Hornsby Shire pulls together after severe storms

“Our shire has been among the hardest hit, particularly the areas around Cherrybrook, Beecroft, West Pennant Hills, Castle Hill, Galston and Dural,” Hornsby Shire Mayor Philip Ruddock said.

“It has been a challenging task and we are very proud of Council’s staff for their swift, professional response.

“We are also very grateful to the State Emergency Service (SES), Rural Fire Service (RFS), Roads and Maritime Service (RMS), Ausgrid and Sydney Water response teams, who have all worked cooperatively – and very hard – to assist affected residents.”

When the storm hit Council immediately dispatched emergency chipper crews, trucks, loaders and a crane to assist with the damage.

“Council currently has 15 crews and 20 trucks, along with several cranes and towers, on the road every day,” Mayor Ruddock said.

“All of the emergency agencies, as well as the residents affected, pulled together very effectively to help each other and clean up the damage.”

Council’s first priority has been to clear roads and footpaths.

Council is also offering a free clean-up service for tree and plant debris in the worst affected areas including Cherrybrook, Beecroft, West Pennant Hills, Castle Hill, Galston and Dural.

“Residents in these areas have been able to place storm-related debris on the nature strip for Council to collect,” Mayor Ruddock said.

“I would like to thank all residents for their neighbourly support and their patience as we work hard to clean up the most affected suburbs first.”

For more information: https://www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/emergencies

How to report storm damage

Storm damage on your property: Please contact SES on 13 25 00

Storm damage involving power lines: Please contact Ausgrid on 13 13 65

Storm damage in parks, reserves and on roads: Please contact Hornsby Shire Council on 9847 6666.