Some New South Wales MPs say a security briefing left them more worried about their protection in parliament. Liberal MP Alister Henskens said some MPs were in tears because the answers were inadequate. The concern followed an attack on federal independent MP Helen Haines in Victoria and an anti-coal protester who jumped onto the parliament floor last week. Henskens criticised the slowness of the security response. Speaker Greg Piper said additional special constables had been assigned after the breach.
Northern Beaches Council has approved plans to expand its public electric vehicle charging network, identifying up to 50 key locations. The move aims to support the growing number of EVs in the area, with over 7,700 registered as of October 2026. Mayor Sue Heins said the expansion is crucial for sustainable transport, with projections indicating the region will have over 33,000 EVs by 2030.
Westfield has announced its 2026 Local Heroes following a public vote among three finalists per centre. Winners receive a $20,000 grant and runners-up receive $5,000. Bronwen Simmons, community relations manager at Bear Cottage, a children's hospice in Manly, was named the Westfield Warringah Mall Local Hero. Peter Quinn, who founded the peer-led group Mates in Mind, was named the Westfield Chatswood Local Hero. He plans to use his grant to launch a pilot program helping sporting clubs address player mental health. Scentre Group, which owns Westfield, is inviting nominations for the 2027 program.
AU Now app
Your suburb’s news, alerts and Shorts — in one app
Alerts, Shorts and your saved stories — free on Google Play.
A coalition of seven western Sydney councils is calling for Outer Western Sydney to be recognised as a distinct region for investment. The Outer Western Sydney Alliance says the area will house 38 per cent of Sydney's future population growth. Alliance chair and Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said infrastructure must keep pace with that growth. Priorities include completing the Outer Western Sydney Metro North-South and strengthening transport links to the Blue Mountains, Central West, Illawarra, Hunter and eastern Sydney. Carney said the area holds over two-thirds of available undeveloped employment land.
The Thrive Wellness Festival 2026 will feature roving performers, live music, interactive workshops, environmental education, and food. The free event includes returning favourites like Sally Bubbles and Roo’d, as well as new acts such as Fire and Light. It will take place at MacMahon Park, Kurrajong, on October 24, from 11am to 4pm, offering activities for all ages and abilities.
Hawkesbury Council is inviting applications for its Community Sponsorship Program for 2026/27. Resilient Hawkesbury offers up to $3,000 to community organisations that help build connection, health, inclusion and resilience. The Participation category pays $150 to individuals and $750 to teams of five or more heading to state, national or international events. Access to Community Facilities covers half the cost of hiring a council or community facility, up to $750, for eligible not-for-profit groups. Applicants are urged to read the strategy document, assessment matrix and FAQs first.
Hawkesbury Council is inviting applications for its Community Sponsorship Program for 2026/27. Resilient Hawkesbury offers up to $3,000 to community organisations that help build connection, health, inclusion and resilience. The Participation category pays $150 to individuals and $750 to teams of five or more heading to state, national or international events. Access to Community Facilities covers half the cost of hiring a council or community facility, up to $750, for eligible not-for-profit groups. Applicants are urged to read the strategy document, assessment matrix and FAQs first.
A remote waterfront block on the Hawkesbury River at Cogra Bay, north of Sydney, has been listed for sale for $275,000. The 1296sqm property is accessible only by boat and includes a double-storey yurt and timber deck. The current owner, Craig, bought it in 2000 for $42,500 and lived there full-time for several years. Selling agent Andrew Searle said the low price has drawn many enquiries from bargain hunters and locals, and riverfront interest has picked up over the past three months.
Soldiers Point paddler Brendan Jones has gained selection in a provisional Australian Auroras squad preparing for the 2027 World Dragon Boat Racing titles in China. The 53-year-old head coach of the Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club took up the sport in 2021 and has since become a gold medal-winning NSW representative. Jones is aiming for a place in the Auroras Performance Crew in the Senior B category. He will compete with five clubmates in Saturday's Region v Region regatta at Sydney International Regatta Centre.
North Sydney Council is partnering with Lifeline to provide free services that build human connection and belonging, which can support better mental health. Lifeline Connect is a free face-to-face service at Stanton Library, where people can speak with a trained supporter in a safe, discreet setting. Booking is optional and walk-ins are welcome. Lifeline also runs a crisis centre in North Sydney, and is seeking new telephone crisis support volunteers. Information sessions are being held on 19 October and 19 November from 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm. Anyone in crisis can call Lifeline on 13 14 11.
Western Sydney's diverse communities, including those in Penrith, Blacktown, Parramatta, and Liverpool, face unique challenges with partner visa applications. The process requires demonstrating a genuine relationship, but cultural differences in documentation and relationship norms can complicate evidence gathering. Community resources and legal advice are crucial for successful applications, as outdated information can lead to refusals and delays. Families must navigate work rights, housing pressures, and property planning while awaiting visa approvals.
The Hills District and Hawkesbury regions are preparing for a severe fire season, with authorities warning of potential resource shortages. Aussie Pumps is distributing its Aussie Fire Chief, a lightweight, Honda-powered firefighting pump designed for Australian conditions, backed by a five-year warranty. The company's chief engineer, John Hales, emphasised the importance of reliable equipment due to the anticipated long, hot, and dangerous summer. Additionally, Aussie Pumps is offering a free Bushfire Survival Guide, which includes practical advice on bushfire protection, equipment maintenance, and risk reduction for livestock.
The Macquarie Towns Arts Society will host its annual A Spring Affair Art & Craft Exhibition at Richmond School of Arts from 23 to 25 October. The event will feature over 130 artworks by local artists, including paintings, drawings, jewellery, and pottery. A highlight will be the Best in Show Award, with a $500 prize, announced at a high tea on Saturday. The exhibition aims to celebrate local creative talent and provide a community gathering point.
