Tuesday 31 December 2013

Newcastle Man Assaulted In Surfers Paradise

Two men accused of grievously injuring a Newcastle man in Surfers Paradise have appeared before court.

It's alleged the culprits punched the Novocastrian in the face, knocking him to the ground, before stomping on his face and breaking his jaw.

The victim remains in intensive care, regaining consciousness after being placed in an induced coma.

The two men have been remanded in custody.

Monday 30 December 2013

Plan To Improve Mobile Phone Reception Across The Hunter

Areas of the Hunter affected by mobile phone black spots could soon be remedied with the rollout of a $100 million improvement program.

Deficiencies in mobile phone coverage in Paterson, Vacy and zones of Port Stephens which experience seasonal congestion are expected to be included in the scheme.

Residents are strongly encouraged to advise their local MPs of where reception black spots occur, to ensure the Hunter is considered a priority.

Feedback should be submitted by the 28th of February.

Plans to peddle through Hexham

A new cycleway proposed to traverse the Hexham Swamp is expected to generate millions of dollars in eco-tourism.

The eight kilometre track to cross through the area's wetlands, is also intended to provide a safe route into the city for cyclists, bypassing a notorious stretch of highway.

The track would create a link between Shortland and Tarro, as well as a possible connection to other Lower Hunter cycleways, including the Fernleigh Track and the proposed Richmond Vale Cycleway Project.

The cycleway is also intended to enhance the work already underway in the rehabilitation of the Hexham Swamp.

Costs are yet to be determined, but construction is expected to be relatively inexpensive, with plans for the path to incorporate the old Hunter Water pipeline.

Sand Mine Planned For Williamtown

A proposal to convert 70 hectares of council owned land at Williamtown into a $2.5 million sand mine is currently before state planners.

If approved, the project would see a total of 4.6 million tonnes of sand extracted from the site.

However, concerns have been raised regarding the impact the development would have on air quality, and to traffic-flow along Cabbage Tree Road.

Blacksmiths Beach raises Shark Alarm

Hunter life-guards have even more on their hands this summer, with an increase in shark sightings across our beaches, the latest at Blacksmiths Beach.

A shiver of four Great White Sharks was spotted just 50 metres from the shore over the weekend.

A helicopter patrolling a section of Blacksmiths beach caught sight of the pack, forcing members of the Swansea-Belmont Surf Lifesaving Club to close the beach for around 2 hours, scanning the water by jet ski.

Members were later unable to locate the pack.

Shark sightings at Hunter beaches have spiked over recent weeks, and Surfwatch Australia claims masses of bait fish along the coastline are to blame.

8.30 News Mon 30.12.13 Read By Cecilia Connell


6.30 News Mon 30.12.13 Read By Cecilia Connell


Friday 27 December 2013

Safe-Guarding Against Lethal Bites And Stings

Hunter holiday-goers are being reminded to take precautions when it comes to dangerous creepy-crawlies this summer.

Experts are urging people to be on the lookout for snakes when turning over rocks, or probing leaf litter and soil with bare hands, especially when gardening or setting up camping sites.

Residents are reminded to brush-up on basic First Aid techniques, and to learn how to respond to bites quickly and effectively.

Suspected Drug Death In Booragul

Investigators believe the death of a Lake Macquarie man, discovered in a Booragul residence on Christmas Day, may be attributable to synthetic drug use.

Police initially suspected foul play, after they discovered the 47 year old's body covered in wounds and bruises. 

The possibility of synthetic drug use was introduced after the man's friends revealed he had complained about feeling increasingly hot and itchy after taking a substance on Christmas Eve.

The incident is currently under review.

Mobile Home Tax Scrapped

A tax which would have increased the cost-of-living to Hunter residents residing in mobile homes has been scrapped. 

The Australian Taxation Office have decided not to apply GST fees to rented movable dwellings, removing months of angst and uncertainty. 

The announcement follows numerous submissions from those living in the homes, as well as park owners, who were adamant the cost rise would make it unaffordable to continue living in their estates.

Operation Slow Down

At least 60 Hunter drivers have been charged with dangerous driving offences in the first few days of Operation Slow Down.

Alcohol was the 'offender-of-choice' in the Hunter Valley Local Area Command, with 4 of the 8 charged recording high blood-alcohol readings.

Police say another motorist allegedly refused to give them a sample.

Pakistani Students Killed In Car Crash

A Christmas stay in Newcastle has ended with the death of two Pakistani students, after their Mitsubishi Mirage crashed on a dangerous stretch of the M1.

The five occupants of the vehicle were returning to their Auburn flat in the early hours of yesterday morning, before smashing into an embankment around 5am.

It's believed the 29 year old driver fell asleep at the wheel, while driving South on a steep, winding section of the freeway.

Azhar Iqbal, 28, and Munir Hussain, 22, died in the crash.

Police are investigating whether speed and slippery conditions may have contributed to the fatal accident.

8.30 News Fri 27.12.13 Read By Belinda De Lasheras


Post-Christmas Sales

Shopaholics across the Hunter will descend upon Newcastle stores today, as they open their doors for the first time since Christmas.

While a small handful of shops were open for business yesterday, the majority remained closed as bargain hunters headed to Sydney for the iconic Boxing Day sales.

It's expected the 2013 sale period will be much stronger in comparison to previous years.

7.30 News Fri 27.12.13 Read By Belinda De Lasheras

 

Monday 23 December 2013

NSW Labor cries inaction on Brindabella

The O'Farrell Government has come under fire for failing to seek an urgent temporary transfer from the receivers of the collapsed Brindabella Airlines, which runs out of Newcastle Airport.

Labor has recommended the Government intervene, by negotiating one-on-one with Brindabella's receivers and adopting a 'use it or lose it' clause, to allow alternate airlines to provide services in the interim.

It comes as a new owner is sought for the regional flight airline, with the Government removing all exclusive licensing rights.

But Labor claims it is not enough, with air services to regional centres yet to get back up and running.

Brindabella is a key player in regional aviation, and the all-flight cancellation is believed to be affecting a range of services from medical and law enforcement, to the economy.

Newcastle Light Rail Plans Revealed Today

Newcastle is set to receive a light rail connection to its coastline, with Wickham the preferred area for a Transport Interchange, as part of plans being unveiled by the State Government today.

It's understood the Government has narrowed the possibilities to two route options for the light rail.

One route would see the network run down Hunter Street through the Mall, while option two proposes the new system run alongside the current heavy rail corridor on Scott Street.

Both routes are expected to end at Pacific Park, a short distance from Newcastle Beach, with Wickham being the favourite Interchange location.

Attempted Armed Robbery At Wallsend

Police are searching for a man who allegedly attempted to rob a take-away store in Wallsend last night, armed with a knife.

The offender is believed to have entered the Cardiff Road premises through the rear door around 10:15pm, allegedly threatening one of the owners with a knife, and leaving two minor lacerations on his neck.

The two owners are understood to have fought off the bandit with cleaning materials, after which he left the store empty handed.

He was last seen running south on Cardiff Road with his face disguised.

Man Killed After Being Struck By Car

A Telarah father has died after being struck by a Toyota Hilux as he was crossing Hunter Street in Newcastle's CBD.

The accident occurred at approximately 10pm on Friday night, after he attended his 5 year old daughter's dance concert at the Civic Theatre.

Crash investigators are still examining the incident.

Man Arrested Over Murder Of Maitland Mother

A 30 year old man will face Newcastle Local Court via audio-visual link today, after being charged with the murder of a Maitland mother.

Just before midnight on Saturday December 7, the woman was allegedly king-hit in the car park of a shopping centre on Molly Morgan Drive in East Maitland.

The woman's family made the decision to turn off her life-support, as the head injuries she sustained were too severe.

The man was arrested at a home in Dunbogan last night, and taken to Port Macquarie Police Station where he was refused bail.

Merry-Makers Urged To Stay Safe Over The Christmas Period

Medics at John Hunter Hospital are warning people to be mindful of the dangers associated with completing odd jobs around the house during the Christmas period.

Fractured skulls, ribs and brain bleeds top the list of most common ladder-related injuries, with retired males over age 60 identified as being at greatest risk when 'decking the halls'.
 

People are also warned to ensure toys given to children are age-appropriate, and to avoid hiding coins in puddings.

8.30 News Mon 23.12.13 Read By Belinda De Lasheras


7.30 News Mon 23.12.13 Read By Belinda De Lasheras


Friday 20 December 2013

New Catholic Church To Be Built In Belmont

The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is welcoming the announcement of a brand new Catholic church to be built in Belmont next year.

The Saint Francis Xavier's Church in Ernest Street will be transformed into a hall to be shared by the parish and church primary school.

The current facilities, which includes various de-mountable buildings, are inadequate for larger crowds and funerals, and pose significant safety and accessibility concerns for elderly and disabled community members.

Plans for the $2.5 million project should be approved next week, with the church expected to be completed by Easter 2015.

It's believed the transformation could pave the way for other new churches to be built.

Need For 'Wildlife Action Plan'

There's been calls to develop a 'Wildlife Action Plan' following the attack of a Rutherford teenager by two kangaroos.

Housing developments have been blamed for driving native animals out of their natural habitats, forcing them to move closer to residential areas.

Maitland City Council is investigating what can be done to ensure residents and kangaroos can co-exist safely.


Rio Tinto's Warkworth Mine Modification Given Green Light

The NSW Minerals Council says the approval of Rio Tinto's Warkworth Mine modification will likely save the jobs of up to 1300 mining workers.

With more than 3000 jobs lost in the sector over the past year, the Minerals Council believes the go-ahead is a reminder of the need to generate jobs and investment.

However, Bulga residents insist the economic benefits reaped by the mining industry aren't worth the health complications which can be brought about by poor air-quality.

Trail Bikers Cause Pram To Crash Into Watercourse

A Hunter mother was forced to dive into thigh-deep water to rescue her nine month old daughter, following a near miss with speeding trail-bike riders.

Kimberley Berends was walking along the track between Toronto and Blackalls Park with her three year old son and baby when the riders approached at high speed, almost colliding with the family.

In the process of vacating the path, her pram crashed into the watercourse which runs alongside the walkway.

The baby was unharmed and pedestrians are reminded to be careful.

Heat Wave Predicted

Hunter residents are being urged to stay cool and to keep well hydrated, with a wave of hot weather expected to set-in from today.

Temperatures are predicted to remain in the high 30's and 40's for large areas of the State, and those living in bush-land open interfaces are being told to brace for fire danger.

Residents are being encouraged to have a Bush-Fire Survival Plan in place, and watch out for signs of heat-related illness, including nausea, vomiting, weakness and headaches.

Motorists are being reminded of the dangers of leaving the elderly, children and pets unattended in cars.





Racist Graffiti

The Hannell Street portrait of a young Aboriginal boy from last month's 'Hit the Bricks' Festival has been defaced with racist graffiti.

The portrait is a favourite in the street-art display, and the offensive messages offended many passers-by.

However an anti-graffiti shield on all of the murals enabled the defacement to be promptly removed without damaging the painting.

8.30 News Fri 20.12.13 Read By Cecilia Connell


7.30 News Fri 20.12.13 Read By Cecilia Connell


Wednesday 18 December 2013

Hunter Water to Sell Honeysuckle Headquarters

The new year will see Hunter Water sell its Honeysuckle Drive headquarters in an effort to fund improvements to its Burwood Beach Wastewater Treatment Plant.

While the plant is the largest in the Lower-Hunter region, predicted population growth has prompted the expansion.

Residents will receive information about the treatment plant upgrades this week, with an invitation to tour the Burwood Beach facility in March.

HSC Results Released

Hunter and Central Coast students can now officially access their HSC results online, with the NSW Board of Studies releasing the all-important scores today.

Students will be notified if they've made the cut for University, with ATARS to follow tomorrow.

High Achievers will also be recognised this week, in categories including: First In Course, Distinguished or Top-Band Achievers and All-Rounders.

8.30 News Wed 18.12.13 Read By Cecilia Connell


7.30 News Wed 18.12.13 Read By Cecilia Connell


6.30 News Wed 18.12.13 Read By Cecilia Connell


Friday 13 December 2013

Midday News Fri 13.12.13 Read By Emily Leary


Warkworth Mine Expansion

Rio Tinto's application to expand the Warkworth coal mine is moving ahead too quickly for local action groups.

The Lock the Gate Alliance and Bulga Milbrodale Progress Association are pressuring the State Government to stop the process and consider public responses.

Public interest groups believe there has been a collusion between the State Government and the mining giant in order to fast-track the approval process.

NBN Review Promises Faster Delivery Speeds

A strategic review of the National Broadband Network has revealed that faster NBN can be delivered to Hunter residents four years sooner and for $32 billion less by employing a range of technologies.

The review, carried out by NBN Co. has advised that the plan be carried out sooner and more affordably for taxpayers by matching the right technology to the right locations and by making use of existing networks where possible.

The new broadband strategy will allow for faster delivery and less financial waste.

Global Breast Cancer Prevention Study

Hunter women with a higher risk of breast cancer diagnosis have been the focus of a major study aiming to decrease incidence of the illness. 

More than 150 Hunter women have taken part in the global study to identify a treatment which may halve the risk for post-menopausal women prone to the disease.

Anastrozole, a drug currently used in cancer treatment, could potentially halve the risk for women prone to the disease.

Over five years, researchers found 40 women in the Anastrozole group developed breast cancer, while 85 in the placebo group were diagnosed.

Results showed the drug was more effective than existing therapies, and produced fewer side-effects.


 

Monday 9 December 2013

Dust Survey Results Released

Tighes Hill Community Group has released the preliminary findings of their survey on attitudes towards the coal industry.

The 'Coal Dust Free Streets' project aimed to find out resident's opinions on coal pollution, noise and the proposed fourth coal terminal.

The results show that 65% of residents are opposed to T4, over 70% support a curfew on train movements between 11am and 5am and over 85% believe covers should be implemented on waggons, stockpiles and loaders.
 
"This is a community that lives right on the door stop of the Carrington coal facility and they clearly think it's about time the industry cleans up it's act," said Zane Alcorn, from the Coal Terminal Action Group.
 
Mr Alcorn said modern coal terminal are entirely enclosed.

"Carrington is basically a dinosaur of the 1970s and there's a recent coal terminal in Western Australia and the stock piles and load facilities are completely enclosed. We know that technology is commercially available," he said.

Tighes Hill Community Group spokesperson, Charlotte McCabe agreed with Mr Alcorn.

"While in Newcastle we're still debating weather or not dust is a health issue for us here, in other parts of the world they've already worked out that it is very serious health concern and they've developed new technology for covering stock piles and train [waggons] and loaders," she said.

The Tighes Hill survey is a pilot for a wider survey early next year.

"We really hope we can see some good out comes from this survey," Ms McCabe said.

Council to discuss allocation of repayment

The push for Newcastle Council to contribute close to $1.5 million to the cliff-top coastal walk project is coming under fire from Labor Councillors.

Council is expecting the money from an airport loan-repayment, and is seeking $12 million from the state government's Resources for Regions Fund for their Coastal Revitalisation Masterplan.

Cr Nuatali Nelmes says the State should fund the cliff-top project.

"It was always promised from the state government to be delivered with private funding and not with any money from council.

"They've [the state government]  come to council asking for money for that [cliff-top coastal walk] project," Cr Nelmes said.

Cr Nuatali Nelmes raised a notice of motion, and council will discuss the issue at a meeting tomorrow night.

Website rates health professionals

Hunter based health Insurer NIB claims its website Whitecoat, an online-rating site of health professionals, has been enjoying more than 40,000 visitors since its November launch.

Whitecoat allows users to access the details of up to 30,000 providers, including dentists and doctors, physiotherapists and chiropractors.

CEO of NIB Mark Fitzgibbon says there's range of benefits for providers and customers

"For the customers and patients it's just giving more information to make a decision about their choice of providers."

"I think ultimately for the providers it's an opportunity for them to market their services," Mr Fitzgibbon said.

State funding revealed for Maitland community


The State Government has announced more than $140,000 for Maitland, in the latest round of Community Building Partnership Grants.

Council is receiving $50,000 towards disabled access and toilet facilities at Maitland's Number 1 Sports-ground, while the Netball Association is also receiving $50,000 towards a new $1.6 million multi-purpose amenities facility.
 
Maitland Rugby Club has been allocated $25,000 to re-line the ceiling of their club-house at Marcellin Park and Thornton Redbacks Football Club is getting more than $15,000 for aluminium-tiered seating.

Maitland MP, Robyn Parker says these are important projects.
 
"[This is about] community groups working with government in partnership, coming up with new infrastructure projects, some of them quite small, some quiet large, really where funding doesn't fit into any other bucket."

Cabinet reshuffle puts Souris in Hunter ministry

Upper Hunter MP, George Souris will assume the role of Minister for the Hunter following a small cabinet reshuffle this morning.


He takes the role from Police Minister, Mike Gallagher, who is now the Minister for the Central Coast following the resignation of Chris Hartcher in the wake of an ICAC investigation into political donations.

 
George Souris adds the Hunter ministry to his existing role as Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Hospitality, Racing and The Arts.

Health professionals warn of virus increase


Mosquito activity has increased in the Hunter, with people being urged to protect themselves against mosquito bites.

The past month has seen 10 people infected with the Ross River or Bahmah viruses.

Public Health Physician Dr David Durrheim says the recent rain has provided ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
 
"[At] this time of the year, the environmental conditions are perfect for mosquito breeding and survival.

"Mosquitoes need [a] moist environment to lay their eggs and then obviously when the adults hatch out, they need sufficiently warm conditions to survive long enough to become infected themselves to pass the infection onto people," Dr Durrheim said.

6.30 News Mon 9.12.13 Read By Ian Crouch


Tuesday 3 December 2013

Work Starts On Disabilty Housing At Mayfield

Site preparation work has commenced for the construction of two disability group homes at Mayfield.

The homes will be built adjacent to CatholicCare's new facility in Crebert Street and will accomodate 5 people in each home with 24 hour care.

22 affordable 1, 2 and 3 bedroom housing units will also be built on the site which will be made available to people who work full time but may have a lower earning capacity.

The new facility will add to CatholicCare's existing stock of 3 group homes in the Hunter region.

It's expected to open in July next year.








Monday 2 December 2013

Fight for Honeysuckle's foreshore

Honeysuckle residents have opposed Newcastle Council's move to consider future plans for the construction of residential apartments on the former site of Lynch's Prawns.

The plan proposes the construction of a four-storey, 377-square-metre apartment tower on land which was originally intended to be a public foreshore park.

Honeysuckle Residents Association secretary Alistair Christie says errors in initial zoning classed 1.7 metres of the foreshore as part of the site, an error which has been known to council since 2008.

“The existing foreshore promenade where people walk, when they sell the site it will actually be selling about 1.7 metres wide of the footpath… which is totally unacceptable.”

Mr Christie believes the site would be best developed into a space for public use.

“Council, many years ago in 2003 put forward a suggestion that there be a small publically orientated use put on that site, possibly a small café, and that’s what would be appropriate use of that site, a bike rental store, something like that for the public.”

Newcastle in the spotlight as Special Olympics gets underway.


The Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games got underway at Hunter Stadium, with more than 2300 athletes attending the opening ceremonies.

Competition will begin today for 9 different sports, and people are encouraged to spectate the events which are admission-free.

Games Director Chris Hevrin says Newcastle is more than up to the task of hosting a great games.

“We had just under 25 000 people in the stadium, the atmosphere was just electric,” he said, “I’ve never seen so many people with a smile on their face and I don’t think I’ve ever been to an event, big concerts included, where people danced as much for the whole night. It was just amazing!”

The games have attracted athletes from 29 nations, and are the first to be held for the Asia-Pacific region.

“It just means so much to them and they’re representing their country, this is an very very special occasion for them. A lot them have ever been on a plane before, quite a lot have not seen any ocean [sic] before,” said Mr Hevrin.

The athletes are staying at various places around the Newcastle and Port Stephen’s area.

The events are free to spectate and the full schedule of events can be found on their website.

Bulga and Rio Tinto Battle Continues


Bulga residents have accused the government of colluding with Rio Tinto to expand the Mount Thorley Walkworth mine.

Rio Tinto lodged an application on November 12 to expand the mine into Saddle Ridge, the natural barrier between Bulga and the mine.

Previously Rio Tinto planned to expand the Walkworth mine to within 2.6 kilometres of Bugla. After challenges from local group, Bulgra Mibrodale Progress Association, the application was over turned by the NSW Land and Mineral Association and is currently being challenged in the Supreme Court by Rio Tinto and NSW Government.

John Krey, vice president of the BMPA, said that the move is a breach of faith.

“The deed in 2003 and the Land and Environment court says they can’t touch [Saddle Ridge],” he said.

The New South Wales Minerals Council claim the expansion has received over 900 positive submissions.

Mr Krey said claims the positive submissions where the result of a marketing campaign by Rio Tinto and the Minerals Councils.

“You can tell the same lie 900 times but that doesn’t make the truth,” Mr Krey said, “we’re only a small town of 350 people; we don’t have the financial resources to do a campaign that the Minerals Councils and Rio Tinto have. So, yeah, they got a lot of submissions but you’ve got to look at the meat of the submission, and I think if you look at the submissions that said ‘no’ to the mine you’ll find there’s a lot of meat in that.”

Miner crushed by 400-tonne truck

Revensworth coal mine near Singleton will remain closed today as workers receive counselling following the death of a contractor.

The contracted miner is believed to have been on a routine break when her 4-wheel drive crossed into the path of a 250-tonne dump truck on Saturday night, crushing her vehicle.
Construction, Forestry and Electrical Union spokesman, Peter Jordan, says a lot of employees have been affected by the incident.

"When there’s a fatality on a mine site it’s an enormous impact upon fellow workers and in this particular case you’ve just got to work very closely with all employees to satisfy that their health and safety as well as their state of mind is right,” said Mr Jordan, “all employees should be able to go to work return home safely… it’s unfortunate that this female mine worker hasn’t been able to do that, I think that’s enough of an alarm bell to the industry to make sure that these incidents don’t occur again.”

Several agencies, including the CFEU, will be investigating the incident. Investigations will focus on how the woman missed several signs on her way to the T-intersection.
 
Mr Jordan said inadequate signage may be to blame.

“We’ll be examining what they mean by ‘give way signs’ as opposed to ‘stop signs’, because we’re told there way only a give way sign there… there has to be a complete overhaul of an understanding as to how, why and when light vehicles should interact such heavy equipment,” he said.

Police and inspectors from NSW Trade and Investment’s Mine Safety Investigation Unit are also investigating.
 
 

45 second pursuit ends in tree collisions

An 18-year-old driver has been charged with a number of offences after leading police on a pursuit through Mayfield in the early hours of Sunday.
 
Highway Patrol Police allegedly saw the vehicle travelling west along Maitland Road at high speed.
 
Inspector Terry Burns says the driver sped off after police attempted to pull him over.


"It [the pursuit] lasted about 45 seconds until the driver lost control of the vehicle, colliding with a number of trees along Warabrook Boulevard.
 
"The driver only sustained superficial injuries and didn't require treatment."

Attempted abduction at Cooranbong

Lake Macquarie Police are searching for a man who assaulted a teenage girl at Cooranbong.
 
The 15-year-old was walking along Freemans Drive just before 11am on Saturday when she noticed a man following her before he disappeared.

Brooke Eggleton from Police Headquarters says a short time later the man reappeared from nearby bushes and grabbed the girl from behind, placing his hand across her mouth.
 
The girl ran to a nearby church, where staff alerted police.
 
The man is described as being of African appearance, 20-30 years of age, a medium build and was last seen wearing grey knee length shorts.

Fires believed to be linked

Police believe the same person or people are responsible for lighting a series of bush fires in the Lake Macquarie area.

Between Sunday, July 21 and Tuesday, November 5, 10 fires broke out on the western side of the lake, including a large blaze which started on Sunday, September 29
 
The fire required water bombing aircraft to help extinguish it.
 
Detectives believe all the fires were deliberately lit and are potentially linked.

Newcastle Airport expansion receives funding

The $80 million Newcastle Airport expansion project is another step closer to completion with the Department of Defence committing to a funding contribution for a wastewater pipeline.


The construction of a $17 million wastewater pipeline is required to cover the expected increase of airport visitors from 2 million to 5 million people each year.
 
The 14 kilometre long pipeline will run between Tomago and the airport, and it is expected to bring employment and tourism benefits to the Hunter.

The project is expected to be completed this month.

Firearm charges for Abermain man

An Abermain man will front court early next year after firearms were seized from his home.

Police allegedly found two unregistered bolt-action rifles, and a rifle stock in a rear shed.

The 35-year-old man has been issued with a court attendance notice for several offences including not keep a firearm safe and two counts of possessing an unregistered firearm.

Friday 29 November 2013

Kent Hotel Makes State's Most Violent List

Newcastle's party scene has cleaned up it's act, with only one venue named on the State's Most Violent Venues list.

The Kent Hotel will now face Level Two restrictions forcing it to stop serving alcohol  30 minutes before closing, stop using glassware after midnight and provide alcohol time-outs every hour after midnight.

It comes after they recorded 12 assaults in the last year.

Rail Report Recommendations

The Newcastle rail industry could be revitalised if the State Government follows the recommendations of a recent report.

If followed, the country would benefit from seeing 30% of rail manufacturing value remain with domestic suppliers.

The move would add approximately $15 billion to the economy over a 30 year period, with $3 billion coming from the Hunter.

Special Olympics Kick Off

Thousands of tourists will pour into Newcastle this weekend, as Sunday's Opening Ceremony at Hunter Stadium kicks off the Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games.

The Games will draw more than 2000 athletes from 30 countries as well as officials, spectators and volunteers.

The Games will start a year of Newcastle hosted events, including the Nutri-Grain Iron-man series, the Australian Bowl-riding Championships and the countdown for the 2015 Asian Cup.

Koala Habitat Centre for Salt Ash

Thanks to a government grant, a koala habitat centre at Salt Ash is in the future for Oakvale Farm and Fauna World.

The grant has been awarded to achieve the innovative project which will benefit koala preservation efforts.

It is also expected the grant will assist improvement in the quality of tourist experiences in the Port Stephens and Newcastle areas.

Monday 25 November 2013

Police Seek Witnesses To Brawl

A 22-year-old man is due to front court today charged with assault following a wild brawl at Birmingham Gardens.

A 19-year-old woman has also been charged after allegedly kicking a female paramedic in the head as the young woman was being conveyed to hospital for treatment on a badly cut hand.

Officers were called to Morris Street at about 10.30 on Saturday night to reports several people had been injured.
 
Police allege the 22-year-old assaulted a 50-year-old man with a glas bottle before slashing him with a knife.
 
The older man fell to ground, breaking his wrist. He also sustained multiple cuts to his body and head wounds.
 
Police and the NSW Ambulance Service say the alleged assault on the female paramedic is reprehensible.
 
There have been 52 separate incidents of physical or verbal assault on paramedics compared to just 16 in the same period last year.
 
Anyone who can assist police with their inquiries is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Time To Pay

Hunter Councils are getting tough on people who don't pay their rates.

 
Cash-strapped councils are taking court action to seize homes and property in a bid to recover more than $14,000,000 in unpaid rates dating back years.


More than 11,600 demand notices were sent out by Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Cessnock and Port Stephens councils last financial year.

Friday 22 November 2013

Reduction in DA Processing Times

Cessnock City Council has reduced processing times for development applications for local residents and businesses.

The September quarter showed a marked improvement from 2012 where the recorded average application took 93 days to process.
 
The September quarter showed a reduction in the average time taken to 57 days.

The improvement will make the city more competitive within the region.

Flashing School Zone

New flashing lights have been installed this week at Linuwel School, East Maitland.
 
The installation is a step in the state government's movement to improve school zone safety by December 2015.

The flashing lights provide extra road safety by slowing motorists when they are around school communities and provide a safer environment for pedestrians.

 

Redhead Men's Shed Facility Launch

Redhead Men's Shed today launched its new facility in the restored Lambton Colliery buildings.

A grant from the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation made the move possible and the building is now ready to benefit retired, unemployed and isolated men.

Newcastle Permanent supported the organisation due to the strong connection it holds with the community.

Push to Relocate Flying Fox Camp

Port Stephens Council is pushing to move a threatened bat species away from a residential area at Raymond Terrace.

The council has applied for a licence and grant to carry out the procedure.
 
The plan hopes to draw the Grey Headed Flying Fox camp to the centre of the Newbury Park by planting mature trees and removing exotic plants.

The council says the entire process will take care and caution to protect the species' habitat.

Illegal Asbestos Dumping

Lake Macquarie Council is trying to track down the person responsible for illegally dumping asbestos at Dora Creek recently.

A large amount of the potentially hazardous material was left on Hawkmount Road.

Council had to hire a licensed contractor to remove the asbestos and also had to pay the disposal cost.

Weather

The greater Newcastle area is again being lashed by thunderstorms this morning.

Small storms are moving down the valley through Maitland and into Newcastle and are likely to intensify this afternoon.

Monday 18 November 2013

Opposition's alcohol policy based on Newcastle style restrictions

State Labor has revealed its policies to reduce alcohol related violence in Sydney's CBD, including introducing Newcastle style restrictions on licensed venues.

Tony Brown from the Newcastle Community Drug and Action Team says the results in Newcastle, where alcohol related violence  are evidence restrictions reduce violence.

However, the government says it has introduced "some of the toughest liquor laws in the land", reducing assaults on licensed premises across the state by 8 per cent in 2012.


Health professionals' concerns over T4 coal terminal


Concerns have been raised by healthcare professionals in the Hunter about Newcastle's future air quality with the proposal of a fourth coal terminal.

Particle pollution levels in Newcastle already exceed standards set by the World Health Organisation, with calls coming for the government to scrap the terminal proposal.

Dr. Ben Ewald from Newcastle Public Health Professionals says an increase in coal moving activity could have severe health effects. 

Wednesday 13 November 2013

Regulations To Be Changed To Protect Homes In Bushfire Prone Areas

Hunter residents living in bushfire prone areas will soon be allowed to clear trees and shrubs in order to protect their homes.

 
Under the proposed changes being put forward by the state government, residents won't need permission to clear trees within 10 metres and shrubs within 50 metres of their homes.


The Rural Fire Service will also be allowed to carry out hazard reduction burns on land without the owner's consent if they haven't been able to contact them.

 
And people who flick cigarettes or matches on total fire ban days will face increased penalties - a $660.00 fine.

Hunter Manufacturing Jobs Take A Hit

There are fresh concerns for the Hunter's manufacturing sector, with more jobs being shed from the region.


Earthmoving company, WesTrac is cutting 600 jobs across the country, including about 100 in the Hunter, saying it's profit guidance is down.


Unions are also worried about the 43 redundancies from UGL's Broadmeadow rail yard amid fears the facility might be forced to close unless the company is awarded more state contracts.

New Airport In The Wings

The region could be home to another airport as early as 7 years time.

 
Wyong Council has committed to a 250-million dollar facility being earmarked for site just west of the M1 Motorway.


A report to council identifies four stages of development starting with a 5-year masterplan for the site.


Mayor Doug Eaton says it's not a proposal for a second Sydney airport, but a regional airport capable of serving the 400-thousand residents who are expected to call the Central Coast home by 2031.

Friday 8 November 2013

NIB Launches Whitecoat Service

Newcastle's own NIB has launched an internet search tool offering an efficient and comprehensive way to find and compare healthcare providers.

It has taken the company three years to develop and will be available to all Australians.

The website Whitecoat provides contact details for 30 000 healthcare providers around Australia with users able to give reviews on the service they receive.

The aim of the site is to allow the sharing of positive feedback and comparative costs for healthcare providers such as dentists, optometrists, physiotherapists and chiropractors.

Armed Robbers Target Takeaway Stores

Investigations are ongoing after two armed robberies occurred in the Hunter overnight.

A takeaway store in South Maitland and another in Branxton were targeted in a two hour period.

The robberies are believed to be linked as both occurred under similar circumstances.
The offenders were armed with a truncheon and firearm.
Police are calling for anyone with information regarding the incidents to contact crimestoppers.


Abolition of Advisory Panel for Older Australians Causing Concern

HUNTER senior residents could face an uphill struggle with housing and employment with reports the federal government will today abolish the Positive Ageing Advisory Panel.
The panel's role has been to provide advice to the government regarding ageing policies, and assist in carrying out reforms to benefit older Australians.

The abolishment comes just one day after the ABS released statistics showing Australians are living longer.

Seniors advocate group, COTA says the government needs to do more to ensure that the issues facing older Australians are recognised and relevant policies implemented.

Civic Reception for CityServe Volunteers

A civic reception will be held at Newcastle City Hall today to acknowledge the service of more than 800 CityServe volunteers.

The community project, which has been in the works since March this year, saw Novocastrian volunteers band together with the renovation of six surf clubs in October.
 
Over $500,000 worth of donations were received for the transformations, including paint, scaffolding, tiles and food for volunteers.

The council says the overwhelming community response demonstrates the culture of service in Newcastle.

7.30 News Thurs 7.11.13 Read By Ian Crouch.


Monday 4 November 2013

Greens oppose new Disability Bill

Critics have lashed out at the New South Wales Government after legislation to allow the Coalition to exit disability services was passed.
 
The National Disability Scheme legislation, which went through the upper house last week, would see disability services privatised by 2018.

NSW Greens MP JOHN KAYE says the bill raises grave concerns for patients and their carers.

"We have grave concerns that this massive privatisation will leave many people without appropriate levels of care, [it] will be an open invitation to the corporate sector to move in and will cut  jobs and conditions in the sector.

"This is an outcome that was not what most people thought about when they were told about the NDIS, most people thought it was just about getting better service but the O'Farrell government has used it as an opportunity to privatise the entire sector.

"It appears that the O'Farrell government is deeply committed to the privatisation agenda. They need to hear from people in New South Wales, particularly the people who have family members in Stockton to say very clearly that full privatisation makes no sense."

Harry's New Playground.

Harry's House at Stockton has received a new playground thanks to the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation

The specially built playground was donated to the facility which provides free accommodation to families whose children have cancer.

Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation chairman MICHAEL SLATER said the playground is a good community investment
 
"It's set up to accommodate all the safety requirements that now prevail with children's playgrounds and also to take care of some lack of mobility that may occur around sufferers of cancer," Mr Slater said, "this is an important facility for in so far as it provides some relaxation and recreation for that are dealing with the already stressful issue of cancer in children, so we thought it was a really good worthwhile community project."
  
The facility is owned by the Harry Meyn Foundation which was established in memory of Harry Meyn who died of a brain tumour at the age of 7.
 
Fund raising Coordinator for the Foundation, Samantha Meyn, said the equipment will make a lot of children happy.
 
"The House was fully renovated and... the renovations were absolutely beautiful but we just wanted add some fun and colour and excitement to the yard. We've got some interactive equipment all around the yard and on the side of the shed for the kids to play with."
 
The Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation is celebrating it's 10th birthday this year.

New MRI scanner could help medical breakthroughs

A multimillion dollar MRI scanner installed at the Hunter Medical Research Institute is hoped to bring about multiple medical research breakthroughs.

Installed in the soon to be opened MRI Centre at the institute, the scanner is the first of its kind in the southern hemisphere and twice as powerful as others available on the market.

The Acting Facility Manager of the MRI Centre, Professor Peter Stanwell says the scanner will allow researchers to access functional measures of the brain, its structure and chemistry.

Midday News Mon 4.11.13 Read by Judd Boaz


8.30 News Mon 4.11.13 Read By Ian Crouch


7.30 News Mon 4.11.13 Read By Ian Crouch


6.30 News Mon 4.11.13 Read By Ian Crouch


Friday 1 November 2013

Rural Fire Service call to remain vigilant

Despite this weeks cool change, Hunter residents are warned to remain vigilant as hotter temperatures strike over the weekend.

Hot temperatures are expected over the weekend and throughout November with the potential to turn into a dangerous month of bush fires.

Temperatures in the mid-to-high 30s are expected on top of high winds could produce some fast moving fires.

Police Negotiators Called to Bar Beach Assault and Barricade

A 48 year-old man has been arrested following an alleged assault and barricade incident at Bar Beach yesterday afternoon.



Police negotiators were required at the Darby Street unit after the man allegedly threatened his female neighbour with a machete and then locked himself inside his unit.



The man was arrested around 4am this morning and will face NEWCASTLE Local Court later this month.

Midday News Fri 1/11/13 Read By Kate Ellis


8.30 News Fri 1.11.13 Read By Ian Crouch


7.30 News Fri 1.11.13 Read By Ian Crouch


6.30 News Fri 1.11.13 Read By Ian Crouch


Monday 28 October 2013

Lifesavers want to see mandatory life jackets for rock fishermen

Hunter Lifesaving has reiterated calls for mandatory life jackets after the death of a fisherman at Redhead.

A 35-year-old man was washed off the rocks at Redhead bluff on Saturday afternoon whilst fishing with friends, he was later found on a rock ledge and pronounced dead at the scene.

New South Whales government put forward a discussion paper about the issue in August this year but there is yet to be any direct action.

Hunter Director of Lifesaving, Mick Motley, says education is not enough




"We've been trying education and people are just not listening, so we're going to have to try to put something in place to enforce it," he said, "I'd like to see mandatory life jackets to be worn by all rock fisherman... there's just too many people getting washed off the rocks and being servery injured or drowned (sic)".

Rock fishermen have been advised to wear appropriate clothing and have safety equipment on them at all times.

"If everyone is going to go to the rocks I would like everyone to check the weather conditions, check that they're safe, and I'd plead to wear a life jacket," Motley said.


During the 2011/2012 financial year twelve people drowned whilst rock fishing.

Brett Whiteley sculpture comes to Newcastle

Newcastle Art Gallery is piecing together a giant Brett Whiteley sculpture today.

The sculpture, called Black Totem 2, is an exaggerated white egg perched atop an 11 meter tall black post. Incidentally, 11 meters is the same height as the gallery itself.

Newcastle Art Gallery's Assistant Director, Tristan Sharpe, says hundreds of people have come to see the egg already.

"[It] really has the right feel for Newcastle... that sort of 'industrial' heritage as well as the egg about regeneration and rebirth  which Brett [Whiteley] was very interested in," he said.

 The sculpture is one of two made by Whiteley, the other being the match sticks in front of Art Gallery New South Whales.

Previously, the piece was on loan in Sydney and has been donated to Newcastle by Whiteley's widow, Wendy.


Black Totem 2 in Walsh Bay, Sydney