Keep cool in The Hills this summer

Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne is encouraging residents to beat the heat locally by checking out ‘what’s cool’ in The Hills this summer.

“Summer is the perfect time to explore The Hills,” Mayor Byrne said.

“We have beautiful local reserves with barbecues and shaded picnic areas, which are great for a day out with friends and family.

“I encourage residents to get out and about locally during these warmer months and experience all the amazing places and natural wonders so close to home here in The Hills,” Mayor Byrne added.

Some of the top places to keep cool in The Hills this summer include:

Wisemans Ferry 

Wisemans Ferry is a great location for anyone wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and looking for an outdoor adventure.

Located on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, this small town is jam-packed with fascinating colonial heritage, stunning landscapes and an abundance of native flora and fauna.

Wisemans Ferry Park is the perfect place for a picnic lunch, with afternoons spent lazing on the banks of the river. Barbeque facilities are also available.

If you prefer more of a birds-eye view, head up a bit higher to Hawkins Lookout – where you can find spectacular views of the river and its surrounds.

For those wanting an action-packed day, a scenic kayak trip down the Hawkesbury River is the perfect way to recharge and enjoy the natural wonders of The Hills.

From Lower Portland, the river twists and turns through spectacular mountainsides, flood plains and sandstone country.

Kayaks can be hired from a number of water sports shops in the area.

Livvi’s Place All-Access Playground

Livvi’s Place All-Access Playground, located at Bernie Mullane Reserve, Kellyville, is ideal for keeping the kids cool and busy this summer.

The playground is made up of a number of interactive spaces, including a large water play area ideal to splash about in, as well as a balance beam walk, swings, a sensory planting area, musical play walk, climbing ropes and much more.

There is a dog off-leash area within the reserve, meaning the whole family, including furry friends, are welcome. Bernie Mullane Reserve also has an open picnic shelter and barbecue area.

Take a waterfall walk

Follow the Darling Mills Creek to discover tall blue gums, sandstone gullies and wildflowers – arriving at a cool, clear waterfall.

Starting at Richard Webb Reserve in West Pennant Hills, access to the three kilometre walk begins behind the Aiken Road playground and picnic area, and takes around one and a half to two hours to complete.

The waterfall can be spectacular after rain, but the spot is always a cool, scenic place to visit.

The track is a mix of graded fire trail and bush track and an additional loop with a steeper climb is available beyond Blue Gum Creek Bridge for the adventurous.

Details about the Waterfall Walk, including a printable map, can be found on Council’s website by searching for ‘Bushwalks in The Hills’.

For more information about recreational facilities, parks and reserves located in The Hills, visit The Hills Shire Council website, www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Venues/Parks-Recreation.