Sydney is running out of places to put its rubbish, and fast. Within five years, the city is expected to hit landfill capacity, raising the prospect of skyrocketing waste disposal costs, more illegal dumping, and stockpiles of rubbish with nowhere to go.As the clock ticks on what some describe as an unfolding waste catastrophe, a small facility in the Hawkesbury could become a test case for an entirely different approach.A private company, ARC Ento Tech, plans to build what it claims will be Australia’s first commercial waste-to-resource plant at the Hawkesbury Waste Management Facility. If built, the plant would process around 20 tonnes of waste per day—most of the region’s garbage—and convert up to 85 percent of it into materials such as metallurgical coking coal, fertiliser, livestock feed and biofuel.The proposal is being touted as a way to divert waste from landfill, but with little detail yet on long-term environmental impacts, cost to councils or how the technology will perform at scale, questions remain.The urgency to find alternatives is real. Hawkesbury City Councillor Nathan Zamprogno says the region’s own tip could be effectively full by 2029 unless plans for an extension are made now. “Hawkesbury are fortunate to have the space for our own tip when many of our neighbouring Councils do not. It is of enormous concern to know that our own facility will be effectively full by 2029 unless we plan for its extension,” he said. “It would be expensive, inefficient and ethically problematic for us to just ship our waste elsewhere.”Landfill space across Greater Sydney is rapidly filling. The pressure on local councils to find alternatives is growing, with many already trucking waste to regional areas or interstate. Others face rising costs and public backlash over new facilities or expanded landfill capacity.The state’s recycling system is also under strain. Without new facilities or major reforms, industry experts warn that Sydney’s waste problem will only worsen.Cr Zamprogno says redirection of waste into recycling streams is critical, but also warned that the NSW Government’s Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) program—mandating a separate compostable waste bin for every household by 2030—is another example of cost-shifting onto local government. “FOGO is a good idea,” he said. “But the estimated costs to Hawkesbury ratepayers will be $5.6 million in the first year alone, and $4.2 million per year after that. If the State government thinks it’s so important that this scheme is introduced, they should pay for it. As it stands, what they are offering meets about 10% of the estimated costs. This is not good enough.”

You won’t see their faces on campaign billboards. You won’t hear their stories in flashy election ads. But tonight – just like last night, and the night before – thousands of older Australian women will sleep in cars, crisis accommodation, or on a friend’s couch with nowhere to go.They are the fastest-growing group of homeless Australians. Many are women who worked all their lives, raised children, cared for ageing parents, and now face the terrifying prospect of homelessness in their 60s, 70s, and even 80s.They are not lazy or irresponsible. They are us – and we are failing them.According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the number of women over 55 experiencing homelessness jumped by 31% between 2011 and 2016. By the 2021 Census, the figure had reached 7,325 – but even that is considered a gross undercount, because so many remain hidden: sleeping in cars, couch surfing, house-sitting, quietly slipping through the cracks.Behind these numbers are familiar stories. Women who left the workforce to raise children. Who were paid less, promoted less, and now retire with half the superannuation of men. Women who spent years caring for others – only to be met with poverty in return.And it’s not just that women are more likely to work in lower-paid, so-called ‘feminised’ industries – like aged care, childcare, and nursing – sectors essential to the functioning of society, yet consistently undervalued. It’s also that women continue to be paid less for doing the same work as men in the same industries. Across nearly every sector, from healthcare to education to law, women earn less than their male colleagues, even when qualifications, experience and roles are the same.This isn’t about merit. It’s about bias – conscious and unconscious. It’s about promotion gaps, bonus gaps, and an entrenched belief that women’s work, time and labour are worth less.The gender pay gap runs deep, and it compounds over a lifetime. Women earn less because they’re more likely to work part-time, more likely to take time out for caregiving, and more likely to be passed over for advancement – but also because they are simply paid less for doing the same job. By retirement, they are left with significantly less savings and superannuation – and often, with no safety net at all.They are not homeless because of bad decisions. They’re homeless because the system was never built for them.A 2020 report by Housing for the Aged Action Group and Social Ventures Australia estimated that 405,000 older women are at risk of homelessness. That’s nearly half a million women walking a tightrope between surviving and slipping through.This isn’t new. A 2022 parliamentary inquiry found older women falling through every gap in every system meant to protect them – from family law to superannuation, from social housing to crisis support. Some left relationships with nothing after years of unpaid labour. Some experienced financial abuse. Many never recovered from the cost of raising children alone.The family law system – with its steep legal costs and outdated assumptions – often leaves women with the kids but not the house, not the support, and certainly not the recognition. A woman can give up her career to raise a family and walk away with little more than a Centrelink payment and a legal system she can’t afford to engage with.Others stayed in abusive relationships out of fear – fear they couldn’t make it financially, fear for their children – and now find themselves abandoned in old age. Not just by their partners, but by the very systems that promised to help them rebuild.Some left the Family Court years ago with a parenting order and a bag of clothes, believing that would be enough to start over. It wasn’t. And yes, this is happening here too – in the Hawkesbury. Local homelessness services say they’re seeing more older women than ever before. Some are living in cars behind shopping centres. Some rotate between relatives’ homes. Many have never asked for help in their lives.Governments of all stripes have known this crisis was coming. The warnings were loud and clear. The data has been there for years. Still, the system continues to look the other way – maybe because these women are older, or poor, or simply not politically convenient.During the 2025 federal election campaign, both major parties have talked a lot about housing – but not much about this. Labor’s Housing Australia Future Fund includes a pledge for 4,000 homes for women fleeing violence and older women at risk, plus $100 million for crisis accommodation. It’s something. But critics say the broader women’s budget barely touches women over 50 – the group most at risk.The Coalition has focused on allowing superannuation to be used for first home purchases – a policy that does little for women with no super and no hope of entering the housing market. Older women don’t even rate a mention in the Coalition’s housing platform. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has spoken of home ownership as a solution to women’s issues, but that skips the obvious: for many older women, home ownership is simply not an option. Not when rent consumes more than half their pension, and public housing waiting lists stretch for years.And so, the silence lingers.It’s easy to say this is complex – and it is. But it’s also painfully simple: we either choose to see these women, or we don’t.As Dr Emma Power from Western Sydney University put it, “Older women have been invisible in housing policy for decades. They are the collateral damage of a housing market that serves investors, not people.”This isn’t just about funding. It’s about priorities. It’s about whether we believe a 74-year-old woman – who spent her life contributing to her family and her community – deserves to be safe. Or whether we’re content to leave her to a rental market that doesn’t even see her.Homelessness at this stage of life is more than a policy failure. It is a moral one.And for a country that claims to believe in the 'fair go', turning our backs on these women may be the most damning verdict of all.

As Australians prepare to vote on May 3, the seat of Macquarie is again shaping up as a closely watched seat, with a field of candidates offering voters a sharp choice on national and local priorities.Labor’s Susan Templeman is seeking re-election on the back of her record in disaster recovery, health, and community infrastructure. Templeman, a former radio journalist and small business owner, has made Medicare a centrepiece of her campaign, promising a new local Urgent Care Clinic, expanded access to telehealth services, and cheaper women’s healthcare. She is also emphasising Labor’s broader economic message of increasing wages, bringing down inflation, and maintaining balanced budgets.Challenging her is Liberal candidate Mike Creed, a Hawkesbury City Councillor making his first tilt at federal politics. Creed is focusing on cost-of-living pressures, better infrastructure, and flood resilience across the electorate, particularly in the Hawkesbury.The Greens’ Terry Morgan is campaigning on climate action and affordable housing. Morgan is calling for faster investment in renewable energy, an end to native forest logging, and better public transport powered by clean energy.One Nation’s Matthew Jacobson is running on a platform of stronger immigration controls, cutting government spending, and building up Australia's defence capabilities.Joaquim Eduardo De Lima from the Libertarian Party is advocating for smaller government, lower taxes, and more personal freedoms.Roger Gerard Bowen from Family First is focusing on socially conservative policies, including protecting religious schools, opposing “radical gender ideology,” and promoting what he describes as Judeo-Christian values.With Labor and the Coalition locked in a tight national contest, Macquarie’s outcome could help determine who forms government.

As Australians prepare to head to the polls on May 3, the seat of Macquarie is once again shaping up as a critical and closely watched contest.Currently held by Labor MP Susan Templeman, Macquarie has long been known as a bellwether seat - a barometer for the national mood, frequently flipping between the major parties as power changes in Canberra. Stretching from the escarpments of the Blue Mountains down to the floodplains of the Hawkesbury. The electorate is as politically diverse as its landscape including the Blue Mountains City Council, Hawkesbury City Council,and parts of both Penrith City Council and Wollondilly Shire Council.Macquarie has a rich political history dating back to 1901, the year of Federation. Named after Governor Lachlan Macquarie, the early colonial leader often credited with shaping modern New South Wales, the seat was once a sprawling rural electorate stretching from Bathurst to Lithgow. It spent much of the 20th century anchored in country towns and Labor strongholds. The seat was once held by Labor legend Ben Chifley, who served as Prime Minister from 1945 to 1949 and famously caught the train home to Bathurst each Friday.A major redistribution in 1977 pushed Macquarie eastward, adding more of the Blue Mountains and beginning its gradual shift towards Sydney’s outskirts, transforming Macquarie into one of the most marginal electorates in the country. Today, Macquarie is a battleground between the progressive heart of the Blue Mountains and the more conservative edges of the Hawkesbury - a far cry from the vast country seat it once was.For much of the 20th century, Macquarie leaned Labor, helped along by favorable boundaries. But as demographics shifted - particularly with urban sprawl into the Hawkesbury - the seat became more marginal. From the 1980s onwards, it has changed hands multiple times, often reflecting broader national swings.In 1996, as John Howard swept to power in a landslide, Liberal candidate Kerry Bartlett took the seat from Labor. He held it until 2007, when the boundaries changed once again to include Lithgow and Bathurst and the Rudd wave saw Bob Debus, a former NSW Attorney General, take it back for Labor.However, a further redistribution in 2009 kept Macquarie in play with narrow margins. In 2010, Liberal Louise Markus edged out Labor by just over 2,000 votes when she moved from Greenway to Macquarie. She held on in 2013, but in 2016 the pendulum swung again - this time to Labor’s Susan Templeman, who capitalised on anger over funding cuts to local schools and hospitals.Templeman held the seat by 371 votes in 2019 and in 2022 increased her margin to 7.58%. The most recent electoral redistribution has eased her margin to 6.3% for the current election. That history highlights the volatility of Macquarie - it’s a seat where small local shifts can have national consequences.In this election, Hawkesbury City Councillor Mike Creed is attempting to win the seat back for the Liberals. A first-time federal candidate, Creed brings a local profile and a campaign focused on cost-of-living pressures, infrastructure, and disaster resilience, particularly in flood-prone Hawkesbury. “I can’t promise to fix everything - that would be lying - but I will always do my best to help,” he says. “If I can’t fix something, I’ll be honest about it. People just want someone who listens and tries their hardest.”Macquarie’s incumbent, Templeman, is running on her track record of local advocacy, disaster recovery work during the bushfires and floods, and securing federal funding for schools, roads, and community infrastructure.Templeman, a former radio journalist and small business owner, has built her brand around being visible and vocal in a large and geographically complex electorate. During the campaign, Templeman has focused strongly on Medicare, promising a local Urgent Care Clinic, telehealth for urgent care, and cheaper women’s health. She believes that the upcoming election is centered on national concerns rather than individual candidates. "These are the big issues, about who do you trust to deliver a good budget, rather than who's nice or who's sweet," Tempelman says. She says the economic security of families is a top priority. She points to Labor's commitment to increasing workers' pay, reducing inflation to alleviate interest rate pressures, and maintaining balanced budgets as key components of their strategy."I think right now, what people are worried about is the security of their own family economically," she says.Also contesting the seat are:Terry Morgan from The Greens, running on a platform of climate action and affordable housing. He wants an accelerated shift to renewable energy, an end to logging native forests, and increased investment in cheap, efficient public transport powered by renewables.Matthew Jacobson from One Nation, promoting immigration controls, cutting unnecessary government spending, and stronger defence policies.Joaquim Eduardo De Lima from the Libertarian Party, campaigning for less government and more personal freedoms.Roger Gerard Bowen from Family First, focusing on socially conservative values, protecting faith-based schools, opposing "radical" gender ideology, and upholding Judeo-Christian values.Nationally, the contest between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Labor government and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s Liberal-National Coalition remains tight. Recent polling has Labor just ahead - 52–48 on a two-party-preferred basis - but both parties are bracing for a potential hung parliament. That makes seats like Macquarie critical to determining who will govern.With its mix of progressive Blue Mountains voters and more conservative Hawkesbury communities, Macquarie is a microcosm of modern Australia. It reflects the friction between environmental protection and economic development, between climate action and cost-of-living concerns. 

Fitzgerald Aged Care, a long-standing not-for-profit provider in the Hawkesbury, says its future is under threat after being deemed ineligible for Federal capital grants under current government funding rules.Despite having a development application and construction certificate already approved for a critical 24-room expansion, Fitzgerald cannot begin the project because the Commonwealth classifies it as being located in a metropolitan city. The organisation says this definition is inaccurate and unfairly penalises peri-urban communities like the Hawkesbury.“This is clearly wrong and lacks an appreciation of the reality of peri-urban region such as ours,” a Fitzgerald Aged Care Chairperson Rhonda Hawkins AM said. “There is no doubt that it is inherently unfair to areas such as the Hawkesbury. This must change.”The region, which had a population of just over 68,000 in 2023 spread across more than 2,700 square kilometres, has a population density of 24.55 people per square kilometre - vastly different to the 8,660 people per square kilometre found in the City of Sydney.“Clearly, the Hawkesbury is not a typical urban region, yet it is excluded from many government funding programs which would address critical needs for services and community development,” Hawkins said. “It makes no sense that the Hawkesbury is considered to be the same as metropolitan Sydney.”The classification falls under the Modified Monash Model, a system introduced by the former Coalition government that is still used to determine eligibility for a range of rural and regional health and aged care grants. As it stands, the model prevents Fitzgerald from applying for Federal funding necessary to expand and modernise its services.“Unless there is a change in the way in which the Hawkesbury is classified in funding models by governments, many current services will either fail or substantially reduce their services,” Hawkins said. Local MP Susan Templeman, a former Fitzgerald board member, recently visited the site with election candidate Mike Creed. According to Hawkins, Templeman committed to continue advocating for two key changes: new capital funding for aged care in peri-urban areas like the Hawkesbury, and reform of the Modified Monash Model. She added that, “Mike Creed gave us a good hearing.”Fitzgerald Aged Care, which traces its roots back to 1818, currently holds a four-star rating and reports consistently strong satisfaction from residents and families. But Hawkins said that without growth, its future remains uncertain.“Due to its size and location, Fitzgerald must grow to survive. Even with increased operational funding under the new model, unless Fitzgerald is funded to grow, it runs the very real risk of having to close.”Hawkins describes the proposed extension as vital, not only to its own survival but to the broader community.“The Hawkesbury matters – it is not just a pale shadow of metropolitan Sydney. Fitzgerald is the embodiment of all that is good in the Hawkesbury and it is vital that the development is funded to proceed now,” Hawkins said.

Calls are growing for urgent government action to address the PFAS contamination crisis across the Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains, with the Greens pushing for free blood tests, better health support, and a total phase-out of the toxic "forever chemicals."Cate Faehrmann, Greens MP and Chair of the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into PFAS Contamination in Drinking Water Supplies, visited the region this week alongside federal Greens candidate for Macquarie, Terry Morgan, to demand coordinated action from the federal and state governments.It follows alarming findings of PFAS chemicals in drinking water and waterways across the Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains. Testing by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) confirmed elevated levels of PFOS, one of the most harmful types of PFAS, in local water supplies. Earlier this year, Hawkesbury Post revealed that bridge construction workers were ordered out of the Hawkesbury River after contamination fears,however the EPA recently said recent testing found PFAS levels in the Hawkesbury River are now well below national safety guidelines for recreation.Faehrmann says residents who may have unknowingly been exposed for decades are being left to bear the burden of paying hundreds of dollars for private blood tests.“Communities have a right to know what’s in their water and what’s in their bodies," she said. "It’s totally unacceptable that some Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains residents are paying $500 a pop to know their PFAS blood levels."Faehrmann said a government-funded program was urgently needed to offer free blood testing, ongoing health monitoring, and public reporting of PFAS levels across water, soil, wildlife, and agricultural products.Under the Greens' plan, a NSW PFAS Public Health Monitoring Taskforce would be established to provide free blood testing and health support to impacted communities, while comprehensive public testing of drinking water, soil, wildlife, and agricultural products would be undertaken regularly. PFAS would be urgently phased out from consumer and industrial products, including packaging, agrichemicals, household goods and cosmetics, with mandatory labelling until a full ban is in place. Drinking water standards would also be tightened to align with new international cancer findings, and First Nations communities would receive targeted health services."People have already undergone enormous stress after being reassured their water was safe, only to find they have likely been drinking contaminated water for years. The least the government can do is pay for blood testing and support them with follow-up health services," Faehrmann said.Federal candidate Terry Morgan said residents were angry at the ongoing blame-shifting between government agencies and demanded proper leadership.“Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury residents are frustrated and fearful after the discovery of high PFOS levels in our drinking water," he said. "It’s vital that federal and state governments work together, including with local councils, to give residents the resources they need to assess their exposure and protect their health."Mr Morgan also warned that the region’s renowned natural beauty and biodiversity were under threat.“The presence of these forever chemicals in our environment is alarming. PFAS must be urgently phased out."The Hawkesbury, like numerous other areas near military bases across the country, became a significant PFAS hotspot due to contamination from RAAF Base Richmond. For decades, firefighting foams containing PFAS were used at the base, and the chemicals have since spread onto the Hawkesbury River floodplain, contaminating groundwater, soil, and the river.Despite international moves towards stronger regulation, Australian authorities have so far been slow to act. While the World Health Organization’s cancer research agency recently classified PFOA as carcinogenic and PFOS as possibly carcinogenic, Australian drinking water guidelines still allow levels far higher than recommended overseas.The Greens are pushing for the maximum allowable levels to be lowered immediately and for PFAS to be banned across all consumer and industrial uses, including packaging, agrichemicals, and household products.As previously reported by the Hawkesbury Post, concerns about PFAS contamination have been steadily rising, with residents expressing frustration over the lack of transparency and support. Ms Faehrmann said both state and federal Labor governments needed to stop "burying their heads in the sand" and treat PFAS contamination as the public health crisis it is.“We’re relying on outdated science and refusing to acknowledge we’ve got a problem. It’s time for real action," she said.

The following locations offer early voting for the Federal Election. You can vote anytime from now up to Saturday May 3rd. Applications for postal votes close on the 30th April.It is compulsory by law for all eligible Australian citizens to enrol and vote.The official election day is Saturday the 3rd of May, 2025.Voting is compulsory.Richmond School of Arts26 West Market St, Richmond NSW 2753Deerubbin Centre300 George St, Windsor NSW 2756465 High St465 High St, Penrith NSW 2750Emu Plains Girl Guides3 Nepean St, Emu Plains NSW 2750Shop 7 135 Macquarie RdShop 7 135 Macquarie Rd, Springwood NSW 2777Katoomba Civic Centre81-83 Katoomba St, Katoomba NSW 2780Or use the AEC website for more options: https://www.aec.gov.au/Voting/ways_to_vote/

Polling PlaceStreet AddressBilpinBilpin Public School, 2517 Bells Line of Rd, BILPIN NSW 2758BlackheathBlackheath Public School, Leichhardt St, BLACKHEATH NSW 2785BlaxlandBlaxland High School, 3-9 Coughlan Rd, BLAXLAND NSW 2774Blaxland EastBlaxland East Public School, 53 Old Bathurst Rd, EAST BLAXLAND NSW 2774Bligh ParkBligh Park Public School, 64 Alexander St, BLIGH PARK NSW 2756Bligh Park EastWindsor Park Public School, Rifle Range Rd, BLIGH PARK NSW 2756CattaiCattai Public School, 487 Cattai Rd, CATTAI NSW 2756Colo HeightsHorre Eley Memorial Hall, Putty Rd, COLO HEIGHTS NSW 2756Comleroy RoadComleroy Road Public School, McMahons Rd, KURRAJONG NSW 2758Divisional Office (PREPOLL)Divisional Office, Shop 4, Raymond Mall, 7-9 Raymond Rd, SPRINGWOOD NSW 2777EbenezerEbenezer Public School, 531 Sackville Rd, EBENEZER NSW 2756FaulconbridgeSpringwood High School, Grose Rd, FAULCONBRIDGE NSW 2776Freemans ReachHawkesbury High School, Kurmond Rd, FREEMANS REACH NSW 2756GlenbrookGlenbrook Public School, Woodville Rd, GLENBROOK NSW 2773GlossodiaGlossodia Community Centre, 162 Golden Valley Way, GLOSSODIA NSW 2756Grose ViewGrose View Public School, Grose Wold Rd, GROSE VALE NSW 2753HazelbrookHazelbrook Public School, Beechmount Ave, HAZELBROOK NSW 2779HobartvilleHobartville Public School, Valder Ave, HOBARTVILLE NSW 2753KatoombaKatoomba Public School, Merriwa St, KATOOMBA NSW 2780Katoomba CentralSt Canice's Church Hall, 158 Katoomba St, KATOOMBA NSW 2780Katoomba HospitalBlue Mountains District Hospital, cnr Great Western Hwy &, Woodlands Rd, KATOOMBA NSW 2780Katoomba NorthKatoomba North Public School, Barton St, KATOOMBA NSW 2780Katoomba PPVC212 Katoomba St, cnr Katoomba and Waratah Sts, KATOOMBA NSW 2780Katoomba SouthKatoomba High School, Martin St, KATOOMBA NSW 2780KurmondKurmond Public School, Bells Line of Road, KURMOND NSW 2757KurrajongKurrajong Public School, 1111 Grose Vale Rd, KURRAJONG NSW 2758Kurrajong EastKurrajong East Public School, 891 East Kurrajong Rd, EAST KURRAJONG NSW 2758Kurrajong HeightsUniting Church Hall, 2175 Bells Line of Rd, KURRAJONG HEIGHTS NSW 2758LapstoneLapstone Public School, 1 Explorers Rd, LAPSTONE NSW 2773LawsonLawson Public School, Adelaide Street, LAWSON NSW 2783LeuraLeura Public School, Mount Hay Rd, LEURA NSW 2780Leura CentralMorven Gardens Centre for Aged Care, 5-19 Morven Rd, LEURA NSW 2780McGraths HillMcGraths Hill Community Centre, 1 Phillip Pl, MCGRATHS HILL NSW 2756MaraylyaMaraylya Public School, Neich Rd, MARAYLYA NSW 2765Medlow BathMedlow Bath Bush Fire Brigade, Railway Pde, MEDLOW BATH NSW 2780Mount RiverviewMount Riverview Public School, 188-204 Rusden Rd, MOUNT RIVERVIEW NSW 2774Mount VictoriaMount Victoria Public School, Victoria St, MOUNT VICTORIA NSW 2786Mount WilsonMount Wilson Village Hall, The Avenue, MOUNT WILSON NSW 2786North RichmondNorth Richmond Community Centre, 33 William St, NORTH RICHMOND NSW 2754OakvilleOakville Public School, Oakville Rd, OAKVILLE NSW 2765Pitt TownPitt Town Public School, 17 Buckingham St, PITT TOWN NSW 2756RichmondSt Monica's Primary School, 32 Francis St, RICHMOND NSW 2753Richmond CentralSt Andrew's Uniting Church Auditorium, 25 West Market St, RICHMOND NSW 2753Richmond PPVCShop 3, 139 Windsor St, RICHMOND NSW 2753St AlbansSchool of Arts, Upper Macdonald Rd, ST ALBANS NSW 2775Special Hospital Team 1Multiple sites, NSWSpringwoodSpringwood Civic Centre, 106-108 Macquarie Rd, SPRINGWOOD NSW 2777Springwood NorthEllison Public School, cnr Ellison Rd & Comet Pl, SPRINGWOOD NSW 2777Springwood PPVCPresbyterian Church Hall, 160 Macquarie Rd, SPRINGWOOD NSW 2777Springwood SouthSpringwood Public School, Burns Rd, SPRINGWOOD NSW 2777Sydney (Macquarie)Sydney Town Hall, George St, SYDNEY NSW 2000TennysonTennyson Bush Fire Brigade, 246 Tennyson Rd, TENNYSON NSW 2754Valley HeightsBlue Mountains Grammar Preparatory School, Tusculum Road, VALLEY HEIGHTS NSW 2777Vineyard East (Macquarie)Vineyard Public School, 4 Bandon Rd, VINEYARD NSW 2765WarrimooWarrimoo Citizens Hall, 7 Eley Hawkins Dr, WARRIMOO NSW 2774Wentworth FallsWentworth Falls Public School, Falls Rd, WENTWORTH FALLS NSW 2782WilberforceWilberforce Public School, Macquarie Rd, WILBERFORCE NSW 2756WindsorThe Deerubbin Centre, 300 George St, WINDSOR NSW 2756Windsor SouthWindsor South Public School, Church St, SOUTH WINDSOR NSW 2756WinmaleeWinmalee High School, High School Dr, WINMALEE NSW 2777WoodfordWoodford Bush Fire Brigade, cnr Park Rd & Railway Pde, WOODFORD NSW 2778YarramundiYarramundi Community Centre, Thornbill Way, YARRAMUNDI NSW 2753

As the sun rose over the Hawkesbury this ANZAC Day, residents gathered in quiet reflection to honour the courage, sacrifice and enduring spirit of our service men and women. From solemn dawn services to moving local ceremonies, the community came together to pay tribute to all who have served - and continue to serve - our country. These photos capture moments of remembrance, pride, and unity across the region, as wreaths were laid and heads bowed.Lest we forget.

 After a nine-year hiatus, the highly anticipated Showcase of Showjumping is making its triumphant return to the Australian equestrian scene. From May 2 to 4, the picturesque Windsor Polo Club in Richmond, NSW, will host this premier event, drawing top showjumpers from across the nation to compete for nearly $150,000 in prize money.Showjumping, an Olympic discipline, challenges horse and rider pairs to navigate a series of obstacles within a set time. It demands not only physical prowess but also a deep bond between the rider and their mount. The Showcase of Showjumping has historically been a platform where seasoned professionals and rising stars demonstrate their talents.Adding to the event's prestige, renowned German course designer Frank Rothenberger will be crafting the competition courses. Known for his innovative and challenging layouts, Rothenberger's involvement promises to test the mettle of even the most experienced competitors.“We’re thrilled to bring back an event to the Hawkesbury that attracts Australia’s top Grand Prix riders - including interstate stars Billy Raymont, Phil Lever, and Matea Davidson, as well as local Olympian Amber Fuller from Chatham Park in Glossodia. They’ll be joined by other Hawkesbury riders fresh from their overseas campaigns, including Amelia Douglas, Tom McDermott, and Josh Collins, all vying for the prize money.”The weekend’s action kicks off with the $93,000 Teams Spectacular at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 3, where groups of riders will go head-to-head in a test of strategy and precision. On Sunday afternoon, the stakes rise even higher with the $50,000 Grand Prix 150cm, where elite riders will tackle a formidable course in pursuit of the top prize.Spectators can expect much more than just world-class sport. With free entry, the event is accessible to all, and the grounds will come alive with food trucks, a café, and a bar. Sunday will also feature a kids’ corner with face painting and fun activities to keep younger visitors entertained.Set against the stunning backdrop of the Windsor Polo Club, nestled at the foot of the Blue Mountains, the Showcase promises not just excitement in the ring, but a full weekend of entertainment, community, and celebration.Whether you're a lifelong equestrian fan or simply looking for a great day out, the return of the Showcase of Showjumping is one event not to be missed.Limited VIP are now available at https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1381470From your ringside table, watch the top level competition while indulging in premium hospitality, delicious food and refreshing drinks. Perfect for a day out with friends or entertaining clients.

Families flocked to the Harvey Norman – Hawkesbury Post Easter event, with face painting, an Easter Bunny visit, and plenty of smiles to go around.All proceeds from the day were donated to the Hawkesbury Community Kitchen.Hawkesbury Liberal candidate Mike Creed joined the fun, stepping in as judge for the popular colouring-in competition.Thanks to everyone who made the day a success!1st Prize : Sony Playstation (Aurora Dodwell, Bligh Park -7yr)2nd Prize : JBL flip Essential 2 / Lilo & Stitch figurine (Binuli Nimansa, Richmond - 10yr)3rd Prize: Fuji Instax Mini 12 Camera (Emily Brooker, Riverstone - 8yr)--

Hawkesbury Mayor Les Sheather’s 2024 election campaign was bankrolled by a local business lobby group chaired by the same developer behind a controversial land deal that Sheather voted to approve.According to official disclosures released this week by the NSW Electoral Commission, Sheather’s campaign - totalling $7,320.50 - was wholly funded by the Hawkesbury Business Group (HBG). The business lobby group - formed just prior to last September’s Council elections - is chaired by John Camilleri, owner of Hypro Pet Foods and Hypro Investments.Hypro was the would-be purchaser of the Council-owned land at 295 Sackville Road, Wilberforce - home to the Woodlands Park Pony Club for over 40 years. The $5.9 million sale was approved by Council in October 2024 in a vote. The proposed sale was pushed ahead without public tender or community consultation. Clr. Sheather voted in favour of the sale and later used his casting vote to block a rescission motion.Camilleri’s group, HBG, has been vocal in advocating for the rezoning and sale of Council land for industrial development. The group states its mission is to “advocate for better planning processes, infrastructure improvements, and the release of commercial and residential land.” HBG secretary Jeff Ferrara has said, “The lack of industrial land is a pressing concern… The Council’s actions in this instance are a step in the right direction.”Emails obtained by the Hawkesbury Post under freedom of information legislation (GIPA) last year reveal that Clr. Sheather was directly involved in brokering the deal with Hypro. A February 15, 2024 email from Council’s Chief Financial Officer to a colleague confirms Sheather had approached Council’s Property Manager about an offer on the land. “Council [Les] Sheather did follow up with Laurie on Tuesday regarding someone wanting to purchase, so I think Laurie knows it is coming. Interesting proposal – thanks for the heads up 😊,” the CFO wrote.The block, zoned RU2 Rural Landscape and deemed unsuitable by Council in 2020 for essential services due to its biodiversity value, was sold at what was described as “well above market value” for its current permissible uses. The sale sparked community backlash and confusion among councillors, most of whom were unaware that discussions with Hypro had commenced months earlier. Documents also reveal that Council sought two valuations on the land, one under its existing RU2 zoning and a second under RU4 industrial zoning.In a surprise move, Hypro Investments pulled out of the purchase just days after the sale was approved in November 2024, prompting Council’s General Manager to notify councillors by email that the company had decided not to proceed. “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,” Hawkesbury City Council general manager Elizabeth Richardson said via email. No further explanation has been provided as to why the sale did not proceed.The bushland block had been leased to the Woodlands Pony Club for 40 years. The Council had previously deemed the land unsuitable for the new Hawkesbury fire control centre due to its high biodiversity value.No public explanation has been given by Clr. Sheather regarding the donation or his role in the Hypro negotiations. He did not respond to questions from the Hawkesbury Post by the time of publication.

Police are appealing for information after a teenager was allegedly assaulted by a group of men and had his motorcycle stolen in Londonderry.Emergency services were called to Devlin Road about 5pm on Sunday, January 26, following reports a 17-year-old boy had been struck by a Triton utility while riding with another teen and a 25-year-old man.Police said the boy was then allegedly set upon by up to ten men not known to him, before his motorcycle was stolen. He was taken to Hawkesbury Hospital for treatment.A short time later, officers from Hawkesbury Police Area Command were flagged down by the two other riders and informed of the incident. A crime scene was established and examined by the Crash Investigation Unit.Police are now seeking assistance to identify the occupants of a red Holden Barina seen at the scene.An image of the vehicle has been released on NSW Police Force social media sites.Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is confidential, and police remind the public not to report through social media.Police are seeking witnesses and have released an image of a red Holden Barina seen at the scene.

Hawkesbury Council has voted against tougher flood rules, rejecting a push to raise the Flood Planning Level to a 1-in-200-year event. In a split decision, councillors chose to stick with the current 1-in-100-year standard, despite expert advice urging an increase.The decision came as part of the Hawkesbury Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan 2025, a key document meant to guide planning and flood resilience in the region. While Council adopted the study at its March meeting, a majority of councillors blocked the recommendation to tighten flood controls - overlooking warnings about increased flood damage and risk to thousands of homes.The study, based on data from the recently released Hawkesbury-Nepean River Flood Study 2024, outlines various flood mitigation measures. Public exhibition of the draft plan ran for eight weeks, with Council receiving 70 responses, including just 10 written submissions, 46 comments on the "Your Hawkesbury - Your Say" platform, and 14 pinpoint map comments.A key recommendation of the draft study was to increase the Flood Planning Level. This level determines where flood-related development controls apply, currently set at the 1% (1-in-100-year) Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP) flood level. The study proposed a shift to the 0.5% (1-in-200-year) AEP level plus 0.5 metres, which in Windsor would raise the Flood Planning Level from 17.2 Australian Height Datum (AHD) to 19.2 AHD.The study found that a 1-in-100-year flood event would impact 5,388 properties, causing damages of nearly $2 billion. In a 1-in-200-year event, 7,211 properties would be affected, with damages exceeding $2.9 billion. “It highlights that an additional 1,823 properties are affected in a 0.5% (1 in 200) AEP flood event compared to the 1 in 100,” the study stated.In submissions, residents expressed concerns that raising the Flood Planning Level could affect insurance availability, property values and future development controls relating to existing development. The study also found that proposed levees and bypasses were not viable due to high costs and low benefit-to-cost ratios.Councillor Nathan Zamprogno opposed the change, citing concerns about insurance costs. “Many residents I speak to find it increasingly difficult to access and then pay for insurance. When the government says 'don't build here,' insurers take note and jack up their premiums because our policies give a green light to insurers to declare some homes to be at such a risk they refuse to insure, or offer 'go away' quotations like $20,000 per year.”Zamprogno supported the study overall but said, “The costs of sending a signal concerning flood risk and the impacts on insurance were not something I could ignore. Council staff in their responses to these concerns effectively tried to say that insurers don't pay attention to what Councils do when defining and proclaiming risk. I disagreed.” He cited the Insurance Council of Australia’s fact sheet, which states that insurers consider multiple sources, including local government flood mapping, when assessing risk.“I don't want people to build in flood-prone areas, and the existing rules already ban it. It’s madness to let Sydney’s pressure for development override our common sense about flood risk,” Zamprogno said.Councillor Mary Lyons-Buckett strongly disagreed with the decision. “The recommendations put forward gave us the opportunity to be a part of the change we badly need to investigate; options which would decrease our vulnerability to flooding into the future: house-raising, buybacks, changes to planning controls, effective evacuation routes.”She argued that the proposed 1-in-200-year flood planning level was a reasonable measure. “This would apply to future new developments in that flood planning area requiring habitable space to be slightly higher and encouraging other aspects of construction such as design and materials to be as flood resilient as possible. This change would not alter any land use zoning. This change would not prevent development, nor prohibit renovations, extensions, or redevelopments of existing properties in the designated flood planning area.”Lyons-Buckett warned that ignoring expert advice could have serious consequences. “Ignoring expert advice designed to enhance flood resilience is potentially negligent. It is very disappointing to have heard years of calls for doing whatever we can to reduce risk to lives, only to have such an opportunity discarded. As leaders, we should be strengthening flood resilience, not clinging to outdated approaches that leave our community vulnerable and potentially expose us to liability in the future.”Despite rejecting the increased Flood Planning Level, Council included additional flood mitigation measures in the final report, such as road improvements for evacuation and enhanced data collection following flood events.Voting in favour of adopting the full study, including the increased Flood Planning Level, were Councillors Mary Lyons-Buckett, Peter Ryan, Danielle Wheeler, and Amanda Kotlash. The remaining eight councillors - Les Sheather, Paul Veigel, Shane Djuric, Eddie Dogramachi, Mike Creed, Jill Reardon, Nathan Zamprogno and Sarah McMahon successfully voted to exclude planning controls from the mitigation measures.

In a chance encounter that perfectly captured the international flavour of Hawkesbury’s polo season, a group of Argentinian polo grooms found themselves sharing a morning coffee with Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and local MP Susan Templeman at the Black Duck Café in Richmond.The Black Duck, a favourite haunt of the polo community and Richmond locals alike, played host to the informal meeting this week, when the visiting grooms stopped in for a break during their busy season and ran into the federal MPs. Also pictured is café owner Tammy, who’s been serving up brews and banter to the local polo crowd for years. Her café has long been a hub for riders, trainers, and curious locals keen to soak up a bit of the season’s buzz.Each year, the Hawkesbury’s polo scene draws skilled players and support crews from across the globe, with Argentina’s renowned horsemen a regular fixture on the local circuit. Their contribution isn’t just on the field - the sport pumps millions of dollars into the local economy each season through accommodation, hospitality, transport, and equine services.“It’s a reminder of just how important regional events and industries are to our national story,” said Ms Templeman, who greeted the visiting workers warmly. “Polo in the Hawkesbury isn’t just sport - it’s jobs, it’s culture, and it’s connection.”A Surprise Brew: Polo Grooms, Deputy PM, and Café Owner Tammy Share a Moment at Black Duck

Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate 17-year-old Cheyanne, who was last sighted at an address in Vineyard on Monday, 3 March 2025. She has not been seen or heard from since, and concerns are growing for her welfare.Cheyanne is described as approximately 160cm tall, of medium build, with medium-length straight brown hair. At the time she went missing, she was wearing grey pants, a light blue bandeau top, a grey-blue throw wrap, and orange Nike ‘TN’ sneakers.Cheyanne is known to frequent several areas including Vineyard, Tregear, Emerton, Redfern, and Newcastle.Anyone with information about Cheyanne’s whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

The Federal Government has pledged to mark 100 years of RAAF Base Richmond with a major public airshow - if Labor is re-elected.The announcement of “RIC2025” was made by Defence Minister Richard Marles and Macquarie MP Susan Templeman, who said the commemorative event would build on the success of last year’s open day, which drew nearly 15,000 people to the base.RIC2025 is proposed as a two-day airshow featuring flying and static aircraft displays, Defence exhibits, industry stalls, and simulators. While it would showcase the base’s role in Australia’s defence capability, it’s also expected to attract aviation professionals and enthusiasts, while boosting local tourism and business.“This will be a really special moment and the community wants to celebrate and acknowledge the work of our ADF personnel through RIC2025,” Ms Templeman said.“Following the success of last year’s open day, we want to see something that really acknowledges the role RAAF Base Richmond has in the local community for its 100 year anniversary.”The base, one of the oldest operating air force sites in the country, has long been home to the RAAF’s fleet of C-130J Hercules transport aircraft and plays a key role in both defence and emergency response operations.Mr Marles said the government backed the event in recognition of the base’s long-standing connection to the Hawkesbury.“Susan has been advocating for this event following the success of the Open Day last year,” he said.“As home to the RAAF’s C-130J Hercules, RAAF Base Richmond is important to the local community and commemorating 100 years here is a nod to its strong ties and long history.”It remains unclear whether a future Coalition government would fund a similar event, making the announcement one of several local commitments now hanging on the outcome of the federal election.

On autumn nights, juvenile foxes are often easy to spot. Slinking across paddocks and gardens, or cast off the side of the highway as roadkill. Motor impacts aside, this introduced species is flexible, opportunistic, and thriving in urban Sydney.Landowners near national parks will soon be receiving letters from the government about fox baiting activities. Every year I attach our notice to the fridge, filled with conflict as I weigh up the fox-driven destruction of local wildlife against the stark animal welfare issues of using 1080 baits.Foxes and rabbits were introduced in the 1870s for sport hunting, and declared a pest species just 30 years later. The current population sits at a stubborn 1.7 million, and they are found across 80% of the mainland. Foxes and feral cats in particular have been key drivers in wiping out 34 native mammal species made extinct since European settlement, with a hundred more currently listed as threatened. The carnage continues with over half a billion reptiles, birds and mammals estimated to be eaten by foxes each year, in addition to the heavy losses sheep farmers incur with killed lambs. Total eradication is not currently realistic, but we must minimize their impact. Is 1080 the best approach in the varied landscape of the Hawkesbury?Developed in Australia, 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) is a potent toxin derived from “poison pea” plants of the Gastrolobium genus, mostly found in WA. Odourless and tasteless, it was tested as a potential rodenticide in the 1930s. Our native marsupials, reptiles and birds are naturally resistant to this toxin; quokkas famously can gorge on 1080 baits with no ill effects. However, native species in Eastern Australia are likely to have less natural resistance, with species like Quolls believed to be more susceptible.As the chosen method in WA, studies have shown that targeted baiting programs can lead to a 95% reduction in fox numbers. Feral cats are less inclined to eat meat baits and are instead targeted with the ingenious Australian designed Felixor traps.These use a clever camera algorithm to detect cats and squirt the poison onto their coats. The cat then ingests the dose when grooming, and there is virtually zero chance of non-target casualties.Most agree that poisons are a necessary evil, but having made the decision to kill an animal we have a duty to ensure that the process is humane, and in line with national welfare codes. Unfortunately, death by 1080 is neither quick nor without suffering. The time to death ranges from 2.5 to 80 hours depending on the species, and feral pigs suffer the longest. Prior to death, carnivores poisoned by 1080 alternate from states of extreme hyperactivity, vocalizing and uncoordinatedmovement, to lethargy, recumbency, tremors, convulsions, and respiratory distress.A trawl though Youtube will offer up countless videos on 1080. It’s confronting viewing. There is no antidote for people or animals accidentally poisoned by it. The distress of dog owners helplessly watching as their beloved pets writhe in front of them is heartbreaking.There are more humane alternatives, but no silver bullet. PAPP (para-aminopropriophenone) has a completely different mode of action as the affected animal experiences gradual oxygen depletion, usually becoming lethargic, before falling asleep and dying from lack of oxygen to the brain and heart. The process takes one or two hours. The poison also has an antidote, so accidental intake can be reversed if the animal receives treatment in time. However, a range of native fauna are susceptible to PAPP including lace monitors, southern brown bandicoots and spotted-tailed quolls. While ideal for strategic ground baiting programs, it can’t be used for large scale aerial baiting which is cheaper, more practical, and the preferred vehicle for distributing 1080.Different environments invite varied approaches which may also prevent bait wariness from target species. Alternative control options include predator-proof fencing, shooting, cage traps, padded foot traps, and guardian animals for livestock.Even so, controlling pest animals for conservation purposes is difficult. A significant reduction in predators is needed to make a real difference for local species, and eradicating a predator like foxes can then lead to population booms in other problematic species, like feral cats. Even identifying the impact of feral predators is challenging. Long-term wildlife surveys provide essential data and monitoring private and public lands is only possible with collective action.Do you have a fox problem? Signs to look for:Seen or heard in your area. Camera traps are a powerful tool to reveal what is really going on at night.Footprints and scats.Livestock or wildlife kills or damage.Report sightings to FERALSCAN. Without knowledge action is useless, and knowledge without action is futile.

As temperatures soared into the high 30s last month, a recent report from the Climate Council paints a stark picture of what lies ahead if climate pollution isn't curbed.The Climate Council’s Heat Map of Australia, an interactive tool, projects the number of hot and very hot days - along with sweltering nights - each suburb and electorate could face by 2050 and 2090 under three different scenarios: no action, continuing current policies, or implementing necessary climate measures.Western Sydney has already felt the brunt of extreme heat, with Penrith recording a staggering 48.9°C on January 4, 2020 - making it the hottest place on Earth that day.“People in Western Sydney are already experiencing heatwaves approaching 50°C,” the report states. “Without urgent action, the region will see even more frequent and intense heatwaves, which will impact quality of life, public health, and economic productivity.”Compounding the problem is Western Sydney’s geography and urban design. The region is far from the coast, which offers a cooling effect, and suffers from the urban heat island effect - a phenomenon where roads, roofs, and concrete surfaces absorb and radiate heat, raising temperatures by up to 10°C on extreme heat days.“Unlike coastal areas, there’s no sea breeze relief here,” the Climate Council warns. “Lack of vegetation, high-density development, and poor housing design are exacerbating the crisis.”The report projects that by 2050, if existing climate action continues, Western Sydney will experience an average of 22 days above 35°C - an increase of 8 days compared to 1986-2005 averages. There will also be 3 days above 40°C, an increase of 2 days, while nights above 25°C will remain at zero.If no action is taken, the region could see 13 additional days over 35°C by 2050. Even with necessary climate measures, there would still be an increase of 8 days over 35°C, underscoring the long-term impact of past emissions.Looking further ahead to 2090, the projections become even more alarming. If current climate action continues, Western Sydney will experience 27 days above 35°C - an increase of 13 days. There will be 5 days above 40°C, an increase of 3 days, and, for the first time, the region will endure at least one night above 25°C.If no action is taken at all, the situation worsens dramatically, with the region facing 32 additional days over 35°C by 2090. Even with the strongest climate measures, Western Sydney would still see an increase of 8 days over 35°C.Without significant cuts to climate pollution, the report predicts that Western Sydney’s already scorching summers will become even more unbearable, putting residents at greater risk of heat-related illnesses and economic strain.