All Bushcare volunteers must complete this workshop within six months of joining the program. This is your opportunity to learn about how Council supports Bushcare group activities within the Shire.

Morning tea is provided.

Topics include:

• Bush regeneration principles
• Site management
• Work health safety
• Warada Ngurang Community Nursery tour

All Bushcare volunteers must complete this workshop within six months of joining the program. This is your opportunity to learn about how Council supports Bushcare group activities within the Shire.

Morning tea is provided.

Topics include:

• Bush regeneration principles
• Site management
• Work health safety
• Warada Ngurang Community Nursery tour

A two hour meetup that includes one hour of Bushcare while babies are babysat, followed by another hour of a delicious morning tea and a social catch up with other like-minded parents.

Come enjoy some time in nature and a cuppa while still hot!

For parents of young children.

Don't forget to wear comfortable clothes, long pants and long sleeves, closed-toe shoes, and bring a wide brimmed hat!

Lifeline Connect is a free service staffed by skilled, compassionate and non-judgmental Lifeline volunteers. In a confidential, safe space, a trained supporter will listen in a non-judgemental and caring way.

Presented in partnership with Hornsby Shire Council, residents are invited to drop in for a chat and seek the support they need.

Hornsby Shire Libraries are encouraging everyone to read over the Summer break. Join in for your chance to win prizes across December and January. The two challenges launch on Thursday, 5 December 2024 and run through until Thursday, 23 January 2025.

요양원 비용에 대해 더 알고 싶으신가요?

일시: 6월 20일 금요일, 오후 2-4시

장소: 혼스비 도서실 28-44 George Street, Hornsby. Entry via Hunter Lane

비용: 무료

예약은 필수입니다.

Find out about the different costs associated with aged care homes.

This financial seminar will be delivered in Korean.

다운사이징, 임대, 은퇴 마을, 라이프스타일 커뮤니티, 가족과 함께 살기, 요양 시설 또는 주택을 담보로 한 대출 등 다양한 선택이 있습니다. 각 옵션은 고유한 영향을 미치며, 여러분의 은퇴 생활에 맞는 선택을 찾을 수 있도록 안내해드립니다.

일시: 8월 29일 금요일, 오후 2-4시

장소: 혼스비 도서실 28-44 George Street, Hornsby. Entry via Hunter Lane

비용: 무료

예약은 필수입니다.

Looking for accommodation options to suit your retirement lifestyle? Whether you're considering downsizing, renting, retirement villages, lifestyle communities, living with family, aged care, or borrowing against your property, each option carries unique implications.

This financial seminar will be delivered in Korean.

KNC Hornsby D–Caf Meeting

Our DCafs have been created as a safe, welcoming and enjoyable space for both people who are experiencing dementia and their family members, carers and friends who may be feeling a little isolated. Activities to engage and entertain, light exercises, plus the opportunity to make new friends and share information. Our DCafs are located in:

Hornsby Central Library: Fridays 10am-12pm (during school term)

Galston: Monday, 10am-12pm

West Pymble: Tuesday, 9.30am-11.30am

St Ives: Wednesday, 10am-12pm

Kokoda Residences Apartments (Waitara): Wednesday, 10am-12pm

Where travel may be an issue, DCaf via Zoom is available.

To find out more and book your place please call: Linda Wake KNC on 9485 7599
Email: admingalston@knc.org.au
Joint project run by Rotary and KNC.

View more information on the Staying Socially Connected webpage.

• Download the D-Caf Flyer (png 600kb)

您是否想了解更多有关养老护理的可行方案，包括居家护理和养老院护理？

了解与养老院相关的不同费用、可能需要支付的费用，以及政府将提供的资助，对于帮助您找到适合个人特定护理需求和财务状况的最佳选择至关重要。

请与 Services Australia 一道，了解更多信息：

确定护理需求

居家帮助

居家护理费用和收费

养老院护理收入和资产要求

养老院护理费用和收费

影响养老金的因素

其他考量

本财务讲座将以普通话进行。

时间：7 月 25 日星期五，下午 2 点至下午 4 点

地点： Hornsby 图书馆 28-44 George Street, Hornsby. 从 Hunter Lane 进入

费用：免费

预订：凭票进场，必须提前预订。

----------------------------------------------

Would you like to learn more about the options available for aged care, including home care and nursing home care?

Understanding the different costs associated with a nursing home, what you may need to pay, and the funding that the government will provide is essential to help you find the best option for your individual's specific care needs and financial situation.

Find out more with Services Australia:

• Determine care needs
• Home help
• Home Care Fees and Charges
• Nursing home care income and asset requirements
• Nursing home care fees and charges
• Factors influencing pensions
• Other considerations

This financial seminar will be conducted in Mandarin.

您是否计划退休，并想更多了解您有哪些退休金选择？

个人退休金（即 “super”）是指在工作时预留和储蓄的资金，以便在退休后提供定期的生活收入。

请与 Services Australia 一道，了解更多信息：

投资方案

缴款规定，优惠/非优惠

退休金和税收

取用退休金

本财务讲座将以普通话进行。

时间：11 月 7 日星期五，下午 2 点至下午 4 点

地点： Hornsby 图书馆 28-44 George Street, Hornsby. 从 Hunter Lane 进入

费用：免费

预订：凭票进场，必须提前预订。

----------------------------------------------

Are you planning to retire and want to know more about your pension options?

A personal pension (i.e. "super") is money that is set aside and saved while working to provide a regular living income after retirement.

Find out more with Services Australia:

• Investment solutions
• Payment provisions, concessional/non-concessional
• Pensions and taxes
• Access to your retirement fund

This financial seminar will be conducted in Mandarin.

Living sustainably doesn't have to be hard or expensive!

In her book, 365+ Ways to Save the Planet and Your Money at the Same Time, Banish founder Lottie Dalziel shares practical tips to help you save money while being eco-friendly. From cutting power bills and embracing slow fashion to shopping wisely and choosing trustworthy brands, Lottie provides the knowledge and encouragement needed to make a positive impact.

Lottie Dalziel is a sustainability expert, journalist, podcaster, and the founder of Banish and its recycling initiative BRAD. She has received numerous accolades, including the 2023 NSW Young Australian of the Year.

Join us for an engaging evening about saving the planet and your money, and bring your hard-to-recycle items like medical blister packs and toothpaste tubes to the BRAD mega box, so that Lottie can turn your trash into treasure. Each attendee can bring a maximum 2kg bag of recycling – no batteries please. 25,000 households around Australia are collecting all their hard-to-recycle items to recycle through the BRAD program. Follow the link to see the full list of items you can bring along – get collecting and do something good for the planet.

Attendees on the night will also have a chance to win a signed copy of 365+ Ways to Save the Planet and Your Money at the Same Time. There will be an onsite bookseller for the purchase of the book and Lottie will be available for signing and questions.

Author Lottie Dalziel. Image credit: Dan Gosse

Personal superannuation (‘super’) is money that is put aside and saved while working, to provide a regular income later in life once retired.

This seminar will cover your investment options, contribution rules, super and taxation, and how to access your super.

Chill out in the Chill Zone on Tuesdays after school. Come along and enjoy a range of fun and free activities for 5–12 year olds.

Activities include construction, craft and more.

Bookings: Bookings are no longer required for this event.

Children 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Get your needles ready for a fun morning of knitting, crochet, games, morning tea and lots of fun!! Experience the warmth of community knitting and friendship as we support Wrap With Love and make blankets for those in need. A stunning exhibition of completed wraps will adorn the Library as our knitting groups come together to showcase their skills and celebrate their achievements.

Never tried knitting? Our friendly knitters can help you get started. Just bring your own 4mm knitting needles and 8 ply yarn.

Resilience Workshop and laughter yoga session

Free. Refreshments provided. All venues are accessible.

The Laughter Disaster workshop is a unique two-part experience aimed at building resilience and finding joy in tough times. The first part, led by Jo Taranto of Good for the Hood, focuses on recovering from challenging life events, such as natural disasters, personal struggles, or periods of isolation. Jo explores practical strategies, helping participants understand how to bounce back at different life stages.

The second part of the workshop shifts to a fun and interactive session with Sharon Gambrill, a Laughter Yoga instructor. Sharon introduces LaughterYoga, a practice that uses laughter as a tool to reduce stress, improve well-being, and build resilience. Participants engage in laughter exercises that show how laughter can be used daily to promote mental health and cope with challenges. Sharon demonstrates how incorporating laughter into your routine can improve mood, boost energy, and strengthen emotional health.

Together, these two parts of the Laughter Disaster workshop offer practical tools and joyful exercises to help participants build resilience, recover from setbacks, and improve their overall health through the power of laughter.

Dates, locations and booking links

Wednesday 7 May 10:30am - 12:30pm
Hornsby Library

Book Now

Monday 19 May 10:30am - 12:30pm
Cherrybrook Community Centre

Book Now

Tuesday 3 June 10:30am - 12:30pm
Thornleigh Community Centre

Book Now

Tuesday 17 June 10:30am - 12:30pm
Galston Community Centre

Book Now

About the author/book

When the bones of a teenage boy are discovered on Mount Wingen, Detective Rebecca Giles dives deep into a missing persons case that has haunted her rural town for twenty years ...

Five went up. Only four came down . . .
In April 2006, fifteen-year-old Oliver went hiking to the lookout on Burning Mountain - and vanished without trace.

His schoolfriends – Bob, Bell, Phil and Paul – were the last ones to see him on the trek, yet the teenagers were never able to explain his disappearance.

Almost twenty years later, Detective Rebecca Giles is called to bushland on nearby Mount Wingen. There a skull has been dug up, reviving the mystery that has haunted the Upper Hunter area for years.

Giles is convinced that they have finally found the missing boy, and that his four friends – all now in their mid-thirties – have always known much more than they revealed. In particular, about the argument that caused Oliver to head down the mountain on his own.

But when she discusses the case with her father, retired Superintendent Benjamin Giles, another suspect is thrown into the mix. One that for Giles is uncomfortably close to home . . .

Darcy Tindale is an actor, author, theatresports player and director, and has appeared in television commercials, film and on stage. She has written comedy for radio, stage, media personalities, comedians, and theatre restaurants. Her short stories, plays and poems have been published in anthologies, journals, and magazines. The Fall Between is her first novel.

Author Darcy Tindale. Image credit: Sally Griffiths

Keeping your bladder and bowel healthy is important for overall health. Having a healthy diet and lifestyle can help prevent problems like incontinence. Find out what else you can do for good bladder and bowel health.

Healthy Bladder and Bowel Habits sessions are delivered in partnership with the Continence Foundation of Australia. During the session the speakers will cover the information below:

• What incontinence is?
• Who is at risk of incontinence?
• Who can help?
• Five healthy habits for bladders and bowels
• How the Continence Foundation of Australia can help.

Presented by Services Australia

A retirement income stream can be a simple and tax-effective way of receiving a regular income using your super savings. This seminar will cover how income streams might be able to help you receive regular income and capital payment throughout retirement, often with taxation and Social Security advantages. We will explore account-based pensions, annuities and other investment options.

Friday 6 June – Sunday 8 June, Hornsby Library

You’re invited to come to Hornsby Library and find yourself a bargain at our monthly book sale. Give a pre-loved book a new home!

Please remember to bring a bag.

About the author/book

There's a madman dog beside me, and the hounds of memory ahead of us. It's love and beasts and wild mistakes, and regret, but never to change things...

What happens when the Zusaks open their family home to three big, wild, pound-hardened dogs - Reuben, a wolf at your door with a hacksaw; Archer, blond, beautiful, deadly; and the rancorously smiling Frosty, who walks like a rolling thunderstorm?

The answer can only be chaos: there are street fights, park fights, public shamings, property trashing, bodily injuries, stomach pumping, purest comedy, shocking tragedy, and carnage that needs to be seen to be believed ... not to mention the odd police visit at some ungodly hour of the morning.

There is a reckoning of shortcomings and failure, a strengthening of will, but most important of all, an explosion of love - and the joy and recognition of family.

From one of the world's great storytellers comes a tender, motley and exquisitely written memoir about the human need for both connection and disorder; a love letter to the animals who bring hilarity and beauty - but also the visceral truth of the natural world - straight to our doors and into our lives, and change us forever.

Markus Zusak is the international bestselling author of six novels, including The Messenger, Bridge of Clay and The Book Thief - one of the most loved books of the twenty-first century and a New York Times bestseller for more than a decade. His work is translated into more than fifty languages, and has been awarded numerous honours around the world, ranging from literary prizes to bookseller and readers choice awards. His books have also been adapted into film, television and theatre. He was born in Sydney, and still lives there with his wife, two children, and the last dog standing in a once thriving household of animals. Three Wild Dogs (and the truth) is his first book of non-fiction.

Author LMarkus Zusak. Image credit: Hugh Stewart

Joanna Jenkins grew up on a small farm in country Queensland. After graduating from the University of Queensland with degrees in English Literature and Law, she practised as a solicitor. Now, she writes full-time, with her debut novel, 'How to Kill a Client', published in 2023. 'The Bluff' is her second novel.

During this book club, guests will have the opportunity to ask questions, interact with the author, and enjoy a bookish discussion. Hosted by Ben Hobson – brought to you via Libby, the library reading app: https://www.overdrive.com/apps/libby

The Zoom link will be emailed to all attendees on the day of the event.

Ben’s Book Club is a free monthly digital book club hosted by author Ben Hobson - brought to you by OverDrive Australia. We welcome guests to join us the fourth Tuesday of each month to engage and interact with authors from all genres. The Zoom link will be emailed to all attendees on the day of the event. During this digital book club, guests will have the opportunity to ask questions, interact with the authors, and enjoy a well-rounded bookish discussion.

This month’s featured title is available to borrow from Hornsby Shire Libraries eLibrary with no waitlists or holds! Download the Libby app to start reading: meet.libbyapp.com

Author Joanna Jenkins

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

Want to know how Hornsby Shire Council manages the health of our local waterways?

Join us on a 3-hour bus and walking tour exploring local creeks, catchments and stormwater quality improvement devices installed throughout the Beecroft to North Epping area. Council has installed over 400 devices Shire-wide to help capture and filter urban run-off pollution.

Walk Grade: 2 (easy)
Supervision: Not suitable for children under 16 years of age.
Suitability: Recommended for adults and older teens with an average level of fitness and basic bushwalking experience. Not suitable for children (<16 years), those with impaired mobility, wheelchairs, walkers, or prams.
Please note: This Catchment Tour involves both bus travel and some walking through bushland, including stairs and uneven surfaces.

13 – 29 June 2025, Tuesday – Sunday, 10am-4pm

Remagine Art Prize is an environmental art prize dedicated to bringing awareness of environmental challenges such as waste and consumption. This year’s theme ‘Re:Think to Re:Purpose’ refers to the decisions we make each day about how much waste we create, and how we can reuse materials to save precious natural resources. Judges this year are curator Rhonda Davis and artist Marina DeBris. For more information and to enter go to Remagine Art Prize.

This exhibition is organised and sponsored by Hornsby Shire Council, in partnership with Hornsby Art Society.

_{Image: Phoebe Stone, Serene Sea, oil paint and oil pastel on MDF board, 2024 Remagine Art Prize winner}

Many people are relying more on the convenience of prepared meals and packaged foods, which often come wrapped in plastic. With stores open around the clock, it’s easy to pop in for a quick top-up, but this convenience can lead to increased waste.

We’ll help you take the time to plan your meals each week, make the most of your pantry staples, and use leftovers creatively—all while learning how to best store food to maximise freshness. By planning and cooking with intention, you’ll feel good about reducing your environmental footprint by cutting down on food and plastic waste in your everyday life.

Our goal is for you to feel confident and relaxed about using the ingredients you already have, and embracing the simplicity and satisfaction of smart meal planning. You'll leave with practical tools and strategies to plan your meals, reduce food waste, and minimise plastic use.

Hosted by Mardi Lee.

Green cleaning doesn't have to be difficult nor spending hours scrubbing with ineffective alternatives. Making the switch to DIY low tox, green cleaning products is possible when the alternatives are just as powerful as the artificial chemical-filled products.

Learn which chemicals to avoid and why switching to green cleaning products are better for your health and the planet. I'll show you how making the switch is easier than you think!

Hosted by Mardi Lee.

Bookings Essential for Stallholders – Please read the Terms and Conditions before booking.

Stall Registrations open 7 August 2025, 9:00am

We’re excited to host our Second-Hand Hornsby (SHH) Market at Coronation StEat, Hornsby! Second-hand community markets are our favourite way to boost our local reuse economy, keeping preloved items in circulation and out of landfill.

Shoppers can enjoy browsing second-hand treasures from a variety of stalls all in the one spot. Local stallholders can sell household goods including clothes, toys, furniture, books, sporting equipment or bric-a-brac.

Each stall holder may sell goods from within the allocated 2.4m x 2.4m stallholder site. Each stallholder will be provided with a marquee, trestle table and a chair. The market is not for the purpose of business/commercial traders. Items for sale must be second-hand.

Entry to the SHH Market is FREE for both shoppers and stallholders. Stallholders must book to secure their place.

Food and drink

• There is a water refill station on site. Please bring your reusable water bottle.
• Enjoy a variety of local cafes and food options in and around Coronation Street while you attend the market.

Restrooms

• Porta loos will be available on site for stallholders.
• There are also public facilities at Hornsby Park (300m) or Hornsby Train Station (150m)

Transport

• Public transport use is encouraged, the SHH Market is a 150m walk from Hornsby Train Station.
• Limited street parking and surrounding car parks are available.

Bookings Essential for Stallholders – Please read the Terms and Conditions before booking.

Stall Registrations open 9 October 2025, 9:00am

We’re excited to host our Second-Hand Hornsby (SHH) Market at Coronation StEat, Hornsby! Second-hand community markets are our favourite way to boost our local reuse economy, keeping preloved items in circulation and out of landfill.

Shoppers can enjoy browsing second-hand treasures from a variety of stalls all in the one spot. Local stallholders can sell household goods including clothes, toys, furniture, books, sporting equipment or bric-a-brac.

Each stall holder may sell goods from within the allocated 2.4m x 2.4m stallholder site. Each stallholder will be provided with a marquee, trestle table and a chair. The market is not for the purpose of business/commercial traders. Items for sale must be second-hand.

Entry to the SHH Market is FREE for both shoppers and stallholders. Stallholders must book to secure their place.

Food and drink

• There is a water refill station on site. Please bring your reusable water bottle.
• Enjoy a variety of local cafes and food options in and around Coronation Street while you attend the market.

Restrooms

• Porta loos will be available on site for stallholders.
• There are also public facilities at Hornsby Park (300m) or Hornsby Train Station (150m)

Transport

• Public transport use is encouraged, the SHH Market is a 150m walk from Hornsby Train Station.
• Limited street parking and surrounding car parks are available.

Celebrate Plastic Free July and learn how to make some simple swaps to reduce waste in your life, especially those pesky single-use plastics.

We’ll inspire you with hints and tips to live more sustainably and reduce your plastic footprint. We can all make a difference to combat the waste crisis!

Learn how to implement low-waste alternatives in every part of your home, from your kitchen, to your bathroom, laundry and even out in your garden.

You’ll leave feeling informed and ready to create new habits for waste avoidance and responsible consumption.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of the solution. Register now and take the first step towards a plastic-free life!

Free for Hornsby Shire residents, bookings are essential.

Join our community of composters and worm farmers, turning household food waste into nutrient rich compost for your garden. Our experienced gardener will teach you how to set up your composting system, what to feed your compost and how to manage common issues.

You’ll learn the popular ADAM technique, the key to a successful compost bin or worm farm.

The workshop is designed for all levels, whether you’re compost curious, or a seasoned worm warrior!

Participants will receive a voucher for a half price compost bin or worm farm.

Free for Hornsby Shire residents, bookings are essential.

Get to know your bike and learn basic maintenance and repair techniques from the bike experts from Revolve Recycling.

You’ll learn how to perform a safety check, maintain a healthy chain, realign your wheels, and patch up a puncture. You will also receive one-on-one assistance and advice with your own bike.

This workshop is designed to teach you the skills to maintain and repair your own bike, keeping it in great condition and prolonging its life span.

Please bring one bike along to the workshop for you to work on.

All events hosted by the Waste Management Branch are held at accessible council venues.

Free for Hornsby Shire residents, bookings are essential.

Join the Hornsby Shire Council's Stitch and Fix: Clothes Mending Workshop and learn how to mend and repair your preloved clothes by hand, prolonging the life of your favourite pieces and while learning valuable sewing techniques.

This workshop is perfect for beginners or those wanting to brush up on their skills. The experienced teachers from Sew Make Create will guide you through the entire workshop, offering assistance, advice and support.

In this workshop you’ll learn how to:

• Sew a button
• Patch and mend holes
• Hemming techniques
• Visible mending

Beginners and all levels of experience are welcome. All tools and materials are provided. Bring one piece of clothing in need of repair for advice or assistance.

Free for Hornsby Shire residents, bookings are essential.

Our regular Repair Cafés are designed to help you repair damaged electronics or small furniture items. Skilled repairers are on hand to repair your item, taking you along the journey so you can learn repair techniques to take home.

Select furniture, electrical, or both, and identify what item you need repaired.

Book in for your preferred time slot to receive one-on-one assistance and advice. If you would like to see other items being repaired, you are welcome to arrive earlier or stay longer.

No repair experience necessary, all are welcome.

Free for Hornsby Shire residents, bookings are essential.

An average Aussie buys 53 new items of clothing every year! Swapping clothes instead of shopping is a great way to save money and valuable resources, while reduce waste.

Bring up to 8 pieces of clothing or accessories to exchange at our swap, using tokens as currency. All types of adult clothing are accepted, of any style and size.

Swap items must be:

• Clean and folded
• Good quality with a long life ahead of it
• Likely to be valued by others – ask yourself if you would be happy to give it to a friend
• Free of faults or with minor faults easy to repair (e.g. missing a button).

Event Itinerary

Drop

• Drop off your pieces to clothes swap staff and collect your tokens. Staff will sort and display all items during the drop off period.

Swap

• Once the swap begins, browse preloved items and choose your pieces. ‘Buy’ your new items using your tokens.

Check in 9.30 - 10.30am & Swap 10.45 - 11.45am

Free to Hornsby Shire Residents. Bookings essential.

You don’t need a large garden to grow your own fresh herbs and veggies. Small spaces such as balconies can be a great opportunity to grow a small garden and are ideal for growing herbs, vegetables and even dwarf fruit trees.

Join our horticulturalist and permaculturalist James, as he shares his expert tips on how to create a thriving balcony garden and reduce food waste.

Whether you're an experienced or a beginner gardener, this workshop will provide you with the knowledge and motivation to create a sustainable garden in your own balcony.

Please bring:

• Sunscreen
• enclosed shoes
• reusable water bottle
• hat for sun protection.

Free to Hornsby Shire residents, booking is essential.

Does your home suffer from hypothermia in winter and heat stroke in summer?

Keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer whilst saving money on your bills.

Learn energy efficient tips for your home!

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

From the top of the ridge this four and a half hour (9.5km) challenging walk descends along an old bridle trail to the quiet waters of Cowan Creek, beside which we walk to Waratah Bay before the long steep climb up to Berowra.

Explore Ku-ring-gai Chase, Australia's second oldest National Park. We'll observe several threatened plant species along the ridgeline before tracing an old bridal trail down to Cowan Creek. We then follow the shoreline to the beautiful Waratah Bay, passing the historic ruins of the Windybank's boatshed and family home, before climbing through sheltered forest back up to the ridgeline.

Walk Grade: 4 (Challenging) - it may contain steeper, rougher terrain or a longer distance along defined tracks without major modification to the ground. It may involve short sections of rock scrambling
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: Mobile phone reception is unreliable on this walk.

This two hour (3 km) easy to moderately challenging bushwalk showcases the natural beauty and diversity found in a section of Berowra Creek around Crosslands Reserve. See or hear lyrebirds and a host of other bird species as we follow a part of the Great North Walk track. If we are quiet, perhaps the male rose robin will make an appearance! Please bring along a set of binoculars.

Grade: 2.5 (easy to moderately challenging). It contains a few sections of trail that are hilly, steep or rough.
Suitability: It is suitable for adults and teenagers with no bushwalking experience and a basic to moderate level of fitness.
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: Registrations are essential. All participants must be registered to attend.

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

A challenging and hard walk over about 6hrs (not including return by train which will depend on train timetable) and 11kms, starting at Cowan Railway Station. The walk commences down the Jerusalem Bay Track, then follows the Great North Walk with several steep ridgetop climbs and then follows the Brooklyn Dam Fire Trail, circumnavigating Brooklyn Dam before arriving at the Hawkesbury River Railway Station at Brooklyn. Catch the train back to Cowan Railway Station (runs by the hour).

Experience some stunning views of Ku-ring-gai Chase NP, warm temperate rainforest and Aboriginal heritage along this challenging day walk along a very popular section of the Great North Walk. We walk through very different vegetation types, discuss some very interesting geological and Aboriginal heritage features as well as some interesting history regarding the village of Brooklyn. Best for relatively fit and experienced bushwalkers, great for exercise and training for longer bushwalks.

Walk Grade: 4 (Challenging) - sections of the trail are hilly, steep and rough.
Suitability: Adults and older teens with bushwalking experience and a high level of fitness.
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Not recommended for children under 12.
Please note: Mobile phone reception is unreliable on this walk.

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

This 7 km (3.5hr) moderately challenging to challenging bushwalk explores the surprising cultural history and spectacular natural heritage surrounding the town of Brooklyn on the Hawkesbury River.

After visiting the scenic Flat Rock Point and Parsley Bay, ascend the steep slopes of the ridge behind Brooklyn to witness the breathtaking views of the Hawkesbury River and Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park. Follow a section of the Great North Walk through stunning sandstone woodland communities, to the peaceful and picturesque Brooklyn Dam. Initially constructed in 1884, can you guess the dam’s purpose?

Walk Grade: 3.5 (moderately challenging to challenging)
Suitability: It may contain sections of trail that are hilly, steep or rough. It will require a moderate level of fitness and is suitable for fit beginners over 15 years of age.
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: It may contain sections of trail that are hilly, steep or rough

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

Want to know how Hornsby Shire Council manages the health of our local waterways?

Join us on a 3-hour bus and walking tour exploring local creeks, catchments and stormwater quality improvement devices installed throughout the Beecroft to North Epping area. Council has installed over 400 devices Shire-wide to help capture and filter urban run-off pollution.

Walk Grade: 2 (easy)
Supervision: Not suitable for children under 16 years of age.
Suitability: Recommended for adults and older teens with an average level of fitness and basic bushwalking experience. Not suitable for children (<16 years), those with impaired mobility, wheelchairs, walkers, or prams.
Please note: This Catchment Tour involves both bus travel and some walking through bushland, including stairs and uneven surfaces.

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

From the railway to the river, this rewarding four-hour (6 km), moderately challenging to challenging return bushwalk takes us down to the picturesque Jerusalem Bay on Cowan Creek.

We descend through different vegetation communities and on the way examine evidence of the Aboriginal occupation and use of the area. We then meander along the banks of the bay and reflect on its Aboriginal and historic heritage. After admiring the million-dollar views, we slowly meander back up to Cowan Train Station, admiring the unique and rare plants and animals along the way.

Walk Grade: 3.5 (moderately challenging to challenging) - sections of the trail are hilly, steep and rough
Age group: Adults and older teens (16-19 years) with some bushwalking experience and a moderate level of fitness; also younger teenagers (13-15 years) experienced with bushwalking and a high level of fitness. Not suitable for children. 
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: Mobile phone reception is unreliable on this walk.

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

This two-hour (3km) easy to moderately challenging walk will guide you through Cherrybrook's endangered majestic Blue Gum High Forest and Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest remnants.

Learn of Council's efforts to restore these critically endangered ecological communities. We'll also compare and contrast these shale-based communities with sandstone bushland downslope along the Blackwattle Trail.

Walk Grade: 2.5 (easy to moderately challenging)
Age group: Recommended for adults and teens with a basic level of fitness and bushwalking experience. Older children (7+ years) unused to bushwalking might find it tough. Not suitable for younger children.
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: There is a creek crossing that involves a short, moderately steep descent and ascent on a concrete surface. Participants should be confident that they can manage this.

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

On this 2 and a half hour (4 km), easy to moderately challenging bushwalk, uncover the secrets of Refuge Rock - a series of huge sandstone outcrops in the heart of Berowra Valley National Park.

We will also explore the underbelly of the rock at the amazing natural 'arch'. Bring some morning tea, grab your wand and get to know your fellow walkers when we relax and take in the serene bushland views up the valley. Can you guess how Refuge Rock got its name? What caused those mysterious 'splatter' marks gouged into the rock?

Walk Grade: 2.5 (easy to moderately challenging) - It contains a few sections of trail that are hilly, steep or rough.
Age group: For adults and teenagers with no bushwalking experience and a basic to moderate level of fitness, and primary (7-12 years) aged children with bushwalking experience.
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

This three-hour (4 km), moderately challenging bushwalk through diverse sandstone vegetation communities descends through beautiful rainforest to the delightful Gibberagong Waterhole. This walk focuses on examinging the relationship between the vegetation, geology and soils of the area, as well as the fire history and fire ecology of the local flora and fauna. We visit the Gibberagong waterholes and nearby rainforest gully and spot several threatened plant species along the way.

Walk Grade: 3 (moderately challenging) - the last 300m section is steep
Age Group: Adults and teens with a moderate level of fitness and bushwalking experience.
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: Mobile phone reception is unreliable on this walk.

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

An easy, one and a half hour family friendly walk (950m) that will take you through different types of vegetation.

This gentle bushwalk is suitable for anyone wishing to learn more about the most common native plants of the area. We will be surrounded by the sounds of native birds and with a bit of luck, we may be able to spot some of our resident swamp wallabies.

Walk Grade: 2 (easy)
Suitability: Recommended for adults, teens, and older children (7+ years) with a basic level of fitness and bushwalking experience. Younger children unused to bushwalking might find it tough.
Supervision: Participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Please note: Not suitable for those with impaired mobility, wheelchairs, walkers, or prams.

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

This three hour (6.2 km), moderately challenging to challenging bushwalk follows a fire trail from the ridgetop of Cowan down to the tranquil waters of Bujwa Bay.

Passing through the pristine Muogamarra Nature Reserve, this is a great place to see wildflowers. Bring your camera and morning tea.

Walk Grade: 3.5 (moderately challenging to challenging)
Suitability: It contains tracks that are hilly, steep with a prolonged climb. It is suitable for adults with some bushwalking experience and a moderate level of fitness, and teenagers who are experienced bushwalkers.
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: Mobile phone reception is unreliable on this walk.

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

This easy, one and a half hour (1.8 km return) walk strolls along the beautiful Gundah Ridge through some of Hornsby Shire’s most beautiful sandstone bushland.

With fantastic views up and down Berowra Valley and wildflowers galore, you’ll find it hard not to take photos!

Walk Grade: 2 (easy)
Suitability: Adults, teens, and older children (7+ years) with a basic level of fitness and bushwalking experience. Younger children unused to bushwalking might find it tough. Not suitable for those with impaired mobility, wheelchairs, walkers, or prams.
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: Not suitable for those with impaired mobility, wheelchairs, walkers, or prams.

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

This five-hour (9.3 km), challenging circuit bushwalk explores a large southern section of Muogamarra Nature Reserve.

Learn about the history of Muogamarra Nature Reserve, identify a large diversity of plant species and their ecological response to fire, discover an Aboriginal engraving and discuss the fauna who call this special place home. Bring plenty of water and snacks for our morning tea break at the Djarra Creek crossing.

Walk Grade: 4 (challenging) - sections of the trail are hilly, steep and rough.
Suitability: Adults and older teens with some bushwalking experience and a high level of fitness.
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: Mobile phone reception is unreliable on this walk.

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

Discover the beauty of Marramarra National Park on this six-hour (13 km), challenging walk.

Enjoy scenic views, Aboriginal and historic heritage, colourful wildflowers and a picnic lunch by the creek. A long but interesting day walk in Marramarra National Park with diverse plant communities and Aboriginal rock engravings.

Walk Grade: 4 (challenging) - includes a steep climb from the creek
Age Group: Adults and older teens with bushwalking experience and a high level of fitness.
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: Mobile phone reception is unreliable on this walk. There is a very steep descent and ascent over the last 200m to and from Marramarra Creek.

All guided bushwalks are for Hornsby Shire residents only.

This three-hour (5.3 km), moderately challenging to challenging bushwalk explores the upper reaches of the Lane Cove River and the beautiful Coups Creek gully.

A secluded area of bushland tucked away behind the Sydney Adventist Hospital, this precious natural corridor has somehow managed to survive urban development. We'll then delve into the Lane Cove National Park through Conscript Pass, a track built during the harrowing days of the Great Depression.

Walk Grade: 3.5 (moderately challenging to challenging) - sections of trail are hilly, steep and rough.
Suitability: Recommended for adults and teens with an average to good level of fitness and bushwalking experience. Not suitable for children (<13 years), those with impaired mobility, wheelchairs, walkers, or prams.
Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Please note: Mobile phone reception is unreliable on parts of this walk.