Preserving the heritage of the region is integral to its future character, says Hawkesbury Mayor, Councillor Barry Calvert.
His comment comes as council opens applications for its Hawkesbury Local Heritage Assistance Fund 2020-21.
Owners and managers of local heritage properties can apply for funds to go towards the restoration of the sites.
The funding is jointly met by Hawkesbury Council and the NSW Government.
"Effective maintenance is the key for heritage buildings and properties to retain their originality and heritage significance into the future," Councillor Calvert said.
The fund primarily targets preparation of maintenance plans for heritage listed properties within the Hawkesbury Local Government Area and continues to provide funding assistance for minor improvements/conservation works to local heritage listed properties.
It provides dollar for dollar grant funding of up to $2,000 for minor conservation works.
Applications are open until Monday, September 14. Application guidelines and forms can be downloaded from council's website hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/development/heritage/local-heritage-assistance-fund.
The website link also includes examples of projects from last year's program to highlight works that can be achieved with this local heritage assistance funding.