Over 67000 people call it home. This is Hawkesbury City Council. It’s a sprawling local government area. It’s the largest in metropolitan New South Wales.
Hawkesbury City Council’s story begins long ago. The Darug people were the traditional custodians of this land. They thrived along the Hawkesbury River. They fished and farmed along its banks.
Then came the Europeans in 1794. They sought fertile land. They wanted to feed the growing colony at Sydney. Governor Macquarie later established five towns. Windsor Richmond Wilberforce Pitt Town and Castlereagh. These towns are now part of the Hawkesbury. Many of their early buildings still stand.
Today Hawkesbury boasts a diverse mix of urban and rural communities. There’s a rich agricultural heritage. The area leads in vegetable production. Poultry meat and egg production are also important. The Hawkesbury also has an aviation facility and an education precinct.
In 1981 Hawkesbury Shire Council was formed. It was mostly rural then. Later it became Hawkesbury City Council. It’s a testament to growth. Urban expansion in Sydney has transformed it. But the northern part remains largely rural. It still has farmlands and national parks.
Hawkesbury City Council has a current mayor. Her name is Sarah McMahon. She’s a member of the Liberal Party. The council itself is made up of twelve councillors. They represent the entire area. They are elected every four years.
The council’s annual budget is over $70 million. This impressive amount funds many services. It supports the community’s needs. It’s crucial to the area’s future. Hawkesbury City Council is a vital part of the region’s identity. It’s a vibrant place with a rich history. It blends the old and new together. It combines the agricultural heritage with modern development.