The youngest of seven siblings, Cr Bill Hackney grew up in Louth Park. After returning from Sydney for schooling, Bill met his wife Narelle and settled back in Metford to start a family. They now have a daughter Bec 23 and a son Hayden 18.
With a career background in construction and business ownership that as a result seen Bill win multiple Housing Industry Australia (HIA) awards, this is Bill's first term on Council.
'I spent years sitting in the public gallery, seeing the difference a councillor can make on the City and the community. I always dreamt of being part of the horseshoe,' he says.
Bill is a keen advocate for community safety, serving as Hunter Region Coordinator and New South Wales President of Neighbourhood Watch. He is also passionate about recreational sport, working closely with the East Maitland Griffins and the Maitland Pickers rugby league clubs.
Outside of work, Bill enjoys boating, motorcycles, camping, fishing and spending time with his family at the many events Maitland hosts.
'I love Maitland's rich heritage, its culture and its many different landscapes,' Bill says. 'We must cherish our past but embrace what the future holds.'