HILLS INDEPENDENT HILLS 133 July 2026 | Page 6

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LOCAL LIFE

One of The Hills Shire’ s most iconic community landmarks is set for a significant makeover, with The Hills Shire Council unveiling plans for a major upgrade of the Aub Juleff Arena at Castle Hill Showground.

The ambitious project will revitalise the heart of the historic showground, creating a modern, multipurpose venue while preserving the rich heritage that has made it a focal point for generations of Hills residents.

Castle Hill Showground

For more than a century, Castle Hill Showground has been a place where the community comes together. Established in the late 1800s, the showground has hosted agricultural shows, sporting events, exhibitions, community celebrations, markets and countless gatherings that have helped shape the identity of The Hills district. As the region has grown from a rural farming community into one of Sydney’ s fastest-growing urban centres,

Castle Hill Showground Arena Concept Image- Arrival Plaza( Credit Taylor Brammer). the showground has remained an important link to the area’ s history and traditions.

The Aub Juleff Arena, named after a respected local figure who made a significant contribution to the Hills community, has long been the centrepiece of the showground. Now, thanks to a major investment from the NSW Government and Council, the arena is set to be transformed into a contemporary community space designed to meet the needs of a rapidly expanding population.

Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne, said the project will enhance the arena’ s role as a place for community gathering, showcasing talent and fostering competition.

“ Castle Hill Showground has been the centre of this community for generations and these works will ensure that continues for many years to come,” Mayor Byrne said.

“ This transformative project provides an opportunity to build on that legacy

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4 ISSUE 133 // JULY 2026 theindependentmagazine. com. au THE HILLS INDEPENDENT