Hunter Could have Blackouts Like SA

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

The Hunter could see blackouts similar to those in South Australia because of the State and Federal Governments axing of more than 2600 power workers, says the Electrical Trades Union.

Since 2012, the Government has gradually cut back workers across the State and in various companies.

Over the past four years, almost a quarter of all electrical workers have lost their jobs, including 1400 from Ausgrid and 800 from Essential Energy.

ETU Assistant Secretary Dave McKinley says the next natural disaster NSW faces could plunge it into darkness, much like South Australia this week.

"What has occurred in South Australia in the past 24 hours could easily happen in NSW," he said.

"The ability to restore power for consumers is dependent on having skilled workers available.

One of many fallen SA power lines. [Image: Tom Fedorowytsch]

"This loss of skilled workers will have a devastating effect on response time and the speed which power can be reconnected."

All of South Australia lost power on Wednesday night as wild winds and rain lashed the state, causing its wind turbines to switch off.

Power lines across the state also collapsed, which led to the extreme blackout.

The Hunter has also had wild winds, with parts of Dungog and Maitland submerged in water for days following last April's super storm that lashed the region.

McKinley is calling on Ausgrid and

other other providers to be prepared for the next weather event.
"We are urging them to take a good hard look at the resources they have available moving forward so they can ensure they have the skilled workers and specialist equipment needed to respond to similar events when they occur in NSW," he said.

[Image courtesy of ABC].

Newcastle Hospital Implicated In Chemotherapy Underdosing Scandal

BY IAN CROUCH

It's been revealed a cancer doctor who allegedly under-dosed more than 100 patients had previously worked at Newcastle's Calvary Mater Hospital.

Doctor John Grygiel worked there for two years as a medical oncologist in the 1980's, however health authorities admit they have no record of what he did or how many patients he treated.

Dr Grygiel is accused of giving low doses of chemotherapy to patients at Sydney's St Vincents Hospital as well as Orange and Bathurst Hospitals.

The revelation has prompted calls from Wallsend MP, Sonia Hornery for an inquiry into Dr Grygiel's work to be extended to include his time at the Calvary Mater.

"I'll be raising  this issue in Parliament to make the minister aware that this is of concern to us locally," she said

However, Health Minister Jillian Skinner has ruled this out saying his time there doesn't need to be investigated.

"The was before there were any protocols about the dosing to do with chemotherapy, so it was not pertinent to the inquiry conducted into his treatments out in the Orange hospitals later on," she said.

Dr John Grygiel photo courtesy dailytelegraph.com.au

NSW Health Minister Jillian Skinner

EXCLUSIVE! 3 Children Rescued From Rip By Police At Caves Beach: Officers Named.

BY IAN CROUCH

 Two Lake Macquarie police officers will be recommended for bravery awards after saving three children caught in a rip at Caves Beach.

Around 6pm last night, two girls aged 15 and a boy aged 9 were swimming at Caves Beach when they became caught in a rip.

The 47-year-old father of the boy and one of the girls entered the water to help the children but he too became caught in the rip with all four swept about 70 metres from the shoreline.

With the beach lifesaver having gone home for the night, a witness called Triple Zero.

A short time later, 41-year-old Senior Constable Craig Hansen and 38-year-old Senior Constable Wade Fuller arrived.

They removed their appointment belts and obtained body boards from 2 civilians and entered the water.

They managed to reach the children and tow them back to shore on the body boards - the father was able to make his way safely back to shore.

Ambulance paramedic checked the children and the officers - no-one was was injured and the Senior Constables Wade and Fuller resumed their duties.

Lake Macquarie Duty Officer, Darryn Cox heaped praise on his young officers.

"A fantastic job from them. We'll be submitting a report up through the channels to higher command in regards to having them formally recognised," he said.

MP: NBN Rollout "a disaster" for Small Business

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

Small business across the Hunter are at risk of failing because of the National Broadband Network’s rollout, says Hunter MP Joel Fitzgibbon.

Joel Fitzgibbon

It comes after four businesses in Morisset were left without phone or Internet services for weeks after being switched from their old network to the NBN.

“Not only are we seeing an inferior NBN service rolled out, but the transition is hopeless,” said Fitzgibbon.

“For a small business to be without a telephone service for weeks is a disaster.”

Labor have been critical of the Coalition Government’s NBN scheme, suggesting it is inferior and outdated as soon as it's switched on.

A strong small business sector was one of the talking points for the NBN, begun by Malcolm Turnbull in his capacity as Communications Minister and continued when he succeeded Tony Abbott for the top job.

But Joel Fitzgibbon said it only hurts them.

“Small businesses are going without telephone and Internet services literally for weeks.  That’s a disaster,” he said.

“The Government needs to apologise; to intervene and to sort these problems out.”

Jason Miles is one of the small business owners put out by the NBN.  He told the Lakes Mail it's severely hampered his business.

"I reckon we're running at about 10 per cent of what I'm used to.  Where I might usually get 100 people coming through the door per day, I'm down to 10.  Maximum," he said.

"The big problem is people don't have a choice to switch their landline over to the new system," Joel Fitzgibbon said.

Maitland Council Cracks Down On Illegal Dumping

BY IAN CROUCH

Maitland Council is stepping up efforts to crack down down on illegal dumping.

Council has received 104 complaints about illegal dumping in the past 6 months and recently obtained a state government grant to help with raising community awareness about the impacts of illegal dumping on the environment

It's planning to increase surveillance at known hot spots, while extra signs will be going up.

Educational material is also being produced to help people dispose of rubbish correctly and provide residents with information on how to report illegal dumping.

Council is also stepping up incentives to dispose waste correctly including providing residents with a free tip voucher allowing for the disposal of up to 400kg of waste and allowing green waste to be dropped off at the waste management centre free of charge at weekends.

Council's Development and Environment Manager, David Simm says everyone has an obligation to the environment.

"Illegal dumping is not only a financial burden to the community but a public health risk. Council offers a range of services and facilities that can help residents effectively and legally deal with their waste," he said.

Hunter Valley Braces For Wet & Windy Weather

BY IAN CROUCH

 Remnants of the severe weather system which blacked out the entire state of South Australia are expected to hit the Hunter Valley today.

A Severe Weather Warning is out for damaging winds and heavy rain, with wind gusts expected to top 90 kilometres per hour in some areas.

The Upper Hunter north of Singleton is expected to cop the worst of the wild weather later today, while heavy rain is also expected along the coast.

Meanwhile, at least 50-thousand sand bags from Maitland have arrived in the flood-hit towns of Forbes and Condolbolin as they prepare for more flooding.

Around 40 SES volunteers from the Hunter are in the Central West to lend a hand - a further 8 are heading out today, including a specialist flood rescue operator.

Severe Weather Warning Issued For Large Areas of NSW, including the Hunter

Hunter Officer Remembered As Part Of Police Remembrance Day

BY IAN CROUCH

 A service to mark National Police Remembrance Day is being held today at Newcastle's Sacred Heart Cathedral.

The day affords police forces within Australasia the opportunity to remember those officers who have lost their lives in the course of their duties.

In the Hunter, officers will be paying tribute to 43-year-old father of two Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson, who died when his patrol car collided with a tree at Allandale while responding to a pursuit in March.

Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson 6.8.1972 - 5.3.2016

 

 

 

 

Meryl Swanson calls on Health Minister in wake of international PFOA and PFOS findings.

BY JARROD MELMETH

Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson is calling on the Health Minister Sussan Ley to explain the ramifications of the "draft risk profile" for PFOA adopted by United Nations group The Stockholm Convention's Persistent Organic Pollutants Review Committee.

The Stockholm Convention is a global treaty to protect human health and the environment from chemicals.

The "draft risk profile" states "PFOA, its salts and related compounds are persistent, bio accumulative and toxic to animals and humans" and that "PFOA and it's salts and related compounds are likely, as a result of their long-range environmental transport, to lead to adverse human health impacts."

Health Guidelines in Australia are that "there is currently no consistent evidence that exposure to PFOS and PFOA causes adverse human health effects."

Meryl Swanson says she wants to know whether these findings will have any effect on Australian Guidelines.

"I have written to the Health Minister to ask her to explain the ramifications of this advancement and the adoption of the draft risk profile from the United Nations and find out what that means for us here in Australia. Are we taking that into consideration when we're weighing up whats happening with Williamtown."

"We need to make sure that we are getting world class information on what is happening in terms of research across the globe so that we get the very best solutions."

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten will be meeting with Williamtown residents today.

Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson. Photo Courtesy
of Facebook.

Fishing bans lifted in Port Stephens

BY JACINTA LEE

Commercial fishers in Port Stephens can breathe a sigh of relief today, as it's announced fishing closures will be lifted next month.

The practice was banned in September last year after toxic chemicals from the Williamtown RAAF Base were found to have seeped into Port Stephens waterways.

Manager of the Fishermans Co-op, Robert Gauter, said it's good news for fishers struggling to make ends meet as well as customers who buy locally.

"Customers will have more choice now," he said. "If they're comfortable, they can buy products from the Hunter with the confidence that the Government says it's safe to consume."

However, he admitted he is cautiously optimistic, as many fishers will be seeking compensation.

"We'll still be in the trenches with Defence to try and get something back for those guys who had losses for the last twelve months."

Lake Macquarie Drink Driver Pleads Guilty After Tailgating Top Cop

BY IAN CROUCH

A Lake Macquarie man who tailgated one of the state's most senior police officers while drunk behind the wheel has been banned from driving for 6 months.

Jason Sonter has also been handed a 12 month good behaviour bond over the incident on the M1 Pacific Motorway at Cooranbong earlier this month, where he was pulled over by Assistant Commissioner Jeff Loy.

After stopping the car, the Northern Region Commander called in the Highway Patrol after smelling alcohol on Sonter's breath.

He later returned a blood alcohol reading of point1-1 and pleaded guilty yesterday to mid-range drink driving.

Outside Tornoto Local Court 43-year-old Sonter told reporters, "How was I to know it was the Assistant Commissioner, it's not like there's a sign on the back of his car", he said.

Assistant Commissioner Jeff Loy Photo courtesy dailytelegraph.com.au

Newcastle Council Defers Decision On Rail Corridor Rezoning

BY IAN CROUCH

Newcastle councillors have stopped short on making a decision to rezone the disused rail corridor.

They deferred the vote last night on rezoning the land between Worth Place and Newcastle Railway Station which would've cleared the way for development.

Instead they've left the proposal on the table to allow for a briefing from council officers with an invitation to Urban Growth.

Councillor also want a report from the state government demonstrating the rail corridor is no longer needed for the city's transport needs.

Urban Growth wants the 4.25 hectare parcel of land rezoned to allow for mixed use development including public recreation as well as public education and tourist use of the corridor.

The plan also provides for up to 12 buildings and 3 new parks.

However Andrew Fletcher from the Property Council has slammed council's decision, saying it's putting the city's revitalisation at risk.

"Council weren't being asked last night to give any final stamp of approval. They were merely being asked to keep the process moving forward  - to take the rezoning to what's called a Gateway Process, which triggered another round of community consultations. So, by demanding further reports and further briefings, they're really risking the jobs and growth from the $2 billion investment pipeline in the city centre," he said.

Andrew Fletcher

V8 Supercars set to roar into Newcastle

BY TYLER FARDELL

Newcastle is set to be the new home of the season ending Supercar championship race next year when it takes over from the Sydney Olympic Park circuit.

Premier Mike Baird made the announcement today alongside champion race drivers Mark Winterbottom, Chaz Mostert and James Courtney.

From left to right; James Courtney, Mike Baird, James Warburton, Mark Winterbottom and Chaz Mostert

"The Hunter has thousands of Supercar fans who now have an event to call their own," he said.

"The Coates Hire 500 Newcastle will be the first Supercars race ever held in Newcastle and is another major event secured for regional NSW".

The exact route is yet to be decided but the preferred course includes a loop past Horseshoe and Nobby's beach, climbing past Fort Scratchley and into the East end through Pacific, Telford and Watt streets.

Aerial view of the proposed track

University of Newcastle Indigenous Student Graduates with Double Degree

BY TANYA DU PREEZ

University of Newcastle student Karlie Noon will be the first Indigenous graduate to obtain a double degree in science and mathematics at a ceremony later this week.

The 26 year old is the first in her family to attend university, and hopes to continue in her education by undergoing postgraduate studies.

"I will definitely go on to do my PhD," Ms Noon said.

"It is the epitome of academia and at the moment there are no Indigenous people with a PhD in physics."

Ms Noon also currently works for the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).

This year the University of Newcastle reached a milestone of 1000 Indigenous enrolments, making up 3.5% of the University's population.

This is the largest number of Indigenous students at any Australian university.

Karlie Noon is the first Indigenous student to graduate with a double degree in science and mathematics in NSW

Permanent Cruise Ship Terminal Announced For Newcastle

BY IAN CROUCH

 After years of lobbying, the Port Of Newcastle will finally get it's own cruise ship terminal.

Premier Mike Baird has announced $12.7 million dollar will be spent on building a multi-purpose cruise ship terminal at the Channel Birth at Carrington, the site of the current temporary terminal.

A further $800,000 in joint state and federal funding will be used to build new mooring ballards.

Work on the 3000 square metre terminal is due to start in mid 2017 and will be completed the following year.

The Hunter economy currently receives around $11 million dollars from the state's $2.3 billion cruise ship industry, with more than 17,000 passengers expected to visit during the 2015/16 cruise season.

Construction of the terminal building and flow on effects are expected to inject around $26.7 million into the Hunter's economy and create an additional 76 jobs.

The Cruise Ship Terminal Concept

 

Premier Mike Baird Announces Newcastle Cruise Terminal Photo: Ian Crouch

Newcastle CBD set for big changes

BY TYLER FARDELL

NEWCASTLE's city centre is set for some big changes following the governments support of an innovation project, aiming to turn NEWCASTLE into a 'digital precinct'.

A total of 9.8 million dollars has been committed by the state government with a further 8 million dollars coming from Newcastle city council, the University of Newcastle, Newcastle Now and Hunter DiGiT.

A new innovation hub is set to be developed, along with free public Wi-Fi, cutting edge smart parking and smart street lighting technology.

Premier Mike Baird visited Newcastle to announce the funding and praised the innovative project.

"The Hunter Innovation Project will provide a significant boost for Newcastle and capitalise on it's strong education and research sectors, the region's highly skilled workforce and diverse range of industries".

Artists impression of the 'Innovation hub' at the corner of King and Auckland streets
Photo source: The Newcastle Herald

Digital Innovation Precinct For Newcastle CBD

BY IAN CROUCH

Premier Mike Baird is in town today to announce plans to turn the Newcastle C.B.D into a digital precinct.

There will be free Wi Fi, high speed broadband, cutting edge smart parking as well as a dedicated innovation hub to be built at the corner of Auckland and King Streets aimed at attracting new industries and jobs to the region.

The state government is putting almost $10 million dollars into the project, with a further $8 million coming from Newcastle City Council and the University of Newcastle.

The Hunter Innovation Hub Proposed For The Corner of King & Auckland Streets

Police Dog Tracks Down Wanted Man At Redhead

BY IAN CROUCH

 A 22-year-old man on the run from police has been arrested while hiding in bush at Redhead last night after being tracked down by a police dog .

Police were called to Alison Street just before 11 o'clock to reports of a suspicious Black Holden Commodore utility.

The driver took off when officers arrived and dumped the car before running into the bush.

It took more than half an hour for the police dog to find him, leaving him with a bite mark on his ankle in the process.

He's due to face Belmont Local Court today charged with breach of bail and driving while disqualified.

Calls for more Anti-Ice Programs in the Hunter

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

The State Government are being called on to provide better funding for the Hunter to combat the growing Ice epidemic.

Jodie Harrison

It comes after a recent report suggested possession charges in Lake Macquarie grew by more than 70 percent in 2015.

The figures are twice as high as the State average.

Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison says while this issue is a criminal one, it does also need to be treated as a health one.

“What is most often driving the use of methylamphetamine are underlying issues, and quite often they relate to mental health issues, they relate to homelessness,” she said.

“They are underlying issues that need to be dealt with in a very sympathetic way rather than taking a hardline approach.

“Our criminal justice system needs to work hand in hand with our health system.”

The Labor MP has echoed the same call in from Greens Leader Richard Di Natale, who in February told 2NUR FM News Ice addiction needed to be decriminalised.

“There are resources that are going towards policing and through the courts to target individuals who have got drug addiction rather than spending that money on treatment, on rehabilitation, on detox, on all the things we know that work,” he said.

“We’re calling for a much more rational approach.  One that treats this as a health issue rather than a law and order issue.”

While the State Government has invested in drug rehabilitation, particular through charity organisation like The Samaritans, Jodie Harrison believes funding needs to be given to other support services.

“What’s not getting supported are the families who are trying their darndest to support their loved one through an Ice addiction,” she said.

“Those families aren’t getting Government support and they need it.” 

Major Drug Bust At Charlestown

By IAN CROUCH

 A man is facing serious drug supply charges after $100,000 worth of Cocaine was allegedly found in his car at Charlestown.

Police pulled over a car for a routine traffic stop on Dudley Road yesterday afternoon and spoke to the 30-year-old driver before search him and his car.

It's alleged the officer found less than 500 grams of a white powdered substance which they believed to be Cocaine.

The man was taken to Belmont Police Station where he was charged with deemed supply of a commercial quantity of a prohibited drug.

He's been refused bail and is due to face Newcastle Local Court today.

Missing Lake Macquarie Woman Patricia Nies Found "Safe and Well"

BY IAN CROUCH AND GARY-JON LYSAGHT

UPDATE:  Missing woman Patricia Nies has been found by Police "safe and well" after going missing from her Macquaire Hills home last night.

She was found in nearby Blaxland Road this morning, with Police speaking with her at about 10am.

Original Story Follows:

Police hold concerns for the welfare of an elderly woman who's been missing from her Macquarie  Hills home since last night.

86-year-old Patricia Nies, who suffers from dementia, was reported missing from her house in Cardale Road at 8.00pm.

Patricia is described at being 155cm-160cm tall with a thin build, grey hair and has a slightly hunched back. She was last seen wearing blues jeans and a blue cardigan.

The Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Police Rescue and the Police Dog Unit are continuing the search this morning.

If you've seen Patricia, please call Crime Stoppers immediately on 1800 333 000.

Missing Woman Patricia Nies

Police Release Images Of Car Jacking Suspect

BY IAN CROUCH

Police are stepping up their search for a man wanted over a car jacking at Waratah last week.

They've released CCTV images of a suspect they want to speak to.

The man threatened to bash a 39-year-old woman after getting into her car on Lorna Street last Wednesday afternoon and demanding she drive.

After getting out of the car at Mayfield he then punched a 22-year-old man in the throat outside the Woolworths Supermarket on Maitand Road.

Joint Venture Between Glencore and Peabody Proposed near Singleton

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT AND ARIANA GATTI

The proposal for a new open-cut mine around the Singleton and Hunter Valley around has caused a fluster with environmental activist group, Lock the Gate Alliance.

The much debated benefit of the proposed Wambo-United coal mine, a joint venture between Glencore and Peabody, includes the removal of more than 200 hectares of land in preparation to be mined.

The mine's proposed boundaries

The mine is said to open up at least 250 jobs, as well as keep the Wambo open-cut mine running far beyond the current closing date of 2020.

Lock the Gate Alliance is accusing Glencore Mining of using an un-known and unpublished biodiversity document in order to push the approval for the mine ahead faster.

Lock the Gate Alliance NSW Coordinator Georgina Woods says keeping the documents secret shows fowl play between the mine and the Government.

"The public is being kept in the dark while the mining industry is at the table, stitching up a plan with the Government to get approval for this mine regardless of the cost that it's going to place on our wildlife and our vanishing forest," she said

There is no definite answer on whether the new open-cut mine will be going ahead.

For Woods, the idea of losing more bushland proves the State Government has failed to protect the local environment.

"This new mine is the epitome of NSW's failed planning and mining laws," she says.

"They're going to allow a nationally unique bushland to be destroyed.  They're going to push the central Hunter Valley forest to the brink of local extinction. It occurs no where but in this region.

"So much has already been lost to coal mines and we simply can't afford to keep pushing over this critically endangered woodland any longer."

[Image Source: The Newcastle Herald].

Community to Help Council Create 'New Look' Burdekin Park

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

Plans have begun to revitalise Burdekin Park after 40 dead and dying trees were removed because of a significant flying fox population.

Council are now looking to the community to help decide what the park’s next step should be.

“We’re going to go through a planning process where we engage with our community,” says Singleton Council General Manager Jason Linnane.

Council will seek community feedback through a number of different paths, including social media services Facebook and Instagram, as well as traditional workshops.

"We'll be looking at a range of mediums to engage with our community and make sure we get as much as possible about the views and diversity that exist around the site," Linnane says.

The community is divided, however on what the next step should be, with a number of ideas emerging.

“We are aware that there is conflicting views in the community,” Linnane says.

“There’s some that would love to see the historical trees returned to the park.  There’s other that would love to see it left more open.

“We’re going to work with our community and come up with a plan that tries to balance all those differing views.”

Council also have plans of their own, with hopes the park will move towards reflecting its historic, social and cultural importance.

The Burdekin Park Museum closed when the park became overrun by flying foxes.

Linnane also hopes the ‘new look’ park will “highlight the important historic monuments located there, such as the Historical Museum and War Memorials”.

Access to these historic monuments were restricted when Council closed the park in March, citing safety concerns from falling tree branches, as well as disease risks from the flying foxes.

Another key part of the new plans will be protecting the new Burdekin Park from the flying fox fate the old one had.

“Managing the interface between the bats and our community will be an ongoing issue for Singleton Council like it is for many other on the Eastern seaboard,” Linnane says.

“Our plans for the park will certainly take these factors into consideration.”

[Image Source: Gary-Jon Lysaght].

Williamtown RAAF Base Upgrade Takes Next Step

BY IAN CROUCH

 The $1.5 billion upgrade of the Williamtown RAAF Base has reached a significant milestone.

The extension of one end of the runway has been finished with a Qantas Link flight to Brisbane the first aircraft to use it yesterday.

The 340 metre extension is needed for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter jets which are due to arrive in 2018.

F-35 Joint Strike Fighter

Drugs Found Hidden In Car At Wangi Wangi

BY IAN CROUCH

 A man is due to front Belmont Local Court next month after police allegedly found the drug "Ice" concealed in his car at Wangi Wangi.

Officers pulled over a Nissan Navara on Wangi Wangi Road yesterday for a routine traffic stop.

A search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered a quantity of methamphetamine hidden in the air conditioning vent.

The driver, a 26-year-old man, was arrested and taken to Belmont Police Station where he was charged with supplying an indictable quantity of a prohibited drug.

He's been granted conditional bail ahead of his court appearance on October 26.

Hunter Infrastructure Fund Board Disbanded

The advisory board to the $450 million Hunter Infrastructure fund abolished

BY MICHAEL LANGHAM

The State Government's decision to quietly disband the Hunter Infrastructure and Investment Board has been criticized by board members and NSW Labor.

The board established in 2011 advised the use of 450 million dollars in funding, with projects such as the New England highway upgrade and John Hunter children's hospital among others.

"Instead of a highly qualified board of Hunter locals making decisions for the region we are again left with Sydney making the decisions it wants," said Newcastle MP Tim Crackenthorp.

The ALP has labelled the Baird government's decision as a 'betrayal' to the Hunter.

Morpeth up for the state heritage register

BY JACINTA LEE

The town of Morpeth could soon be registered as a state heritage site.

The Morpeth Heritage Conservation Group lodged an application with the NSW Department of Planning today, to help preserve the town's unique identity.

The street layout almost matches its original design from 1845, and conservationists are eager to keep it out of developers' hands.

"A lot of developers and people against what we're doing say we're against progress," Simon Brooker, President of the Conservation Group, says.

"Essentially, we're just trying to protect the valuable heritage of the town for future enjoyment."

More Highway Patrol Cars Needed In The Hunter

BY IAN CROUCH

 There are calls for more Highway Patrol cars to be sent to the Hunter to help cut our rising road toll.

Almost $5-million has been spent on a fleet of 28 new vehicles across the state, but so far only one has come to the region.

NRMA President, Kyle Loads says more highway patrol car are needed in the Hunter with 43 people killed on our roads so far this year.

He says a high police presence on our roads makes drivers slow down with speed the leading factor in the majority of fatal crashes.

Kyle Loades Picture mynrma.com.au

Horrific Act Of Animal Cruelty At Cessnock

BY IAN CROUCH

A Cessnock dog owner is urging residents to be on the lookout after an appalling act of animal cruelty.

Carly Anderson says a low-life tipped acid over her fence or through the gate of her Vineyard Grove home onto her pet Beagle Max sometime on Saturday night or Sunday morning, leaving him with horrific burns.

She says she only noticed it after discovering his fur was sticky and congealed and was coming off in large clumps as she tried to wash it out.

A vet later confirmed acid had caused the burns.

Max Photo courtesy Facebook

Traffic frustration to be no more, as Maitland overpass nears completion

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Maitland commuters frustration in traffic could be a thing of the past when the eastbound overpass opens on the New England Highway.

The NSW Government provided $51 million for the project on the Maitland roundabout, which will see the overpass significantly ease congestion going from west to east, which can back up for three kilometres.

The majority of the construction work is completed, however motorists will incur some diversions for night works to complete the project, once it is open.

Between 7pm and 5am, the roundabout will be closed from late September and throughout October. Traffic will be diverted to the hospital roundabout and then east via the new overpass bridge.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald says an exact opening date is yet to be announced.

"They're very much expecting it next week or by the end of the month. As I say, we've had some heavy rain that has disrupted and there's a bit more weather forecast so RMS [Roads and Maritime Services] will put out a bulletin hopefully relatively very soon."

Motorists are advised to keep to the speed limits while construction is still underway and follow the direction of traffic controllers and signs.

Hunter Women's Shelter Receives $5000 Donation

BY TANYA DU PREEZ

Maitland domestic violence and homelessness service Carrie's Place has received $5000 in donations from local businessman Guy McKendry.

The donations come in the form of gift vouchers, which clients will be able to exchange for important products for themselves and their children at Rutherford Amcal Pharmacy.

Carrie's Place CEO Jan McDonald says she is pleased with the generosity of the Maitland business community.

"This donation from Guy and his team will mean a lot to the women who use our service," Ms McDonald said.

"Often when our clients leave an abusive relationship they take limited personal products with them, and being able to replace those items is important."

Women's shelter Carrie's Place has received $5000 in donations

Fears Held For Missing Newcastle Woman

BY IAN CROUCH

 Police are trying to find a Newcastle woman who's been missing for nearly a month.

Stacey Williams was last seen leaving an art gallery at Mayfield at about 2pm on Friday August 26.

Police hold concerns for the 33-year-old as she suffers from a medical condition.

Anyone who knows Stacey's whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Missing Woman: Stacey Williams

BREAKING! Motorcyclist Killed In Freak Accident On Hunter Expressway

BY IAN CROUCH

 A motorcyclist has died after being struck by a truck on the Hunter Expressway at Cameron Park overnight.

Police and emergency services were called to the eastbound lanes of the expressway about 3 kilometres east of John Renshaw Drive just before 11pm on Monday.

Early reports suggest the male motorbike rider had fallen from his machine and the truck driver was unable to avoid colliding with him.

The Expressway was closed overnight but has now been re-opened.

The truck driver was not injured and police say they are treating the incident as a freak accident.

Earlier on Monday a 47-year-old man died when his Ford Falcon left the New England Highway at East Maitland - crashing through a fence and landing in Wallis Creek.

The accident happened just before 10am.

The latest fatalities take the Hunter's road toll for 2016 to 43.

Hunter children trialed for Cannabis-based drug

BY TYLER FARDELL

Trials for medicinal cannabis have started across the state and in the Hunter with 40 children living with severe epilepsy receiving doses of cannabis -derived medicine; Epidiolex.

The children selected for the trial suffer from treatment-resistant epilepsy and can experience up to hundreds of seizures a day.

It's part of a 21 million dollar government program to explore the therapeutic use of medicinal cannabis.

The lead trial researcher Dr John Lawson, from the Sydney Children's Hospital says it's an important first step.

"The scheme will see some of the sickest children in NSW- who have not responded to available epilepsy drugs and treatments, gain access to a regulated pharmaceutical supply of the promising medicine".

12 Hunter children are currently undergoing the trial in John Hunter Hospital

Hunter's Road Toll Continues To Climb

BY IAN CROUCH

 A report is being prepared for the Coroner after a fatal smash at Nelsons Plains.

Residents on Seaham Road her a loud impact just before 2.30 yesterday morning and called emergency services.

They found a Toyota utility had slammed into a power pole near the intersection of Noongah Road.

The sole male occupant died on impact.

It took several hours to recover the man's body.

The latest fatality takes the Hunter's 2016 road toll to 41.

Lake Macquarie Beach Party Turns Ugly

BY IAN CROUCH

 A 15-year-old boy remains in a serious but stable condition after being stabbed at Caves Beach on Saturday night.

The Windale boy was knifed in the abdomen following an argument with another teenager at a beach party at Spoon Rocks.

Following the fight the alleged assailant and several other party goers fled from the area.


Lake Macquarie police set up a crime scene and seized several items for forensic analysis.

Police are continuing inquiries in a bid to identify the culprit and are appealing for anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Singleton has a New Mayor

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

The dust has settled on the Singleton leg of the Local Government Elections, with former Mayor Sue Moore narrowly defeating incumbent John Martin for the top job.

Sue Moore

Moore was Mayor of Singleton from 2008 to 2012, serving as its fist female leader.

She was defeated by Martin at the 2012 election.

Going into the first Council meeting on September 26, Moore will be looking to co-operate with her colleagues, including John Martin, who was re-elected as a Councillor.

"I've been part of that team [the former Council] for the past four years so we'll continue to work with both John Martin and Tony MacNamara who were Mayoral candidates," she said

"We'll, I'm sure, all work together well."

She's also committed Council to remaining civil, and not getting bogged down in party politics.

"Singleton's generally been free of party politics.  All except one candidate stood as an independent," she said.

"I'm sure that we'll all work together, not all with the same ideas, obviously because you wouldn't want [us] all having the same ideas."

"But all appreciating each other's ideas and thoughts and working together as a team is hugely important."

[Image courtesy of Facebook].

New Maitland Hospital To Be Built And Run Under Public Private Partnership

BY IAN CROUCH AND GARY-JON LYSAGHT

 The state government is defending the public private partnership announced for the new Maitland  Hospital at Metford.

Scot MacDonald

Expressions of interest are being sought from the private sector to build and operate the hospital, with the government saying this will help to fast-track the $400 million facility.

Shadow Health Minister, Walt Secord fears it could lead to a two-tiered Americanised hospital system which would disadvantage the most vulnerable.

But Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald says public patients will still receive free treatment under Medicare at the new hospital.

"We have very clear standards across the country, not just NSW; that the Commonwealth provides the Medicare system and everybody will continue to have access to that," he said

It doesn't matter what your life circumstances are, doesn't matter where you live, you will have access to the emergency department and all those other services."

The decision has been questioned by Labor, who have asked about the future of beds at the Metford site.

Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison says the Government "refuses to answer any questions on beds".

"We have originally had a promise that it would be a John Hunter-ish sized hospital.  So that's around 630 beds," she said.

"The next reiteration was at around 400.  The minister can't even commit to that number."

"Are we even going to get any new beds out of this deal?"

However, Scot MacDonald has said the design of the new hospital is not based "on the old formula, if you like, of number of beds".

"We'll very much be guided by what the physicians ask for and what the community wants and the community of the Lower Hunter is different to the John Hunter Hospital."

"That community has different needs."

Arson Suspected In Several Small Fires At Weston

BY IAN CROUCH

 Police are appealing for witnesses after fire crews were called twice to put out a number of deliberately lit fires at a house at Weston overnight.

Firefighters were called to the Government Road home at 8.30pm to find a number of small fires had been lit in the yard and quickly extinguished them.

They were called back at about 1.00am this morning after a passing motorist noticed three small fires in a bin and piles of rubbish next to the home.

The fires were quickly extinguished before they could take hold of the house, which sustained only minor damage.

The 31-year-old male resident wasn't harmed.

Anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police Investigate Violent Robbery At Rutherford

BY IAN CROUCH

 Police are looking for three men who violently robbed a man at Rutherford.

The 53-year-old was walking across Rutherford Oval in Avery Street at about 5.00pm yesterday afternoon when he was approached by the trio, all aged in their early 20's.

One punched him in the face before stealing money from his wallet.

All three men are described as being of Aboriginal appearance - 2 were about 180 centimetres tall, the other around 170 centimetres.

Hunter Economic Breakfast

BY ARIANA GATTI

The Hunter Research Foundation will be holding an Economic Breakfast tomorrow morning in NEWCASTLE, in celebration of its 60^th birthday.

The Celebration Breakfast will be looking at past and future prospects for the organisation, as well as promoting its launch of three new research publications.

The research will include the analysis on the state of the Hunter economy, as well as business engagement and the community’s level of well-being.

The publications will be delivered by Dr Anthea Bill, Dr Brent Jenkins and Michael Blythe on the day.

[Image courtesy of: http://www.hrf.com.au/]

Greens Push Government to Reveal Williamtown Spending Arrangements

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

The Greens have teamed up with the Nick Xenophon Team to make the Government disclose how $55 million is being used to remediate the Williamtown Red Zone.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull made the funding announcement almost three months ago, following the Department of Defence taking responsibility for the contamination.

The Williamtown Red Zone

During the announcement, Turnbull said funding would be put towards blood tests, counselling and installing a dedicated Community Liaison Office.

However, it is still not known when and where the funding will be spent.

Greens Senator Lee Rhiannon has said the contamination has caused serious mental health issues in the community.

“They’re living with uncertainty, uncertainty about their future health, uncertainty about their future economic changes,” she said.

“This is deeply wrong and that’s why, with this $55 million funding package, the Government should come clean.”

“Say it’s being used, say how they’re going to compensate these people.”

The communities in Williamtown, Fullerton Cove and Salt Ash have been experiencing problems with the contamination for more than a year now, with the spill contributing to dirty drinking water and halts to fishing throughout the region.

Senator Rhiannon has also questioned why those nearby the Red Zone also haven’t been given access to town water like those inside it.

“We know that the Red Zone is just an arbitrary zone and many residents outside of it are also in contamination area and all of them should be connected to town water,” she said.

“The Greens, with the community have consistently taken up the right of local people to have clean water.”

[Image courtesy of ABC News].

Heads Should Roll Over Death Of Electricity Worker at Buladehlah: Union

BY IAN CROUCH

 The Electrical Trades Union is calling for the bosses of Essential Energy to be held personally accountable for the death of a worker at Buladehlah 3 years ago.

47-year-old Trevor Tooze was one of six workers replacing several kilometres of power lines on Monday September 2, 2013.

He was working on a raised platform when he was electrocuted after taking hold of a copper cable being lowered to the ground which came into contact with a live overhead 11,000 volt  power line.

His colleagues performed CPR but, despite their best efforts, Mr Tooze was pronounced dead at the scene by ambulance paramedics.

The top conductors of the power line had been left energised to maintain uninterrupted power supply to customers while workers removed the bottom conductors.

A SafeWork NSW investigation found if Essential Energy had ensured the top conductors were deenergised and the power was turned off at the feeder, Mr Tooze's death could've been prevented.

The company has been convicted and fined $300,000.

Since the incident, Essential Energy has issued a safety alert prohibiting the practice which led to the death. It has also formed a Safety Review Working Group and installed 178 defibrillators at worksites.

However, Union Assistant Secretary, Dave McKinley believes heads should roll over the incident.

"We believe the senior executives who were responsible for this policy, who knowingly placed workers in danger for the sake of maintaining electricity services, must be held personally responsible," he said.

ETU Assistant Secretary Dave McKinley

Cessnock Greyhound Worker Faces Firearm Charges

BY IAN CROUCH

 A Cessnock  greyhound worker is due to front court next month accused of possessing an unauthorised firearm.

The 69-year-old from Abermain came to the attention of police during their inquiries into the deaths of dozens of greyhounds at the Keinbah Trial Track.

It's alleged he had possession of a .22 calibre rifle between 2010 and 2013.

The man's been charged with possession and unauthorised use of a firearm and is due to face Cessnock Local Court on October 26.

Police Hunt For Car Jacking Bandit

BY IAN CROUCH

Police are investigating a car jacking at Waratah.

A 39-year-old woman was stopped in traffic last night when a man got into her car and demanded she drive him to Hamilton otherwise she'd be bashed .

The man ended up getting out of the car at Mayfield where he then assaulted a man outside the Woolworths supermarket, leaving him with minor injuries before running off.

Greens call out Labor over ARENA deal with Coalition

BY JARROD MELMETH

The Greens have called out labour for "striking a dirty deal with the coalition" which could see $500 million cut from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency.

Labor have struck a deal worth $800 million over the next five years with the coalition which Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon says has secured over 40 Newcastle-based positions at the National Solar Energy Centre in Mayfield West.

"This is great news for Newcastle, that we will be able to maintain world class serious research into renewable energy."

"I can assure, having met with some of the CSIRO people yesterday, they are very pleased to have some bipartisan support at long last around these critical issues of targets, financing, and the ARENA programs."

Greens Senator, Lee Rhiannon says the cuts highlight the Coalitions false commitment to innovation, and Labor's false commitment to clean energy.

"Labor have tried to put a good spin on what is a bad outcome for the renewable energy future," she says.

"Not only is this a brutal blow to clean energy investment, research and development across the country, it is a huge setback for regional communities...who benefit from projects like these.

There should have been no cuts to ARENA at a time where the urgency of climate change is becoming clearer every day."

ARENA was established in 2012 and it has delivered $1 billion dollars to 250 renewable energy projects, including a total of $268.4 million for large-scale solar projects.

The Greens will introduce an amendment to protect the entire $1.3 billion of ARENA funding.

Greens Senator Lee Rhiannon. Photo
courtesy of Facebook.

Federal Member for
Newcastle Sharon Claydon.
Photo courtesy of Facebook.