Unused Quarry in Redhead Used for Illegal Dumping, To Be Transformed Into Nature Haven

BY ISABEL EVERETT

A disused Redhead quarry that was once an illegal dumping hot-spot will be transformed into a haven for native flora and fauna under a major Council rehabilitation project.

Works have begun to provide safe access to the 3ha site off Oakdale Road, with the aim of returning it to its former natural state.

Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Environmental Systems Tim Browne said more than 4000 trees, 10,000 shrubs and 20,000 vines, ferns and other ground cover species would be planted across the site.

They include spotted gums, blackbutts, scribbly gums and smooth-barked apple trees – all native to the area.

Almost 92,000 tonnes of clean earth will also be trucked in from construction sites across Lake Macquarie to help fill the quarry void and reshape the landscape to a more natural form that aids drainage and minimises erosion.

“The Oakdale Road quarry has been a dumping ground and hooning hot-spot for unauthorised dirt bikes for many years,” Mr Browne said.

“These rehabilitation works will help it blend back into the natural environment and establish new habitats in which native plants and animals can thrive.”

Natural Assets Officer Brooke Laforest said Lake Macquarie Landcare would provide the bulk of plants required for the rehabilitation project.

They will be planted in stages as the site is reshaped.

“The existing cliff will still be a feature of the site, but earth will be built up against it to create a more natural final landform that slopes down into the middle of the quarry,” Ms Laforest said.

Council leased the site from NSW Crown Lands to quarry gravel for local construction projects, but ceased quarrying in the 1980s.

Public access will be restored once the rehabilitation project is completed, expected to be in 2023 at the earliest.

Mr Browne said similar works were nearing completion at West McDonalds quarry at Glendale.

That site is earmarked for community use rather than natural bushland.

One of the Illegal Dumping Sites in the Quarry

Natural Assets Officer, Brooke LaForest at the Redhead Quarry Site

Aerial View of the Redhead Quarry Site, showing illegal dumping and trail bike tracks

Costco Coming To The Hunter

After years of lying dormant and contaminated, the former Pasmico Smelter site at Cockle Creek is about to undergo a major transformation.

NSW Property Minister, Melinda Pavey has announced the state government has completed two land sales with American retail giant Costco and property developer, Green Capital Group.

It will see Costco build it's first store outside Sydney, while Green Capital will use its lot for a major residential development, providing 500 new homes for the region.

The Costco development would create around 80 construction jobs and up to 225 ongoing local jobs, while the Green Capital project is expected to create about 400 jobs during construction.

Lake Macquarie MP, Greg Piper says Costo is a great economic driver for any region.

"I'd imagine with Costco coming we will see other businesses wanting to come in and invest in the area."

"My understanding is Costco is ready to lodge their development application today, and they're very keen to get on with this development, looking at a 9-12 months construction period."

"So hopefully somewhere after half way through next year, we'll see Costco being able to trade in our local area."
 
Melinda Pavey says the projects will inject will inject around $300 million into the local economy.

Costco wants to set up its first store outside Sydney at Boolaroo. Picture: Costco

Port Stephens Residents Win Campaign For Reduced Speed Limit

BY IAN CROUCH

Port Stephens residents have had a big win in their campaign to have the speed limit on a notorious stretch of road reduced.

Already this year, one man has been killed and 5 people injured in two serious crashes in the 90km/h zone where Tomago Road and Cabbage Tree Road meet at Tomago.

RMS data compiled last year showed both roads were significantly more dangerous than similar roads with 90km/h zones in regional NSW.

A community campaign led by Port Stephens MP, Kate Washington has been successful in having the speed limit reduced to 80km/h.

A man died in this crash on Tomago Road in March this year Picture: NBNNews

Two Men Arrested Over Violent Hawks Nest Home Invasion

BY IAN CROUCH

Police have made a breakthrough in their investigations into a violent home invasion at Hawks Nest last month, with the arrest of two men.

It's alleged a 78-year-old man was confronted by three men when when he opened the door to his Booner Street home around 10.30pm on Monday June 30, and was stabbed in the abdomen as they pushed past him.

Police say the group then headed upstairs where a 53-year-old man was stabbed in the back and neck.

Both alleged victims were taken to hospital and later released.

Yesterday, officers went to an address in Sinclair Street at Gosford and arrested two men aged 22 and 46.

It's alleged a number of knives and a homemade shotgun with ammunition were found, along with a quantity of drugs.

The older man has been charged with breach of bail, two counts of breaching an AVO, two counts of intimidation (DV), and special aggravated enter with intent (wound).

The younger man was charged with firearm offences, drug possession and special aggravated enter with intent (wound).

Both men have been refused bail to front Gosford Local Court today (Friday 31 July, 2020).

The Booner Street property where the alleged home invasion took place Picture: theherald.com.au

Police Investigate Fatal Crash At Charlestown

BY IAN CROUCH

Crash investigators are trying to piece together the circumstances leading up to a fatal crash at Charlestown overnight.

Police have been told a car was travelling north on the Pacific Highway just before 9.30pm on Thursday when it left the road and crashed into a power pole.

The driver, a 47-year-old man from Cardiff, who was the only person in the car, died at the scene.

The northbound lanes of the highway between Charlestown Road and Ocean View Parade were closed while officers set up a crime scene.

Traffic is now back to normal.

BREAKING! Two New Cases of Covid-19 Diagnosed in the Hunter

BY ISABEL EVERETT

NSW Health have reported two new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Hunter.

The first is a man in his 60s who is part of the known family cluster in Port Stephens and he remains in isolation.

Hunter New England Health are currently working to identify all close contacts of the case, who are being placed in isolation.

The Port Stephens family cluster, which includes seven cases, is linked to the Thai Rock Wetherill Park cluster.

The second confirmed case is a man in his 40s who is a returned overseas traveler.

The man is a resident of the Hunter New England region, however, has remained in hotel quarantine in Sydney since his return.

It comes as NSW Health confirmed there had been 18 new cases diagnosed in the state between 8pm on July 28 and 8pm on July 29.

University of Newcastle Graduate Lands Spot at Ivy League College

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A University of Newcastle graduate has landed a spot at Brown University, a prestigious Ivy League school in the United States and one of the world's leading research universities.

Sam Parker, an Electrical Engineering graduate, will pursue a PhD in Biomedical Engineering with a focus on research into brain computer interfaces - devices which are able to interpret the electrochemical signals of the brain into information used to control computers or prosthetic limbs.

Mr Parker was awarded Best Project at the University of Newcastle for his final year project work on developing a 3D-printed, brain-controlled robotic arm.

"When you want to move your hand or really do anything, your brain generates an electrical signal, and that electrical signal can be measured on your scalp," said Mr Parker. "What my project did, was it decoded those electrical signals and then was able to figure out whether you were trying to open your hand or close your hand."

With Brown University at the forefront of brain computer interface research, Mr Parker hopes the opportunity will bring him closer to his dream of helping amputees or sufferers of paralysis by restoring some of their lost limb function through the use of this technology.

"When I was in early high school I thought there was such an injustice, people could be in the prime of their life and and then be struck down by an injury or an illness and have reduced upper limb function, relying on other people for care, not able to feed themselves or clothe themselves," said Mr Parker.

"I thought about what I could do to try and help these people, give them a second grasp on life, and give them their independence back."

Mr Parker, a 2020 John Monash scholar, plans to relocate to Rhode Island this August to commence his studies.

"It's a little bit anxiety inducing, but I've got a pretty good support network over there," he said. "I've got a few friends and I've got some family over there, so I'm taking all the appropriate precautions."

"It's going to be a little bit scary, but I'm sure I'm going to be adapting pretty quick."

Electrical Engineering Graduate Sam Parker poses with his final year project.

Pair Charged, Allegedly Invading Upper Hunter Home Armed with Axe and Chainsaw

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Two people will face court today charged over an alleged aggravated break and enter at a home near  Muswellbrook.  

Police allege in a 36-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman – armed with an axe and a chainsaw – forced entry to a home on Grimes Street, Denman, about 30km south west of Muswellbrook, about 1.45pm on Wednesday July 29th. 

Four people – two men and two women – were inside the property at the time and contacted police.
No one was injured during the incident.

Officers from Hunter Valley Police District arrived a short time later and arrested the pair.

They were taken to Muswellbrook Police Station and charged with aggravated break and enter commit serious indictable offence.

Both were refused bail to face Muswellbrook Local Court on Thursday July 30th. 

Hundreds of Injured Hunter Workers Involved in iCare Scandal, To Be Cut From Workers Compensation

BY KEELY JOHNSON

476 injured workers from the Hunter region will be cut off from the State's workers compensation scheme by the end of the year.

iCare is responsible for providing insurance compensation to more than 326 thousand public and private sector employers in NSW and their 3.6 million employees.

The agency, however, is currently involved in an $80-million-dollar underpayment scandal and is being accused of serious mismanagement and unethical practices.

"The great disappointment of this government's mismanagement of iCare and the workers compensation fund is that actual injured workers who are meant to be looked after by this scheme are instead either getting kicked-off the scheme or being underpaid while they're on the scheme," said Cessnock MP Clayton Barr.

Removing income support from hundreds of sick and injured workers is set to hit the region hard.

"On a regional basis... kicking injured workers off the scheme means they suddenly don't have enough money to keep a roof over their head, put food on the table and what little money they might have had to put back into the community to small businesses is taken away," said Clayton Barr.

"I have personally dealt with injured workers in the Hunter who have tried to commit suicide, tried to self-harm, essentially become homeless, become disconnected from their families through the poverty that has been imposed on them," said Clayton Barr.

Image source: ABC News

Twenty-One Inmates Charged Over Riot at Cessnock Gaol

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Police have charged 21 inmates following investigations into a riot at Cessnock Correctional Centre earlier in the year.

Around 11.30am on April 30th, a number of inmates allegedly caused significant damage to the correctional centre, and were on the roof of the premises.

Police allege the men threatened unlawful violence towards Corrective Services NSW staff and damaged several areas of the facility, including the ceiling, doors and roof, along with items inside.

The damage is estimated to be valued at more than $130,000.

No police response was requested at the time.

In May, officers commenced an investigation into the incident, issuing Court Attendance Notices (CAN) to all 21 men – all aged between 22 and 39 – for the offences of riot and participate in criminal group.

19 of the men are due to appear at Cessnock Local Court on Thursday July 30th.

A 32-year-old man was arrested at Surry Hills Police Station and served a CAN on Wednesday July 29th.

He was refused bail to appear at Central Local Court on Thursday July 30.

A 39-year-old man was arrested at a home in Tamworth and served a CAN earlier this month.

He was refused bail and appeared at Tamworth Local Court on Friday 3 July 2020 where he was granted conditional bail to next appear at the same court on Monday 24 August 2020.

Of the 21 men;

• Nine were served a CAN at a correctional facility at Goulburn (aged 22-39)
• Six were served a CAN at a correctional facility at Cessnock (aged 24-32)
• A 24-year-old man was served a CAN at a correctional facility at Kempsey
• A 28-year-old man was served a CAN at a correctional facility at Wellington
• A 33-year-old man was served a CAN at a home in Hamilton South
• A 32-year-old man was served a CAN at a home in Gosford

Singleton Train Trial Extended for Another Year

BY ISABEL EVERETT

The trial of additional train services running between Singleton and Newcastle, has been extended for another 12 months. 

“The trial was due to be assessed this year, however given the impacts of COVID-19, it was decided to extend the trial period to the end of 2021,” Upper Hunter MP, Michael Johnsen said.

“On the public transport network, we’ve seen a significant drop in patronage on the Hunter Line and across the board.

“Making an assessment at the end of next year will ensure a much fairer and reliable outcome, allowing train usage time to return to more normal levels.”

Public transport advoacy group, 'Two More Trains for Singleton' spokesperson, Martin Falding has been campaigning for more train services to operate out of Singleton for close to a decade, and says he's 'very happy' the government has acknowledged the deficiency in services. 

The trial services provide Singleton customers with a total of six return options to Newcastle during the weekdays and four on the weekends.

This includes an evening service departing Newcastle and Warabrook after 8pm.

“Previously there was no option to return to Singleton after 6pm,” Mr Johnsen said.

“For those who are still relying on public transport for travel during these times, this additional service in particular makes life a lot easier for Singleton customers, especially those who attend Newcastle University.”

Mr Falding says he still intends to continue his campaign, as the services currently being provided still are not running at the best times. 

"There are operational reasons why that is the case, but we're really hoping people use the services because that will demonstrate the communities desire for better connectivity via public transport."

Transport for NSW will continue to monitor the trial closely.

A thorough assessment will be conducted late next year before any permanent changes are considered and will include a close analysis of key criteria including patronage and customer satisfaction.

Image Credit: Caravan Park Photos

High Capacity Drive-Through Covid Testing Clinic Opening at Warners Bay, No Booking or GP Referral Required

BY ISABEL EVERETT

A high capacity drive-through Covid-19 testing clinic, which patients can attend without an appointment or doctors referral is opening in Warners Bay.

Local Newcastle family owned business Medtech, and 4Cyte Pathology have worked with Hunter New England Health, to open the clinic on Thursday 30th July.

The clinic will operate at Central Church, 290 Hillsborough Road, Warners Bay.

The clinic will be open from 8am - 4pm on weekdays, and from 8am -11am on Saturdays, and will be closed on Sundays.

"The Warners Bay drive-thru is the first of its kind in the region where patients can attend without either an appointment or a Doctor’s referral. Patients can simply attend at their convenience," Medtech and 4Cyte said in a statement.

This drive through clinic aims to reduce the number of patients attending GP clinics, before they have been cleared of COVID 19.

It also aims to reduce crowding at local hospital testing centers and increase regional testing capability.

Patients will received their negative testing results via a direct-to-patient SMS.

Testing is available for all ages including infants.

For more information please visit: www.medtechservices.net.au

Man Charged Over Vandalism Of Several Train Stations Across Hunter and Sydney

BY ISABEL EVERETT

A man is due to face court on Wednesday, charged over several acts of vandalism at train stations across the Hunter, Sydney, and Central Coast transport networks.

Following inquiries, officers from the Police Transport Command executed a search warrant at a home in Blue Haven, Central Coast about 10am on Tuesday.

During the search, investigators located sketch pads, spray paint, a mobile phone, three cannabis plants in a hydroponic setup and 16g of dried cannabis. These items were seized to undergo forensic examination.

A short time later, a 19-year-old man was arrested at the property and taken to Wyong Police Station.

He was charged with 21 offences, including:

• seven counts of malicious damage,
• cultivate prohibited plant,
• possess prohibited drug,
• five counts of face blackened/disguised with intent to commit indictable offence, and
• seven counts of enter/remain on running lines.

Police will allege in court that the man vandalised trains and infrastructure at railway stations in Kingsgrove, Maitland, Campbelltown, Hamilton, Lidcombe, Telarah and Gosford.

It will also be alleged the man then uploaded these acts of vandalism to social media.

The man was refused bail and is due to appear in Wyong Local Court on Wednesday. 

A 35-year-old Newtown man was also charged earlier in July following reports railway infrastructure and trains had been vandalised with graffiti across  Sydney and the Central Coast transport network.

He remains before the courts.

Investigations are continuing.

Fire Forces Closure Of Australia Post Shop At Wallsend

BY IAN CROUCH

Fire has damaged the Australia Post Shop at Wallsend Village overnight.

Firefighters from Wallsend, Minmi and Lambton were called to the shopping centre in Kokera Street just before 6.30pm on Tuesday, arriving to find the Post Shop heavily smoke logged.

Newcastle Fire Command says the automatic sprinkler system activated, preventing the fire from taking hold.

Crews had the fire fully extinguished and mopped up by 7.50pm.

The extent of damage or the cause of the fire is not known at this stage, however it was contained to the shop.

No-one was injured and the shopping centre will open today as usual, although the Post shop will remain closed.

The Australia Post Shop at Wallsend Village Shopping Centre Picture: Sonia Hornery MP

Parking Spaces To Be Used For Outdoor Dining in Lake Macquarie

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Lake Macquarie City’s food and dining scene is set for a vibrant boost with a the local Council adopting a new 10-month pilot program called VibrantSCENE.

The program will permit outdoor dining on community land and street parking in commercial centres, along with allowing food van operators to operate on council owned community land in approved locations

"Places such as Warners bay may lend themselves to this sort of thing," Councillor Brian Adamthwaite said.

"It wont be a case of using spaces that are over used at the moment, and there is a need for parking. This is really looking at areas where there might be some latitude for taking up some space."

75 percent of businesses along a commercial strip will need to agree for the parking spaced to be used for the purpose of out door dining, before a businesses application is approved.

As part of the trial businesses are encouraged to make temporary placemaking improvements to the dedicated sites by adding fairy lights, outdoor gas heaters and furniture or music to their setups.

Danielle Mayes and Natalie Brown, Owners of Tangerine Events said we’re excited to participate in this program and growing the Lake Mac Food Truck Crawl. We are constantly receiving interest from other vendors and this pilot program will allow for more food van operators to participate.   

Council will at all times be following the Australian and NSW Government COVID-19 guidelines in establishing these areas and businesses must have appropriate COVID Safe measures in place. Council will continue to work with the operators to ensure the safety of businesses and customers.

During the trial program, Council will be asking for feedback from businesses and the community to help inform long-term policy decisions and future programming.

The VibrantSCENE program is free of charge. Local operators are encouraged to apply by completing an expression of interest form online at lakemac.com.au/vibrantscene. 

No New Covid-19 Cases Recorded in the Hunter Today, 5 Active Cases in Region

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Hunter New England Health have reported no new Covid-19 cases in the Hunter region today.

There have been 14 new cases diagnosed in the NSW today, none of which are connected to the Hunter.

The latest NSW Health figures as of 12pm Tuesday July 28th, show there are currently 5 active cases in the region.

Two cases are in the postcode 2290, suburbs within this postcode include:

BENNETTS GREEN  CHARLESTOWN  DUDLEY  GATESHEAD  HILLSBOROUGH

KAHIBAH  MOUNT HUTTON  REDHEAD  TINGIRA HEIGHTS WHITEBRIDGE

Two cases are in the postcode 2315, suburbs within this post code include:

• CORLETTE 
• FINGAL BAY 
• NELSON BAY 
• SHOAL BAY 

One case is in the post code 2316, suburbs within this postcode include: 

ANNA BAY BOAT HARBOUR BOBS FARM

FISHERMANS BAY ONE MILE  TAYLORS BEACH

Despite the continuing legal limit of 20 people, NSW Health are advising residents to not host or go to a gathering of more than 10 people at home.

Anyone feeling unwell - even with the mildest of symptoms such as a runny nose or scratchy throat is urged to  seek testing and self-isolate until they get the result.

Moderate Flood Warning Issued for Wollombi Brook Area

BY ISABEL EVERETT

A moderate flood warning has been forecast for the Wollombi Brook area.

The flooding will impact the towns and surrounding areas of Broke, Bulga, Laguna, Millfield, Wollombi, Brickmans Bridge, Ellalong, and Paxton.

The Wollombi Brook at Bulga may peak near 3.70 metres around 7:00 pm on Tuesday with moderate flooding.

The Wollombi Brook at Wollombi is expected to remain below the minor flood level.

The Bureau says people in areas likely to be impacted by flooding in Low-lying areas of Wollombi Brook Area should prepare for potential isolation and possible evacuation.

People in areas likely to be impacted by flooding should consider:

• Refraining from driving or walking through flood water   
• Road closures and flood isolation may impact on work, family and educational commitments
•  Monitoring emergency warnings and severe weather updates on NSW SES Hunter Facebook Page and Bureau of Meteorology website   
• If your property is at risk of inundation, please raise moveable items, such as furniture, as high as possible onto benches or tables, placing electrical items on top 
• If you are advised by an emergency services officer to evacuate, please do so  
• Securing outside belongings and before leaving; turn off the power, water and take essential medicines and clothes with you 
• Farmers should move machinery, livestock, pumps and fodder to flood free ground  

BREAKING! Crews Battling Large Fire At Newcastle West Rug Store

BY IAN CROUCH

More than 40 firefighters are battling a large building fire in Newcastle West.

Crews were called to Rahmani's Rug Gallery on Parry Street just before 11.30pm on Monday to find smoke issuing from the two story brick building.

Two aerial appliances have been deployed to fight the fire from above.

Parry Street is closed to traffic between Stewart and Tudor Streets and is likely to remain closed for several hours.

Although the fire has been contained and is not posing a threat to neighbouring properties, Senior Firefighter James Reid says there are concerns the front of the building could collapse into the street.

"The building suffered significant fire damage and some potential structural damage. Crews have established a collapse zone on Parry Street," he said.

Police have establish a crime scene and forensic investigators will start work as soon as the fire is fully extinguished and it's safe to do so.

Fire rips through the Rahmani's Rug Gallery in Parry Street Picture: Merewether Fire & Rescue

Firefighters tackle the flames at Rahmani's Rug Gallery in Parry Street Picture: FRNSW Media

Calls for TAFE to Resume Online Learning, With Hunter Apprentices Forced to Travel to Sydney

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Hunter business owners are calling on TAFE NSW to revert back to online learning for their apprentices, who are currently required to travel to Sydney to conduct some of their studies.

Hunter New England Health Officials have issued a warning to locals not to travel to the city unless absolutely necessary amid concerns about the further spread of COVID-19.

Branden-Lee Woseen is an apprentice at 'Classic Motorcycle Restoration' in Gateshead, with his course run in a specialized building in Sydney, which not available at the local Hunter TAFE.

During the initial stages of the pandemic he moved to online learning to carry out his studies.

He says on June 24th, TAFE began to return to face to face classes in Ultimo, Sydney, a move Mr Woseen says he understands.

"Online learning wasn't too effective because my course is very hands on, so once it died down we started classes of eight, and now we're back to larger class sizes."

However Mr Woseen says he would now like to see classes move back online, as the number of Covid-19 cases in Sydney begins to rise.

"TAFE said they were monitoring the situation, with the majority the of people in my class from Sydney." 

17 new cases of Covid-19 were diagnosed in NSW on Monday, mostly linked to clusters in the city.

Mr Woseen's boss, Graeme Studdert says he required his apprentice to under go a Covid-19 test, and receive a negative result before he was allowed to return to work this week.

"You know I'm in a high risk area, I'm in my 60's and two of my other men, ones 67 and ones 63, we're all taking medication of some sort, so we're potentially in a high risk area and I just don't want to take the chance."

Owner of Brisan's Motorcycles in Islington, Nick Stevens, has 6 or 7 apprentices currently travelling down to Sydney for their studies, and is also calling for a return to online learning.

He says apprentices shouldn't be sent into high risk areas unless absolutely necessary.

"They have been doing some lessons remotely leading up to now and its unprecedented times, I cant see why they cant continue to do the same until we've got the all clear."

"We're certainly not forcing our apprentices to go to TAFE, we're just going to advise them to contact their teachers, and at this stage make their own decisions in terms of whether they'd like to go."

"But from a business stand point we're not really comfortable with them going to Sydney and potentially coming back and infecting other staff."

TAFE NSW is yet to provide a comment.

Image Credit: Sydney Morning Herald

UPDATE! Fifth Teenager Charged Over Cessnock McDonalds Fire

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Police have now charged a sixth teenager over the Cessnock McDonalds fire.

Following further inquiries, officers went to a home on Mayfield Street at Cessnock on Monday July 27 and arrested a 15-year-old girl.

She was taken to Cessnock Police Station and charged with damage property by fire and was granted conditional bail to face a children's court on Monday 11 August, 2020.

EARLIER:

A fifth teenager has been charged over allegedly lighting a fire at a Cessnock McDonalds.

About 3.30am on July 19, emergency services were called to the fast food restaurant on Allandale Road, Cessnock, after reports of a fire within the external playground area.

Four teenagers – two boys and two girls – have been charged over the incident. They remain before the courts.

Following ongoing inquiries, a 15-year-old boy attended Cessnock Police Station and was arrested about 2pm on Sunday 26th.

He was charged with damage property by fire and was granted conditional bail to appear at a children’s court on Monday 11 August 2020.

Inquiries are continuing into the incident.

Passengers And Driver Rescued From Bus In Newcastle As Heavy Rain Causes Severe Flash Flooding

BY IAN CROUCH

Emergency services have been inundated with calls for help as heavy rain caused severe flash flooding across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens overnight.

Williamtown recorded the highest official rainfall, with 132 millimetres falling since 9.00am on Sunday.

However the automatic weather station at Tighes Hill TAFE recorded 142 millimetres, while the rain gauge at Nords Wharf Oval received a massive 184 millimetres since 9.00am.

The SES and Fire & Rescue NSW were called to 10 flood rescues in the space of an hour - 5 people were were plucked from two homes on Orlando Road at Lambton.

Newcastle Fire Command says 11 people including a child were rescued from a bus stranded on University Drive at Callaghan.

Terri Langendam from the SES says crews were run off their feet attending to calls for help.

"A significant number of jobs including 71 storm and flood-related jobs in Newcastle, 47 jobs in Lake Macquarie and around 10 in Port Stephens," she said.

Heavy rain caused severe flash flooding in Wallsend on Sunday night Picture: Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery

Over 9 Thousand Fines Issued to Hunter Drivers, Caught Using Mobile Phones Since March

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Since the start of March 2020 over 9 thousand fines have been issue to drivers caught using their mobile phones in the Hunter. 

Transport NSW data reveals since March 1st, mobile phone detection cameras have checked 4,570,131 vehicles in the region.

This resulted in 9,487 penalty notices being issued.

Around one in every 482 drivers checked in the Hunter region from March 1st to June 30th, were issued a penalty notice, an offence rate of 0.21 per cent.

Drivers captured on camera doing the wrong thing receive a $344 fine, or a $457 fine in a school zone, and five demerit points, or 10 during double demerit periods.

Transport for NSW Deputy Secretatr, Tara McCarthy says they are committed to halting the trend. 

"Lives are being lost on NSW roads because of drivers illegally using their mobile phones," she said. 

"Simply taking your eyes off the road for longer than two seconds, doubles the risk of a crash."

"Research has found handheld mobile phone use while driving is associated with at least a four-fold increase in the risk of having a crash in which at least one person is killed or injured, and texting increases the crash risk even further."

Four Teenagers Charged Over Cessnock McDonalds Playground Fire

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Four teenagers have been charged over allegedly lighting a blaze at Cessnock McDonalds over the weekend.

About 3.30am on Sunday July 19, emergency services were called to a fast food restaurant on Allandale Road, Cessnock, after reports of a fire within the external playground area.

Crews from Fire and Rescue NSW extinguished the flames a short time later.

Officers from Hunter Valley Police District commenced an investigation into the cause of the blaze.

Around 9am Thursday July 23rd,  police attended a high school in Cessnock, and arrested a 15-year-old boy.

Then about 2.40pm, officers attended another high school in Cessnock, where they arrested a 14-year-old boy.

Later that evening, two teenage girls – aged 16 and 17 – attended Cessnock Police Station where they were both arrested.

All four teenagers were charged with damage property by fire and were all granted conditional bail to appear at a children’s court on Monday 11 August 2020.

Inquiries are continuing into the incident.

The fire-damaged playground equipment at Cessnock McDonalds Picture: Fire & Rescue Kearsley

Solar Set to Help Water Bills and the Environment

BY KAYNE STEPHENS

Hunter Water is aiming to reduce costs for its customers as well as its impact on the environment through a $15 million upgrade of the utility's energy systems.

The NSW Government programme will contribute to Hunter Water's plans to become "carbon neutral" by 2030.

The corporation cites electricity costs as one of its major expenses, accounting for about 10 per cent of annual costs.

An array of solar panels have been constructed and are now ready for installation at the Branxton Wastewater Treatment Works. The corporations's Managing Director, Darren Cleary, says the plans are "a win for both our customers and the environment".

"The solar array at Branxton is the first project in a $15 million programme of works over the next four years with the aim of reducing our carbon footprint and reducing our electricity costs.

"We hope the project will deliver a reduction in our carbon emissions by 7,200 tonnes per year. That's the equivalent of taking 1,500 cars a year off the road as well as delivering savings for our electricity bill of over one million dollars each year," Mr Cleary said.

"So, a great outcome for both our customers and the environment."

The project was announced by NSW Water Minister, Melinda Pavey, who says a range of other sites are being shortlisted for solar upgrades.

“This investment is all about innovation and supporting jobs in the Hunter while also reducing Hunter Water’s electricity bill,” Mrs Pavey said.

“The 100 kilowatt system at Branxton Wastewater Treatment Works is the first in Hunter Water’s push for many solar projects, with savings generated helping to maintain affordable bills,” she said.

Sites at Morpeth, Kurri Kurri, and Raymond Terrace are among 20 which are part of the initial rollout.

It's expected the 252-panel installation at Branxton will contribute to an eventual $1.5 million electricity saving each year.

Hunter Water says its also considering other ways of reducing its environmental impacts while being mindful of household water bills.

"We'll continue to look at the technology as it evolves, as well as emerging technologies such as battery storage technology and floating solar," Mr Cleary said.

"We'll be pursuing these opportunities wherever they're viable."

The water utility says the project will deliver a 7.37% reduction in its electricity usage.

"Looking at our energy costs is really a great sustainability outcome. It has the benefits of both reducing costs - which is great for our customers - as well as reducing our environmental impact by reducing our carbon emissions," Mr Cleary said.

Mr Cleary says the solar upgrades are just one aspect of a range of new technologies being used in the Hunter region's water system.

"We've just commissioned a smart control system for our water network that looks at optimising our pumping regime to to minimise electricity use and energy costs. So it's a major focus of our organisation and that's because it has the dual benefits of reducing our resource consumption by reducing our carbon emissions and how much electricity we consume as well as reducing costs," he said.

Hunter Water says more information of its sustainability initiatives can be found at www.hunterwater.com.au/our-water/sustainability

The $15 million solar project is hoped to reduce carbon emissions as well as provide savings for customers. Image: Hunter Water

Port Stephens Junior AFL Team Forced To Isolate After COVID-19 Case

BY IAN CROUCH

Hunter and Central Coast AFL officials have cancelled all games of an under Nines' Port Stephens side after a boy tested positive to COVID-19.

The Nelson Bay Marlins side won't play for two weeks while all players are in isolation.

The boy is one of three new cases confirmed in Port Stephens on Thursday which are linked to a Sydney restaurant cluster.

He played in the Marlins game against Newcastle City at Don Waring Oval on July 19 - players and officials from the opposing team and others at the ground have been told to be on the lookout for Coronavirus symptoms.

Meanwhile, Hunter New England Health has opened a new COVID-19 drive through testing clinic at the Tomaree Sports Complex on Aquatic Close.

The clinic will be open between 8.00am and 4.00pm 7 days, however hours will be extended if necessary to meet demand.

To make an appointment for the drive through clinic or the Tomaree Hospital clinic, call 4964 7497.
Children under the age of five should be tested at the Tomaree Hospital Emergency Department.

Maritime Authority Launches New Campaign to Help Prevent Shipping Disasters and Cargo Losses

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Container ships visiting the Port of Newcastle may now face extra scrutiny as part of a new nationwide campaign initiated by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) to enforce proper cargo securing arrangements and prevent shipping disasters.

While the campaign is ongoing from early August to the end of October, cargo ships should expect extended Port State Control inspections or stand-alone inspections if they dock in Australian ports.

The inspection campaign is being launched in response to recent investigations which revealed issues such as unsafe stacking practices and the poor maintenance of securing equipment were major factors in incidents involving the loss of containers from the YM Efficiency off Newcastle in 2018 and the APL England off Wollongong in May.

AMSA Acting National Operations Manager, Greg Witherall says the recent incidents were "simply unacceptable".

"They have the impact to cause significant environmental damage to Australia's iconic marine and coastal environment," Mr Witherall said. "These events, of containers going over the side, certainly affects the livelihoods and safety of commercial fishers and more broadly communities across Australia."

A $17 million recovery effort earlier this year salvaged 63 of the 81 containers lost overboard from the YM Efficiency, which had left debris such as nappies, surgical masks, and other sanitary products to wash up on local shores.

Taiwanese operator Yang Ming are now facing legal proceedings from AMSA in the Federal Court to recover the costs of the container removal effort.

Mr Witherall said further incidents would not be tolerated and all vessels visiting Australia must ensure they comply with the international standards set out by the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention.

"Where a vessel is deemed not compliant, and what we call clear grounds exist, then the AMSA inspector may proceed to a full detailed inspection," Mr Witherall said. "That can result in compliance action being taken until the vessel and the operators bring their vessel back into compliance."

"There's certainly an opportunity here for industry to lift its standards and AMSA will hold companies to account if their ships lose containers in Australian waters."

Image credit: https://www.amsa.gov.au/

Coal Projects to Deliver More Than Three Thousand Jobs for the Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A new report by the NSW Minerals Council is suggesting mining projects across the Lower and Upper Hunter could generate 3,700 jobs and more than $2.7 billion in capital investment for the region.

The ten coal projects outlined for the Hunter include two brand new underground thermal coal mine developments at Muswellbrook and Wyong, in addition to extensions to existing sites such as Glendell, Mangoola, and Rix's Creek.

NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee says together with the 22 other projects planned across the state, there is the potential for a total of $13 billion in capital investment and more than 15,500 employment opportunities.

"These are big opportunities for the Hunter Region and for the Hunter economy at a time when we are all looking for economic opportunities to help drive, hopefully, the economic recovery post the Coronavirus pandemic," said Mr Galilee.

The 32 total projects across New South Wales are in various stages of planning and assessment and represent an increase of seven from the sector's last major report released in November 2018

Although all of the projects in the pipeline for the Hunter are thermal or potential coking coal proposals, Mr Galilee says many of the other developments throughout the state have been identified as metal extraction projects.

“While the number of coal projects has risen slightly, the number of proposed metals projects has almost doubled from 6 to 11, representing over 30 percent of all major mining projects proposed in NSW, up from 20 percent 18 months ago," he said.

“This is an opportunity to further build and diversify the NSW mining sector and represents a strong industry response to the release of the NSW Government’s Minerals Strategy in early 2019.”

Image credit: https://www.nswmining.com.au/

Unemployment Worsens In Hunter As COVID-19 Takes Its Toll

BY IAN CROUCH

The latest unemployment rates for Newcastle and the Hunter paint a dim picture for the region as the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic continues to take its toll on jobs.

The latest Bureau of Statistics figures show more than 40,000 jobs have been lost in the Hunter since the start of the pandemic in February, and the figure is expected to keep climbing as JobKeeper payments fall.

The jobless rate for June rose by 1 per cent in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie on the previous month to 11.1per cent, while in the Hunter Valley, the rate rose from 5.9 to 7.4 per cent.

The youth unemployment figure is even more disturbing, with 24.8 per cent of young people out of work in Newcastle.

The ABS jobs survey estimates 21,500 Newcastle people were unemployed in June, a record since regional figures were first collected in 1998.

Hunter Business Chamber CEO, Bob Hawes says the latest figures come as a shock.

"We had hoped that we had reached the bottom of the trough last month, so it is worrying to see unemployment continuing to worsen," he said.

Hunter Business Chamber CEO Bob Hawes

Covid-19 Patients Attend Two Stores in Port Stephens, New Testing Clinic To Open at Tomaree

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Three contacts of a 60-year-old man who tested positive to Covid-19 in Port Stephens earlier in the week, have now also been diagnosed with the virus.

One is a child under 10 years of age, who attended Tomaree public school.

Another is a child under 2 years of age who attended the Good Start early learning centre at Anna Bay.

Another case is a man in his 30's.

Both Schools have been closed for the day for deep cleaning and contact tracing, as well as Tomaree High School.

 All close contacts of the children will be notified and required to isolate for 14 days.

"We know the cases have attended a few sites in the Port Stephens area," said Public Health Physician Dr David Durheim.

Anyone who attended Salamander Bay Village Woolworths on;

 - July 17 between 2.30pm to closing time

 - July 18 between 4pm to closing time

 - July 19 between 12.45pm to closing time

 - July 20 between 3pm to closing time.

And the Fingal Bay Café and Takeaway on July 17 between 11.30am - 12 midday, are urged to get tested if presenting cold or flu like symptoms.  

Public Health Physician, Dr David Durheim said both stores have been deep cleaned over night.  

"So there's no ongoing risk to the community, but anyone who was in those destinations on those days and times, there is a small chance they would of encountered Covid-19 so they should really make use of the testing facilities available." 

A new three-lane drive through testing clinic will be opening up at the Tomaree Sports Complex this afternoon. 

It will then operate 8am-4pm seven days, hours will be extended as required to meet demand.

To make an appointment for the HNE Health Tomaree Drive Through Clinic or Tomaree Community Hospital Clinic, please call 4964 7497 between 8am-4pm. 

“We are experiencing a very high volume of calls so please be patient when calling to book an appointment. If the clinic you are hoping to visit is busy, you can find other local options by visiting the NSW Health website or your GP,” Dr Durrheim said.  

The Laverty Pathology COVID-19 Clinic also continues to be available at Tomaree Community Hospital from 8.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday. 

Please visit your GP for a pathology referral prior to attending this clinic. 

 “This additional clinic increases our testing capability significantly. We are currently seeing between 300-400 people at our hospital clinic, with the on-site Laverty Clinic experiencing similar numbers. We anticipate this same amount again will attend the Drive Through each day,” said Dr Durrheim.

BREAKING! Ride Share Driver Stabbed At Merewether

BY IAN CROUCH

Police are appealing for public assistance over an alleged stabbing incident at Merewether early Thursday.

Police say a group of people arranged for a ride share driver to pick them up at a Windale address before 2.30am to take them to William Street, Merewether.

It's alleged when the car reached the destination one of the passengers produced a blade and ordered the 22-year-old male driver to hand over the car keys,wallet and mobile phone.

He resisted and was stabbed in the upper arm and leg.

The group then escaped with the man's car - a 2020 silver coloured Ford Focus with the registration BPX 15C

The injured driver called emergency services and was taken to the John Hunter Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

Anyone with information about the car or its occupants is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

New Pathways for Disadvantaged Students to Study Medicine at Newcastle University

 BY ISABEL EVERETT

The University of Newcastle have announced new pathways for students who have overcome major life challenges to study Medicine.

From next year, up to six places in the University’s Medical Program will be earmarked for students who apply through the Excellence through Equity Pathway to Medicine pilot.

Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Alex Zelinsky said the Excellence through Equity Pathway to Medicine would build on the University’s longstanding commitment to widening participation for students from all backgrounds.

“There are many examples of medical researchers and health practitioners world-wide who have used their own circumstances and background as a driver for positive change in healthcare and health outcomes for patients,” Professor Zelinsky said.

“Many people in our community will be familiar with our Open Foundation and Newstep programs, which have long provided successful pathways into undergraduate health disciplines. But until now there has been no similar program available for entry into Medicine."

As part of the pilot, students who complete Open Foundation or Newstep programs will be eligible for the pathway into Medicine if they satisfy academic and interview criteria, as well as demonstrate socioeconomic disadvantage and three additional equity indicators. 

These equity indicators are:

·         Financial hardship

·         Regional, rural, remote or isolated area

·         Carer responsibilities

·         Refugee status

·         Sole parent

·         Personal illness or disability

·         Experience of domestic and family violence

·         Out-of-home care experience

·         School status

·         Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

“This new enabling pathway to the Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (Joint Medical Program) strengthens the University’s commitment to equity across our degree programs."

“Having a medical workforce that better reflects the broader community where they work will ensure that health services and approaches to care are developed and provided with the full diversity of the population in mind,” Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor Faculty of Health and Medicine Professor Elizabeth Sullivan said.

“In turn, this can lead to greater health equity in our society.”

Students who have already graduated from an enabling program, completed an additional 12 months study, and meet the equity criteria will also be eligible for this pathway.

Open Foundation graduate Kurtis Simpson, who is currently studying medical engineering, welcomed the new pathway.

“I began my university studies at age 26, which might not seem very old but when you have spent eight years in the workforce without studying, the pathway into university seems daunting, especially if you did not excel in high school. 

I was grateful that the University of Newcastle’s enabling program and especially the teachers and support personnel who made the transition as easy as possible,” Kurtis said.

“Had the Excellence through Equity Pathway to Medicine been on offer there is no doubt that I would have jumped at the opportunity to apply for Medicine, as I think it’s a field that thrives on the diversity of experience that its practitioners bring."