In 1906 a new era dawned for Hornsby. The Council of the Shire of Hornsby was born. A provisional council met for the first time in the Hornsby School of Arts building. This modest gathering marked the start of a local government body. It would shape the future of this region for generations.
The Shire of Hornsby was vast. It stretched across 510 square kilometers. The Hawkesbury River formed its northern boundary. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park lay on the northeast. The area had a rich history. The Darug people were the original inhabitants. Their heritage remains visible in art sites across the land.
Before 1906 the area was loosely defined as the Northern area of the County of Cumberland. The Department of Public Works oversaw administration. The formation of Hornsby Shire was a significant change. It was the 130th of 134 new shires proclaimed under the Local Government (Shires) Act.
The first council consisted of five members. Frederick William Browne John Charles Hunt John Boyle and Oscar Garibaldi Roberts were among them. Oscar Garibaldi Roberts served as the temporary Shire President. The shire was divided into three ridings. Only property owners could vote. This reveals much about the social landscape of the time.
The first official election came on November 24 1906. Two councillors were elected from each riding. John Charles Hunt became the first Shire President. The Council Chambers building was constructed in 1915. A second story was added in 1930. The Administration Centre opened in 1964. This shows the steady growth and evolution of the council’s operations over the years.
Initially the Hornsby Shire held a population of around 4700. By 1998 this had exploded to an estimated 140000 people. This remarkable growth highlights the area’s transformation from a rural district into a major suburb of Sydney.
The Council of the Shire of Hornsby has witnessed incredible transformations. From its humble beginnings to its modern role. It has played a crucial part in Hornsby’s development. This quiet unassuming building bears witness to a century of history. The council’s journey continues shaping the lives of Hornsby residents.