Mayor Waddell shares the latest news from across Hornsby Shire
HORNSBY PARK
The first stage of Hornsby Park is now open!
HISTORY UNCOVERED
Step back in time and explore the fascinating history of Hornsby Park
COMMUNITY NURSERY
Meet the dedicated volunteers growing 45,000 native plants each year
CHOOSE TO REUSE
PROJECTS IN PROGRESS
Updates on major projects across Hornsby Shire
REMAGINE ART PRIZE EXHIBITION
Explore artworks responding to the theme Built to Expire
YOUR COUNCILLORS
Contact details for your local Councillors
Hornsby Shire Council Cover image: Southern Lookout, Hornsby Park
Message Mayor’s
WELCOME TO ‘OUR COUNCIL’, OUR QUARTERLY PUBLICATION, BRINGING YOU NEWS OF WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING ACROSS
HORNSBY SHIRE.
I am delighted to share an exciting milestone in the transformation of Hornsby Park, with the opening of the Southern Lookout and Crusher Plant Precinct - the first stage of the park’s progressive opening to our community. Once home to the industrial plant that crushed volcanic rock from the quarry, this historic area has now been reimagined as a tranquil space with lawns, picnic shelters and sweeping views over the ancient landscape.
This early “first look” offers a glimpse into the park’s continuing transformation, with more areas - including the quarry loop track, additional lookouts and the Old Mans Valley Field of Play - to open as works progress. I look forward to sharing more milestones as Hornsby Park continues to take shape. Read more on page two.
“ THIS HISTORIC AREA HAS NOW BEEN REIMAGINED AS A TRANQUIL SPACE WITH LAWNS, PICNIC SHELTERS AND SWEEPING VIEWS OVER THE ANCIENT LANDSCAPE.
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Across the Shire, revitalisation projects continue to create safer, more welcoming public spaces. Planning for the Galston Village upgrade is well advanced, with construction expected to begin in early 2026, delivering improved crossings, refreshed landscaping, better signage and more accessible parking.
Charles Curtis Park in Normanhurst has also been renewed, offering a larger, more inviting neighbourhood park with upgraded play equipment, seating, pathways and shaded green space. Meanwhile sporting communities are benefitting from the new Mark Taylor Oval pavilion at Waitara. Featuring modern, inclusive facilities – including female -friendly change rooms. Read more about these exciting projects on page ten.
This edition also highlights the inspiring work happening at Warada Ngurang Community Nursery in Pennant Hills. With more than 45,000 native plants grown each year and supported by dedicated volunteers, the nursery plays a vital role in local biodiversity, habitat restoration and our popular Native Plant Giveaways. Find out more on page six.
Finally, I encourage you to explore our award-winning Second Hand Hornsby program. Whether visiting the popular markets or following the new Op Shop Trail, it’s a great way to uncover local treasures while supporting reuse and reducing waste across the Shire. Read more on page eight.
I look forward to seeing you out and about the Shire this autumn. As ever, if you have any enquiries or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me at wwaddell@hornsby.nsw.gov.au.
Warren Waddell Mayor, Hornsby Shire Council
Hornsby Park A New Chapter for
OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE CRUSHER PLANT PRECINCT AND SOUTHERN LOOKOUT
Hornsby Park has reached an exciting milestone with the official opening of the Crusher Plant Precinct and Southern Lookout on 28 March. Local residents were among the first to explore the transformed areas of the park, which reveal stunning views into the ancient volcano and the former quarry.
This first stage of Hornsby Park’s opening offers walking trails, lookouts, and spaces for everyone to enjoy at their own pace. The Crusher Plant Precinct provides picnic shelters and BBQ facilities as well as extensive lawns. Dramatic vistas over the surrounding bushland
and glimpses into the park’s ongoing transformation can be viewed from the Southern Lookout.
JUST THE BEGINNING
Council is opening the park in stages, so there will be more areas to explore in the future, including additional trails, playgrounds, and recreation spaces.
Keep an eye on Hornsby Park as it continues to evolve – this is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the community.
Southern Lookout
fascinating history Hornsby Park’s unique and
FEW PLACES TELL A STORY AS VAST AS HORNSBY PARK
Carved by a volcanic eruption 200 million years ago and shaped by people across the ages, the site has been a quarry, a home, a research hub and now, a parkland for everyone to enjoy.
The story begins in the Jurassic Period, around 200 million years ago, when explosive, gas-filled magma forced its way through solid rock. The eruption created what is now the largest volcanic diatreme in Greater Sydney. Today, the exposed eastern cliff face still reveals its striking layers – a rare geological record of those ancient forces.
For tens of thousands of years, the site was cared for by First Nations peoples, before becoming home to European settlers in the 1820s. Over time, it became
HORNSBY PARK TIMELINE
JURASSIC PERIOD
Volcanic diatreme forms
65,000+ YEARS
Aboriginal custodianship
an orchard, a quarry, and even a hub for early radio astronomy research. The quarry in particular shaped Hornsby for much of the 20th century – its hard volcanic rock was crushed and used as road base across Sydney.
In 2002, Hornsby Shire Council was legally required to purchase the land from CSR Limited, marking the beginning of a long journey to transform the former quarry into public parkland. What followed was years of planning, filling, environmental restoration and community consultation. Now, the site is entering a new chapter. The first stage of Hornsby Park is now open, allowing the community to enjoy the stunning natural beauty, history and views of this extraordinary place.
1820-1900
European occupation: orchards and homes
1900-1955
Radio astronomy on the site
1905-2002
Volcanic rock mined and processed for Sydney’s road base
2002
Council legally obliged to purchase the quarry site from CSR Limited
2003-2013
Planning and Special Rate Variation
2012
Mountain bike trail opens
2019-2020 Environmental Impact Statement and DA for civil works; vegetation restoration begins 2024 Heritage Steps refurbished 2014 Recreation study explores future possibilities 2021 Masterplan adopted, on-site works begin
1.2 million m 3 of fill from NorthConnex (equal to 450 Olympic swimming pools) 2026 Crusher Plant Precinct and Southern Lookout open to the public
Southern Lookout, Hornsby Park
Community Nursery Inside Warada Ngurang
VOLUNTEERS POWER THE COMMUNITY NURSERY
Nestled in the bushland streets of Pennant Hills, Warada Ngurang Community Nursery produces up to 45,000 native plants each year. Managed by our Environment team and supported by a dedicated group of volunteers, these plants find their way into local gardens through our much loved and free Native Plant Giveaways, while others support schools, Bushcare sites, bushland restoration projects, street tree plantings and community events such as National Tree Day and Citizenship Ceremonies.
Most of the plants grown at our nursery begin as seeds or cuttings collected from local bushland. More than 300 native species are propagated onsite, supported by an extensive seed storage facility. The nursery is proudly accredited and award winning, a true community asset.
VOLUNTEERS AT THE HEART
Volunteers play a central role in the nursery’s success. They help with everything from seed collection and propagation to watering, potting, stock maintenance and sharing plant advice with residents. Their enthusiasm keeps the nursery vibrant, productive and deeply connected to the community.
“
I ORIGINALLY STARTED VOLUNTEERING BECAUSE I WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE LOSS OF HABITAT AND BIODIVERSITY AND WANTED TO CREATE POSITIVE CHANGE. ALONG THE WAY, I’VE GAINED A BEAUTIFUL NETWORK OF SUPPORTIVE FRIENDS. IT’S A LOVELY COMMUNITY OF PEOPLE WORKING TOGETHER FOR A COMMON CAUSE, OFFERING BOTH FRIENDSHIP AND A REAL SENSE OF BELONGING. “
Volunteers Jean and Howie
Heather, nursery and bushcare volunteer
POSSUM MAGIC AT HILLS WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
In 2025, volunteers joined the Mayor and staff at Hills Wildlife Sanctuary to deliver native plants lovingly grown at Warada Ngurang. The donated Grevillea hybrid, Banksia ‘Giant Candles’ and weeping lilly pilly have enhanced habitat areas and provide feed for local wildlife, including possums like Juniper, who stole the show on the day.
FREE NATIVES FOR YOUR GARDEN
It’s a great example of community led conservation in action: growing feed trees locally and supporting the care of injured and orphaned wildlife in our Bushland Shire.
Residents can book an appointment to collect four free native plants grown at the Warada Ngurang Community Nursery, with two giveaway events held each year.
To find out more about the Community Nursery and our Native Plant Giveaways for this year visit:
hornsby.nsw.gov.au/NativePlants
Volunteers Nicolas and Ros
Citizenship recipients
The Mayor and volunteers with sanctuary staff Juniper the possum
CHOOSE TO RE-USE SECOND HAND HORNSBY
DISCOVER PRE-LOVED TREASURES
CLOSE TO HOME
Whether you enjoy browsing a market stall or visiting your local op shop, Second Hand Hornsby makes it easy to shop more sustainably. Through the popular markets and a new Op Shop Trail, there are more opportunities to give pre-loved items a second life while uncovering great local finds.
BROWSE THE HORNSBY MARKETS
If you love a good bargain and want to make more sustainable choices, the Second Hand Hornsby Markets at Coronation Street is worth a visit. Taking place on the second Sunday of July, September and November, you’ll have lots of chances to shop second hand and keep quality items in use for longer.
Second Hand Hornsby was recently recognised at the Keep Australia Beautiful NSW Sustainable Cities Awards 2025, receiving a Highly Commended award in the Waste Avoidance category. Since the markets began, more than 5,600 items have stayed in use and over $36,000 has been kept within the local reuse economy.
The Second Hand Hornsby Markets will run from 9am to 1pm on Sunday 12 July, 13 September and 8 November in the Coronation Street car park, Hornsby. Stallholder spaces go on sale approximately one month before each event and sell out very quickly.
Second Hand Hornsby market, Coronation Street, Hornsby
Hornsby Shire
EXPLORE THE OP SHOP TRAIL
Council has also launched a new Second Hand Hornsby Op Shop Trail. The trail brings together all the op shops across the Hornsby Shire and offers the opportunity to explore local centres while giving pre-loved items a new life.
From clothing and homewares to quirky collectibles, each stop along the trail helps keep quality goods out of landfill and supports a more sustainable community. The Op Shop Trail makes it easy to shop smart, save money and uncover hidden gems close to home.
The Op Shop Trail Guide has a list of all the op shops, as well as maps, opening times and top tips for making the most of your day. The guide is available on Council’s website or can be collected from your local library in Hornsby, Pennant Hills or Berowra.
Collect your Op Shop Trail Guide from your local library, scan the QR code or visit: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/SecondHandHornsby
Anglicare Op Shop Hornsby
Helping Hearts Survive in Dural
MAJOR PROJECTS UPDATE ON
A FRESH NEW PARK FOR NORMANHURST
Charles Curtis Park on Pine Street, Normanhurst has a brand new look. Following a major upgrade, the park now offers more space to play, explore and relax for families, children and neighbours.
The revamped park features a fully fenced playground with a soft rubber surface, a covered play tower with two slides and monkey bars, swings for all ages, nature play steppers and playful car rockers.
A large picnic shelter, extra tables and seating, and expanded grassed areas shaded by mature and newly planted trees make it an inviting place for a family picnic.
A basketball hoop has been added in a shaded location, and new concrete pathways now connect through to Pine Street and Willowtree Street.
To support access for all, an accessible parking space has also been provided on Myrtle Street.
REVITALISING GALSTON VILLAGE
Works to revitalise Galston Village are progressing well, with upgrades designed to improve safety, access and local amenities.
Following extensive community engagement and collaboration with Transport for NSW, the project is now moving toward delivery. Construction is expected to begin in the coming months and will take around 14 months.
The Galston Village Public Domain Plan will create a safer and more welcoming village, with features including:
New pedestrian crossings and footpaths
Refreshed landscaping
Improved bus stops
Clearer signage and line marking
Road upgrades with a reduced 40km/h speed limit
More accessible parking
“ UPGRADES DESIGNED TO IMPROVE SAFETY, ACCESS AND LOCAL AMENITIES.
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FIND OUT MORE
For information about these and other major infrastructure projects visit: hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Charles Curtis Park
A WIN FOR COMMUNITY SPORT
The Mark Taylor Oval pavilion at Waitara officially opened in March, delivering modern, inclusive facilities for local sport and the wider community. The new pavilion and upgraded grandstand support cricket and rugby at all levels, with accessible and female friendly change rooms that make it easier for women and girls to take part. Inside, the pavilion includes a canteen, community and club space, scorer’s room, storage and public amenities.
As the final stage of major upgrades at Waitara Park, the project strengthens the precinct as an important local sporting hub and reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to healthy, active communities. The project was delivered in partnership with the NSW Government and Cricket NSW and Cricket Australia.
Mark Taylor Oval pavilion
Officially open!
Mark Taylor Oval, Waitara
exhibition 2026 Remagine art prize
THIS YEAR’S THEME:
BUILT TO EXPIRE
This year’s Remagine Art Prize theme, Built to Expire, asks artists to examine the intentional design of objects with short lifespans, which shines a light on our throwaway culture and the rapid churn of material goods. The result is a powerful collection of artworks that question how we value, use, and discard the things around us.
Hosted by Hornsby Shire Council in partnership with the Hornsby Art Society, the Remagine Art Prize has been inspiring creative responses to environmental challenges since 2009. Each year, artists are invited to confront the realities of waste, sustainability, and overconsumption through their work.
FIND OUT MORE
Explore the full program and learn more at: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/ remagine
Wallarobba Arts and Cultural Centre
BUILT TO EXPIRE
25 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby 15 May – 31 May 2026, 10am – 4pm Free entry
2025 People’s Choice award winner: Jacks Oliver, Finding a way back to find a way forward
Clr Ben McSweeney 0423 411 928 bmcsweeney@hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Deputy Mayor
Council recognises the Traditional Owners of the lands of Hornsby Shire, the Dharug and GuriNgai peoples, and pays respect to their Ancestors and Elders past and present and to their Heritage.
We acknowledge and uphold their intrinsic connections and continuing relationships to Country.
GET IN TOUCH
‘Our Council’ is a Hornsby Shire Council publication. Send us your feedback or suggestions for stories to: media@hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Subscribe to our monthly eNews: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/enews
CONTACT DETAILS
Hornsby Shire Council
PO Box 37, Hornsby NSW 1630
Phone: 9847 6666
Fax: (02) 9847 6999
Email: hsc@hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Customer service (telephone and online) hours: 8.30am–5pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)
In person: Customer Enquiries counter is located inside Hornsby Library, 28-44 George Street, Hornsby hornsby.nsw.gov.au
This publication is printed on Sovereign Silk Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified paper using vegetable oil based inks and an alcohol-free ISO 14001 certified printing process.
