help lay the foundation for success at school and beyond.Puddles is the mascot for Paint Hawkesbury REaD, to encourages everyone to read, rhyme and sing with children right from birth, so that the children are ready for reading and writing when they get to school.Families who joined the pirate-themed fun at North Richmond didn’t just leave with memories - they took home free books and practical ideas on how to continue the learning at home. Each child picked a book to take home, and parents were able to speak with local services that support early childhood education. If you are looking for children’s books - Windsor and Richmond libraries have got an amazing selection for you to borrow! Or drop into North Richmond Community Centre - there is a whole bookshelf full of donated children’s books in the foyer and you can just help yourself.This year's 'Reading Days' saw 11 local organisations come together, including North Richmond Community Centre, Hawkesbury Library, Glossodia Community Centre, HCOS, Peppercorn Services, Strong Nation Community Services, Hawkesbury City Council, Speak about Speech, Hawkesbury Community Health Services, Oakville Pre School and, All Areas Family Day Care.

Former Hawkesbury Mayor Sarah McMahon is set to return to Blacktown Local Court on October 2, 2024, after her lawyers requested an adjournment in today's proceedings. The adjournment was granted at Windsor Local Court this morning following her lawyer's statement that additional police evidence had surfaced. McMahon, who has not appeared in court for any of her hearings, remains under an interim Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) stemming from an alleged incident involving her ex-boyfriend, local leasing and sales agent, Matthew Bennett.The interim AVO was issued after McMahon was arrested on July 14, 2024, after a late night search for Bennett throughout the Hawkesbury, visiting several locations, including his mother’s house, sister’s house, and an address in Castlereagh, before arriving at his business, located in the historic Post Office building on Windsor Street, Richmond. She told police she entered through a closed side door at 9:30 pm. The PIR said she accessed Bennett’s computer, and sent him a photo of its contents. Bennett, watching the scene unfold via CCTV, identified McMahon and called the police, resulting in her arrest.McMahon was placed in the back of a police vehicle, and later served with an interim AVO that prevents her from threatening, stalking, or harassing Bennett or damaging his property or pets. It also bars her from contacting him, except through legal representatives, and from approaching places where he lives or works. “Police fear that the defendant (McMahon) will escalate and commit further offenses towards the victim (Bennett),” the police report said. No criminal charges have been laid against McMahon.The PIR also notes a previous domestic violence incident from December 11, 2023, in which Bennett is listed as the victim, and McMahon as the person of interest. There are no details regarding that incident.The day after her arrest, McMahon returned to Windsor Police Station, where she accused Bennett of domestic violence over a period of years. Her allegations include claims that Bennett physically assaulted her in 2023 by swinging a Nike bag, causing her to fall and injure her thigh, and that he smashed furniture in their shared home. In June 2024, McMahon also alleged that Bennett threw a glass during an argument, breaking it against the kitchen wall.Bennett has also been served with an interim AVO, though no charges have been filed against him. 

Congratulations to the following local businesses that have been selected at finalists for Hawkesbury Business Awards.We wish you all the very best of luck and look forward to seeing you at the Awards Ceremony at Hawkesbury Race Club on the 13th of November.If you would like to promote your business and it's selection as a finalist please email [email protected] and we can help you with the options.Sea Land SolutionsGourmet HerbsAll Year Round TurfJW Farm and Garden EquipmentPeppertree stablesBy a Farmers DaughterSweet Home AdditionsArvia CreationsBears From The HeartGuy StuffHawkesbury RemakeryKnots & MoreScapes of ArtTasman ClayworksHand Made by Nicole McCloy AutomotiveBetter Truck RepairsUltra Tune - WindsorKurmond Auto CareSinclair Ford - South WindsorOpulent Premium DetailingAusplant Mechanical Services Moore Automotive and LPGAuto LogixCaravan Smash RepairRoll On AutomotiveBakers Delight - Richmond MarketplaceGourmet Cupcakes and DonutsCookiesByDanniThe Cookie Cart & Co.Kaity's CreationsCookie Craft Popple LaneAlanna J Artistry & Studio Beauty at the HeritageAdvanced Beauty EssentialsBare Beauty - Skin & HairCasey-May Makeup ArtistDefine By JillUrban Skin & laserJessica Vegas Professional Hair & Makeup ArtistBlush Nails & Beauty - Richmond MarketplaceIn2skin & Brows WindsorSeraphina BeautyAsh Nailed it Bank Bazaar and Bank Bar & Café Black Duck Espresso CafeSimon's CafeLime & Coconut CafeFreemans Reach Cafe50three Cafe & PatisserieDelicious Desserts - WindsorFit Kidz Learning Centre VineyardRichmond Preschool KindergartenWilberforce Pre-SchoolOakville Preschool Learning CentreWestern Sydney University Early Learning HawkesburyBlue Wren Child Care CentreMcGraths Hill Learning CentreFlourish Early Learning Centre OakvilleRun It AustraliaCOSMO X COLowes - Richmond MarketplaceCotton candy clothing Petrol ThreadsHawkesbury Screen Printing & EmbroideryUrban OutwestFine And Cheap Chinese TakeawayGlossodia TakeawayIbby's Burgers & ShakesHomers South WindsorRob's Backyard PizzaDonut King - Richmond MarketplaceDaddy's Burgers 'n WingsBoost Juice - Richmond MarketplaceTastifyDestiny Martial Arts Australia - Windsor Anytime Fitness RichmondPilates, etc.Apeiron Martial Arts and ParkourYoga BareThe Pilates AffectInside The Lines Tennis AcademyActive 8 Fitness Health & LeisureOZZY 24HOUR FITNESSPlus Fitness 24-7 RichmondThe Y NSW Hawkesbury OasisCrazy About FlowersKurmond FloristAngel's floristRichmond Fruit MarketSciberras Fresh Fruit & VegetablesPitt Town FreshOakville HarvestFriendly GrocerAsh Hair - Bligh Park Shopping CentreChic Hair DesignViktorias Hair And BeautyMousse & CoSally Professional Hair and Makeup ArtistAmaroo Hair & beauty Co Christiane's Hair Design - Richmond MarketplaceEnvy Hair LoungeSaabi CollectiveThe Rural Hair ShedHair At MelsCapelli ArtistryEnable Hub - Registered NDIS Service ProviderGood Smile DentalStep by Step InterventionsMichelle Fitzgerald Counselling and Clinical PsychotherapyTotal Hearing - Windsor NSWThe Speech Co - Speech Pathology ServicesIn2 MotionMyHealth North RichmondPerfect Speech PathologyRiverlands DentalHayek Chiropractic CareSydney Equine Assisted LearningHarvey Norman Beacon Lighting - McGraths Hill HomeKnown For LoungesInstyle FurnitureKurrajong CellarsThe Royal Richmond HotelBird In HandRG McGeesPitt Town BottleshopTates Hotel WindsorClarendon TavernSuper Cellars Drive ThruManaged Waste ServiceBody2Soul PilatesThe Daisy ClinicLuke's Toy box and Educational Resources Sanctuary Care and Support ServicesJust In Fabricarions and Transport Hydraulics Inside Out Home Cleaning Services Caring Touch AestheticsQuick & Clean Home CareEscape to ItalyInside out counselling  Admin With EaseThat Cleaning FreakGreater Western Sydney Academy of Classical Ballet and Musical TheatreBallet @ BilpinOff Centre Dance CoXtreme Talent CoUnited Performing ArtsAspire Dance CompanyÉtoile Dancers - GlossodiaRainbow Children's EntertainmentFantasia ShowstoppersBlue Wheelers RichmondAll Pets Pantry & StockfeedsStephanie's Fur, Fins & Feathers CareHair of the Dog GroomingHeavenly Scented Dog GroomingHooked on HoundsKellys Pet MindingGlasgows Pet SittingBarking with Bianca Blooms the Chemist - Windsor MarketplaceBlooms the Chemist - Richmond MarketplaceKurrajong PharmacyBlooms the Chemist - Windsor Riverview Shopping CentreTerry White Chemmart Pharmacy - North Richmond Shopping CentreBligh Park PharmacyPriceline Pharmacy WindsorAaron Legal SolcitorsPerformance ConveyancingConfident ConveyancingSimple Yet Complex IT SolutionsSanders LegalWinter LegalGS ComputingMarmalade MoneyHawkesbury Women in BusinessMILEX TechnologySarah Cassim ConsultingCathy Stevenson & AssociatesWisemonk ServicesJudge Accountants RichmondLinmark Air Conditioning & Mechanical ServicesRafton Family Lawyers Richmond Hawkesbury Western SydneyRay White Windsor | Richmond | Pitt Town | Wisemans FerryMcGrath Estate Agents - HawkesburyRay White KurrajongRachael Goldsworthy RealtyWiseberry ThompsonsUrban Real Estate Bligh ParkFirst National Connect Richmond ,Windsor and Rouse HillActuate Property Hamish Rogers RealtyPeek Property GroupCutcliffe PropertiesKasalong Thai Restaurant Orchid 22 Chinese RestaurantCriccaDaddy's Burgers 'n WingsSchembrae's at KurrajongLochiel HouseTandoori Chops Indian Grill & BarBarrels & AshesThe River Orchid Chinese RestaurantI SaporiCuts on CampusDouble Ristretto Coffee VanLainleys3dprinting.comSharyn's UpholsteryJake Simmonds Mowing Service Ciardi JoineryHawkesbury Tax & AccountingNu-Waze Driving SchoolKaru DistilleryBlossom Hair Body Face and Wig BoutiqueKurmond HomesHawkesbury Hills Catering CompanyThe Reiki Nook Wollemi Valley SpringsGoodradigbee Cultural and Heritage Aboriginal CorporationWindsor Funeral HomeSydney Print StudioRichmond LaundryThe Teardrop Camper Company Kelly Salas CelebrantNew Haven Farm HomeHigher Ground Tattoos And RecordsNicole Michelle CoutureMumma's Melts - Your Favourite Hand Poured Melt Store Carati Jewellers - Richmond MarketplaceProuds The Jewellers - Richmond MarketplaceRichmond RecordsEBJ Party SuppliesRegency Horse FloatsSpice BasketFone Fanatics Mobile Repairs and AccessoriesMaster EmbroideryLollies 'N' Stuff - WindsorBattery World HawkesburyJubilee Vineyard EstateBellview Estate, BilpinLoxley on Bellbird HillHelloworld Travel  - Richmond MarketplaceFlight Centre - Richmond MarketplaceCrowne Plaza Hawkesbury ValleyDido's PlaceGrange SolutionsAirmakers Air Conditioning ServiceAirmelec - Air Conditioning & ElectricalLS3 Air ConditioningBray BuildingChristou HomesBeaumont Air Conditioning SolutionsMG Painters SydneyAll Clear Pool & Spa SuppliesGrants Quality Kitchens Clean Earth SolarVJ GlassChemDry AustyleTuff Built Constructions

Due to increased fire weather conditions forecast there will be an Extreme Fire Danger Rating for Greater Sydney.Additionally, the #RFS has also declared a Total Fire Ban which will be in force for Greater Sydney.A total fire ban means no fires out in the open. A total fire ban helps limit the potential of fires developing.During a Total Fire Ban you cannot light, maintain or use a fire in the open, or to carry out any activity in the open that causes, or is likely to cause, a fire.Total Fire Ban Rules: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/.../fdr.../total-fire-ban-rulesFire Information: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fires-near-meBush Fire Survival Plan: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan.../bush-fire-survival

The historic colonial brick barrel drain unearthed by a sinkhole in Windsor will remain buried, Hawkesbury City Council has confirmed, leaving some residents disappointed that a significant piece of the area’s colonial past won’t be publicly visible. The sinkhole, which exposed the drain on The Terrace in June, had sparked hopes that the structure could be preserved under a see-through cover for the community to appreciate.Instead, Council has backfilled the site, citing safety and compliance concerns. Residents had contacted the Hawkesbury Post asking why the drain wasn’t left exposed as a permanent reminder of the town's heritage, but the Council has opted for a less public approach. “The brick barrel drain is located directly beneath the surface of The Terrace roadway,” a Council spokesperson said. “Design standards require road surfaces and access pits to be constructed using sturdy and durable materials like concrete to meet industry standards. It would also be unsafe to encourage the community to stand on the road surface in attempts to visually inspect the drain.”While the drain has been restored and protected below the surface, the Council’s decision to conceal it has dampened hopes for a more accessible heritage display. Council says the historic structure was backfilled with appropriate materials before the road and footpath were replaced. Though Council emphasised that concrete wasn’t poured directly onto the drain, the final result leaves the site indistinguishable from any other stretch of road.For residents and visitors wanting to glimpse Windsor’s colonial drainage system, the Council pointed to a reconstructed brick barrel drain on display at the Hawkesbury Regional Museum. This is the closest the public will get to viewing a drain similar to the once-exposed system.Hawkesbury City Council had previously said it worked with heritage experts after the sinkhole appeared in June, but the ultimate decision to bury the site has left some questioning the depth of Council's commitment to making Windsor's past visible. The sinkhole's emergence initially drew attention to the broader issue of riverbank damage caused by years of flooding and neglect, but despite some restoration efforts, much of Windsor’s heritage seems to remain buried - literally and figuratively.Much of Windsor’s colonial heritage was lost during the construction of the new Windsor bridge, including the demolition of the Old Windsor Bridge built in 1874 and the debasement of Thompson Square.

As summer approaches, people across Greater Western Sydney are being urged to take a moment to prepare for the extreme heat, fires, and floods that could hit the region in the coming months. It might be easy to put off, but taking just a few minutes to get ready can make all the difference when disaster strikes.In a region as vast as Greater Western Sydney, the risk of extreme weather events is a very real concern. In recent years, many locals have faced the terrifying effects of floods and bushfires, while heatwaves continue to make life challenging for many. And it’s not just about comfort - research from NSW Health shows that heatwaves can lead to a 13 percent rise in deaths in the region.Western Sydney often gets much hotter than the rest of the city, sometimes by as much as 10°C, and this summer is likely to be no exception. That’s why the Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WSROC) is calling on residents to be proactive during - Emergency Ready Week - (September 16–22), partnering with the Australian Red Cross to promote simple steps that can help everyone prepare.WSROC President Councillor Barry Calvert says preparedness is critical: “We’ve seen the devastating impacts that floods and bushfires have had on our communities. Now, with the likelihood of severe heat events, it’s more important than ever to have an emergency plan in place. It’s not just about protecting property—being prepared can help protect the lives of our loved ones.”The Australian Red Cross suggests four easy steps to get ready:1. Get in the Know: Understand the risks in your area, where to find reliable information, and how to manage stress during an emergency.2. Get Connecte*: Identify emergency contacts, meeting places, and people who can help when things go wrong.3. Get Organised: Make sure important documents, medical info, and plans for pets are all set.4. Get Packing: Prepare a list of essentials and personal items that you’ll need if you have to leave quickly.The Red Cross offers plenty of resources to help, including the free Get Prepared app, which walks you through creating an emergency plan, building a support network, and safeguarding your belongings. According to Calvert, preparing doesn’t take much time: “Spending just five minutes now could save you a lot of stress later. It gives you more control when things get tough and ensures you’re protecting the people and things you care about most.”For more details on how to protect yourself and your family this summer, visit redcross.org.au/prepare.

Urban platypus populations in the Hawkesbury-Nepean River are under immense pressure, with ongoing research revealing the urgent need for conservation efforts. Dr. Michelle Ryan, the Hawkesbury-Nepean Waterkeeper and Senior Lecturer at Western Sydney University emphasised the critical nature of the situation. “Urban platypus populations are under immense pressure. The federal government’s investment is a major step forward in conserving these critical habitats across our catchment areas,” Dr. Ryan said.Highlighting the broader environmental challenge, Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek noted that “nearly half of all nationally listed threatened animals and a quarter of our threatened plants occur in urban areas. We need to act now to protect them.” This pressing need for action has led to Western Sydney University securing a $1 million grant from the Albanese Labor Government. The funding, part of the Urban Rivers and Catchment Program, will support the 'Resilient Rivers for Resilient Hawkesbury Platypus Populations' project over the next three years.The initiative aims to establish a network of 'Platypus Parks' along the Hawkesbury-Nepean River and its tributaries, creating protected areas that will serve as vital habitats for the platypus. The project, led by Western Sydney University in collaboration with the Hawkesbury-Nepean Waterkeeper Alliance, will involve First Nations communities, local landholders, and various community groups.Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman welcomed the funding, stressing the importance of local expertise in driving these conservation efforts. “This $1 million investment, delivered through the Hawkesbury Environment Network (HEN) and involving Western Sydney University, ensures that our local, world-leading platypus experts are at the forefront of efforts to protect our waterways,” she said.The project will allocate sixty percent of the funding to on-ground initiatives aimed at enhancing habitat connectivity and improving riparian health. Community involvement will be a cornerstone of the project, with plans for free events and workshops to engage the public in conservation activities.As part of a broader $200 million commitment by the federal government to restore and protect urban rivers and waterways, this project underscores the urgent need to protect vulnerable species in urban environments. Local groups such as the Cattai Hills Environment Network, Streamwatch, and the Hawkesbury-Nepean Landcare Network will play key roles in the initiative, with additional support from Local Land Services Greater Sydney.Brad Moore, Senior Land Services Officer for Aboriginal Communities,highlighted the significance of First Nations participation, stating, "This project acknowledges the importance of First Nations voices in managing local waterways, which are vital for the platypus and other wildlife to thrive."With work set to begin later this year, the Hawkesbury District is on the path to securing a brighter future for its unique and threatened platypus populations, ensuring these iconic creatures continue to inhabit the river for generations to come.

Nine of the twelve available seats on the Hawkesbury Council have been filled, with three Liberal Party candidates securing their positions. Former Mayor Sarah McMahon, Mike Creed, and Jill Reardon will represent the Liberals, while Amanda Kotlash returns to the chamber for Labor. Independent councillors Mary Lyons-Buckett and Nathan Zamprogno have also been re-elected with substantial increases in their margin, as did Shane Djuric from the Shooters, Fishers, and Farmers Party. Greens Councillor Danielle Wheeler also increased her vote and will return to the chamber while Small Business Party’s Eddie Dogramaci will also return for another term. The final tally is expected to be known before the week starting September 30, 2024.With 31,361 formal votes counted so far and 7,889 informal votes bringing the total to 39,053, several candidates have taken to social media to express their gratitude for the support received during the election. However, the announcement has not been without controversy. Sarah McMahon, re-elected with the Liberal Party, thanked her supporters but made extraordinary allegations of a campaign to smear her reputation. In a Facebook post, McMahon accused members of the community and journalists of waging a “coordinated effort” to “damage, humiliate, and hurt” her reputation. She claimed that lies had been spread across local Facebook groups but did not provide details of the alleged falsehoods.“Thank you to everyone who could see through the biased and cruel agenda of the local activist group who call themselves journalists, backed by a small group who viciously spread propaganda throughout local Facebook groups in a coordinated effort to damage, humiliate, and hurt my reputation almost daily,” McMahon wrote on Facebook. McMahon’s comments follow a difficult few months, as she is set to appear at Windsor Local Court on Thursday in connection with an alleged domestic violence incident against her ex-boyfriend, Matthew Bennett. McMahon was arrested in July after police found her inside Bennett’s business premises, also accessed his computer. According to the Police Incident Report (PIR) McMahon was searching for evidence of Bennett having an affair. She is currently subject to an interim apprehended violence order (AVO), while she has also lodged her own counter-claims of domestic violence against Bennett. Bennett is also the subject of an interim AVO.Other re-elected councillors focused on the future. Greens Councillor Danielle Wheeler posted her thanks on Facebook, expressing optimism about a “more productive term” ahead. Independent Mary Lyons-Buckett praised voters who took the election seriously, taking a swipe at those who complain but don’t vote responsibly. Nathan Zamprogno, who saw a significant increase in his margin, pledged to continue working hard for the community, emphasising the importance of focusing on local issues over party politics.As the remaining three councillors are yet to be confirmed, the final balance of power in the new Council remains unclear, but the stage is set for what promises to be an eventful new term.

Counting in the Hawkesbury Local Council elections shows the Liberal Party taking an early, as expected lead, but the final make-up of Council remains uncertain with more votes yet to be tallied. According to the NSW Electoral Commission, the Liberals (Group I) have secured 28.08% of the formal votes, with 7,449 first-preference votes, positioning them ahead of their competitors. In the 2021 Hawkesbury Council elections the Liberal Party secured 34.38% of first preference votes. The Shooters, Fishers, and Farmers Party (SFF) (Group F), led by Shane Djuric, follows with 12.23% of the vote. Close behind are the Labor Party (ALP) (Group C), led by Amanda Kotlash, and independent groups led by Mary Lyons-Buckett (Group B) and Nathan Zamprogno (Group H), with each capturing around 11% of the formal votes counted. The Greens (Group A) have garnered 9.69%, while smaller independent groups (Groups D, E, and G), along with the Small Business Party (SBP) led by Eddie Dogramachi, have seen more modest support.One issue causing confusion is the significant informal vote rate, reported at 19.98%, due to the grouping of informal votes with "Other Votes" under the same heading. The NSW Electoral Commission explains that “Informal votes” are excluded from the final tally, but “Other Votes” may be included, depending on their classification. This contributes to the high percentage of informal and other votes. The Commission’s website clarifies that "For candidates marked with an asterisk, their formal Below The Line votes are included in the 'Total Informal/Other Votes' figure." The category also includes unclear or incomplete ballot papers, which will undergo a recheck during the count.With a progressive quota of 2,041 and votes still being counted, the final makeup of the council remains unclear. However, candidates who have unofficially secured a seat in the new council include Sarah McMahon, Shane Djuric, Mike Creed, Mary Lyons-Buckett, Nathan Zamprogno, Danielle Wheeler, and Amanda Kotlash. There are 12 councillor positions on the Hawkesbury City Council.