0400 774 102 paul @ landscapelogicnsw. com. au www. landscapelogicnsw. com. au
... FROM THE PUBLISHER’ S DESK... Your thoughts? julie @ hdinews. com. au
Happy New Year and welcome to our first edition of 2026!
As the new year begins, there’ s a real buzz across the Hawkesbury, and this edition captures that community spirit in full swing. From summer celebrations to local history, inspiring people and practical information, there’ s plenty to enjoy as families make the most of the school holidays.
Australia Day on the Hawkesbury promises green and gold vibes by the river on Monday 26 January, as our community comes together to reflect, celebrate and enjoy a fantastic evening at Governor Phillip Park. It’ s always a highlight on the local calendar, and you’ ll find all the details on page 5.
We’ re proud to feature one of the Hawkesbury’ s finest in this edition – Brian Weaver, a true musical marvel. Brian’ s lifelong love of music, sparked by an accordion at just seven years old, is matched by his extraordinary memory for lyrics and musical pieces.
His story on pages 6 and 7 is a wonderful reminder of the talent and passion that lives right here in our region.
For history lovers, we delve into the story of Buttsworth Bridge on page 10, while page 11 helps families plan the holidays with arts and culture activities for all ages.
We also share important local news, including the opening of the Medicare Urgent Care Clinic at Rouse Hill, offering easier access to urgent medical support for North West Sydney residents.
Add in summer fun, giveaways, sport and a tasty recipe with Con from Richmond Fruit Market, and this edition has something for everyone.
Thank you for welcoming us into your homes each month. Here’ s to a safe, happy and community-filled year ahead.
A small local firm based in Pitt Town, with offices also located in Penrith, and Five Dock. With a mature team, we have a practical and professional approach that delivers fast and beneficial outcomes for our clients.
We can partner with very experienced Barristers and specialist legal teams if necessary to get our clients the best results. Our prices are very competitive compared to other suburban firms and we strive to offer an impeccable service to our clients.
megan @ 0414lawyer. com | 0414 529 937
BUYING & SELLING PROPERTY CRIMINAL LAW POWER OF ATTORNEY DIVORCE CHALLENGING A WILL FAMILY LAW & PROPERTY WILLS & ESTATE PLANNING ADVANCE CARE DIRECTIVE PROBATE
HDI
HAWKESBURY
INDEPENDENT
Issue 188 | January 2026 Phone 4588 5055 | e: info @ hdinews. com. au theindependentmagazine. com. au
The Independent Magazine acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this nation. We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands on which our company is located and where we conduct our business.
We pay our respects to ancestors and Elders, past and present. The Independent is committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich contribution to society.
Lic: 347025C
Paul McDarmont
0400 774 102 paul @ landscapelogicnsw. com. au www. landscapelogicnsw. com. au
THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine. com. au ISSUE 188 // JANUARY 2026 3