Dear Berowra Resident,

This newsletter covers some important information on how I can assist, what is happening in our community and paying recognition to those who make our community better every day. 

This edition includes: 

• Running activities these Summer School Holidays?
• What's on this November! 
• How my office can assist with congratulatory messages
• Fighting to keep our children safe
• Recipient of the McKinnon Prize for Political Leadership
• 5 Years of NorthConnex
• Ashleigh Derwent's Voice Letterbox Idea
• Nan Horne celebrates her 100th birthday
• Head to the Hill - Brain Tumour Awareness
• Supporting the Hornsby Kuring-gai Sailing Club
• North Sydney West Tennis 
• Dural Country Fair 
• Sunday Service at Epping Baptist Church
• CASS Moon Festival Celebrations in Beecroft and Thornleigh
• LinC Thanksgiving Service
• Diwali Celebrations
• Pennant Hills VIEW Club turns 65
• Dhamma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara, Hornsby Katina Ceremony
• 2025 Beecroft Ball
• Berowra RSL Flag Presentation
• Inala Fair 
• The Addams Family by Berowra Musical Society
• Waitara Anglican Church 75th Anniversary
• Your Voice in the Federal Parliament

I am here to represent you, and my team and I are always ready to assist with your concerns.

Whether you need help dealing with a federal agency, advice on a grant application, or want to share ideas to improve our community, we are here to support you.

If I can ever be of assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact me at julian.leeser.mp@aph.gov.au or on (02) 9980 1822.

Kind regards,
Julian

A highlight of my monthly updates is sharing the great community events happening right across the Berowra Electorate.

There is now fewer than 55 days left in 2025, I again want to call on all local groups to start send through your late-December and January activities.

As a dad of two young kids, I know how important it is to have fun things to do during the long summer holidays.

If your group is planning an event, I’d love to hear from you. 

Reply to this update or email me at julian.leeser.mp@aph.gov.au so we can help spread the word about the great summer community activities that will be on offer!

Glossy Black Cockatoo Exhibition: A striking exhibition celebrating the region’s endangered glossy black cockatoos and their habitat. Ideal for families and nature lovers.
Ongoing — 1 October 2025 to February 2026, Daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
📍Kalkari Discovery Centre, 402 Ku-ring-gai Chase Road, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
💲Cost: Free
 

Craft & Conversation (for Grandparents): A relaxed weekly social morning with craft, coffee and conversation for local grandparents and retirees.
Every Wednesday (except school holidays), 9:30 am – 11:30 am
📍Beecroft Community Hall, Beecroft
💲Cost: Free – sponsored by Ku-ring-gai Neighbourhood Centre✉️ https://www.beecroftcombinedprobusclub.org.au/classes/43971

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown – The Broadway Musical

When: Sat 15 Nov - 2 pm & 7 pm
📍Epping Baptist Church, 1–5 Ray Road, Epping
💲Cost: Adults $40 | Pensioners $30 | Children/Students $30 | Family tickets (2 adults + min. 2 children, up to 6 kids): 20% discount | Groups 10+ adults: $36 each (10% off)
✉️ charliebrown@eucms.org.au

Christmas Card Making Class: Create personalised Christmas cards in a friendly workshop setting. All materials supplied; ideal for beginners and families.
Monday 8 December 2025, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
📍Fusion Sydney North Community Centre, Hornsby
💲Cost: Gold coin donation
✉️ sydneynorth@fusion.org.au

Reply to this update or email me at julian.leeser.mp@aph.gov.au to send through any December events you want the community to know about. 

 

• 50th wedding anniversary or any year thereafter
• 90th birthday or any year thereafter

 

At the beginning of October, I introduced the Crimes Amendment (Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Child Sexual Abuse) Bill 2025.

This Bill is about one simple principle: those who abuse, exploit or prey upon children must face the full force of the law. 

This Bill is in part a response to the epidemic of child sexual abuse both online, and in childcare centres that Australia is witnessing.

Right now, the sentences handed down for some of the most serious child sex offences fall far short of what the community expects.

Parents should never have to wonder whether the law truly values the safety and dignity of their children.

This Bill would close loopholes, introduce mandatory minimum sentences and strengthen deterrence so offenders serve real time behind bars, not just a few months.

Protecting children must be the first priority of every government.

As Shadow Attorney-General and now the Shadow Minister for Education and Early Learning I have led the push for the Coalition, calling on the Albanese Government to pass this Bill without delay.

You can read my speech here. 

We've also called on the government to agree to an urgent public hearing of the Senate Education and Employment References Committee's Inquiry into the Quality and safety of Australia’s early childhood education and care system, which is chaired by local Liberal Senator, Maria Kovacic. 

We owe it to every Australian child, and every parent, to ensure that the law will protect all law-abiding Australians.

It was an honour to be awarded, alongside Josh Burns, the 2024 McKinnon Prize for Political Leadership, for work in fighting antisemitism over the past two years.

Australia is a multicultural success story. Jewish families came here for the same reason as others, because this is the most liveable, tolerant and free place on earth and we want to keep it that way.

There have been Jews in this country since the First Fleet. Jewish Australians are responsible for building so many of Australia's institutions, from our Constitution to our football clubs, retail, housing and entertainment industries. There are Jewish Australian Olympians, business people, teachers, Anzacs, parliamentarians and even bushrangers.

That is why combatting antisemitism is not just a Jewish challenge, it is an Australian one. It is about our democratic ideals and practices. It is about ensuring that no matter who you are, if you are a law-abiding Australian you receive full protection under the law.

At the end of October, we celebrated the 5th anniversary of NorthConnex. 

This vital piece of infrastructure has transformed our community, taking more than 6,200 trucks off Pennant Hills Road every day, reducing traffic by almost 30%, and delivering 20% faster travel times during peak periods.

It has made Pennant Hills Road safer, quieter and given the road back to our community.

It remains a lasting legacy of what Liberal Governments at both a federal and state level can achieve through responsible economic management and by working with the private sector to deliver real, lasting benefits for families in our community. I'm proud to have delivered NorthConnex for our community. 

NAN HORNE CELEBRATES HER 100TH BIRTHDAY
 

Tomorrow, Nan Horne celebrates her 100th birthday. 

Nan was the first and is still the only woman elected President or Mayor of Hornsby Shire Council. She also carries a strong local story through her husband's family connection to Samuel Henry Horne, the ex-convict turned hero-policeman after whom Hornsby is named.

It was fantastic to visit her this week and wish her well on behalf of our community, as well as recognise her in the Parliament for her local achievements and dedication to our community. 

You can find my speech recognising Nan, here.

ASHLEIGH DEWHURST'S VOICE LETTERBOX IDEA
 

Recently I heard from Ashleigh Dewhurst, a Year 4 student from Pennant Hills Public School, who shared a thoughtful proposal to support student wellbeing: a “voice letterbox” in every school.

Many children feel too shy or anxious to speak directly to a teacher, but a simple letter or drawing can give them a safe way to ask for help.

I’ve already written to our local Men’s Sheds about building these boxes for schools in our area, and also plan to reach out to our local schools to encourage them to take up the initiative.  

The response has been overwhelmingly positive with Kenthurst, Hornsby-Berowra, North Epping, Hornsby Woodworking and Wisemans Ferry Men's Sheds having committed to building the letterboxes. 

I was proud to share Ashleigh’s idea in the Australian Parliament. It’s a reminder that real change can begin with our youngest voices.

📖 Read my full speech here 

HEAD TO THE HILL - BRAIN CANCER AWARENESS
 

Brain Tumour Alliance Australia held its Head to the Hill advocacy event.

Each year 1,528 Australians die from brain cancer and another 1,896 are diagnosed.

It was moving to hear the experiences of families who have lived through or are currently going through the devastation of a brain tumour diagnosis in our community - I particularly want to acknowledge Philippa Ryan, Ben Murray, Christine Whittall and Danielle Ballantine.

Their stories remind us that behind every statistic is a loved one and their family, and we must do more to support patients, carers and researchers.

📖 Read my full speech here 

I’ve been proud to work alongside the dedicated community at the Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Sailing Club for a number of years.

I was pleased to officially open the club’s upgraded doors for the storage facility - an important project improving accessibility and security, funded through the Federal Stronger Communities Program.

These upgrades will make a real difference for members and visitors alike, and I look forward to seeing the club continue to go from strength to strength.

NORTH WEST SYDNEY TENNIS 
 

With over 1,000 members and 300 kids involved, North West Sydney Tennis is one of the strongest community clubs in our area.

It was a pleasure announce that they were successful in receiving $3,500 in Federal funding for a split system air-conditioner for the club house.

Volunteers, players and coaches who give countless hours to the club during tournaments and training will soon benefit from having a much more comfortable space to take a break and recharge.

Thank you Kelley, Clare, and Mary for hosting me during the Ladies Midweek Tennis session, and also for letting me join in for a few shots on the court! 

Dural Public School Country Fair was on again bringing together our community who turned out in force to support the school and enjoy a great family day out. 

With the best value chocolate wheel in the electorate, there were also rides and stalls offering plenty of fun for everyone. 

A shout out to the principal Ms Stone, and Ali and all the P&C for a great day. 

 

We are lucky to have so many church's in our community, all of which provide care, connection, and faith-based support to local families.

Epping Baptist Church is one such church. I attended one of their Sunday services to meet with members of the congregation and hear more about the Church's work in our community.

Thank you to Lead Pastor, Jamie Long, for hosting me, and to the entire congregation who were so welcoming. 

You can click here if you are interested in attending a Sunday Service, or one of the many events and classes offer to the community.

 

It was wonderful to join two CASS Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations, bringing together our Chinese and Korean communities here in Berowra.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for reunion, and to give thanks. It was great to share mooncakes and join in music and dance performances that have been passed down through generations. 

A huge thank you to CASS and the incredible team of volunteers who make events like this possible year after year for our community. Their work strengthens social connections, cares for seniors, and provides vital community services right across our electorate.

LinC (Love in the Name of Christ) support those in need across the Hornsby Shire with transport to medical appointments, emergency food and regular phone contact being some of their services. 

I was pleased to join the wonderful volunteers in celebration at their annual Thanksgiving Service, and AGM at St John’s Anglican Church, Asquith.

If you would like to get involved with LinC, or could benefit from their services, you can find more information here. 

 

Diwali is always an incredible time of the year, celebrating good over evil and light over darkness. 

There were many celebrations in our community and right across Sydney, so it was an honour to have Opposition Leader Sussan Ley visit to attend one such event and celebrate with us. 
 

 

I recently joined with the Hornsby Dhamma Vijaya Buddhist community as they marked the end of the rainy season with their annual Katina, the Robe Offering Ceremony at the Cherrybrook Community and Cultural Centre.

The Katina ceremony is one of the most significant events in the Buddhist calendar, so it was share in such the occasion with our local Buddhist community. 

 

The Beecroft Ball is a highlight of the local social calendar and a true celebration of community spirit.

Proudly supported by dedicated volunteers, the event not only brings our community together for a memorable evening but also raises vital funds that go directly back into supporting local initiatives and projects.

 

I’m always pleased to help local community groups when they need a new Australian Flag.

I was delighted to present Helen Lyberopoulos, CEO of the Berowra RSL, with two new flags - one for the RSL and another for commemorative services held by their dedicated sub-branch.

It’s always great to have an opportunity to visit Berowra RSL and I hope these flags can be of use for years to come.

INALA FAIR
 

Inala Disability Services is a place that makes a difference.

For over 60 years it has provided care, support and accommodation to those who need it in our community.

The Inala Fair is a fantastic annual event that brings our community together while raising funds to support people with disability. 

From market stalls and live music to kids’ activities, there’s something for everyone.

James and Ruth were with me to continue their favourite tradition of officially declaring the annual Inala Fair open.

It was another great day for all. 

BEROWRA MUSICAL SOCIETY
 

Berowra Musical Society sure knows how to put on a performance for the whole family. Their October/November production of The Addams Family brought their signature style to a much-loved comedy.

My kids loved the songs and got to meet the incredible actors after the spooktacular show.

Their next production is Snow White in December. You won’t want to miss it.

WAITARA ANGLICAN CHURCH 75TH ANNIVERSARY
 

Waitara Anglican Church have celebrated their 75^th anniversary!

After a very special service we were treated to a lunch where I had the opportunity to hear stories of the history of the church and meet lots of Waitara locals. 

A particular thank you to Reverend Martin Kemp for the work he does with Waitara Anglican and in the local community.

 

It is an honour to have the opportunity to represent our community.

As the former Shadow Attorney-General and now Shadow Minister for Education and Early Learning and Shadow Minister for the Arts, I am also able to bring our community’s voice right to the heart of our decision making as an Opposition. 

I have been busy in Parliament throughout October speaking on the issues that matter to our community and acknowledging those who help make it the place we all love. 

You can read my speeches from October below: 
 

Cherrybrook Public School - Passion Project initiative

Telecommunications and Other Legislation Amendment

Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2025-2026 - Consideration in Detail - Attorney-Generals Portfolio

Crimes Amendment (Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Child Sexual Abuse) Bill 2025

Brain Cancer Awareness 

Education Legislation Amendment (Integrity and Other Measures) Bill 2025
 

Ashleigh Dewhurst's Voice Letterbox 

Freedom of Information Amendment Bill 2025

Nan Horne