A Taste of Wiseman’s Returns! The much-loved Taste of Wisemans festival is set to return to Wisemans Ferry Park after two highly successful years. The community has embraced this event for its celebration of local farmers, artists, producers and the rich culture of the Rural North and Hawkesbury River regions.
A Taste of Wisemans showcases the very best food, wine and produce from local businesses across the rural north of the Shire and along the Hawkesbury River. Visitors can sample delicacies from local producers and businesses, enjoy live entertainment, and take part in free family-friendly activities.
This event is a true foodie’s heaven, with local producers, wineries, distilleries and food vendors offering an outstanding array of choices — all set within the stunning surrounds of Wisemans Ferry Park.
The festival also features our emergency services, including the NSW Rural Fire Service as part of its annual Get Ready weekend, which encourages residents to prepare their properties ahead of the bushfire season.
I have long advocated for more engagement with our rural communities and to do all we can to highlight just how special this part of the world is! This event promotes tourism in our Rural North and showcases everything the region has to offer. It truly is one of the most magnificent parts of Sydney.
Save the date: Sunday, 27th September.
Hawkesbury River Governance
As highlighted in last month’s edition, The Hills Shire Council is continuing its call for a dedicated authority to manage the Hawkesbury River — one of NSW’s most important natural assets.
Stretching 120 kilometres from Yarramundi to Box Head and Barrenjoey Head, the river is currently overseen by a complex network of plans and responsibilities shared across eight local government areas: The Hills, Hawkesbury, Penrith, Blacktown, Hornsby, Liverpool, Wollondilly and the Central Coast.
Six of these councils are collaborating on a Coastal Management Plan aimed at improving coordination around estuary health, water quality, biodiversity and sustainable use.
However, at least thirteen agencies — most of them NSW Government bodies — hold some responsibility for the river, creating a fragmented system that has long frustrated residents and stakeholders. This needs to change with the establishment of an overarching body.
The consequences of inaction would be significant for the river, its ecosystems and the communities that rely on it. Meaningful progress will require cooperation across council boundaries. Recent media attention on our call has helped elevate the issue, and it is hoped that continued advocacy will lead to a positive and lasting outcome.
River Road Repairs Continue
Restoration works are progressing along River Road, Wisemans Ferry, following extensive flood damage in recent years. The project focuses on improving drainage, stabilising the roadside embankment and repairing the road pavement to ensure safer and more reliable access for residents and visitors.
Draft Hills Shire Plan Released
Council has released its 2026–2027 Draft Hills Shire Plan, outlining a significant $268 million investment in new infrastructure, operational services and the renewal of existing community assets. Residents are encouraged to review the plan and share their feedback via Council’s website.