Hawkesbury City Council wishes to address the incorrect and unfair community speculation regarding Deputy Mayor Sarah McMahon's upcoming participation in an overseas trade delegation.
At the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 17 February 2026, Council formally endorsed Clr McMahon's participation in a trade delegation to Kerala, India which was to take place on 1-6 March 2026 but has been deferred to a date to be determined.
The trade delegation was arranged by the Sydney Hills Business Chamber. The delegation, including Clr McMahon's expenses, is fully funded by the Tourism Department of the Kerala State Government and Malaysia Airlines. Council is not providing any financial support to Clr McMahon's participation other than the reimbursement of airport taxes – a sum of between $300 and $400. Any suggestion otherwise is strongly refuted.
Hawkesbury City Mayor Les Sheather welcomed Clr McMahon's participation and the opportunity to promote the Hawkesbury to one of Australia's biggest inbound tourism markets.
"Tourism is one of the great drivers of the Hawkesbury economy, and raising its profile among one of our country's largest sources of tourists can only mean great things for our City," Mayor Sheather said.
"Such opportunities to promote the Hawkesbury on the global stage should be celebrated and taken with both hands.
"As part of her participation, Clr McMahon will report back to Council on any outcomes or identified opportunities for Hawkesbury City. I and my fellow Councillors look forward to hearing the valuable insights Clr McMahon will gain from this incredible opportunity."
