Rocking Bella Vista Farm November 8

Spring 2014 News & Information | The Hills Shire Council FOCUS

food & beverage stalls | fresh country talent | great atmosphere Country sister act - The McClymonts McClymonts act - The sister Country

tI cKets on sale now !

Hills Focus [bkpg].indd 1 11/08/2014 1:02:03 PM Don’t miss this key event in Sydney’s live music calendar – with our biggest and best line-up of country talent yet coming to historic Bella Vista Farm this November. Great music, food stalls and family fun. Tickets are on sale now.

the Mccly Monts

The McClymont sisters are back with their fourth album Here’s To You & I, filled with Beccy cole heartfelt stories and irresistible tunes. Beccy Cole recently WAgons released her long The multi-talented awaited Greatest Hits musicians from Once seen, Wagons CD, Beccy’s Big Hits, Grafton picked up are impossible to featuring 14 of her an ARIA for Best luKe o’sheA the Viper forget, leaving a deep most popular tracks McAlister Country Album in creeK BAnd and smile-inducing - described by Beccy KeMp 2010 and 2012. They Triple Golden Guitar imprint on the brain. as “A country music also have eight winner and the 2012 The Viper Creek version of a box of Multi-award winning Golden Guitar Awards singer/songwriters Independent Country Band’s rock edge chelseA Led by renaissance Cadbury favourites!” and an APRA Award. Drew McAlister Music Artist of the country sound is BAshAM man Henry Wagons, Year, Luke O’Shea young and fresh and they are reminiscent Beccy Cole is a and Troy Kemp Here’s To You & I have established has toured and Ashleigh the songs are catchy. Western Australia’s of decades past working single mum refers to their ever themselves as the taught his way dAllAs Golden Girl, Chelsea when bands gave and an explosive live evolving relationships premier duo in around the world. They have appeared Basham’s debut their audience performer. She has with each other and Australian Country Music has been a at Gympie Muster album I Make My back bucket loads 9 Golden Guitars, those close to them. Music. They’ve Known for his way of life for singer/ and CMC Rocks Own Sunshine has of charm and were 3 Gold records, 2 topped the ARIA storytelling and songwriter musician the Hunter. critics raving. Since shrouded in a little Entertainer of The Country Charts, powerful live shows Ashleigh Dallas. From its release, it has enigmatic mystery. Year awards, 7 song appeared in the ARIA Luke O’Shea has a Tamworth NSW, Ash The band released spawned three hit writing awards and Mainstream Top 20, unique, yet classic grew up on a diet of their anticipated singles and two Lauded as one of number one on the won a Golden Guitar Australian sound. Slim Dusty and debut album Kickin’ number one videos Australia’s great live country music radio and have two CMC Johnny Cash thanks Up Dust and continue on Country Music bands, Wagons chart a whopping Music Awards. Drawing inspiration to her grandfather, to build a massive Channel (CMC). has just released 14 times. from the unique and icon Rex Dallas. Australian fan base. their sixth studio New album Harder everyday characters Chelsea was awarded album Acid Rain & To Tame is cutting he meets Luke Ashleigh scored her They are without the Golden Guitar Sugar Cane. edge mainstream designs and delivers first big break when a doubt the most for ‘Best New Talent country, produced his songs to cut Kasey Chambers talked about fresh of the Year’ in 2013. by Nashville’s straight through the saw her perform and new act in Australian She melds country Jeremy Stover. listeners’ defences. asked her to join the country music. traditions with ‘Little Bird Tour’ as broader influences. fiddle and mandolin She’s a songwriter player and singing of merit, and an harmony. Her debut engaging live act. album is Dancing with A Ghost.

2 The Hills Shire Council Hills Focus 3

Hills Focus SCMF Desley edit.indd 2-3 8/08/2014 4:34:14 PM Sydney is growing and by 2031 Bunnies hop another 100,000 people will come to live in the Hills. to The Hills Watch out for a fluffle of individuals, their families giant bunnies as they hop and the community. into the Hills this Spring, courtesy of The Hills Mental When you discover the Health Interagency. bunnies, why not post an image of them on Instagram They won’t be hard to miss at using #SydneyHills around around 7m high each. The bunnies first appeared as the ‘Intrude’ installation Do you have a photos of at Sydney’s Vivid festival, and represent how quickly someone from The Hills an introduced species can Shire who served in WWI or spread in the landscape.

assisted the war effort on The bunnies have been brought to the Hills to the home front? highlight the plight of those with mental health issues, Bunnies appear courtesy of Mandy Parer ‘Intrude’ artist, Mental and indicate how quickly the Health Month - Hills Mental Health impacts of mental health Interagency and major sponsor, can spread throughout The Hills Clinic Kellyville. images of war The Hills Shire Library Service Service during opening hours Tired of is seeking donations from throughout September, or community members of dropped off at the Pop Up copies of photos of veterans, Library stall on Old Northern preparing medals or events and items Road during Council’s Orange significant to WWI. These Blossom Festival Main Street will be added to the library’s celebrations, Saturday 13 food local studies collection and and Sunday 14 September. homes of the future placed on display during a A waiver form will need to everyday? special Centenary of WWI be filled in at the time of the The way we live, work and play will most likely be very different in 20 years’ time than it is commemoration. donation. Would you like tasty, more today. Sydney is growing and by 2031 another 100,000 people will come to live in the Hills. nutritious meals than just Copies of photos can be If you would like more delivered to your a meal The traditional quarter live where they’ve raised Three centres around Urban activation submitted to any branch information please contact acre block that served their families, but are the North West Rail means that offices and of The Hills Shire Library Kylie Dobbie on 9761 4554. home? families well in the showing a trend towards have been earmarked apartments, as well as 60s and 70s is being downsizing, preferring a for increased density townhouses and houses, replaced by smaller lot property that is easier to – around Showground can be built within 800 Local Hero sizes, townhouses and maintain. More choice is Station, Norwest and metres of the new stations. apartments to achieve a needed in the future to Kellyville Stations. The One of the earliest World (Dec 1915) and Egypt where greater range of housing ensure people can choose State Government has The new homes will be War I volunteers was he was killed by a Turkish options to accommodate to live the way they would announced these as ‘urban supported by green open Norman Matthew Pearce, sniper on 29 Jul 1916. more people. The Great like to. activation precincts’, spaces, good transport and a Kellyville grazier, born Australian Dream is meaning they are locations things for future residents at Stanhope to Matthew changing. The arrival of The North that will deliver more to do and enjoy, ensuring Squire Pearce and Alice, nee West Rail Link will see the new homes with access future suburbs have Jenner. He was a veteran More and more, arrival of up to 12,000 new to shops, transport, everything that maintains of the Boer Wars, having communities are adapting homes in the Hills. Many of community services and The Great Australian served as Captain in NSW to the needs of the future, these will be built around jobs. The process will Dream and the quality Lancers and the 3rd NSW accommodating higher the new stations, and many involve detailed planning lifestyle Hills residents Mounted Rifles. densities particularly will be apartments and in consultation with the enjoy. Give yourself a break and call Hills around transport. townhouses. The Hills Shire local community and In c1914 he became engaged Community Care today on 9761 7602 or visit Council is committed to Council, and will include For more information visit to Kathleen Rouse. Norman our website hcc.thehills.nsw.gov.au Another factor shaping the ensuring new apartments investigating how the www.planning.nsw.gov.au/ enlisted on 22 Sep 1914 ways our homes look is our are built better than the Castle Hill Showground en-au/deliveringhomes/ with the 6th Light Horse ageing population. Retired minimum standard, to suit could best serve the urbanactivation.aspx Regiment and saw action residents often still wish to the character of the region. community in the future. in Gallipoli (Jul 1915), Malta

4 The Hills Shire Council Hills Focus 5 The construction of a stage at Bella Vista Farm Park is underway following planning Setting the a sod turning ceremony recently. The design of the stage is based on a knock the rustic timber and corrugated iron sheds and outbuildings found on this down S tage historical location. rebuild? The stage is set to further enhance Bella Vista Farm Park’s growing reputation as a performing arts venue. Popular events such as Clean out & clean up! Charities and not for Shakespeare in the Park and the • The Garage Sale Trail is a profit organisations Sydney Country Music Festival are national program about Libraries the kind of events that draw people to • sustainability, community, • Local businesses the Park but also attract visitors from Social groups commerce and fun, where Religious and cultural outside the Sydney Hills. • householders across Are you about to carry out Do you know someone who is • Wheelchair accessibility institutions. Australia are encouraged to The stage is expected to be alterations and additions to frail aged or has a disability host a garage sale on the completed by the end of November. your home? and could benefit from a CULTURAL PROGRAMS Why not organise a culture specific social group are designed to embrace same day. street Garage Sale? Council is here to help or a social day program? individual cultures in a Sellers can take by Last year’s sale saw homes with preliminary advice or social environment. registering their sale for across the Sydney Hills assistance with navigating SOCIAL DAY PROGRAMS Current programs include: FREE at www.garagesaletail. cleaning out their garages the planning rules. Simply call offer: Korean, Filipino, Chinese com.au. Buyers can browse and cleaning up with cash for our Duty Town Planner on • Transport to and from and Maltese groups. garage sales at www. unused goods. 9843 0469 or Duty Building programs garagesaletrail.com.au.

coming soon Surveyor 9843 0470. • Planned activities For more information @Bella Vista Farm • Monthly outings contact HILLS Anyone can Sellers can take part by participate including: You can also visit Council’s • Companionship, fun and COMMUNITY CARE registering their garage • Residents and households website for useful facts laughter on 9761 5707 or email sale for FREE – and buyers • Community groups sheets on the Building and • Morning tea, lunch and your interest to can browse sales – at www. • Schools Development process or find afternoon tea [email protected] garagesaletrail.com.au out more about Council’s current planning controls. Check under the Planning and Development tab. OBF Art A BIG EVENT show The Castle Hill Art FOR SMALL BUSINESS Society Inc invites you HILLSONG to view and purchase CONVENTION beautiful art works from CENTRE Friday 12 to Sunday 14 O C T 8 September, 10am-4pm BARNEY GLOVER BRETT KELLY BRUCE PATTEN DANNY REZEK MICHAEL WILKINS daily at Castle Glen Community Centre, 155 Ridgecrop Drive, $ Castle Hill. EARLY99 BIRD LYALL GORMAN ROBYN HOBBS STEVE GRANT SUZY JACOBS TOM GELLIBRAND www.castlehillartsociety. TICKETS SAVE $33* INKREDIBLE 2113-65 org.au I 9899 3179 *REGISTER BEFORE 31/08/2014 DON’T MISS THIS EXCITING LINEUP of high profile speakers and business leaders

CRAIG RISPIN NAOMI SIMSON SMALL BUSINESS SUMMIT GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY Early Bird Registration An Initiative of Supported by sydneyhillsbusiness.com.au

2113-65_GWS_Summit_HillsFocus_advert_1A.indd 1 11/08/2014 5:40 pm

6 The Hills Shire Council Hills Focus 7 For the latest information, including event costs, visit Council’s Events Calendar at www.thehills.nsw.gov.au

31 August 14 September OBF Fun Run (Hills District Athletics Club) Crestwood Fair 8.30am – 11.30am Crestwood Reserve, Chapel Lane/Peel Road, Adults 4km and 8km events. Baulkham Hills Children under 12 years’ 2km run. 11am – 7.30pm Family fun-filled day includes Crestwood Idol, 8 – 14 September free activities, carnival rides, competitions, market stalls, Baulkham Hills Art Society Art Exhibition food and fireworks. Highlights include a car crash rescue 10am – 3pm demonstration, and the Danelaw Medieval Fighting Society Castle Grand Exhibition Space, Castle Hill battles of the middle ages. To submit an entry please call 9674 1240. 14 September 8 – 20 September OBF Gala Concert OBF Annual Art Awards (Castle Hill Art Society) William Clarke College Performing Arts Hall 10am – 4pm 1pm – 8pm Castle Glen Community Centre A fantastic showcase of local award winning musical Art exhibition and sale of works from local and talent - ensembles include Castle Hill High School, non-local artists. Crestwood Public School, Matthew Pearce Public School, William Clarke College, The Hills Music Academy.

13 – 14 September 14 September Pop Up Park – Secret Garden A Walk Through History - Artist’s Workshop Main Street Castle Hill Australis Retreat, Wisemans Ferry 10am – 4pm Saturday 13 September Join tutor, artist and historian Heather Winch and 9am - 9pm improve your drawing skills on this walking artists tour Kid’s activities and roving entertainment – Pop-up of the Great North Road. library, face painting, yard games, Crayola Creative Centre, rock climbing wall, Kids Love To Cook 21 September (Cooking Classes), Tumbletown mobile play centre. Castle Hill Orange Blossom BMX Open Sydney Food Trucks in the evening and live music Castle Hill BMX Track – Fred Caterson Reserve, including special guest Luke O’Shea. Castle Hill 10am – 2pm Sunday 14 September Over 500 BMX racers from all over NSW will be racing Squeeze some 10am -3pm in the 32nd Annual Castle Hill Orange Blossom Challenge. The Designer Markets as well as kid’s activities and Free spectator entry. roving entertainmentOrange – Pop-up library, face painting, yard games and jumping castle. 21 September Jazz at the Pines The Pines – Roughley House - 656 Old Northern Road, Dural 13 – 14 September 12.30pm – 4pm fun into Bonsai Society of Australia presents ‘Nature to Miniature’ Relax with live jazz in a garden setting. Bring your Don Moore Community Centre, North Rocks picnic basket, chairs or picnic rug. Tables can be booked Sat 10am – 5pm and Sun 10am – 4pm in advance on 9651 4411. Afternoon tea is available. An exhibition of outstanding bonsai including tree demonstrations, a bonsaiFestival clinic and market place. 23 September The Hills Senior Dance 13 – 14 September Harvey Lowe Pavillion, Castle Hill Showground, The Hills School Expo Castle Hill Pioneer Room, Castle Grand, Castle Hill 11am – 4pm 10am – 4pm 13 & 14 septemberFoot tapping rhythm, new vogue dances - come and join in to Parents can meet with representatives from day and have a great day. Everyone is welcome. Lucky door prizes and Orange boarding schools, church schools, grammar schools, raffle. All proceeds to MS Australia (Multiple Sclerosis). pre-schools, early learningCastle centres and boys, girls Hill and Main street co-ed schools from pre-school through to Year 12. 28 September Orange Blossom Classic Car & Bike Display 13 September Bull and Bush Hotel Car Park, Baulkham Hills Blossom Waves Open Day 7am – 3pm Waves Fitness & Aquatic Centre, Baulkham Hills Display of modern and classic cars and bikes plus 10am – 2pm swap meet. Explore everything the centre has to offer. Entries Close 12 September Festival 2014 14 September The Hills Garden Competition Kenthurst Fair An opportunity for residents and businesses in John Benyon Rotary Park, Kenthurst The Hills to showcase their gardens. 10am – 3pm All entries will be professionally judged. Family fun day, market stalls, food and drinks, rides and fun Contact Keith Stapley on 9634 2508 for children, stage acts, music and street parade at 11am. or email [email protected] to enter.

8 The Hills Shire Council Hills Focus

Bus Shelters[2].indd 1 25/07/2014 11:32:16 AM Household Chemical Potholes CleanOut Disappearing An improvement project has seen the rate Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 of re-work on Sydney Hills potholes slashed September from 73% to 13%. The results mean that Don Moore Reserve, Teirnan once a pothole is patched up, the chances of Avenue, North Rocks it re-appearing are slim. Do you have potentially hazardous chemicals around your home? The results have come about due to the CleanOut is a FREE service for the multi-skilling of Council’s road maintenance living sustainably Workshop Series safe disposal of a range of common teams and a new asphalt tile that reduces household chemicals that could water penetration and improves road life. cause harm to your health and the If you see a pothole, or another issue around spring Series 2014 environment if not disposed of the Hills, you can report it 24/7. correctly. Chemicals that will be accepted include: LET US KNOW TODAY Sustainable Living 18 september | 10am—11.30am • Report it via E-Request: Visit www. Our Bush – the bush walker From your home 7 september | 9am—1pm thehills.nsw.gov.au and click on “Customer Discover the interesting sights and detail that can • Solvents and household cleaners • Fire extinguishers Living in a Sustainable House • Floor care products E-Requests” in the green column on the be found on a walk along a local bush trail. • Pool chemicals Join a bus tour accompanied by knowledgeable • Ammonia-based cleaners • Hobby chemicals left. guides to a number of different local sustainable • Fluorescent globes and tubes • Acids and alkalis • Got a smart phone? Use Council’s mobile site and select “Report an issue”. house sites as part of Sustainable House Day. Bushwalks From your garage From your car • Or phone our Customer Service Centre on 11 september | 10am—11.30am • Paint and paint-related products • Car batteries 9843 0555. Holiday activities • Pesticides and herbicides • Motor oils, fuels and fluids Bushwalks - Wildflower walk • Poisons For more information, call the Suitable for children over 5 years of age. This walk and informative talk focuses on the • Gas bottles Environment Line 131 555. 23 september | 9am—5pm flowering plants in Annangrove reserve and the Art workshop beautiful booklet that has been produced to assist A fun filled day of practical skills and enjoyment for their identification. the kids. This is a full day art workshop from 9 till 5pm conducted by an experienced local artist. Cost 13 september | 10am—12noon for the workshop is $80. Bushwalks - Blue Gum Creek Blue Gum High Forest was once a common sight in 25 september | 10am—11am the Hills District, now it is endangered. This walk Rainforest walk provides the opportunity to walk through part of a This is truly a unique walk in the Hills area, Blue Gum Forest. There will be many wildflowers to reflecting a life-time of effort, full of amazing and see on the sandstone ridge and on the walk down interesting features; plus the chance to discover into the valley. and try some bush tucker. Environmental dates 30 september | 6.30pm—8.30pm 2 – 8 September Landcare Week Family Night walk 7 September Threatened Species Day Experience the sights and sounds of the bush at 7 and 14 September Sustainable night time. Come for a walk that will make use of NOMINATE House Day your other senses, not just your eyes, to explore

YOU R MATE what is happening in the bush after dark. The Hills Shire Council Bookings essential 2 october | 10am—11am Australia Day Awards 2015 Book online at: Family Bushwalk www.thehillsshireenvironment.eventbrite.com.au Do you know someone who deserves Go on a guided family walk to look at some special recognition? The Hills Shire Council Wednesday VinegarThe Hills Hill local wildflowers, whilst learning how to identify and Monday 25 Ph: 9843 0145 recognises excellence in service by 3 Sept & Wed 12 ShireCommunity Council local residents, community groups and locate a variety of our native plants and animals. March @ 6.30pm 3 Columbia Court, Community EnvirOnment Centre Nov @6pm Centre, organisations across the Shire. Baulkham Hills Nominations are now open for: Annangrove Park, Currie Avenue Rouse Hill our bush Off Annangrove Road, Annangrove • Citizen of the Year (26 – 29 yrs) Phone: 9654 3571, Open to the public: • Seniors Citizen of the Year (60 yrs +) 4 september | 10am—11.30am Thursday 9am—4pm • Young Citizen of the Year (16 – 25 yrs) and Our Bush – The bush conservationist • Community Project/Event of the Year Examine what can to be done to protect our unique For a nomination form, phone 9843 0112 or remnant bushland areas and their inhabitants. email [email protected]

10 The Hills Shire Council Hills Focus 11 WEST WEST EAST EAST Deputy Mayor Clr CLR DR Michelle Byrne Clr Raymond Harty Oam Andrew Jefferies Clr Alan Haselden Mayor 0427 928 111 0448 268 140 0412 265 876 0419 495 089 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

We are experiencing a time of rapid change The coming of North West Rail and the NORTHCONNEX EIS ON DISPLAY Trees, Food and Trains and growth in the Hills. The new North West station at the Castle Hill Town Centre while Rail stations are progressing fast – and it’s most welcome, poses the question about The NorthConnex Motorway, a state Council recently exhibited revisions to exciting to see the project springing to life parking in the Castle Hill Town Centre. significant project of the NSW Government, its tree preservation policies to achieve after so many years of planning. has recently had its Environmental Impact a more practical balance between The Hills Shire has one of the highest car Statement (EIS) placed on public exhibition. preservation and the rights of property Along with this, we recently welcomed the dependencies in the State therefore, I owners. announcement from NSW Planning Minister think it is misguided to believe commuters NorthConnex will see the construction to direct $15 million in funding towards the travelling into Castle Hill from nearby This week I was again reminded of the EAST of a 9km twin tunnel linking the Hills M2 planning and delivery of homes and services surrounding areas will abandon their cars WEST Motorway at Carlingford/West Pennant Hills importance of our response to community around the new stations at Kellyville, Bella and travel to the Castle Hill station to to the M1 Pacific Highway at Wahroonga, needs when approached by one of our CLR Mike Thomas Clr Ryan Tracey Vista and the Showground, as part of their catch a train by way of public transport. delivering significant benefits for Hills Shire senior citizens who has limited means but Urban Activation Precinct program. residents through faster travel times, the is striving to stay in her long-term family 0419 429 217 In my view, Council needs to think 0423 798 891 bypassing of the 21 sets of traffic lights, home. [email protected] I’d like to clarify what this means. Urban creatively about how to address the [email protected] a reduction of thousands of daily truck Activation Precincts aim to deliver more parking needs that will occur in the Castle movements off Pennant Hills Road and Mature trees in close proximity to her homes in places with access to transport, Hill Town Centre. subsequent improvements to air quality. home are causing significant problems, services and jobs. As part of this process, and this is a refrain I hear from residents residents will be consulted about the things High rise apartment buildings will become A significant amount of the motorway’s in older properties. they believe are needed to create great a feature of development around the future works will take place at the southern community spaces around the stations and Castle Hill Town Centre and provides an In my time on Council I have always It was my pleasure to be present at the interchange construction site, including the The problems arise when the trees, whilst new homes. This could be seating, open opportunity to be imaginative about how promoted the principles of: Western Sydney Branch Make-A-Wish Australia on and off ramps, the Motorway Control once being an enhancement to their space, parks or shops. parking is provided. dinner dance. Make-A-Wish is an organisation Centre and the ventilation outlet. These lifestyle, are now of a size where they are • Financial prudence that grants wishes to young people who are works will clearly have an impact for many a source of anguish and financial burden. As well, it means we have an exceptional High rise developments could be offered • Less bureaucracy battling various forms of illness, and it was in our local community and the EIS process opportunity to improve the Castle Hill incentives to provide a combination of • Less regulation moving to see the joy such wishes had on the allows for community concerns to be There are myriad beautiful mature trees Showground, preserving and transforming private and public parking. young people and their families. in our Shire but very large ones that • Responsible governance addressed. it into a wonderful open space for all the interfere with residents’ ability to enjoy community to enjoy. Existing users of The template for this already exists at I look forward to running in the NSW State As your East Ward representative, I am their private property are better suited to the Showground can continue to use the Castle Grand where private parking is I have been comparing the financial results election next March for the seat of Baulkham particularly concerned with the proposed open and public spaces. facilities, while investigations are carried out provided for residents and public parking from previous years to this term. It is Hills, my experience as a Labor Councillor for movement route, utilising local roads that into what our residents think will be the best for the users of the library and community difficult to make comparisons because of the East ward has given me an insight into what are unable to cope with the demands of One such public place where the trees future use for this space. If you have an idea centre. quirks of accounting standards and because issues effect you. I am always available to talk heavily laden trucks. certainly add to the vista is the Castle Hill about how to improve the Showground, I am of one-off events such as asset sales. with you about local or state issues so please Farmers’ and Fine Food Market held at interested in hearing your thoughts. This model works in many other parts of feel free to call. Council will be submitting comments the Showground on the second and fourth the world successfully and in my view, at Taking this into account, I am pleased with for the EIS and I will strongly argue for Saturdays of every month. I’m looking forward to working with the NSW a time with such growth occurring in the the improvements I see in how we manage As the Liberal State Government’s plan alternative routes for truck movements Government and the community as we plan Shire, it is time for Council to think outside our council’s assets and income. We look to for high density growth for the North West and construction site entry and exit access The market is a jewel in the Shire’s crown for the future of the Hills while maintaining the square. ensure our staff are engaged in services of – along with plans for North Connex - is points. and is a great opportunity to get out and our Shire’s character. benefit to the community. underway, it is important that we ensure that about in the community while sampling our quality of life is safe guarded. We need Resident submissions for the EIS are some fabulous produce. It is well worth a A great way to connect with our community For example, as a council we have made an to fight for retaining or attaining community welcome and can made in writing to the visit! and attract others to come and see what active decision not to pursue income from space, and ensure that environmental Department of Planning and Environment the Hills has to offer, is through events. I’m fines. So many councils are now maximising impacts of such change are minimised and or uploaded at their website address www. I recently returned from a trip to the city excited about the fantastic range of events fine income from a range of penalties. These the community is consulted along the way. majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au of Honolulu where I learned that the city is Council has planned. This year, Orange councils are oppressive to their residents Better outcomes are always reached when we to build a metro style mass transit system Blossom Festival promises to be a fun and have ulterior motives in regulating their all work together. TORRS ST CAR PARK bearing striking similarity to the North family day out, with a range of community communities. In comparison, our council West Rail’s skyway section past Bella events and a ‘secret garden’ theme for the seeks to assist our residents. It saddens us all to see the acts of violence I recently attended the start of construction Vista. Castle Hill main street on September 13-14. that brought MH17 down over the Donetsk for a new 178 space commuter car park at In November, the Sydney Country Music Financial prudence is so important because region in Ukraine. The loss of so many Torrs St, Baulkham Hills with our Mayor and Driverless trains, operating without a Festival is set to rock Bella Vista Farm in when Council reduces it operating costs, Australians, including Hills local Jack O’Brien, the Member for Baulkham Hills. timetable but at a high frequency, will what is becoming a key event in the Sydney more funding is available for community is a huge loss to our community. connect the city and remove thousands live music calendar. And mark your diary now assets such as parks and reserves, road Works on this new facility are expected to be of vehicles from its congested roads. It is for Shakespeare in the Park this December/ improvements, or footpaths. I recently attended The Hills Council complete by years end, following successful yet another indication, if any was needed, January – this is live theatre at its finest and presentation of community grants. It was negotiations between Council and the NSW that the State Government’s transport an event not to be missed. See you there! As a councillor, I am concerned that our great meeting with some of the groups Government that has allowed Council to rent planners have made the right decision council provide service to our residents and who received grants and I wish all of the Roads and Maritime Services owned land in constructing this amazing piece of understand and meet their needs. I hope recipients all the very best with their current adjacent to Windsor Road whilst Transport infrastructure. that where residents have concerns about endeavours. for NSW funds its construction. their trees, or seek to make reasonable With the rail, the imminent M2-M1 tunnel improvements to their homes, their council I moved a motion within council a few This initiative is part of Council’s and Castle Towers expansion all reflecting can assist in meeting their needs. months ago against the Abbott Governments commitment to expanding commuter parking Sydney’s and the Shire’s burgeoning proposed changes to the racial discrimination options for the successful M2 Bus services population, we are indeed living in buoyant Regulation can often be a block to sensible act, it was good to see that the government and I am actively seeking to have similar times! improvements a resident may want to make. dropped their changes that would of arrangements for commuter parking put in Where this occurs, I am available to work watered down protections against racial place at the Barclay Road, North Rocks and through your concerns. discrimination. A true win for all Australians. Oakes Road, Carlingford stops.

12 The Hills Shire Council Hills Focus 13 central central central

Clr Yvonne Keane Clr Dr Jeff Lowe Clr Tony Hay OAM

0419 553 495 0419 821 557 0422 508 975 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

The NSW Government’s recent Welcome to the Spring edition of Focus – your Urban activation precincts NORTH NORTH announcement to grant significant funding magazine. under their Urban Activation Precinct We are now beginning to see what a Clr Robyn Preston Clr Peter Gangemi program to Showground, Bella Vista & As I write this the Commonwealth Games has significant “game changer” the North Kellyville NWRL stations is without a doubt come to an end and the horrors of the MH 17 West Rail link will be to our Shire. 0419 200 300 0419 429 095 an enormous win for The Hills Shire. atrocity are a matter of weeks behind us. My [email protected] [email protected] thoughts and prayers go out to the families of All station sites will be examined through Indeed, for Central Ward residents in those that perished. the State Government’s Urban Activation particular, this injection of funding will see Precincts process as they strive to the Showground Station precinct become a On a brighter note, the Orange Blossom capitalise on the $9B cost. vibrant centre-piece, including retail, cafes, Festival is looming with all its excitement and restaurants and new office space – which I look forward to its many activities, although As a Councillor who is passionate about The Changing Face of The Hills It is a period of great change in The Hills. will generate up to 7700 new local jobs. time and a full-time job in addition to Council our Shire, I will be making sure that the According to the Draft Metropolitan duties often makes it difficult to attend many needs for the future are addressed in There is a change in the landscape of The Strategy, Sydney is due to have at least Included within this announcement, was of the events. these precincts. Our current residents Hills – an $8 billion change. 1.3 million more residents by 2031, and the assurance that our beloved Castle and our future residents will resent us if The Hills’ share of this will be 100,000 Hill Showground will be preserved for use This week, Council was briefed by Transport we get this wrong. The Northwest Rail Link (NWRL) is the game residents. as essential recreational space for the for NSW on a number of projects including the changer in the way The Hills will develop community and that this currently NWRL (North West Rail Link). It is exciting to We need to make sure that future and grow for generations to come. Planning The incoming North West Rail Link under-utilised gem will be given a know that as you read this we will be weeks developments around train stations Minister Pru Goward recently announced provides an opportunity for the question substantial upgrade. away from “Elizabeth” our first TBM (Tunnel are safe, desirable and provide levels that the NSW Government would commit $15 of “how do we best accommodate the NORTH Boring Machine) entering into service and of urban amenity that makes choosing million towards the planning and delivery population increase” to be answered in As a Central Ward Councillor I am starting the tunnel at Bella Vista. higher density lifestyles not seen as of homes and infrastructure around North a sensible manner. Locating our areas Clr Mark Taylor committed to ensuring that our second best. West Rail Link station precincts at Kellyville, of greater density around our transport Showground is transformed into a cultural Many of the station areas are ahead of Bella Vista and Showground. These urban nodes and town centres is the correct 0419 618 790 and recreational centre-piece that schedule, but because we can’t see exactly Home ownership in whatever form that activation precincts will result in thousands of strategy and allows our signature Hills low [email protected] residents of The Hills can be incredibly what progress is occurring behind the may be must remain the Australian homes and local jobs. density suburbs to remain as we love them. proud of. partitions we don’t know! To this end, I have dream and I will continue working damn asked for viewing stations/web cam updates hard to make sure that happens. By 2031 we expect that an additional 100,000 Your Council and the NSW State I am excited that we have before us a and live feeds – NWRL are considering this people will be calling Sydney Hills their Government are working closely together once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform request. Getting vertical living right home and so new housing options need to to ensure that the best outcomes possible our Showground into a vibrant epicenter be explored. By increasing density around are reached. Recently, the NSW Minister What an achievement by The Friends of for arts, entertainment and recreation In addition to the tunnelling, the “Sky Train” Recently, I had the pleasure of inspecting town centres and transport hubs, we can then for Planning, Pru Goward MP announced The Hills Library to reach their 20 year that can be patronized & enjoyed by the element of the link, including crossing Windsor Central Park, a redevelopment of the preserve single lot housing in the rest of The that the land around three stations, anniversary. I spent an entertaining Saturday community en masse. Road, will also commence construction soon – former Tooths brewery on Broadway. Hills Shire. Kellyville, Bella Vista and Showground afternoon hearing stories of their efforts, it will be hard not to notice when this begins. would become Urban Activation Precincts. particularly the work of the late former However, Council cannot do this without The equipment gantries being used can lay This is an exemplar mixed use News of the NWRL has seen a spike in The UAP’s will unlock up to an extra $15 president Kath Hubbard. your input. This is your community and we about 70 meters a week, and on over 110 piers development that contributes greatly Hills home values by up to 35% over the million of infrastructure funding to be would like you to be a stakeholder in it’s along the entire length of the Sky Train, will be to the urban experience in that part of past twelve months. The Hills is one of the spent in these areas. The group have raised over $100,000 during future. an impressive construction. As will the curved Sydney. fastest growing local government areas the last 20 years. Money that promotes bridge over Windsor Road, a unique and first in for residential and business opportunities. As a Councillor, I am determined to see literature, the love of reading and some Please help us shape the best vision for the world. For more information and for school Even though only partially complete, Norwest Business Park is attracting that the right development takes place in excellent programs in our libraries aimed at the Showground by completing our online information packs call the NWRL Hotline on the design, its form and the lifestyle companies who recognise the potential in these precincts, not the maximum amount the young and old alike. survey at www.thehills.nsw.gov.au. 1800 019 989. choices it represents is outstanding and investing in this area. of development. You in the community will be a significant contributor to the also have a role to play in this. Soon you It is fantastic to see such a cohesive, focused On a final note - well done to Castle Hill Bowling revitalisation of the Broadway precinct. The fact is that more local employment will get the chance to comment on what group of volunteers. Well done, I know you Club winning grade 7s on achieving the pennant opportunities will mean a better lifestyle for you want these precincts to look like, so don’t do it for the recognition, but our Shire flag! Have a safe and productive Spring. Its innovation in energy efficiency is families living in The Hills. please contact your local Councillor and is a better place because of those like you. 6-star and really is a pointer as to how Supporting this growth is Council’s let them know, and don’t forget to put future precincts around our rail stations infrastructure projects such as the $16 in a submission when the plans go on Nothing signifies a healthy, growing and could strive to be energy neutral. million major upgrade of Samantha Riley exhibition. engaged community better than a wide Drive, which is now underway. The section of variety of successful community events. The North West Rail Link and the Samantha Riley Drive east of Windsor Road The Showground Urban Activation Precinct redevelopment around it should be world will be widened to a four-lane carriageway, also includes the Castle Hill Showground. The Sydney Country Music Festival is one class. World class in energy and water traffic lights will be installed at Hezlett Road Given the impending arrival of the North such event that fits the bill. At Bella Vista efficiency. World class in urban design. and roundabouts will be installed both at West Rail Link and the arrival of the UAP’s, Farm on November 8th come along and see World class in the kinds of spaces and Redden Drive and Foxall Road. An overhead it is the right time to have the conversation some great Australian talent in our own facilities that support future residents pedestrian bridge will also be constructed about the future of the Showground. The backyard, in our very own historic rural that will call these spaces home. between Hezlett and Foxall Roads. current site is well served by its tenants, setting. This work will take around two years to but can the Showground be even better It’s not just about affordability, it’s about complete. in the future while still retaining its core Events like this open up our community our Hills brand and a lifestyle that needs recreational use? assets in ways that engage all of us despite to be upheld. We can do it and together As you travel around The Hills and navigate our different interests. I hope in the future we need to keep all levels of Government road works and construction zones, allow Please have your say and fill out the Castle our other great assets across the Shire are committed to it. a little more time for traffic delays. This Hill Showground survey on the Council likewise utilised to their full potential by all of changing landscape will soon provide better website and let your Council know what our broad and varied community. commuting options – something many of us you think. have waited decades for. As Spring arrives - enjoy The Garden Shire.

14 The Hills Shire Council Hills Focus 15 food & beverage stalls | fresh country talent | great atmosphere

tI cKets on sale now !

Hills Focus [bkpg].indd 1 11/08/2014 1:02:03 PM