Strata law changes set to benefit investors in the Hunter

BY JARROD MELMETH

More than 90 of the proposed changes to strata laws by the State Government come into full force throughout the State including the Hunter today, with investors set to benefit.

Strata title or Strata laws is the system for owning units and townhouses, which generally have a combination of private residences as well as communal spaces

Under the new laws, cigarette smoking will now be considered a 'nuisance', meaning people who only smoke inside their own units can be ordered to stop if it affects other residents. 

A limit to the number of adults who can live in an apartment will now be in place, with fines for overcrowding to be raised to $5500.

Owners corporations will also have the power to invite local council parking inspectors into their car parks, in an effort to penalize "parking thieves."

The most controversial of the changes means that 75 per cent of owners in older residences will have the power to dictate the selling of the entire building to developers, regardless of objections from the 25 percent minority.

Minister for Innovation and Swansea MP Yasmin Catley says the changes are a direct attack on people's property rights.

"The fact that somebody can come in and compulsory acquire another persons home reducing their property rights is just fundamentally wrong.

"The fact that the government is enabling developers to do that shows very poor judgment on their behalf and it shows that they are not in touch with the people of NSW and people living in strata.

"As of today, developers in New South Wales got their early Christmas present thanks to Premier Mike Baird, and I've no doubt they'll all be popping champagne corks." Ms. Catley said.

Woman bashed and robbed at Sangate

BY JARROD MELMETH

Police are on the hunt for a man who bashed and robbed a 39-year-old woman in Sandgate this morning.

The woman was walking to her car after finishing her shift at a Mangrove Road business when she was attacked at around 2:20am in the carpark.

It's alleged the man punched her in the face, causing her to fall to the ground, before taking off with her purse, phone and watch.

Newcastle detectives are investigating and anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Hunter Retail Workers Take A Stand Against Boxing Day Trading

BY IAN CROUCH

 The Hunter's Boxing Day retail trading hours will be the focus of a rally held by the Shop Distributive and Allied Employees Association at Speers Point Park today.

Retail workers and State MPs will also join the protest, urging the State Government to reinstate trading restrictions on the public holiday.

Newcastle Branch Secretary of the SDA, Barbara Nebart says there is no benefit for retailers opening on Boxing Day.

"The story that's there's economic benefits and people will spend more money is completely false. There's no economic benefit at all to opening on Boxing Day. People just have a greater spread of hours to spend the same amount of money that they've had and there's no benefit, there's no extra work created because stores have budgets," she said.

SDA Newcastle Branch Secretary Barbara Nebart

Driver Charged After Adamstown Crash

BY IAN CROUCH

 Charges have now been laid over a crash at Adamstown which left a backseat passenger seriously injured.

The driver, a 45-year-old man from Cooranbong, is accused of being drunk behind the wheel when he lost control on Glebe Road and slammed into a brick wall on October 5.

He's been charged with aggravated dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm and is due to front Newcastle Local Court on January 19.

Calls for more action on Rutley's Road following another fatality

BY TYLER FARDELL

Following the latest fatality along Rutley's road in Mannering Park, Swansea MP Yasmin Catley has called for more to be done to improve safety.

A 37 year old Wyee Point man became the third fatality in eight months on the dangerous road after his four-wheel drive collided with a truck.

It is also the ninth life lost on the road in as many years.

The road stretches for nine kilometres from Doyalson to Wyee and is split between Lake Macquarie City Council and Wyong Shire Council.

Both council's have spent millions of dollars on improving safety along the road, by Ms Catley says it's not working.

"There has been a large sum of money thrown at that road in the last couple of years. Clearly there needs to be more done there's no doubt about that".

Yasmin Catley

Michael Diamond facing court today

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Hunter Olympic shooter Michael Diamond is at Raymond Terrace local court today answering to firearm and drink driving charges which were filed during an alleged domestic dispute with his brother back in May.

He pleaded not guilty to be involved in the domestic dispute at a home in Nelson Bay, as well as to four charges relating to driving under the influence and gun and ammunition storage in May.

Diamond blew three times the blood alcohol limit when police arrested him.

The arrest and charges cost him his spot in this year's Rio Olympics.

The hearing is expected to continue for most of today.

Helipad Proposal on Lake Macqaurie

Source: Lakes Mail

BY KIMBERLEY NICOLL

A lavish development by Johnson Property Group in Lake Macquarie has upset many locals.

The proposal of a helipad for Trinity Point has residents concerned for the surrounding environment.

Opponents believe the construction will be a nuisance and insulting to those who do not have access.

However, the developers believe a helipad will keep the five-star resort competitive and enticing to the millionaires it is marketed to.

Morisset Park and District Action Group President Tom Dumbrell says the town "...has been a tranquil, peaceful area that's basically been destroyed by the development... and a helicopter pad is just going to make it far worse.".

The helipad will be allowed a maximum of eight movements a day with no use during the night.

JPG recognised there were concerns but they were only sourced from misinformation.

Planning Director Bryan Garland says, "We've done a very technical and detailed noise assessment, and the noise is acceptable by the standards in which governments dictate."

Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper is sceptical there will be any more than 38 movements a week but admits his opposition to the helipad regarding the concern of noise.

Maitland still waiting on ALDI

BY TYLER FARDELL

Maitland residents are still left in the dark over whether or not the planned development of an ALDI supermarket will go ahead, 3 years after the plans were drawn up.

The plans to build an ALDI store in the Maitland city centre were confirmed three years ago and was aimed to be open 18 months later.

ALDI remains tight-lipped about the project, with rumours circulating about the store's possible location and whether it will ever be built.

Maitland Mayor Peter Blackmore says he is waiting anxiously to hear from the supermarket giant.

"I don't understand why it's taking so long to make an announcement".

"The time is right to develop it now as Stockland Greenhills is under construction".

Free Drug Testing for UON Students

Source: Daily Mail

BY KIMBERLEY NICOLL

Newcastle University Students' Association are providing free drug testing kits to students.

The Association is receiving $480 000, which is up from the $373 375 in funding from the previous year.

NUSA President Phill Johnson says they are, "very keen to trial" as part of a "holistic harm minimisation approach".

This aligns with those campaigners who are warning they will be distributing kits at summer music festivals.

NUSA Vice President, Giacomo Arnott states they "are not really interested in the controversy around these things... If a few people in The Chancellery say this is a terrible thing to do, that's okay and they're allowed to believe that. But it's good for students so we're going to do it."

Phill Johnson says alongside providing the kits, the funding would be used to employ managerial staff, start a financial advice line, and to sustain work in orientation, clubs, and student media.

UPDATE - Driver Trapped In Serious Accident At Mannering Park

BY IAN CROUCH

 A Wyee Point man has become the ninth person to die on the notorious stretch of Rutleys Road at Mannering Park in as many years.

The 37-year-old was driving a Holden Jackeroo which collided with an Isuzu truck at about 6.30 yesterday morning.

He had to be cut free from the wreckage and was treated at the scene before being flown to the John Hunter Hospital where he later died.

The 53-year-old truck driver wasn't injured and was taken to hospital for mandatory blood and urine testing.

Officers from Tuggerah Lakes Local Area Command are investigating the circumstances leading up to the crash and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Nine people have lost their lives on Rutleys Road in the past nine years, with 3 fatalities this year alone, including an 82-year-old man and his 84-year-old wife who died on March 29 when their car left the road and crashed into a ditch.

Earlier:

 The Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter has flown a 37-year-old man to the John Hunter Hospital following an accident at a notorious road black spot at Mannering Park.

A 4 wheel drive collided with a truck on Rutleys Road just before 7.00am, trapping the driver.

It's taken more than an hour to free him from the wreckage - it's understood he suffered multiple injuries.

It's not known if the truck driver was injured.

Young German Women Attacked And Robbed At East Maitland

BY IAN CROUCH

 Three teenagers are still on the run after threatening two German women with a knife and stealing their handbags at East Maitland.

The 19-year-old victims, who've been working in Australia as nannies, were robbed early yesterday morning near Victoria Street Station, moments after getting off a train.

Detectives are checking CCTV footage as they search for the trio.

Maitland Op Shop Damaged In Overnight Fire

BY IAN CROUCH

 A Maitland Op Shop has been badly damaged by fire overnight.

It's believed the fire started in piles of donated items left at the back of Father Riley's Op Shop on High Street just before 10pm and quickly spread to the roof.

10 fire trucks including two Hazmat units and an Aerial Appliance from Mayfield West attended the fire with crews taking about an hour and a half to extinguish the blaze.

Newcastle Fire Command says the fire caused major damage to around 30 per of the rear of the building, the rest of the shop was damaged by heat and smoke.

Man Faces Court After Thornton House Search

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

A man is expected to face Maitland Local Court today, following the execution of a search warrant at a property in Thornton.

Police searched the Campden Street property around 8am yesterday morning seizing a number of items including a "single-shot pen gun".

The 39-year-old offender was arrested and taken to Maitland Police Station.

The man was charged with supply large commercial quantity of prohibited drug, three counts of possess prohibited drug, possess unregistered firearm, possess ammunition without holding licence/permit, and possess prohibited weapon.

He was refused bail.

Port Stephens cracking down on dog barking

BY TYLER FARDELL

Port Stephens council is set to crack down on dog barking with a new policy that would give rangers more power to deal with complaints.

The new policy would remove barking in some situations from the 'nuisance order' category and treat it as an 'offensive noise'.

Some of the situations include barking before 7 am and after 8 pm, if barking ‘episodes’ occur more than 3 times a day, and barking that interrupts phone calls, T.V, study or conversation.

Residents who want to lodge complaints will be asked at the start of the process if they would appear as witnesses in court. They will then be asked to fill out a ‘barking dog diary’ and record examples of barking.

Rangers acting on these diaries would have the power to issue dog owners with a 28-day noise abatement order, which could be escalated to infringements and court attendance notices.

The proposed policy is on public exhibition until next month and is open to submissions.

Source; Pixabay

ZAC BARNES still missing

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Karen and Mick, the parents of missing Metford man Zac Barnes have spoken to 2NURFM pleading for their son to make contact with them.

It has been 12 days since Zac was last seen with friends at Thornton on the corner of Tripp Close and Haussman Drive.

Police along with State Emergency Service volunteers and a police helicopter, searched the area on Monday where Zac was last seen with nothing of significance found.

There have been numerous possible sightings reported, but none have been him.

Karen and Mick are worried Zac thinks he is in trouble with police, or with them, and is scared to come home.

His parents say they love his son, he isn't in trouble, and they just want to hear his voice to let them know he is safe. 

"Zac please call home. No matter what you've done, we're here to help and we love him and if somebody sees him get something concrete. Take a photo of the tattoo, take a photo of him, ring crime stoppers, don't draw attention to it - just stay cool and just let us know so we can find him," Karen said.

Karen says Zac has a a tattoo of a VB logo on his right calf which is a key indicator it is him. Zac was also last seen wearing a faded blue singlet, dark blue board shorts and work boots.

Anyone with information are urged to call Maitland Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Hunter Residents Encouraged to Provide Feedback on M1 Intersection Upgrade

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

The Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) are encouraging the Hunter community to provide feedback on planned upgrades to the intersection at the end of the M1 Pacific Motorway.

The proposal sees the roundabout at the intersection of John Renshaw Drive and Weakleys Drive replaced with traffic lights to improve traffic flow and safety of motorists.

The roundabout connects the M1 Pacific Motorway, the Pacific Highway and the New England Highway with statistics suggesting around 4000 vehicles use the roundabout each hour.

The project will be funded jointly by the Federal and State Government's M1 Pacific Motorway Productivity Package.

Concept designs and an environmental assessment are on display at the RMS Regional Office on Darby Street, Newcastle or can be viewed online at rms.nsw.gov.au.

Feedback can be placed until the 7th of December 2016.

Proposed Upgrades in Beresfield. Image Courtesy: rms.nsw.gov.au

Swansea Channel dredging before Christmas

BY JESSICA ROUSE

The NSW Government will pour another $666, 000 into dredging of a critical sand shoal in the Swansea Channel.

Dredging has been completed on the channel before - but ongoing maintenance is necessary due to the dynamic nature of sand movements.

The dredging will aim to reduce shoaling which had reformed in the navigation channel between the southern entrance to Swan Bay and the drop over and into Lake Macquarie.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald says dredging is necessary to ensure the ongoing safety, utility and enjoyment of the Channel.

"It's a very important channel, particularly over school holidays it's very busy with a lot of traffic through there with the boaties so its good to see the work done and we've had lots of representation who want a bit more certainty over this channel. It does shoal up pretty quickly, it moves around - it's a very dynamic system," he said.

The dredging will go ahead in two stages; firstly in early December, and then after the school holidays to remove sand from the shoal in the channel opposite the Pelican airstrip.

Local contractor Sandpiper Dredging were awarded the contract to carry out the work.

Hunter's Water Usage down to Great Depression Levels

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

The Lower Hunter are using less water now than it did during the Great Depression, new figures from Hunter Water show.

The average resident now uses roughly 65,000 litres of water per annum, compared to 66,000 litres in 1930.

Hunter Water has put the drop down to their Water Wise Rules, which has seen the average water usage fall by 5,000 litres since 2014.

The Rules see residents asked to have a trigger nozzle attached to their hose, as well as asking them not to water their grass between 10am and 4pm.

Those who are found to have repeatedly broken the rules face a fine of up to $220.

Nick Kaiser from Hunter Water says today's Hunter residents are also more knowledgeable about water saving than they were in the 1980s.

"It was in the 1980s that you started getting those 'every drop counts' campaigns," he says.

"But also what was important in the 1980s is that there was a new tariff system."

The new system made each resident pay different amounts for their water, depending on how much they used.

"People tend to use less when they have to pay for it," he says.

The Hunter saw its largest water usage in 1980 when it was recorded that each person was using more than 244,000 litres per year.

Nick Kaiser has put the spike down to drought conditions.

"People were using more to keep their lawns and gardens alive," he says.

"That tends to be one of the largest contributing factors to how much water people would use in a year

"Also since the 1980s, we've got more high-density living, people have smaller yards and are more inclined to live in apartments."

Police Continue Investigations into Newcastle Brawl

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

Police have released the images of five men who they believe will be able to assist them in investigations being made into a brawl in Newcastle last month.

Emergency services were called to an argument which had broken out outside a Darby Street premises just before 10:30pm on Saturday 8th October 2016.

A sergeant and senior constable were assaulted during the incident.

Police arrested four men, aged 18, 21, 22 and 23 at the scene and charged with numerous offences.

The men in their 20s are due to face Newcastle Local Court on 8th December 2016 while the 18-year-old has already faced court.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au 

Police are appealing for these five men to assist in their inquiries.
Image Courtesy: NSW Police Force

Library Calls for Donations in Christmas Fine Amnesty

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

In an act of Christmas charity, Newcastle City Library is encouraging book borrowers with late fees to make a donation of non-perishable food or toiletries.

The 'Food for Five, Toiletries for Ten' initiative is being run in libraries across Australia and the world, helping residents to clear their name of overdue library charges in exchange for assisting those less fortunate.

This is Newcastle City Library's first time running the initiative.

Local emergency relief agencies including Street Care, OzHarvest, the Samaritans and Baptist Care will distribute the goods to Newcastle residents in need this Christmas.

Non-perishable food donations are worth $5 in fines and toiletries are worth $10.

Patricia Annetts from Newcastle City Library says anyone can make a donation.

Donations can be made until the 12th of December.

Donations of non-perishable food or toiletries can be made at Newcastle City Library 

Hunter Volunteer Firefighter Pleads Guilty to Deliberately Lighting Fires

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

A probationary member of the Rural Fire Service has pleaded guilty to a number of offences relating to deliberately lit fires around the Hunter.

21-year-old Alex Forth of Aberglasslyn faced court yesterday after being charged with four counts of intentionally cause fire and be reckless as to its spread, and making false call to emergency service number.

The volunteer firefighter, a member of the Lochinvar brigade, lit fires within its patrol area including places such as Sawyers Gully, Lochinvar, Keinbah and Bishops Bridge.

The court heard the 21-year-old lit the fires using ammunition including molotov cocktails to be called out to fight the fires, curing his boredom.

It was heard other members of the brigade became suspicious of Forth due to a "significant spike" in the amount of fires shortly after he joined the brigade.

Suspicions grew further when Forth mentioned a fire before it was reported to other members and on another occasion, arrived at the fire station within minutes of the Rural Fire Service being notified of the fire.

The court heard on some occasions, the 21-year-old would even call emergency services to report fires he had lit.

He was arrested at the Lochinvar Fire Station on 28th of April this year.

The accused will be sentenced in Newcastle District Court next year.

Hunter councils still face uncertain future

BY JARROD MELMETH

Uncertainty about the proposed council mergers in the Hunter will continue to be drawn out with local council elections possibly being pushed back to 2020 if something isn't done soon.

The office of local government has written to the four hunter councils facing amalgamation, warning them that unless mergers are finalized by August next year, they could be waiting until 2020 for an election.

New councils not created before August 2017, would not be able to hold elections before September 2019 to prevent an overlap with the 2019 state election.

The state opposition is demanding the minister for local government move urgently to determine council mergers in the Hunter to avoid a four-year wait for the next election.

Leader of the Opposition Luke Foley says democracy delayed is democracy denied.

"In Orange, constituents have demonstrated how unpopular forced mergers are. The Government needs to listen - not delay local elections," he said.

Councils that are still subject to merger proposals are being told they need to have an election date set.

The electoral commission or the local government office have not confirmed whether these councils would have elections within their existing boundaries.

Shadow Minister for Local Councils Peter Primrose is accusing the Baird government of making this up as they go along.

"The gun is still being held at the head of local councils and their local communities.

"This is just an ongoing dog's breakfast of a process. People aren't being consulted and now they're being told they may not have elections until September 2020, that is just a crazy thing in terms of local democracy

"Mike Baird can be sure that the communities that have been denied democracy will send a message come 2019," Mr. Primrose said.

A spokesperson for the Minister for Local Government, Paul Toole says "the minister is considering all proposals following the receipt of all the Delegates reports and comments from the Boundaries Commission."

NSW Premier Mike Baird was not available for comment.

Shadow Minister for Local Government
Peter Primrose

NSW Leader of the Opposition
Luke Foley.

Newcastle City Council votes no to a by-election but yes to V8 information sessions

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Newcastle City Council has voted to not hold a by-election to fill the ward 2 Councillor position left behind by MP Tim Crackanthorp.

Instead an application has been lodged to not fill the position until after possible council amalgamations - the application is likely to be approved.

Also at last night's meeting, a move to collaborate with V8 Supercars organisers and peak tourism body Destination NSW is going forward.

A legal agreement between the two organisers is being developed which will define the roles, responsibilities, commitments, deliverables and reporting for both Supercars Australia and Destination NSW.

Community consultations and information sessions will be held in an attempt to garner support from Newcastle's East End residents who are raising concerns on the negative impact the race will have on the city.

This comes after residents at a Supercars Australia information session on 9th November 2016 expressed their anger and frustration towards the lack of consultation they have had so far about the race and it's impact on the city.

Lake Macquarie break in

BY JESSICA ROUSE

A 33-year old man has been charged with break, enter and steal after entering a home at Windale in Lake Macquarie.

Residents of the home were woken when the man allegedly stole an item from the balcony just after 6am yesterday.

At about 830am Lake Macquarie Local Area Command officers with the assistance of the Dog Unit attended a shopping centre in Windale where they arrested the man.

He was taken to Belmont Police Station where he was charged and granted conditional bail to appear at Belmont Local Court on 3oth November 2016.

Light Rail Construction to Bring More Trees to Newcastle

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

Newcastle's light rail system will not only bring a cleaner, greener transport option to the city, but will also bring more trees.

The New South Wales Government has teamed up with Newcastle City Council to develop the Tree Offset Strategy.

Revitalising Newcastle Program Director Michael Cassel says the strategy will see two trees planted for every tree removed.

Trees are expected to be removed near the Wickham Transport Interchange as roadworks are carried out.

The Council will work with the program to determine where new trees will be planted, with potential locations including the former heavy rail corridor.

Michael Cassel says the interchange design intends on having the smallest environmental impact possible.

The New South Wales Government is investing $510 million on the revitalisation program to bring people into the CBD.

Cardiff shed fire

BY JESSICA ROUSE

A shed has been completely destroyed in a fire on Main Road Cardiff at about 7:30 last night.

The shed went up in flames reportedly ignited by a car inside.

Fires services were on the scene quickly with five trucks keeping the blaze under control until it was extinguished.

Ambulance services also attended, but no one was inside at the time and there were no injuries.

NSW Police Launch Anti-Domestic Violence Campaign

BY TANYA DU PREEZ

NSW Police and CrimeStoppers NSW today launched a "No Innocent Bystanders" campaign urging the community to report domestic violence.

The campaign comprises a community service announcement to be shared across television networks and an extended video that will appear on social media platforms.

The video aims to highlight the serious realities of domestic violence while demonstrating how members of the community can take action by reporting incidents anonymously via CrimeStoppers.

NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione said domestic violence is a serious issue.

"Tragically we have seen 32 domestic-related homicides this year in NSW," he said.

"In some of these cases we know that sadly there had been a history of violence in the home, and people in the community had knowledge of it but had reservations about coming forward."

NSW Police Corporate Spokesperson on Domestic and Family Violence, Assistant Commissioner Mick Fuller said a simple phone call could save a potential victim from domestic violence.

"We know that people have the confidence to call police if a neighbour's car is being stolen, but there's still a reluctance to call police if they hear a physical argument happening next door," he said.

"Whether you're a neighbour, or a best friend, or even a doctor - so many people will cross paths with those affected by domestic violence and the community is such an important part of helping us reach out to victims.

"That one phone call, that one small piece of information, might just save the life of the next domestic violence victim."

Man Charged Over Maitland Stabbing

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

A 46-year old man has been charged with reckless wounding after allegedly stabbing a 50-year old man in the carpark of the PENDER PLACE SHOPPING CENTRE.

Paramedics were called to the carpark at around 5pm yesterday where two men were involved in an altercation.

The 50-year old victim suffered non life-threatening chest injuries.

Police searched nearby streets where they allegedly found the 46-year old man in possession of a knife.

It is believed the two were drinking buddies, with an argument alleged to have begun at a nearby hotel.

The accused was refused bail and will appear in Maitland Local Court today.

Search continues for missing Muswellbrook woman

BY ALEX MURRAY

Searches resume today for a woman after she was last seen swimming in MUSWELLBROOK yesterday.

A 51 year old man swimming with 38 year old Corrina Lee Dever contacted emergency services after he left momentarily and was unable to locate her upon his return.

The State Emergency Service and the Hunter Valley Local Area Command were also unable to find her in yesterday's search.

Today, Police Rescue, Police Divers and Local Police have resumed the search for the missing woman.

Ram Raid on Warners Bay Hair Salon

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

A hairdressing salon in Warners Bay has been the target of a ram raid in the early hours of this morning.

A utility drove through the front doors of the Hillsborough Road business at around 1:20am, causing extensive damage.

Police believe two men then stole hair products before driving away from the scene.

The vehicle is described as being a white, single-cab utility with a tray back and a black stripe on the along the bottom of the door.

Police are urging anyone with information about the vehicle, or those involved to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or on their website at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

Vehicle used in a ram raid at Warners Bay.
Image Courtesy: NSW Police Force.

Newcastle Cricket scene receives celebrity signing

BY TYLER FARDELL

Local fifth division cricket side the Bennet Hotel Centurions have made the signing of a lifetime after meeting up with cricket legend Brian Lara last Friday.

The West Indian batsman and ICC hall of fame member was in the Hunter for a number of scheduled appearances, and probably wasn't expecting to be approached with a contract.

Members of the Centurions approached Mr Lara at the Albion Hotel in Wickham on Friday and handed him a contract and took a photo.

Centurions player Darren Wilton says the cricketing legend was happy to have a laugh with the team.

"He signed it and took it in the nature that it was intended".

The nature intended was obviously a friendly joke, as Mr Lara was reported to have joked "What time do we play tomorrow?" after signing the contract.

It remains to be seen if he'll ever play a lower grade game in Newcastle, leaving many cricket fans in the area disappointed.

Brian Lara
Photo courtesy of News Republica

Thornton Man Still Missing

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

Police, relatives and friends are appealing for information about the disappearance of 18-year-old Thornton man, Zac Barnes.

Zac was last seen on the corner of Tripp Close and Haussman Drive in Thornton on Sunday the 13th of November.

Police were told he failed to return home from work.

Zac was reported missing to Central Hunter Local Area Command last Monday, with Police since beginning investigations.

He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, of thin build, between 180 and 185 centimetres tall with brown hair and brown eyes.

Zac was last seen wearing a faded blue singlet, dark blue board shorts and work boots.

Anyone with information should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit the website at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

Zac Barnes. Image Courtesy of the
Australian Missing Persons Register

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten concerned for Williamtown residents

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Federal Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has personally phoned residents affected by the Williamtown 'red zone'.

Jamie and Samantha Kelly discovered their 10-month old son had significant levels of toxic firefighting chemicals in his blood - something Mr Shorten says is incredibly concerning. 

Mr Shorten personally contacted the family after meeting them two months ago when he was in the area.

The family are moving into a new rental property in Newcastle and Ms Kelly told the Newcastle Herald they had been inundated with kindness from the wider community. 

Paterson MP Meryl Swanson says the problem isn't going away and she won't stop fighting for the Williamtown residents.

"I think the most important thing is that we maintain the pressure on this government to do something for these people and I am doing everything within my power to keep the profile of this story up in Canberra. I'm talking to as many people as I possibly can and Bill is certainly one of those people."

Woman Charged with Speeding and Drink Driving with Three Children in Car

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

A woman has been charged with mid-range Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol (PCA) and speeding after she was stopped in Cessnock on Friday.

The 32-year-old woman was pulled over by Traffic and Highway Patrol Command for allegedly travelling 135km/h in an 80km/h zone along Ellalong Road in Ellalong.

She was then breath tested where she allegedly returned a blood analysis reading of 0.097.

The woman had three children passengers in the car, two aged seven and one aged five .

Family and Community Services have reportedly been notified.

The woman was arrested before being taken to Cessnock Police Station.

She is due to face Cessnock Local Court on the 21st of December 2016.

Man in critical condition after M1 Pacific Motorway accident

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Traffic is slowly getting back to normal on the M1 Pacific Motorway at Mount White this morning after a truck hit a rock wall exploding into flames.

Just before 5:30am, emergency services were called to Jolls Bridge on the M1 following reports a truck had hit a rock wall.

Officers from Northern Region Highway Patrol and Brisbane Water Local Area Command attended the scene and are investigating.

The driver, believed to be in his late 30's, was pulled from the truck by passing motorists just as it caught alight.

The man was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance Paramedics before being airlifted to Westmead Hospital in a critical condition.

Hunter motorists had a long drive ahead of them with traffic backed up for more than 10 kilometres.

All southbound lanes are now open.

Will Crackanthorp's chair be left empty?

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Newcastle Councillors will vote tomorrow on whether or not to fill the vacancy left behind after the departure of MP Tim Crackanthorp in late October.

Councillors will vote on whether or not a by-election should be held to fill the vacancy - a decision which will cost ratepayers $175, 000 in a by-election bill.

Meanwhile staff have recommended the chair be left empty with the decision on a proposed merger with Port Stephens still looming.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes says the option to leave the seat empty would have her full support, believing the community have had their fair share of elections and it would be an unnecessary costly process.

Police Hunt Warabrook Bag Snatcher

BY IAN CROUCH

 A woman has been shaken but unharmed after her bag was snatched during a break-in at her Warabrook home last night.

The 53-year-old woman pulled into the driveway of her Angophora Drive home at about 10.15pm and noticed a front window smashed and open.

She immediately dialled triple-zero.

Police say as she was making the call, an intruder approached and grabbed her bag and fled - he was last seen making his getaway in a dark coloured 90's model Holden Statesman.

He's described as having dark skin, about 180 centimetres tall with a medium build.


Police nothing was taken from the house and it appears the woman disturbed the intruder not long after he broke into the house.

Roundtable Discussion to Boost Regional GPs

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

The federal government has held a Rural Health Stakeholder Roundtable in Canberra yesterday, with ways to boost GPs in the Hunter and regional Australia high on the priority list.

Lyne MP, David Gillespie

The government has begun steps to introduce a National Rural Generalist Pathway, which will help improve access to training for doctors in the regions.

It comes after new figures were released, showing Australia will have a surplus of 7-thousand doctors by 2030.

Assistant Rural Health minister David Gillespie says doctors need access to frontline training because they never stop learning.

“You spend more time doing that training after you graduate than you do at university,” he says.

“At the moment, the preponderance of that happens in metropolitan centres and we [the Turnbull Government] want that post-graduate training to be expanded and rolled out in more rural and regional centres.”

Dr Gillespie says the Pathway will help keep doctors in the regions when they finish their study, rather than seeing them flock to the capitals.

The roundtable also looked at establishing a National Rural Health Commissioner to work with frontline GPs and all levels of government to get the best outcome for regional Australia.

David Gillespie says they’ll have a lot on their plate.

“He or she will liaise with universities, with local health districts, with regional training organisations to make sure we get a certain slice of the medical workforce directed, as much as we can, towards rural and regional Australia,” he says.

The roundtable walked away with a need to decentralise the medical workforce in Australia

 and get it out into the regions.

“We need to keep working on medical workforce distribution across the country because we have plenty of medical professionals coming through university,” Dr Gillespie says.

“We want to put policies of action in place to make sure rural and regional Australia – and remote Australia – get more [of the] medical workforce.

“Mental health, dental workforce, Indigenous workforce, pharmacy workforce.  We’re not just focusing on getting doctors distributed everywhere; we want the whole suite.”

Police out in force for Operation Saturation

BY JARROD MELMETH

Hunter Traffic and Highway patrol officers will commence a state-wide operation tomorrow to target road users putting themselves and others at risk.

Operation Saturation - part of Operation Towards Zero - begins tomorrow and concludes on 27 November 2016 and comes at a time when the states road toll has reached 342 deaths so far this year.

The high visibility crack down will be focusing on speeding, illegal mobile phone use, seatbelt and helmet compliance, driver fatigue and drink and drug driving, with officers engaging with road users to raise their awareness and educate them on the risks of irresponsible road use.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Acting Commander, Assistant Commissioner Michael Corboy says the responsibility of reducing road trauma lies with every person using the road.

"Drivers, riders, cyclists, passengers and pedestrians all have to play a part in assisting us to bring this tragic and avoidable loss of life to an end." he said.

"We will ensure that anyone caught taking risks, or risking the lives of others, will be stopped and dealt with according to the law."

So far this year, 342 people have died on NSW roads, 32 more than the same time last year.

Photo source: NSW Police

McCaffrey Drive residents bypassed

BY DECLAN PAYNE

The Roads and Maritime Services today announced the environmental impact statement (EIS) and concept design for the proposed fifth section of the Newcastle Inner City Bypass, but not all residents are satisfied.

Residents of McCaffery Drive had demanded the bypass include on and off ramps but the proposal lacks the much sought after ramps.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald said there was feedback from the community on the ramps.

"People had their say there...RMS do take on board feedback, but you can't satisfy everybody on such a major project."

The $280 million design stretches 3.4 kilometres and will link Rankin Park and Jesmond, interchanging north with Newcastle Road, south at Lookout Road, and a half interchange giving traffic access to the John Hunter Hospital.

Mr MacDonald said the public is being urged to have their say on the proposal.

"The community is invited to have a say on the EIS and the concept design which outlines key features of the project and assesses potential environmental, social and economic impacts throughout the project life cycle," MacDonald said.

"Roads and Maritime has prepared an overview booklet which summarises the assessment of key issues, design features, project benefits and how to make a submission during the EIS display."

The public can have their say at drop in sessions at Silver Ridge Community Cottage in Wallsend on Saturday 26th of November, and Thursday 1st of December.

Alternatively, submissions can be made online.

The proposed fifth section to the Newcastle Inner City Bypass. Source: rms.nsw.gov.au

Charges laid over raids across the Hunter

BY JESSICA ROUSE

The mystery police presence in the Hunter was solved late yesterday with police charging five associates of the Nomads and Finks bikie gangs, after raids across the Hunter before 9am.

Five search warrents were carried out yesterday at properties in Gillieston Heights, Raymond Terrace, Rutherford and two homes in Telarah, which lead to the arrests of five associates of the bikie gangs.

A 23-year old Raymond Terrace man has been charged with 61 offenses including multiple offenses of firearm trafficking and drug offenses. He refused bail to appear in Maitland Local Court today.

A 26-year old Gillieston Heights man was also arrested and charged with 28 offenses to appear in Raymond Terrace Local Court today. A 27-year old Rutherford man has been charged with three offenses including two drug charges and knowingly participating in a criminal group. He was granted conditional bail to appear in Maitland Local Court in December.

Two women were also arrested and charged - a 31 and 32 year old both from Telarah, who will appear in Raymond Terrace and Maitland Local Courts, respectively, today.

The properties were searched and police seized two firearms including a loaded sawn-off shot gun found at the Gillieston Heights property, more than $150, 000 cash, ammunition and electronic stun devices as well as cannabis, methylamphetamine ('ice'), steroids and MDMA. All of which will undergo forensic examination.

The State Crime Command's Gangs Squad Strike Force Wilwendam was established earlier this year to investigate organised crime activity in the Hunter in conjunction with Port Stephens, Central Hunter and Newcastle City Local Area Commands.

Former Newcastle Woman on $233M Fraud Charges

BY TANYA DU PREEZ

A former Newcastle woman is facing over 35 years in a United States jail after she was accused of being involved in an insurance fraud of up to $233 million, one of the largest in Californian history.

Ms Kirsten Wallace, who was chief financial officer of the Community Recovery company which ran about 20 rehabilitation centres, is alleged to have been involved in "an elaborate conspiracy" to defraud patients and insurers.

Prosecutors alleged she stole patient identities, bought health insurance policies for patients without their knowledge and continued to bill insurance companies for treatment after the services were completed.

Ms Wallace lived in Newcastle for seven years, living in Carrington and Mayfield before moving to the US about 10 years ago with her young daughter.

Kirsten Wallace allegedly committed a $233 million insurance fraud (Source: New York Daily News)

Super Moon or super clouds?

BY JESSICA ROUSE

There were high hopes in the Hunter for a clear view of the infamous Super Moon, but the biggest moon rise in a century was hidden behind some super clouds.

As the evening turned to night, the thick cloud cover never dispersed.

The 7pm moon rise would have been the time to look towards the skies, where the moon was 14 per cent bigger and 30 per cent brighter than normal.

We will have to wait until 2034 for the moon to come this close again.

Move to name women's refuge after mayor MacKenzie criticised

BY MICHAEL COOK

A unanimous decision by Port Stephens council to name a women's refuge after mayor Bruce MacKenzie has drawn criticism after it was revealed that he was convicted of assaulting his partner in 1997.

The Raymond Terrace facility will be known as "The Bruce MacKenzie Centre for Victims of Domestic Violence" in a move that has angered many in the community.

Ann Morris from the Hunter Women's Centre has slammed the decision, saying it is a totally inappropriate name given Cr Mackenzie's past.

"There's a bit of a stench around the whole thing," she said.

Bruce MacKenzie. Photo courtesy of Port Stephens Examiner

Cr MacKenzie plead guilty to assaulting his de-facto partner before Raymond Terrace Court in November 1997.

He was ordered to enter into a 12-month good behaviour bond, however the magistrate did not record a conviction against his name.

Cr MacKenzie says he understands the concerns around naming the centre after him, but believes without his efforts, the shelter would not have gone ahead.

Gretley Mine 20th Anniversary

BY DANIELLE RIES

Today marks the 20th anniversary of the Gretley Mine Disaster, where four Hunter men tragically lost their lives.

On the 14th of November 1996, Edward Batterham, Mark Kaiser, John Hunter and Damon Murray were digging around an old flooded mine, which caused a sudden inrush of water and swept the four men away to their deaths.

The men were engulfed by water when a machine weighing 50 tonnes was swept some 17.5 metres back down the heading and jammed into the sides, trapping them.

Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery says,

"It was a terrible shock to the Wallsend community and the Hunter community,"

"I want to pay tribute to the gentlemen and their families and say that this is remembered with a mark of respect for all of them," she said.

Ms. Horney will be delivering a Notice of Motion in Parliament tomorrow in regards to this incident and the safety of miners.

"Tomorrow I will be giving a Notice of Motion marking this date in memorial and of course encouraging and urging the government to make mine safety a priority in New South Wales."

Changes to safety of the mines is ongoing to ensure that all workers return home safety at the end of the day.

Man arrested after discovery of imitation firearm

BY JESSICA ROUSE

A man has been placed under arrest and charged with possession of an unauthorised prohibited firearm overnight in Nelson Bay.

At about 2am, a 33-year-old male was stopped for an Random Breath Test when police proceeded to search the vehicle.

A replica firearm was found.

Man exposes himself to a woman at Stockton Beach

BY JESSICA ROUSE

A 40-year-old woman walking her dog along Stockton Beach overnight was approached by an unknown man who indecently exposed himself to her.

At around 7:15pm, the woman noticed the man walking behind her who then took off his clothes and exposed himself, before committing an act of indecency while walking towards her.

The woman was uninjured and found a witness nearby who contacted police.

The identity of the man is still unknown - he is described as being in his early 30s, of Caucasian appearance, tanned, with a slim build and short brown hair.

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Armed Man Sparks Bomb Threat At Morisset

BY IAN CROUCH

 Police say they uncovered a cache of weapons at the home of the man allegedly responsible for yesterday's hold-up at Morisset.

The 49-year-old from Yarawonga Park is accused of trying to rob a pharmacy on Dora Street with a replica pistol before later claiming he had a bomb, forcing the area to be evacuated.


When officers arrived they were confronted by the man who allegedly threatened them forcing them to deploy a Taser to subdue him.

Investigators later searched his home where it's alleged they found guns, ammunition, knives, knuckle-dusters and books on how to make guns.


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

Fitz says Centrelink services in Crisis

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

Hunter MP Joel Fitzgibbon has told the federal Parliament this week that the government's cuts to Medicare and Centrelink have had a devastating effect on his electorate.

During his Constituency Statement, he said the support services were "in a state of crisis".

Joel Fitzgibbon

"You can't just keep cutting funding to Centrelink and Medicare and expect the services to be delivered," he said.

"These are not just the unemployed, they're families who have lost a loved one and need to make arrangements, they're pensioners who have had their financial situations change."

The cuts come amid claims the Turnbull government have prioritised cities and other metropolitan areas over the regions.

Joel Fitzgibbon says the lack of services is felt harder outside the city.

"It affects the cities and regions, but the regions are hurting most," he said.

"This is a government that has its priorities all wrong, they're giving big tax cuts to the big end of town but say they need to repair the budget by cutting things that hurt people on lower incomes.

"It's a disgrace that they're being left out in the cold."

Unfortunately, says Fitzgibbon, only money can fix the issue.

"The Labor party went into the last election promising an additional $80 million to address this problem," he said.

"The government needs to do the same.  Only, sadly, money will fix this.

"We need to have the resources we need to service people's needs."

Pedestrian Safety Improvement on the way for Kurri Kurri

BY GARY-JON LYSAGHT

Pedestrians crossing Lang Street at Kurri Kurri will soon have safer services, with the state government announcing a new pedestrian refuge will be installed.

Scot MacDonald

The refuge, between Mitchell Avenue and Merthyr Street, will cost a grand total of $200,000 and will give elderly people and those with prams better access to crossing the road.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald says the government decided to install the refuge “to give a little bit more safety”.

“Lang Street is a much busier road these days, according to the locals,” he said.

“Most of that is put down to the Hunter Expressway and all the changes that have followed from there.

“The pedestrians are really feeling the pressure a little bit.”

The government is also calling on residents to have their say on the refuge, with more information and contact information available on the Roads and Maritime Services website.

One major change that will come from the refuge will be the removal of on-street parking.

Up to four spaces will be removed, as the government looks to ensure people have adequate access to the crossing, as well as sufficient sight lines.

Scot MacDonald says it’s a small price to pay for pedestrian safety.

“Pedestrian safety, versus probably the removal of three or four parking spaces,” he said.

“I think we’ve got to come down on the side of making it safer for people getting across the road.

“A little bit of inconvenience is a reasonable price to pay.”

Minor Changes Proposed For Newcastle 500 V8 Supercars

BY IAN CROUCH

 The organisers of the V8 Supercars have agreed to change the route of next year's Newcastle 500 following concerns from residents.

About 150 people turned out for an information session last night at Fort Scratchley with NSW Supercars Manager, Murray Hodges.

He told the meeting feedback from the community and Newcastle Council has convinced them to remove the race track through Pacific Park from the original design.

A revised track design will be presented at another community meeting on December 13.

Newcastle Councillor in the U.S. Campaigning for Clinton

BY JARROD MELMETH

As vote tallies begin to flood in the US, Newcastle councilor Declan Clausen is hoping his contribution to the Clinton campaign has made a difference.

The 23-year-old jetted off to the US last month in a bid to help the Democratic nominee secure victory in the district of Aurora, Colorado.

Declan Clausen says, campaigning foreigners help American voters realize the global significance of the election.

"Voters are particularly interested and intrigued by a foreign accent and are interested in having a chat. Also, I think come to a realization of the broader global significance of the presidential election, it's not just the future of America that depends on the result of today's polls but also has implications right across the world."

Cr. Clausen has been door knocking and phone calling, something which he says is a small role in the scheme of things but in a battleground district like Colorado it is important.

He believes this is to be an important election particularly given the competition between Clinton and Trump.

"Some of the issues we see in America are things I'm particularly passionate about there are very stark positions here between Trump and Clinton. Unfortunately, Australia has a habit of adopting the poor policy outcomes that are seen in the U.S. It's a really important election for Australia as well because it sets a precedent by which our policy could follow."

Polls close at 3pm AESDT. With the winner announced once, either candidate reaches 270 wins.

Newcastle Councillor, Declan Clausen