Newcastle Royal Commission Switches To Catholic Church

BY IAN CROUCH

 The Royal Commission into alleged Child Sex Abuse cover-ups will switch it's focus from the Anglican Church to the Catholic Diocese of Maitland Newcastle today.

The commission will look into how the church handled allegations leveled at Father Vincent Ryan and Marist Brothers, Francis Cable (also known as Brother Romuald) and Thomas Butler (also known as Brother Patrick).

The public hearing will run until at least Friday week, while the investigation into the Anglican Church will resume in November.

Alleged Maryland Drug Dealer To Face Court

BY IAN CROUCH

 A man accused of dealing drugs from his Maryland home is due to face court on 18 charges.

The 33-year-old was arrested at his home on Kyamba Crescent yesterday as part of a police crackdown on the supply of prohibited drugs by detectives from Strike Force Malsbury.

It's alleged the man had been supplying the drug ICE

He was taken to Newcastle Police Station and charged with 8 counts of supplying a prohibited drug, 8 counts of possessing a prohibited drug, 1 count of supplying a prohibited drug on an ongoing basis, and 1 count of supplying an indictable quantity of a prohibited drug.

The man's been refused bail to appear in Newcastle Local Court today.

The most over crowded schools in NSW are here, in the Hunter

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Wirripang Public School at Gateshead is the state's most crowded school at 220% capacity according to figures released by the Department of Education.

The documents containing the figures were obtained under Freedom of Information laws and also reveal more than a third of NSW schools are at 100% capacity or more.

Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison says the results are a big reflection of the governments inability to plan, contrary to its commitment to public education.

"It [Wirripang Public School] opened in 2013 under this Liberal government. Now three years later, we've got overcrowding of 220 per cent. Wirripang Public School is over enrolled and what that means is this Liberal government is failing to plan for population growth let alone existing population."

The other five schools in the Hunter which are at more then 100% capacity include Islington Public School, Jesmond Public School, Grahamstown Public School, The Junction Public School and Maitland Grossmann High School.

Paterson MP Meryl Swanson sworn in and ready to roll

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson has been officially sworn into office today as the Governor General opens the 45th Parliament in Canberra.

The former 2NURFM announcer is incredibly honoured to be in Canberra and is excited to find her seat in the chamber and get down to business.

"It is a momentous day for me personally, but it will be good to get down to work after a long campaign and a long recess. I'm looking forward to participating in it and getting some decisions made for the people of Paterson and more broadly, the people of Australia."

Tomorrow will mark the first day of sitting in Parliament for the new parliamentarians, as legislation starts rolling into the chamber.

Minister does nothing about Aboriginal death in custody

BY JAMES BARRON

Minister for Aborignal Affairs Leslie Williams admits she has made no efforts to reach out to the family of Rebecca Maher, the Aboriginal woman who died while in police custody at Maitland Police Station earlier this year.

Rebecca Maher is the first Aboriginal to die in police custody in 16 years.

The Minister and her department has neglected to contact Rebecca Maher's family since her death on the 19th of July beyond offering her "sincere condolences" via the media.

The Minister has also failed to contact any relevant bodies such as the Aboriginal Legal Service and the Aboriginal Land Council, and is yet to speak with the Minister of Police on the matter.

Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison has slammed the Minister for her inaction, questioning Ms. William's claims that she is an advocate for Aboriginal people in NSW.

"The Minister's behaviour shows a truly disgraceful lack of regard for the dignity of this woman" said Ms. Aitchison.

"To see the first Aboriginal death in custody in NSW in 16 years is so significant and that's just why it's unbelievable she hasn't actually done anything."

Operation Spicer: Former Charlestown MP Referred To Director Of Public Prosecutions

BY IAN CROUCH

 Former Charlestown MP, Andrew Cornwell could be prosecuted following the release of the ICAC report into illegal political donations.

The corruption watchdog has recommended Mr Cornwell and his wife Samantha Brookes face criminal charges for giving false or misleading evidence.

The ICAC investigation found Andrew Cornwell, and former Member for Newcastle, Tim Owen acted with the intention of evading political donation laws.

The Operation Spicer report also noted a large portion of the $700,000 donated to the state Liberal Party's 2011 election campaign was illegally gifted by property developers.

Former Charlestown MP Andrew Cornwell and Wife Samantha Brookes Leave ICAC Hearing In August 2014. Picture smh.com.au

Former Test Cricketer And Wife Injured In Lake Macquarie Attack

BY IAN CROUCH

 Former test cricketer, Robert 'Dutchy' Holland and his wife are continuing to recover from a horrific  attack at Awaba at the weekend, allegedly involving two trail bike riders.

They were allegedly assaulted after telling the pair not to ride on the local cricket field.

69-year-old Holland suffered broken teeth, while his 68-year-old wife Carolyn was treated for broken ribs.

A 31-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman have been charged over the incident.

Bob Holland has told the Ten Network one of the riders lost his temper when he told him to stop riding on the cricket field.

"..and I approached them and said you can't ride your bike there. Then he went berserk," he said.

Bashed: Bob 'Dutchy' Holland. Picture singletonargus.com.au

Fire Destroys Home At Elermore Vale

BY IAN CROUCH

 Fire has destroyed a house at Elermore Vale overnight.

Fire crews were called to the vacant home on Croudace Road opposite the shopping centre just before 9pm to find the building engulfed in flames.

It took 40 firefighters about 90 minutes to bring the blaze under control.

Newcastle Fire Command says the roof of the home collapsed just after crews arrived and one firefighter suffered a twisted ankle.

The cause of the fire is not known and police have established a crime scene as investigations continue.

Lake Macquarie Bin Pick-Ups

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

Labor candidate for Mayor of Lake Macquarie, Kay Fraser has accused her Liberal counterparts of scaremongering.

A text message was sent to Lake Macquarie residents by Liberal candidates which stated the current council wanted to take away their weekly bin pick-up.

Kay Fraser has condemned their scare tactics.

Lake Macquarie City Council currently have a three bin service in place which was introduced in 2011.

Dob In A Dealer Launched In Newcastle

BY IAN CROUCH

 Newcastle Police have enlisted the help of the community to help stamp out the use and possession of the drug ICE with the launch to day of the Dob In A Dealer campaign.

The Federal government provided more than $1million to Crime Stoppers Australia to run the campaign.

In NSW, 21 Local Area Commands are taking part in the campaign over a six month period from March to September this year.

During today's launch at Waratah Police Station, Superintendent John Gralton referred to the latest data from the Bureau of Crime Statistics.

"Amphetamine use and possession in the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie areas has effectively tripled over the past 10 years, so it;s for this reason that Newcastle City Police is joining the state's effort in launching the Dob In A Dealer campaign," he said.

However, he said police cannot fight the scourge of ICE alone and they need community support to identify people who they can then take action against.

"In one case in Sydney, a simple anonymous call to Crime Stoppers led to the seizure of 585 kilograms of ICE and this means that 585 kilograms of ICE didn't hit the streets and decimate families," he said.

Anyone with information on drug dealing activities can do so anonymously and in complete confidence by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Crime Stoppers Chairman Robert Forsyth and Newcastle Police Superintendent John Gralton at today's launch. Photo Ian Crouch

Couple Bashed And Robbed at Awaba

BY IAN CROUCH

 A couple in their 60's have been the victims if a violent robbery at Awaba.

A 69-year-old man noticed two trail bike riders tearing up on the local cricket field on Saturday and told them to leave.

The riders allegedly lashed out - one running into the man's wife, knocking her to the ground before assaulting both of them and stealing his mobile phone.

The 69-year-old man and his 68-year-old wife were taken to the John Hunter Hospital and treated for cuts, bruises and possible fractures.

The accused, a 31-year-old man and 21-year-old woman were arrested yesterday at a home in nearby Heaton Street and charged with aggravated robbery, assault and inflict actual bodily harm.

They've been granted conditional bail to front Belmont Local Court on September 13.

Boy Bitten By Doberman At Edgeworth

BY IAN CROUCH

Police and Lake Macquarie Council are investigating a dog attack on an 8-year-old boy at Edgeworth.

Police say the boy was walking in a paddock and approached the back fence of a home in Lyons  Close just after 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon.


It's understood a dog, which police say was a dark tan Dobberman, approached the fence from the other side, before reaching through and biting the boy a number of times.

The boy was rushed to the John Hunter Hospital and treated for a suspected broken arm and bite marks.

Police have spoken to the dog's owner and are investigating the incident along with Rangers from Lake Macquarie Council.

Boy Bitten By Doberman Pinscher Like This One Photo Courtesy Pineterest.com

Stockton Boat Harbour to Stay in Public Hands

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

Newcastle commercial fisherman have breathed a sigh of relief after Roads and Maritime Services agreed to refurbish the Stockton boat harbour.

The announcement follows concerns the centre would be privatised by the State Government, or even closed.

The centre is in a rather battered condition, with repair costs expected to soar into the millions.

Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp has agreement to keep the harbour in public hands is a real win for local fishers.

“In light of the contamination issues at Williamtown as well as the licensing changes that are really detrimental to fishers, it’s great news,” he said.

Tim Crakanthorp

“You’ve got professional fishermen and recreational fishermen that use that boat harbour.  It will stay open now as opposed to closing or being privatised.”

Even though RMS has agreed to keep the site open and public, it will be a long time before the centre is at its former glory, with large-scale renovation on the way.

“There are lots of temporary walkways around it, there are real work and safety issues as well as the need for significant dredging,” Crakanthorp said.

“It’ll need quite a few million dollars to fix this harbour and it’s good to see the Government’s finally going to stump up.”

“I hope that now the Government has seen sense in letting the Stockton fishers keep their harbour, they will take another look at the commercial fishing reforms.  These fishers have suffered through enough.”

Man Faces Sentencing Today 15 Years On From Fatal Karuah Smash

BY IAN CROUCH

 A disqualified driver high on drugs who caused a fatal crash at Karuah 15 years ago has pleaded guilty in Newcastle District Court.

Michael Collins will be sentenced today over the horrific 2001 head-on crash on the Pacific Highway which claimed the life of 26-year-old British woman Arabella Stuart and left three others seriously injured.

He fled the country to Turkey following the crash and was only arrested last year.

Members of Ms Stuart's family traveled from the UK for yesterday's sentence hearing and read emotional victim impact statements to the court.

The Fatal Crash Scene in January 2001. Picture Courtesy theherald.com.au

Alleged Newcastle Tyre Slasher Caught

BY IAN CROUCH

 Police believe they've caught the serial tyre slasher who's been wreaking havoc around Newcastle's  inner suburbs in recent months.

Police have received 138 reports of tyres being slashed around the Mayfield and Tighes Hill areas since May this year.

Officers executed a search warrant at a Mayfield home yesterday, arresting a 44-year-old woman.

Says she's been charged with 8 counts of malicious damage and 3 counts of drug possession and refused bail to face Newcastle Local Court today.

A motive for the alleged attacks has not been revealed.

Police released this CCTV Image recently of a women they believed could assist with inquiries

State Government Plan to sell Myuna Bay Sport Centre Surfaces

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

A recent report has suggested that the State Government have begun plans to privatise recreational sports centres across the State, including Myuna Bay and Point Wolstoncroft on the shores of Lake Macquarie.

A report in The Newcastle Herald has suggested that up to eight of the 11 recreational sports centres across New South Wales will be up for lease.

Myuna Bay could be up for sale [Image Source: NSW Government].

The report says doing so would provide “the most favourable long-term return to government”.

Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper has expressed concern over the plans, calling the sell-off of land by the Government is “enormous”.

“The amount of property of the people of NSW that can be lost in one generation, if you like, of government has been quite enormous,” he told 2NUR FM’s Todd Sergeant.

“This is part of the NSW estate that has been built up over a long period of time and there’s so much of it being lost in such a short period of time.”

The privatisation plan is the latest in a string of sell offs by the State Government in an effort to fund major projects like the Newcastle light rail and Sydney’s West Connex.

But Greg Piper says the Government still has a few questions to answer as to why the sale would be a good thing.

Stuart Ayres

“Why would we do it?  I’d image that they will say there might be better value in it for the people,” he said.

“They’ll claim that perhaps the private sector can do it better, I’m not convinced th

at that’s the case.

“I’m sure that people who’ve worked in the system and those thousands of people who have benefited over the years would probably have a different opinion.”

The Government are yet to confirm the plan, with Piper confirming Sport Minister Stuart Ayres’ office have agreed to brief him.

BREAKING! Police Investigate After Man Shot At Muswellbrook

BY IAN CROUCH

 Hunter Valley police are investigating after a man was shot at Muswellbrook last night.

Officers were called to reports of shots being fired in Anzac Parade at about 10.30pm, arriving to find damage to a house and car in the street.

Just before 4.00am today, a 25-yeart-old man was found with gunshot wounds to his back and arm in Brook Street, Muswellbrook.

He was treated by Ambulance Paramedics before being taken to the John Hunter Hospital, where he remains in a stable condition.

Police say he is refusing to assist with their inquiries.

Police are urging anyone with information about either incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

 Image sourced from: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSbIful2u_h9ZDz2nM2XDIRHZvIUaDXLMITipMScxFebxZl8xgENNM7VbwmrdpMtveSqjixrwBRvm1t5L9tJkcrypuUkNdLwkMYXQMCuF8Uz5aU3zMlUwNU4Cq6rFZwqD-a8Qhp4ARPEM/s1600/policetape.jpg

Sydney Man To Stand Trial Over Fatal Williamtown Crash

BY IAN CROUCH

 A Sydney man charged over a crash at Williamtown last year which claimed the life of his 7-year-old nephew has been ordered to stand trial.

It's alleged Robert Shashati was under the influence of drugs when he lost control of his 4-wheel drive on Medowie Road and crashed into a ditch on January 21 2015.

Shashati's 7-year-old nephew was one of 4 boys in the car at the time of the crash.

Newcastle Local Court heard the 37-year-old was angry because they were running late to go quad-bike riding, so allegedly decided to speed on the wrong side of the road to overtake traffic.

The Crash Scene Photo Courtesy theherald.com.au

Search Continues For Suspected Adamstown Firebug

BY IAN CROUCH

 Newcastle police have released CCTV images of a man wanted over a suspicious house fire at Adamstown last month.

Emergency services were called to a home on Bryant Street just before midnight on Thursday July 28 following reports of a fire.

No one was home at the time and the fire was quickly extinguished causing only minor damage.

Police want to speak to man depicted in CCTV images who they believe can help with their investigation.

He's described as being Caucasian with a medium build, brown hair and brown facial hair and aged in his 40's or 50's. He's shown wearing a green beanie, dark coloured jumper and cargo pants.

The Man Police Would Like To Speak To

Lake Macquarie Sport & Recreation Camps Set To Be Privatised

BY IAN CROUCH

 Privatisation appears to be on the cards for Lake Macquarie's two Sport and Recreation camps.

There are reports the state government is interested in leasing out the Myuna Bay and Point Wolstoncroft centres and has been quietly sounding out private operators.

The two centres are among 8 of the 11 camps whcih the government is looking to be run be the private sector.

Sports Minister, Stuart Ayres admits the government is looking at ways to improve services, but denies the camps are going to be sold.


However staff have been told the option of leasing the centres is a real possibility.

Shadow Sports Minister, Lynda Voltz says it's just another example of the government selling off public assests.

"We are getting to a point where the Mike Baird government is selling everything that isn't nailed down. It's got to be a concern for future generations that the government no longer has control of the assets that have been built up for us," she said.

Lynda Voltz

Hunter greyhound racers concerned following passing of ban

BY JARROD MELMETH

Hunter greyhound trainers are considering their futures after legislation banning the practice was passed in parliament in the early hours of this morning.

Debate in parliament went for almost 12 hours with three National Party MPs crossing the floor in protest. The Baird Government eventually passed this bill 49 votes 30 at around 4am this morning.

The bill had previously been passed in the Upper House following a similar lengthy debate.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald said it was a difficult decision but the outcome is favourable.

"We've got a responsibility to look at it on a statewide basis and the industry had been given many opportunities to reform itself." 

"But, it was proven time and time again that the element in the industry that was leading the industry was determined to deceive the government, the regulators, the RSPCA and even their members."

Member for Wallsend Sonia Horney who earlier in August presented a petition of 37,000 signatures opposing the ban said, the economic impacts that will follow the closure of The Gardens racetrack in Wallsend is concerning.

"The economy of Wallsend is going to loose about 17.6 million dollars a year once The Gardens is taken away from our community."

Kevin Gordon from the Alliance of Greyhound Racing said, the impacts of the ban go much deeper than just the trainers.

"We are saying that the impacts will go so deep potentially tens of thousands of jobs will be lost in New South Wales at a time where unemployment is getting higher."

The greyhound racing prohibition Bill carries penalties of up to a years jail for those who participate in the practice in New South Wales after July 1, 2017.

Photo courtesy of the ABC.

Woman Suffers Burns During Alleged Domestic Violence Incident At Raymond Terrace

BY IAN CROUCH

 A man has been charged with burning a woman during an alleged domestic dispute at Raymond Terrace.

Police were called to a Wahroonga Street home yesterday afternoon following reports of an incident between a man and a woman

They found a 22-year-old woman with burns to her stomach- she was treated at the scene by Ambulance paramedics.


Officers attempted to speak to a 22-year-old man at the scene but he allegedly became aggressive, forcing them to deploy a Taser to subdue him, however the weapon missed it's mark.


He was arrested after speaking further to police and taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station, where he was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and resist officer in the execution of duty.

The man was granted conditional bail to front Raymond Terrace Local Court on September 6.

Interruptions to Newcastle rail line yet again

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Despite severe disruptions to the Newcastle rail line due to industrial action over previous weeks, the Australian Rail Track Corporation are going ahead with planned track work this week.

The maintenance work will see new tracks laid, improvements to level crossings and signalling work completed.

Executive General Manager Jonathon Vandervoort says the work has been pre planned months in advance and cannot be avoided.

"We will be working very closely with our customers to see what opportunities there are following the maintenance shutdown to recover from the industrial action period as best as possible."

The work is due to be finished late evening this Thursday.

Paid Parking Could Return To Newcastle's East End

BY IAN CROUCH

Paid parking could soon be re-introduced in Newcastle's East End on Saturday mornings to free up space on streets clogged with the cars of inner-city workers.

Council will tonight consider a 3 month trial from October which would force motorists to pay for parking between 9am and midday.


To encourage a more affordable option for inner-city workers, Council will also consider making it's King Street car park free to use for the first month of the trial before a 5-dollar fee is brought in for the following two months.

HSC Students At Some Hunter Private Schools Exploiting Loophole

BY IAN CROUCH

 A large number of private school students in the Hunter are being classed as disabled, allowing them to receive special treatment in their HSC exams.

The Daily Telegraph reports nearly a third of Year 12 students at Belmont Christian College and one in five at Newcastle Grammar were given disability provisions last year.

It entitles those who demonstrate pain, anxiety disorder or concentration issues to receive extra time, breaks or someone to help them read or write.
 

Board of Studies data shows some elite schools are applying for disability assistance at double or triple the rate of public schools.

The NSW Teachers Federation has accused private schools of "gaming" the system to improve student outcomes so they can publish artificial HSC results for marketing purposes.

A spokesman for Education Minister, Adrian Piccoli says the Board of Studies used a stringent process to assess applications for special tratement.

Man in NEWCASTLE hospital with Meningococcal

By TYLER FARDELL

A young man is in a HUNTER hospital after being diagnosed with the potentially deadly meningococcal disease in what is the sixth confirmed case this year.

Close contacts of the man have been prescribed clearance antibiotics and have been told to seek medical help if any symptoms appear

Early symptoms include nausea and vomiting, fatigue, stiff muscles and joints, high fevers and light sensitivity with the infamous purple blotches appearing later

Doctors at Hunter New England Health have told residents to be alert, but insist that an outbreak is unlikely as meningococcal is not spread as easily as people think

Close and prolonged contact to an infected person is needed for the disease to pass on, rather than sharing drinks, food and cigarettes.

The disease kills one in every ten people who contract it with health professionals stressing that early detection and treatment usually results in a full recovery.

Meningococcal Rash
 Photo courtesy travelmedicine.com.au

Teen Girl Threatened During Gateshead Armed Robbery

BY IAN CROUCH

A 16-year-old girl has been threatened at knife-point during a terrifying armed robbery at Gateshead.

Two men entered a take away shop on Oxford Street just before 8 last night and demanded the girl, who was working behind the counter, hand over cash.

They also ran off with cigarettes.

The Police Dog Unit was called in but couldn't track down the pair.


The first man is described as being of slim build, approximately 185cm tall and wearing a black hooded jumper.

The second man is described as being of solid build, approximately 175cm tall with red hair, and wearing a grey hooded jumper.

Anyone with information, and any witnesses who have not yet spoken to police, are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

BREAKING! Missing Autistic Man Found Safe And Well

BY IAN CROUCH

An autistic man who wandered off from his Kotara home last night has been found safe and well this morning.

20-year-old Matthew Kiely disappeared from his home in Rodway Parade at about 9.30 last night.

Police were alerted when he couldn't be located.

Officers searching for Matthew located him on the grounds of Lakeside School at Gateshead just after 7.30am.

He's now with a carer and is being reunited with his family

Matthew Keily Found Safe And Well

Hunter Olympians Add To Australia's Medal Tally

BY IAN CROUCH

Our Lake Macquarie Olympic sailors have done the Hunter proud overnight in Rio.

Coal Point's Will Ryan and crew mate Matt Belcher picked up a silver medal in the 470 class.

While Wangi Wangi's Nathan Outteridge and Iain Jenson added to the London gold with silver in the 49'sers.

Elsewhere, Maryland's Aaron Royle was the best placed Aussie in the Triathlon, finishing 9th, less than a minute outside the Bronze Medal position.

Australia is now in 10th position on the medal tally with 7 gold, 7 sliver and 10 bronze for a total of 27 medals.

Will Ryan & Matt Belcher Photo Courtesy Getty Images

Nathan Outteridge & Iain Jensen

BREAKING! Man In Custody Over Siege At Muswellbrook

BY IAN CROUCH

 A 24-year-old man is assisting police with their inquiries following a siege at Muswellbrook.

Officers were called to a home on Tarakan Avenue at about 11.30pm where they were confronted by a man armed with knives.

Negotiators and officers from the State Protection Unit were called in and the man eventually surrendered without incident at about 2.00am.

A woman and child inside the home were not harmed during the siege.

Caughlan Butts Heads with Lake Mac Independents

BY GARY LYSAGHT

The Lake Mac Independents party are a new group established to contest the upcoming local election on September 10.

Laurie Caughlan (standing) at a Council meeting [Image Source: Simone De Peak, via The Herald].

But the group has also been targeted by independent Mayoral candidate Laurie Caughlan, who has called them a splinter group determined to reduce the independent voice on Council.

“This is a political party, they are not independents and I think the sole aim is for political parties to attack independents,” Councillor Caughlan said.

Three members from the party will go head-to-head with Cr Caughlan over who will be Mayor, while also contesting with Liberal candidate Jason Pauling and Labor candidate Kay Fraser.

Lake Mac Independents Mayoral candidate John Gilbert has said Cr Caughlan is becoming concerned over his chances of election.

“I think he’s feeling a bit under pressure by us and these kind of outlandish claims are probably signs of desperation,” he said.

“We’re a stand-alone party, developed by local people who’ve lived here a long time and are determined to see this area prosper.”

However, Cr Caughlan has brought into question the legitimacy of the party’s independence, saying they might have ties to the Labor party.

“They’re former members of the Labor party, former members of the Christian Democrats and some of them handed out how-to-votes for the Labor party at the recent election.”  

Mr Gilbert denies the link made by Cr Caughlan and says the reality is “quite the opposite to what Cr Caughlan’s saying”.

Fire Forces Evacuation Of Hotel Residents

BY IAN CROUCH

 Fire has forced the evacuation of the Family Hotel on Hunter Street Newcastle this morning.

The fire broke out in a second floor bedroom just after six o'clock and was quickly extinguished.

12 people managed to get out safely.

The cause of the fire remains unclear as an investigation gets under way.

Man Critical After Wallsend Smash

BY IAN CROUCH

 A man is lucky to be alive after a bad smash at Wallsend this morning.

A car collided with another vehicle in Murnin Street before slamming into a power pole just before 5.30am.

He was freed by Fire and Rescue before being rushed to the John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition.

New Image Of Suspected Tyre Slasher Released

BY IAN CROUCH

 It's believed the woman responsible for slashing car tyres in Newcastle's inner suburbs has now destroyed more than 100.

Detectives say she's been targeting cars in the Mayfield, Islington and Tighes Hill areas since May, leaving an estimated damage bill of well over 10-thousand dollars.

She first started slashing tyres at night time but has recently been active during the day, attacking cars parked on the street, in driveways and in car parks.

Detectives have released a new image of the woman they believe is responsible for the vandalism spree.

Singleton Council Meeting Tonight: Residents Welcome

BY BRIDGET GUNN

Singleton Council is holding its next community strategic plan meeting tonight, and residents are encouraged to come along and have a say in the future of their community.

Singleton Council General Manager Jason Linnane says conversations between councillors and residents are vital in ensuring everyone is on the same page.

"The workshops are based on having a two-way conversation between council staff and the elected officials, and also the community, says Linnane.

"What we are trying to do is engage with the community to understand what their vision is fpr the Singleton local government area, so we can build our plans and our strategies moving forward."

"This is their community and council is here to deliver on their vision and their needs."

Source: ABC News

International Pornography Ring Targets Hunter Schools

BY IAN CROUCH

 Students at four Hunter schools are among the targets of a pornography ring where members swap and exchange graphic images of non-consenting girls using a secret website.

Teenage boys and young men are using the website where they nominate the specific High School or region and ask for images of girls by posting their full names.

Many of the explicit images are thought to have been taken from Snapchat.

More than 70 schools from across Australia have been mentioned on the site, with the local ones are reportedly around the Maitland area.

The shocking revelation has prompted school authorties to again urge students to be extremely careful about what they post online.

Courtesy Getty Images

Calls For Cell Death Inquiry

BY IAN CROUCH

 There are calls for an independent inquiry into the death of an Aboriginal woman while in police custody at Maitland.

Rebecca Maher was placed in a holding cell on July 19 after reportedly appearing intoxicated.

The family of 36-year-old is accusing police of failing to follow protocol designed to save lives.

Officers apparently didn't alert the Aboriginal Legal Service as required when she was arrested.


NSW Shadow Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, David Harris says the woman's family deserve answers.

"A thorough investigation must take place immediately to establish why proper protocol wasn't followed," he said.

David Harris

ARTC leaves privatisation door wide open

BY JESSICA ROUSE

The privatisation door has been left wide open with Hunter Australian Rail Track Corporation workers signing a dud Enterprise Agreement deal.

Employees were put in a difficult and unfair position as they voted for changes to the ARTC which will reduce future financial liabilities and make the company an attractive purchase for the private sector.

If the government privatises the ARTC, a number of conditions workers currently enjoy will be scrapped.

Rail, Tram and Bus Union Secretary Alex Classens says the union are calling on the ARTC to publicly confirm workers conditions and entitlements will be protected.

"Our union does its best to protect members conditions and unfortunately in this circumstance we haven't been able to achieve that."

Mr Classens slammed the voting process pointing to concerns about transparency and fairness.

It is unknown who was allowed to vote in the ballot; all the union know is the outcome which they are very disappointed in.

The combined rail unions will be meeting to seek legal advice on what options are available to them so they can continue to fight to protect employee entitlements.

Teachers Losing Out in Cessnock Jail Expansion Plans

BY BRIDGET GUNN

Multiple teachers are set to lose their jobs in the controversial 1,000 bed expansion of Cessnock jail.

These proposed changes to the numbers of teachers employed at the jail have raised serious concerns, as the proposed teaching staff will be untrained and not fully qualified.

The government has made plans to cut the 9.5 full time teaching positions back to 2 positions as part of an employment outsourcing scheme.

Phillip Chadwick from the NSW Teachers Federation says these changes will have serious long term effects, as inmates won't learn skills necessary to reintegrate into society.

"One third of the people who might find themselves in prison have very poor language, literacy and numeracy skills, and it is vital that they have the right people in front of them giving them those skills so that when they do leave prison they can reintegrate and make their way back into society," says Chadwick.

"One of the key things that the education systems currently do is they interrupt that cycle of long term generational crime, and so it is vital to have highly trained teachers in place to break that chain."

"Under the new system, the people doing the education in our prisons won't have a proper teaching qualification, it will be a Certificate Four qualification and this is a real disaster for rehabilitation in our correctives services."

An immediate action training drill at Cessnock Jail
Source: The Newcastle Herald

Environmental Grants for Hunter Now Available

BY TANYA DU PREEZ

The Office of Environment and Heritage is now encouraging Hunter organisations to apply for the 2016/17 Restoration and Rehabilitation Grant Program.

Over $4 million is worth of grant funds is up for grabs for Hunter community groups and government entities.

The grant program aims to assist in the protection of ecosystems and the restoration of degraded environments.

Senior Team Leader for Contestable Grants Geoff Hudson says all relevant organisations should consider putting in an application.

"We encourage all groups and local community organisations to apply, as funding is available up to $100 000 over three years."

The program has been running for over 20 years, with 56 grants being awarded across the state last year.

Grants will help Hunter organisations to provide sustainable environmental outcomes (Source: cio.com.au)

Clear Image Hunter Valley Wine Show Continues

BY TANYA DU PREEZ

Judges for the Clear Image Hunter Valley Wine Show are in for a treat as they sip their way through some of the finest wines in the Hunter.

Judging was held yesterday and continues today in 33 different classes of wine.

Over 600 entries from more than 70 winemakers are being considered by a panel of local, national and international experts.

Show presenter David Flynn says the competition is an important cultural event for the Hunter Region.

"We're celebrating a strong region, with a lot of history and a lot of quality wines," he said.

Trophies will be awarded on Friday at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley Marquee.

Experts are considering entries in 33 different classes of wine (Source: winecountry.com.au)

Fatal Smash Closes New England Highway At Scone

BY IAN CROUCH

  A motorcyclist has died in a 3 vehicle crash near Scone this morning.

Police say a motorcycle and a utility collided head-on on the New England Highway near the intersection of Gundy Road at about 5.30am.

It's believed a White Laser hatchback then crashed into the wreckage.

The male motorcyclist died at the scene - the male drivers of the two cars were taken to hospital for mandatory testing.

The highway is expected to remain closed in both directions for some time while investigations into the crash continue.

Local diversions are in place.

New Aquatic Centre for Cessnock

BY BRIDGET GUNN

The greater Cessnock area will be receiving a new aquatic centre if a Liberal Party majority is elected in the local elections.

The $48 million fitness and leisure facility would boost tourism in the area and provide a huge range of economic benefits for the greater Cessnock area.

Councillor Bryce Gibson says the party will start construction as soon as they are elected.

One of the proposed plans for the new aquatic centre
Source: The Advertiser

Man Charged Over Warners Bay Wheelie Bin Fires

BY IAN CROUCH

 Lake Macquarie police want to hear from any Warners Bay residents who've had their wheelie bins destroyed by fire overnight.

Officers were called to Warners Bay Road just before 7 o'clock to reports several garbage bins had been destroyed, but couldn't find the alleged culprit.

They were called back there at 8.15pm and arrested  a 43-year-old man who was hiding in a backyard - he's due to face Toronto Local Court today accused of setting fire to bins with a cigarette lighter.

Lake Macquarie Police believe there may other residents who have not yet discovered their bins damaged and encouraging people to contact their nearest police station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

NDIS Portal Failures Stressful for Disability Service Providers

BY BRIDGET GUNN

A glitch in the new National Disability Insurance Scheme portal has been catastrophic for Hunter-based disability service providers.

The portal, which the providers are paid through, has not functioned properly since July, which has left some smaller businesses close to bankruptcy.

NDS Chief Executive Ken Baker says this blockage of funds is preventing disability services from providing their usual standard of services.

"Before the new portal was launched it should have been thoroughly tested with service providers, the people who are going to use the portal, as well as participants of the scheme," says Baker.

"I have no doubt whatsoever that the agency is working very hard on trying to fix the problems but its been very slow, its been prolonged stress on providers and uncertainty for people receiving services."

Source: NDIS

Community mourns the Death of Former Chancellor Trevor Waring

BY BRIDGET GUNN AND JAI MCALLISTER

The University of Newcastle community is mourning the passing of former Chancellor Conjoint Professor Trevor Waring.

The Professor made a significant and enduring contribution to the University of Newcastle both as a student, a leader in clinical psychology and also by serving as Chancellor from 2004 to 2012.

University of Newcastle Chancellor Paul Jeans says Professor Waring made a significant and wide-ranging contribution to the community.

"Trevor of course had an impact on the community as a whole so that impact reflected on the good will that was present between the community. Trevor and certainly his specialty area of Psychology, where he was very well recognized."

Source: The University of Newcastle

Firefighting Chemical Detected Outside Williamtown Red Zone

BY IAN CROUCH

 The firefighting chemical PFOS at the centre of the Williamtown RAAF Base contamination scandal has been found well outside the so-called red zone.

It was detected in the bore water of a chicken farm at Campvale, while traces were found in a pumping station which feeds into Grahamstown Dam.

Hunter Water says the amount of chemical detected is the equivalent of an eye drop of PFOS to an OIympic size swimming pool of drinking water.

However, Jeremy Bath from Hunter Water says the chemical didn't come from the RAAF Base and insists our drinking water is safe.

"PFOS is a product that is used throughout the community in a variety of products like pizza boxes, shower curtains, furniture, clothing - it's used throughout the home, so to detect PFOS in stormwater in Campvale Canal is not surprising at all and is of absolutely of no impact on Hunter Water's town water," he said

Jeremy Bath