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Sydney’s Hills District, located in the north-western part of the city, encompasses suburbs within the Hills Shire, parts of the City of Parramatta Council, and Hornsby Shire. Known for its hilly topography, the district is a blend of residential growth and historical significance, particularly marked by the region’s elevation as the Cumberland Plain meets the Hornsby Plateau. This geographical feature gives the area its characteristic landscape and contributes to its appeal as a sought-after residential locale.
One of the Hills District's historical highlights is the Windsor and Old Windsor Roads, which are some of the earliest roads laid in Australia, adding to the region's rich colonial history. The area's history extends from the first settlements to more modern developments, including the opening of the Sydney Metro Northwest in May 2019, which introduced heavy rail services for the first time. Prior to this, the district was primarily served by bus rapid transit systems. The introduction of the metro has made commuting easier, providing enhanced connectivity to other parts of Sydney.
Moving towards Western Sydney, the region stretches across a vast area encompassing Parramatta, Bankstown, Liverpool, Penrith, and Fairfield, covering 5,800 km² and housing a population of over 2.2 million. The area is renowned for its multicultural diversity, with suburbs like Cabramatta, known as Little Saigon, Fairfield, called Little Assyria, and Harris Park, often referred to as Little India, reflecting the varied backgrounds of its residents. These communities have shaped the cultural fabric of the region, contributing to the vibrant food, traditions, and events that make the area unique.
Western Sydney is a significant industrial hub, with many residents employed in heavy industries and vocational trades. Suburbs like Toongabbie are steeped in history, being one of the first settlements established after the arrival of the British. The greater west is also home to notable attractions like Raging Waters in Prospect, Auburn Botanic Gardens, and Featherdale Wildlife Park in Doonside, which draws thousands of visitors each year. Additionally, Sydney Olympic Park, created for the 2000 Summer Olympics, and Sydney Motorsport Park in Eastern Creek have become prominent locations for entertainment and sports.
Historically, Prospect Hill is an important site in the west, featuring ancient volcanic activity, and is listed on the State Heritage Register. The Old Government House in Parramatta, Australia’s oldest surviving public building, is a key heritage site, and its inclusion on the Australian National Heritage List and the World Heritage List further solidifies its importance.
Further southwest, the Macarthur region, including the city of Campbelltown, has seen significant population growth. Macarthur Square, one of Sydney’s largest shopping complexes, has made the area a retail destination. The region is also home to Bankstown Reservoir, one of the oldest elevated reservoirs in Australia, and Bland Oak, one of Sydney's oldest trees, highlighting the area's historical significance.
In conclusion, both the Hills District and Western Sydney are fast-developing areas that combine historical richness with modern growth and multicultural diversity. As Sydney continues to expand, these regions are set to play an integral role in shaping the city’s future.