Dr Michelle Byrne, Mayor of The Hills Shire
During the weekend of Saturday, November 15th, and Sunday, November 16th, an alleged burnout incident at Les Shore Reserve raised significant concern throughout the community.
This thoughtless act by one or more individuals resulted in unnecessary damage to our community’s sporting field, affecting weekend cricket games, and upsetting everyone who enjoys and values this space.
Council teams and police are actively investigating. As of writing this, we are assessing the full extent of the damage and will need time to complete repairs. Our goal is to restore the fields for community use as quickly as possible, especially as this damage is going to disrupt the cricket season.
If you have any CCTV footage of the incident, please contact Hills Local Area Command or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Christmas in The Hills
This December, embrace the long summer evenings and discover the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Rose Garden, in Baulkham Hills, aglow with Christmas lights and festive cheer.
Every evening until January 1st, 2026, stroll through a spectacular six-metre walk-through Christmas tree, marvel at the sparkling nativity scene, giant bauble seat, dazzling star displays, countless twinkling lights, and so much more.
Council is also proud to support the Glenhaven Carols by Candlelight event on Sunday, December 14th, from 4pm to 9pm. This beloved community tradition received a $15,000 Arts, Culture and Events Council grant to help cover stage and production costs. I encourage everyone to attend and enjoy a festive, family-friendly evening.
Christmas Bin Collection
This Christmas, Santa won’t be the only one working—our waste collection crews will be too. Bin collections will proceed as usual throughout the holiday period, even on public holidays. Please ensure your bins are at the kerbside the night before your collection day.
Summer at the Library
Our libraries are the perfect place to inspire imagination this summer. Children aged 5 to 14 are invited to join the Summer Reading Adventure, running until January 31st, 2026. By completing their activity booklet, young readers can earn exciting rewards while keeping their minds active during the holidays.
Australia Day
I warmly invite everyone to Australia Day 2026 for a full day of family fun, live entertainment, and celebration. The festivities kick off with a DJ Pool Party at Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre in Baulkham Hills before continuing at Bella Vista Farm in Bella Vista for an evening filled with amusement rides, live music, fireworks, and delicious food. For more details, visit Council’s website, www.thehills.nsw.gov.au
As this is the last edition of the Dooral Roundup for the year, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and safe 2026. I look forward to continuing working side-by-side with you again in 2026, to ensure the Hills remains the greatest place on Earth.
