The Agriculture and Rural Industries Strategic Reference Group plays a key role in shaping Wollondilly Shire Council’s future directions in agriculture and rural industries. By providing valuable input and advice, the group helps to develop policies, plans, and strategies that support the goals outlined in Council’s Community Strategic Plan. Focused on matters such as rural land management, agricultural industry development, and rural industry growth, the group aims to encourage opportunities for sustainable growth in these sectors. Members contribute to identifying challenges and opportunities, including leveraging agriculture and agri-businesses related to Sydney’s second airport, while ensuring that the needs of rural landowners in Wollondilly are represented.
The Arts and Heritage Strategic Reference Group plays a role in shaping the future of Wollondilly’s cultural and historical landscape. Focused on arts, culture, and heritage, the group provides input into Council’s policies, plans, and strategies, supporting the preservation and promotion of the region's rich history and creative industries. The group’s key priorities include protecting and raising the profile of Wollondilly’s heritage, supporting arts and cultural initiatives, and enhancing community wellbeing through creative expression. By offering expert advice on events, arts infrastructure, and partnerships, the group helps to make Wollondilly a vibrant and culturally enriched community, supporting both local talent and the appreciation of our heritage.
The Indigenous Strategic Reference Group is dedicated to guiding Wollondilly Shire Council’s approach to Indigenous culture and related matters. This group plays a role in providing advice on the development of policies, strategies, and initiatives that respect and promote Indigenous heritage. Key focus areas include the development of the Reconciliation Action Plan, raising awareness of Indigenous culture, advocating for the needs and challenges of Indigenous communities, and fostering respect and mutual understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents. The group also supports the planning and delivery of important cultural events, such as NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Week.
The People and Community Strategic Reference Group helps shape Wollondilly Shire Council’s approach to community development, wellbeing, and inclusivity. Focused on enhancing the quality of life for all residents, this group provides input and guidance on policies, services, and strategies that support a connected and thriving community. Key areas of focus include sport and recreation, disability access and inclusion, youth and senior services, multiculturalism, volunteering, and community safety. The group also plays an integral role in celebrating community achievements through events like Australia Day.
The Place, Landscape and Environment Strategic Reference Group helps guide Wollondilly Shire Council in shaping sustainable, responsible development and maintaining the region's unique character and environment. Focused on strategic areas such as growth and planning, local roads, traffic management, public transport, parks and reserves, and environmental sustainability, the group provides input and advice on policies and plans that promote responsible growth and environmental stewardship. Key priorities include enhancing community infrastructure, managing natural resources, promoting energy efficiency, and addressing climate change resilience. Through this group, Council will continue to work to ensure Wollondilly remains a vibrant, sustainable community with sustainable growth and a commitment to environmental protection.
The Tourism & Local Jobs Strategic Reference Group plays a role in shaping Wollondilly Shire Council’s efforts to boost the local economy through tourism development and job creation. Focused on areas such as tourism marketing, economic development, agritourism and access to education and training, the group provides advice on strategies to increase visitation, support local businesses, and promote Wollondilly as a key destination. The group also helps guide the activation of employment lands, advocate for strategic tourism initiatives, and support partnerships between tourism operators, the local community, and government agencies, ensuring that tourism remains a driving force in the region’s economic growth.
The Floodplain Risk Management Committee assists Wollondilly Shire Council in implementing the NSW Flood Prone Land Policy, which aims to reduce the impacts of flooding on communities and property owners, while minimising losses through ecologically sustainable methods. Guided by the NSW Government’s Flood Risk Management Manual (2023), the committee focuses on technical, social, economic, and ecological issues related to flood management. Its role includes providing direction on the preparation and implementation of Floodplain Risk Management Plans, promoting collaboration between the local community and Council, and ensuring that flood management strategies align with best practices for reducing flood risk and enhancing resilience.
Thirlmere Festival of Steam
Huff N Puff Road Race and Family Fun Run
National Sorry Day – Community Commemoration
Have your say on Council’s Budget and priorities for the years ahead, as Council continues big investment in roads, infrastructure, customer experience and planning for the long term
Rail, road & basic enabling infrastructure top the list as Council endorses key advocacy priorities for Wollondilly
Thirlmere gets ready to huff n puff in a race against a steam train