For Immediate Release 17 June 2025
Authorised by Councillor Michelle Gallo
Finally, great to see some decent rain – it’s amazing how many parts of the Hilltops have greened up in the past two weeks. I never thought I’d be so happy feeding cows wading through the mud in gumboots!
Zac’s Place has now opened in Harden. They have been very fortunate to secure the property at 171 Albury Street. Zac’s Place has been operating for 14 years and previously had a community centre in Yass, which has recently relocated to Harden. They’ve also been running the Op Shop in Neill Street for about 10 months now and have been wonderfully supported by the local community.
Zac’s Place supports people from all walks of life who are looking for a place to belong. They have a strong focus on rural homelessness and currently operate two transitional homes in Harden. In the past, they’ve hosted one-off events such as the Night in the Sun concerts, art shows, mental health training, and community concerts.
Their new site will launch with a weekly drop-in on Wednesday afternoons from 12pm to 5pm – a time to come say hi, have a cuppa, and chat. Relationships will be built and support offered as needed. Over time, more programs and times will be introduced. The building also has space for professional rooms and group activities, so keep an eye out for additional services that may become available. If you’re someone looking for a space in town to offer a service, please pop down and get in touch.
Council has recently approved the formation of a Companion Animal Advisory Committee. The purpose of the Committee is to act as an advisory body to Council and make recommendations to Council; assist with the development of strategic policies, programs, services and plans for companion animals; provide strategic input and advice in relation to Council’s companion animal events and educational programs to help raise awareness about companion animals and the Companion Animals Act 1998; and assist Council with the delivery of effective and responsible care and management of companion animals.
If this sounds like a role for you, please complete and submit the Expression of Interest Form available at https://www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/have-your-say/. Applicants must also attach a supporting letter outlining reasons for wishing to join the Committee and relevant expertise and experience. Expressions of interest close at 9am on Tuesday 1 July 2025.
Council also has several draft policies on public exhibition These are:
- Draft Controlled Circuit TV (CCTV) Policy
- Draft Credit Card Policy
- Draft Investment Policy
- Draft Contaminated Land Policy
- Draft Conflict of Interest Policy for Council Related Development
These draft policies can be viewed at https://www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/have-your-say/ or hard copies are available for viewing by the public at the Council administration offices at Boorowa, Harden and Young.
Community members are invited to provide feedback on the draft documents during the exhibition period. To learn more about the above items, find submission close dates, and make a submission visit: https://www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/have-your-say/
Council is continuing to work towards a new off-leash park in Harden – watch this space for exciting updates!
Over the past few weeks, there’s been an increase in roadside littering. Did you know you can report littering from a vehicle?
Roadside litter is one of the most unnecessary and preventable environmental problems in NSW. If you see someone littering from their vehicle, you can report them online. Fines start from $500 for individuals and $1,000 for corporations based on your report.
Take action by reporting to the EPA using this link https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/reporting- and-incidents/reporttoepa
Your efforts help create a cleaner, greener Hilltops.
Councillor Michelle Gallo