Catholic Archbishop Bows To Pressure And Resigns Over Concealment Conviction

BY IAN CROUCH

The Pope has accepted the resignation of Adelaide Archbishop, Philip Wilson after he was found guilty of concealing child sex abuse in the Hunter.

Wilson had been resisting calls for him to quit, insisting he would not step aside until his legal options were exhausted.

The 67-year-old is the most senior Catholic cleric to be convicted of not disclosing abuse by another priest to police.

In a statement Philip Wilson said he hoped his resignation would be a catalyst to heal pain and distress caused by his conviction

He is appealing his 12 month sentence.

Adelaide Archbishop Philip Wilson

East Seaham Crash Victim Identified.

BY IAN CROUCH

Police have identified a man killed in a two vehicle crash at East Seaham.

It's understood the 23-year-old from Clarencetown was overtaking another vehicle on Newline Road just after 4pm yesterday when his silver Ford sedan lost control and collided with the side of an oncoming Toyota Landcruiser - he died at the scene.

The 59-year-old man driving the Landcruiser was taken to the John Hunter Hospital with minor injuries.

It's the second fatality on Port Stephens roads in less than a week after a 64-year-old man died in a single vehicle crash last Wednesday.

Two Homes Destroyed In Separate Fires At Nelson Bay and Shortland

BY IAN CROUCH

Firefighters have been kept busy overnight with separate house fires in the Hunter.

Crews were called to reports of a townhouse well alight on Pirralea Parade at Nelson Bay just before 9.30pm on Monday, arriving to find flames through the roof.

There were concerns for 2 occupants, but they were found safe and well.

Firefighters managed to stop the blaze from spreading to the adjoining townhouse where 5 people were evacuated.

Police have set up a crime scene as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.

Meanwhile, fire has destroyed an unoccupied granny flat at the rear of a property in Marsden Street Shortland.

Firefighters from Mayfield West, Wallsend and Lambton responded to 10 triple-oh calls just after midnight.

An adjoining car port was also damaged.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.

State Government Announces Emergency Drought Relief

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

The NSW Premier has unveiled a major emergency drought funding package, which is set to help Upper Hunter farmers.

The $500 million package means each farmer can claim a 50% freight subsidy up to the value of $20,000 and can backdate the relief to January 1 this year.

In addition, Local Land Services rates will be waived, along with registration costs for class one agricultural vehicles and interest on Farm Innovation Fund loans.

The package also includes funding for counselling and mental health services; services to transport water and drought-related road upgrades and repairs and animal welfare and stock disposal.

It means the state government has now invested $1 billion responding to the drought.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald joined Premier Berejiklian in Bathurst today to make the announcement and believes this package will go a long way, locally.

"The Upper Hunter is one of those areas that's been in drought the longest - 18 months or even 2 years in some places - people have really got their backs to the wall," he said, "I think this will go a long way to supporting our farmers, keeping them going hopefully until the rains come."

Meanwhile, Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen has been calling on the government to provide for those doing it tough in his electorate and says he welcomes the measures announced today.

"I think it's a good move," Mr Johnsen said, "it's one of the things our farming community has been calling out for, for quite some time, and the fact its back-dated til January 1 puts in concrete the fact that the government is responding to the needs of farmers and transport companies to be able to respond to the lingering drought we continue to suffer here in the Upper Hunter."

The state government is urging farmers not to self-assess their eligibility, with the NSW Rural Assistance Authority to begin processing applications from Monday, August 6.

For more information, go to www.droughthub.nsw.gov.au 

Image: John Barilaro MP. 

Labor Pledges More Vaccinations In Hunter Pharmacies

BY JOSH SIM

The NSW Shadow Health Minister Walt Secord and Newcastle MP Tim Crackanthorp have visited a Hamilton pharmacy today to make a Labor election pledge for Hunter Pharmacies.

The party is promising under the plan, that from September 1, 2019, it will expand in-pharmacy vaccinations, currently available for the flu, to cover Diptheria, Tetanus, Whooping Cough and a second Measles vaccine.

The age limit for the pharmacy vaccinations would remain at 18.

Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp believes the benefit of the vaccines being readily available at pharmacies are two-fold, with both the expense of a GP visit and the timeliness being an added factor behind the party's proposal.

"It will enable [Newcastle Residents] to pop into the chemist and get vaccinated, it will be hugely beneficial in that manner," Mr Crackanthorp said.

The party also believes the proposal will have a flow-on effect in helping to raise the State's lower than acceptable vaccination rates.

Shadow Health Minister Walt Secord pointed out the Hunter had one of its worst years on record in 2017, with more than two-thousand confirmed cases of Influenza, while Pertussis (Whooping Cough) was also on the rise.

"The worrying thing this year is that we've already had 62 cases of Pertussis [in the Hunter]... while another worrying trend is the 3 people diagnosed with Mumps," Mr Secord said.

Labor believe by putting this proposal in place, it would complement the current vaccination programs, and reach out to those who normally don't get vaccinated.

Tim Crackanthorp, Pharmacy-Owner Anthony Piggott and Walt Secord discuss the proposal. 

Nomads Bikie Arrested Following Cooks Hill Shooting

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A member of the Nomads outlaw bikie gang has been arrested at a unit on Darby Street, Cooks Hill, where police found an unregistered firearm.

It comes after officers received reports of a shooting on the street around 2:30am last Wednesday morning, where no one was injured.

Officers from Newcastle City Police District attended and located bullet holes in the exterior of an apartment block.

Following investigations, police searched a 42-year-old man's unit on Friday afternoon and discovered the .45 calibre handgun alongside a beanie with eyeholes cut out.

The Nomads bikie has been charged with several offences as Strike Force Raptor detectives continue their inquiries.

The man is facing Newcastle Local Court today.

Hamilton Misses Out On Beaumont Street Buses Again

BY IAN CROUCH

Newcastle bus operator, Keolis Downer is defending a decision not to include Beaumont Street Hamilton in it's revised bus routes.

The new timetable and routes came into force yesterday in response to a community backlash to the revised bus network announced in January.

The new network now includes more direct routes to the eastern side of Lake Macquarie, but no services down Beaumont Street, despite calls from the Hamilton Business Chamber.

Keolis Downer maintains there's no need for the service as only 60 passengers a day were using it before it was cut, and not having buses running along Beaumont Street has improved the urban amenity of the area.

Cause Of New Lambton House Fire Being Investigated

BY IAN CROUCH

Investigations are continuing into a fire which destroyed a home at New Lambton and caused major damage to another.

It's understood the fire started in the backyard shed of a home on Victoria Street just before 1 o'clock on Sunday morning and quickly spread to the adjoining house.

By the time fire crews arrived, the flames had spread to a neighbouring home, which they managed to save.

No-one was injured although the exact cause of the fire is still not known.

One Home Destroyed And Another Badly Damaged At New Lambton. Photo NBN News

UPDATE! Police Seek Help Over Hit And Run At San Remo

BY IAN CROUCH

Following an intensive media appeal, a 43-year-old woman attended Wyong Police Station this morning.

The woman has been arrested and is expected to be interviewed by detectives.


Inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash continue.

EARLIER:

Police are appealing for public help after a man was killed in a hit and run incident in southern Lake Macquarie.

It's believed the 41-year-old was walking along Scenic Drive at San Remo between 11.00pm and 11.30pm on Saturday when he was hit by a car - his body was discovered in bushland nearby yesterday afternoon.

The victim was wearing blue jeans and a khaki coloured hoodie.

Police are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident or may have dashcam footage to contact the Metropolitan Crash Investigation Unit on 8882 1458.

Free Asbestos Testing Deadline Extended

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

The NSW Government has extended the registration period for free testing for loose-fill asbestos in Hunter homes until August 31st 2018. 

Homeowners in the Newcastle, Maitland, Cessnock, Port Stephens and Lake Macquarie Council areas whose property was built prior to 1980 are being encouraged to sign up for the testing.

The Voluntary Purchase and Demolition Program was opened on July 2nd, and as 2NURFM reported yesterday, concerns were expressed by the community and Labor MP Yasmin Catley that residents hadn't received enough time to register over the busy school holiday period.

In response, Minister for Better Regulation, Matt Kean agreed he wants to ensure Greater Newcastle dwellers are engaging with the scheme, citing a 'better safe than sorry' attitude.

Loose-fill asbestos is raw crushed asbestos which was installed as ceiling insulation in an unknown number of pre-1980s homes across the state.

Over time, hazardous airborne fibres can move from the ceiling into living spaces.

This dangerous product was discovered in a home at Glendale last month.

Earlier experience in both NSW and the ACT has demonstrated that simply removing the product from a ceiling cavity doesn't eliminate the enduring hazard.

If you'd like to have your home tested, go to the Fair Trading website or call them on 13 32 20.

Alternatively, you can call Service NSW on 13 77 88.

Local Focus for New Charlestown Eatery

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

GPT Group is looking to the future, after receiving Lake Macquarie Council approval to redevelop Charlestown Square's north-east corner.

The $4.6 million dollar redevelopment, planned for the corner of Pearson and Ridley Streets, is set to feature an outdoor dining and entertainment area celebrating popular local food vendors.

General Manager of the shopping centre, Dwight Hodgetts, said Hunter residents shouldn't be waiting too long to see progress.

"At this stage, subject to final approvals and discussions with prospective tenants, we're expecting the works to start in early 2019," he said.

Mr Hodgetts said the design and vision will be unique to the Square.

"We're really looking at a concept that's quite different to what you might traditionally see in a shopping centre, very much focusing on local operators because that's what customers are looking for."

Artist's impression of the new facility. 

Man Pinned Under Tree at Anna Bay

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

UPDATE:

The man has now been rescued from under the tree after being trapped for an hour - he's being treated at the scene and will be transported to the John Hunter Hospital.

EARLIER:

A man is being assessed by paramedics after a tree fell on him at Anna Bay.

NSW Ambulance says the Westpac Rescue Helicopter is on scene at the back of the property at Bisclay Close and Bungwall Close.

They are working to free the 68-year-old, who remains trapped under the tree.

No further details are known at this time.

Car with Stolen Plates Driven in Cardiff Pursuit

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A man's facing Toronto Local Court today following a police pursuit through Cardiff overnight. 

Lake Macquarie officers patrolling Main Road attempted to pull over a Holden Commodore around 11 o'clock, but the driver failed to stop, instead leading police on a chase through West Wallsend. 

The driver eventually stopped on Watkins Street and tried to flee the scene on foot, but was quickly arrested. 

Background checks revealed the 39-year-old had put stolen plates from a Hyundai Excel onto the Commodore, and he had a 13-year-old boy in the rear passenger seat. 

The man's been charged with five offences. 

Two Cars And A Caravan Damaged In Stockton Crash

BY IAN CROUCH

Police expect to charge the driver of a car which slammed into two parked cars and a caravan at Stockton last night.

The man in his 30's was driving a silver Holden Commodore on Forfar Street just before 10.30pm when he lost control of the car.

He suffered minor injuries and was taken to the John Hunter Hospital for observation.

Police believe alcohol may have been a factor in the crash.

Teen To Face Court Over Break-Ins At Wallsend

BY IAN CROUCH

A 14-year-old boy is expected to front East Maitland Children's Court today charged over a string of break-ins and thefts from cars over the past 12 months.

Police allege the boy broke into six homes and stole items from three cars in Wallsend between August 2017 and July this year.

Inquires led police to a unit block in Bull Street, Mayfield yesterday.

However, when they knocked on the front door of a second storey unit, the 14-year-old jumped out a window and tried to escape but was quickly apprehended.

He's been charged with five counts of break, enter and steal, attempted break, enter and steal, three counts of steal from motor vehicle and breach of bail.

 

Service Station Attendant Bashed During Robbery At Lambton

BY IAN CROUCH

A 21-year-old service station attendant has been bashed during a violent robbery at Lambton.

Police say a man of African appearance entered the 7-11 on Croudace Street at 11.00pm on Thursday and jumped the wire barrier at the counter, demanding the attendant open the cash register.

The attendant complied and the man grabbed cash before attempting to flee the store, but the worker tried to stop him from leaving.

The young man was punched in the face, before an accomplice entered the store and helped the bandit escape.

They were last seen running off down Croudace Street towards Charlton Street.

The attendant suffered bruising and swelling to his face and was treated at the scene by paramedics.


Both offenders are described as being of African appearance - the main offender is about 20-25 years old and 183 centimetres tall. He has dark dreadlocks and dark facial hair and was wearing a dark coloured hoodie and dark trousers.

Intruder Flees After Assaulting Residents At Wickham

BY IAN CROUCH

A terrifying ordeal for the occupants of a home at Wickham this morning.

They woke to find a man rummaging through their belongings inside their Hannell Street home at about 2 o'clock and confronted the intruder.

The man lashed out before fleeing empty-handed.

Police say several people live at the home, but none were seriously injured.

Investigations are continuing in a bid to track down the offender.

Labor Calls For Free Hunter Asbestos Testing To Be Extended

BY HOLLIE HUGHES

With only five days left to register, the state opposition is calling on the New South Wales government to extend the deadline Hunter residents have to sign-up for free home asbestos testing.

The scheme was rolled out earlier this month in response to the discovery of the dangerous loose-fill product at a home in Glendale.

Residents of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock, Maitland and Port Stephens who live in homes built prior to 1980 are eligible to register for the free test currently closing on July 31.

Swansea MP Yasmin Catley says the registration time frame must be extended to enable as many Hunter home owners to register as possible.

"The main goal here is to find out whether there are any more homes in the Hunter with loose-filled asbestos," she said.

"Hunter residents were only made aware of the potential presence of this dangerous product a few weeks ago and since then we have had the July school holidays where many residents have gone away."

Additionally, Ms Catley fears there are more homes within the Hunter which may be contaminated with the deadly substance.

"We are talking about people's lives here, there could be many more homes throughout New South Wales which have Mr Fluffy products in them."

"People need to the have the confidence that there own home is safe."

For more information on the program or to register for the free test, residents should visit the New South Wales Fair Trading or The City of Newcastle Council websites.

 

Image sourced: https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=nsw+fair+trading+logo&FORM=HDRSC2

 

 

 

 

Shock Merger for Nine, Fairfax

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

The owner of local mastheads like The Newcastle Herald and Maitland Mercury - Fairfax - has announced an astonishing merger with Nine Entertainment.

The two companies released details of the $4 billion move onto the Australian Stock Exchange this morning, with the aim of creating the biggest media corporation in the nation.

Under the new arrangement, shareholders of Nine will control 51.1% of the entity, with Fairfax shareholders owning the remaining 48.9%.

It's being touted by the companies as the best way to cut costs while retaining staff and boosting content in the wake of dwindling profits.

The merger has reportedly come as a surprise to Newcastle Herald staff, who are digesting the news just days after it was announced printing operations at Beresfield would shut down as part of a Sydney printing arrangement with rival, News Corp.

It also comes after the Nine Network announced it had sold off the NBN Television studios on Mosbri Crescent to Newcastle Developer Keith Stronach.

It's unknown whether there will be any changes to plans to build a seven-story apartment complex on the site.

Members of the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance are calling on the competition watchdog to block the takeover, and will reportedly hold talks with management in the meantime to gauge what it means for journalists.

The deal has been made possible by federal changes to media ownership laws, allowing one entity to control a greater portion of the media market than before.

The industry watchdog is yet to scrutinise contracts involved, but Communications Minister Mitch Fifield said there are no immediate issues with the deal.

"The ACMA has announced that they don't immediately see any impediments at first look," he said, "it looks to be in accord with media law."

Big Boss: Hugh Marks, of Nine Entertainment, will now control the new entity, 'Nine'. Image: Kate Geraghty.

Racially Motivated Attack at Mayfield

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A man's been charged with intimidating and assaulting two people at Mayfield East in what police are describing as a racially motivated attack.

Around 8:45pm on Tuesday night, the 38-year-old accused approached a 47-year-old man of African descent on George Street.

He allegedly slapped the victim in the face and kicked him in the leg while verbally abusing him.

It's there a woman in her 40s came to his aid before she also was verbally slurred.

Another member of the public came to assist and the man fled the scene.

Police arrested him a short time later on Maitland Road, Mayfield and charged him with common assault, two counts of stalk/intimidation intend fear, and breach of bail.

He'll face court next month.

Police Investigate Armed Robbery On Windale Service Station

BY IAN CROUCH

Police are investigating an armed robbery on a service station at Windale.

Two men entered the Medco outlet on Lake Street just after 3.00am on Thursday - police say one of them threatened the male console operator with a weapon.

It's believed the pair escaped with cash and cigarettes.

The console operator was not injured and police are reviewing CCTV footage in a bid to identify the culprits.

Golf Vehicles Destroyed In Separate Fires At Singleton

BY IAN CROUCH

It's believed two fires involving golf vehicles at Singleton early this morning are linked.

Firefighters were called to Singleton Golf Club on Boundary Road just before 3.30am to find a John Deere Gator utility ablaze on the first green.

About 10 minutes later they were called out to Sophia Street a few blocks away to find a golf buggy on fire.

Both vehicles were destroyed.

Police are treating the fires as suspicious.

A John Deere Gator 4WD Ute Has Been Destroyed By Fire At Singleton Golf Club

Police Investigate Fatal Crash At Lemon Tree Passage

BY IAN CROUCH

A report is being prepared for the Coroner after a man was killed in a crash Lemon Tree Passage.

The 64-year-old was driving his Toyota Hilux southbound on Lemon Tree Passage Road just after 7.30 on Wednesday night when the car left the road and slammed into a tree near the intersection of Brownes Road.

The man, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, died at the scene.

Anyone who witnessed the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

State Government Returns Dividends to Hunter Water

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE AND LAUREN KEMPE

The state government has returned over $102 million to Hunter Water which was being paid by the corporation as a dividend.

Labor claims the dividend amounted to a $600 fee on Hunter households, which has only been given back following media exposure.

Shadow Water Minister Chris Minns says he's worried it could happen again.

'Common sense has prevailed in this instance, but our fear is with the privatisation of electricity assets, the government will be out for more and more cash-generating businesses and will see more and more of these events over the coming years.'

Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp says it's not good enough.

'We need a ministerial guarantee that this government won't slug Hunter Water users like this and strip Hunter Water itself of its assets and cash, and then privatise it.'

Image Credit: http://morningmail.org/communists-running-hunter-water-fair-dinkum/

PFAS Investigations In Singleton

BY LAUREN KEMPE

The Department of Defence is launching another investigation into PFAS contamination in Singleton's military area. 

Defence hopes to identify the nature and extent of the impact on local residents and the environment following the effects on Williamtown's Red Zone. 

The department says it will review existing reports of the contaminant's presence in the area. 

Federal Member for the Hunter Joel Fitzgibbon says the community deserves answers. 

'We just don't know how it's going to impact on Singleton. People are out on a limb, they don't know what the future holds for them. People need to be given assurance that they are safe, or alternatively, the government must indicate that they are here to help; not to frustrate the interests of our local people.

'The government needs to lift its game, and we do need an audit of all Defence bases so we do know how big this problem is.'

An information session will be held for the community at the Quest Hotel at 11.30am this Friday. 

Image Credit: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-05-07/pfas-chemicals-not-linked-to-disease-says-expert-panel/9734726

Council Firm on Local Business Funding Freeze

BY LAUREN KEMPE

Newcastle Council has rejected calls to give more funding to Newcastle Now.

Four local independents called on the local council to give a further $200, 000 to support CBD ratepayers in last night's meeting, but the motion was voted down.

Newcastle Council CEO Jeremy Bath says Council injects around $850, 000 to the association each year, but says it's put a freeze on the money due to Newcastle Now's lack of recent business plans.

Independent Councillor John Church says the current ratepayer rebate is not giving adequate compensation to businesses affected by light rail.

Image Credit: https://www.expedia.com.au/Newcastle-Hotels-The-Grand-Hotel-Newcastle.h9627270.Hotel-Information

'[Local independents] have put together a plan on behalf of Newcastle Now that we hoped would see the state government, the council and Newcastle Now join forces to try and help struggling small businesses.

'But what we found was that the state government wasn't prepared to fund it and Newcastle City Council also walked away. It's a real shame because these are real people suffering real financial hardships, and we need these business traders to make our city work.'

The current rebate system requires ratepayers to pay business operators money before they are eligible to receive money back from the council as a result of light rail impact.

Councillor Church believes the current system is failing and business owners are continually being let down.

'The state government and council don't seem to take the plight of these small businesses seriously. These are people with their homes on the line, we've heard of a business 'Flying Tiger' that's had to sell their home to pay their staff. This is serious stuff, and we shouldn't be playing games or politics on this matter, we should be keeping these small businesses in focus and top of mind so that we can help them survive.'

City Hall Meetings No More for NCC

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Newcastle Council has voted to move its fortnightly meetings to its new office on Stewart Avenue.

The relocation comes despite earlier spending on the current meeting place, City Hall, totalling $12.5 million for restoration works to its iconic clock face and sandstone exterior.

$7 million is being spent on the relocation of 400 Council staff to the Gateway 2 building, with Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes telling her colleagues it makes sense for administrative employees and Councillors to work in the same place.

Greens Councillor John Mackenzie was in the minority voting against the move and said it's yet unclear who'll move into the City Hall space.

"This is a question that's unresolved at this point," he said, "and I think that's part of the reason the decision to move was a bit premature."

However, Cr Mackenzie is pleased City Hall's heritage features will be preserved into the future.

"We're setting up a working group which will consist of myself, Lord Mayor Nelmes and Deputy Lord Mayor Clausen to talk about how we'll use the building in a way which preserves its heritage and make sure we're getting it on the State Heritage Register," Cr Mackenzie said.

Council's new HQ on the corner of Hunter St and Stewart Ave. 

Concerns About Fire Truck Relocation: Cooks Hill to Lambton

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

The Fire Brigade Employees Union is expected to hear back from the Industrial Relations Commission today, in regards to a push to move resources from Cooks Hill to Lambton station.

Fire and Rescue NSW wants two trucks and some of the Cooks Hill crew relocated by the end of the month, in a bid to better cater to the entire Newcastle LGA.

However, the Union is opposing the change, fearing it'll put the CBD at risk with firefighters too far away creating slower response times.

They fear increased Newcastle development and construction may lead to more fires- and the Commission's been brought in to resolve the matter.

In a statement to 2NURFM News, Fire and Rescue says safety will, in fact, be improved by the change as Lambton is closer to main roads like the M1 Motorway, with state of the art equipment remaining in the city.

The statement further says the decision to make the move has been informed by a recent review, "which found that relocating the heavy rescue vehicle to Lambton Fire Station would maximise emergency response coverage for rescues and emergencies across the whole LGA.

"The Newcastle CBD continues to be well protected 24/7 not only by Cooks Hill Fire Station, but other stations at Lambton, Carrington and Merewether. Cooks Hill Fire Station has a firefighting pumper with state-of-the-art rescue equipment and a ladder platform vehicle, so firefighters remain fully equipped to respond to fires, rescue situations and other emergencies."

Senate Inquiry into PFAS contamination underway in Williamtown

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE AND JARROD MELMETH

Williamtown residents living in the red zone will have the chance to address an inquiry into the federal government’s management of PFAS contamination in and around defence bases.

More than 50 residents are in attendance at the hearing in Williamtown where residents, action groups, politicians and a former RAAF Base Commander will be given time to speak to the committee panel.

President of the Fullerton Cove Residents Action Group, Lindsay Clout said while it is a step forward it has taken far too long to get here.

"It is just another indication of the disconnected and sloppy approach that has been taken so far. The federal government have not been treating it seriously and they need to get their act together. Today is a huge step for us to give them that information so that they can get their act together," Mr Clout said. 

The inquiry has received 64 submissions from residents and health experts as well as local, state and federal representatives, but only eight people who submitted have been given the opportunity to speak at the hearing. 

Mr Clout said he understands the time constraints on the committee if everyone was invited to speak.

"It is certainly difficult to cater for everyone, so what they have done is provided a cross-section. They have read through the 60-odd submissions and then chosen a mix so that the committee can hear from both our action group and from individuals," Mr Clout said.

In a submission to the inquiry, Williamtown resident, Michelle Sansom said she is "extremely upset" that the land where she grew up and has "an emotional attachment to" is now a contaminated wasteland "due to the carelessness of the RAAF Base." 

Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, who is sitting on the Committee said Williamtown has borne the brunt of the government's inaction  and neglect for too long.

Residents living and working near the Williamtown RAAF base were warned by the New South Wales Environment Protection Authority in September 2015 that elevated levels of toxic chemicals had been found in the surrounding areas. Since this time over 90 PFAS sites have been identified around the country. 

Tuesday's inquiry into PFAS contamination at Williamtown.
Photo: Kate Washington.

Police Scour Hunter River to Investigate Bikie Shooting

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Police investigating a 2016 Nomads outlaw motorcycle gang shooting are diving the Hunter River near the Hexham Bridge today, searching for the gun involved.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing after officers were called out to a home on Guyang Street, Corlette on the evening of April 2nd, 2016.

A 31-year-old man - a member of the Nomads gang - was rushed to the John Hunter Hospital after being shot in the thighs.

Inquiries suggest the shooting may have actually taken place near Nelson Bay on the Big Rocky Track off Gan Gan Road as a result of tensions within the Nomads club.

“Our inquiries have revealed there were significant tensions between local members of the group at the time and we believe the shooting was a result of that conflict,” Strike Force Raptor’s Detective Inspector George Radmore said.

“We know there were a number of people present at the scene, he continued, "and likely more that have direct knowledge of the incident, none of whom have assisted with our inquiries." 

Officers believe the firearm used may have been dumped in the Hunter River shortly after the shooting.

As a result, police are still appealing for anyone with information about the incident to report it confidentially to Strike Force Raptor detectives online or by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police search for clues at One Mile Beach today. Image: The Herald.

New Milestone for Light Rail: Hunter Street Reopening

BY KYLE CARROLL

The stretch of  Hunter Street between Worth Place and Darby Street will reopen today after the completion of light rail track work.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald, has joined Revitalising Newcastle Program Director, Michael Cassel to inspect the completed work and says he's satisfied with the results.

"I commend the Revitalising Newcastle team, HDC, Transport and Downer for keeping this project on time and on budget," Mr MacDonald said.

Representing around 40% of the on-road construction zone for light rail works, Mr MacDonald said it is a significant milestone for Newcastle Light Rail.

"The curtain is being raised on a new and improved Newcastle city centre, with widened pedestrian-friendly footpaths, landscaping and light rail tracks running alongside a resurfaced Hunter Street."

Revitalising Newcastle Program Director, Michael Cassel said reopening on time was a testament to the team's hard work.

"This is a project with many moving parts and stakeholders with everyone is focused on the same goal, to quickly returning a vastly improved CBD to the community," he said.

Scot MacDonald and Michael Cassel at the corner of Hunter St and Worth Place. 

Singleton Cottage And Car Destroyed By Fire

BY IAN CROUCH

Hunter Valley detectives are investigating the cause of a fire which destroyed a vacant weatherboard cottage and a car at Singleton overnight.

Fire crews from Branxton, Singleton and Rutherford were called to Mary Street just before 8.30 to find the empty home and car parked alongside well alight.

A neighbouring home also suffered minor heat damage.

Smoke Billows From A House Fire At Singleton. Photo: Singleton Argus

Transport Fees Scrapped for Hunter Charity Food

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Hunter charity partners of the Foodbank NSW initiative are set to benefit from a state government announcement.

Foodbank accounts for about 65% of all fresh produce and non-perishables delivered to 53 charity partners like the Salvation Army Cessnock, St Vincent De Paul Wyong and BaptistCare Windale Community Centre.

Now, a $50 transport fee per pallet will be scrapped, delivering 4000 tonnes across the state for free -  saving the charities a collective $630,000.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald says the small measure will make a huge impact and also help the fight against food waste.

"[Foodbank] has a couple of goals of course," he explains, "one is to provide food for people in need, but also to keep food out of landfill...so it's a win-win really.

"This will put about $150 a week towards charity for these organisations instead of transport costs," Mr MacDonald says.

Image: Foodbank NSW. 

Council Push to Install CCTV at Maitland

BY KYLE CARROLL

Maitland could see extra CCTV cameras in the future with Councillor Mitchell Griffin pushing to have them placed in crime hotspots.

CCTV Cameras. Image: News Source Guyana

He will ask the council to apply for the funding as a part of round four of the NSW Governments Community safety fund.

The fund is managed by the NSW Justice Department, which aims to reduce the criminal and anti-social behaviour, with a focus on disadvantaged and regional communities.

Fred Harvey Sports Centre at Woodberry and West Mall at Rutherford are two of the proposed locations to receive CCTV to prevent anti-social behaviour.

Councillor Mitchell Griffin says these locations have been reported by the community.

"These are hotspots for crime and have been for some time," he continues, "Rutherford in the last couple of weeks have had bus services ceasing due to vandalism and crime with the bus drivers feeling threatened.

Cr Griffin says the advancements in the CCTV industry makes this an accessible and affordable option to resolve this behaviour.

"There is so much more innovation within the technology with Wifi and Cloud Technology instead of cabling, allowing people to look at the footage remotely rather than having to go to a base within the vicinity of the camera."

The proposal for the CCTV cameras is due on the 10th of August.

BREAKING! Police Investigate Violent Home Invasion At Raymond Terrace

BY IAN CROUCH

Port Stephens police are investigating a violent home invasion at Raymond Terrace overnight.

A 40-year-old man answered a knock at the front door of his Tathra Street home at about 9.30pm on Sunday, where 2 females made an inquiry..

Moments later, 5 men wearing balaclavas and masks storm through the front door - two of them were armed with a tomahawk and a baseball bat.

They assaulted the man, leaving him with a serious head injury - he's now recovering in the John Hunter Hospital.

Police say the men ransacked the house before fleeing with a number of items.

There were 4 people in the house at the time including a 7-year-old boy - none of the other occupants were injured.

Woman Carjacked and Assaulted at Mount Hutton

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A man has been charged with carjacking and assaulting a female pizza delivery driver at Lake Macquarie.

Police allege around 7:30 last night, the 21-year-old woman was in her delivery car when she was stopped by a man standing in the middle of Tennent Road, Mount Hutton. 

It's there the man allegedly got in the vehicle and demanded she drive him to Warners Bay.

When she tried to get away, the man allegedly grabbed her around the neck - and members of the public came to her aid, contacting police.

Lake Macquarie Officers arrived on scene in time to find the 27-year-old man trying to break into another car - they arrested him and took him to the Mater Hospital for observation before he was eventually charged with several offences.

He'll face Newcastle Local Court today. 

Teen Girls Asked to Get in Stranger's Car

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Two teenage girls have been asked to get in a man's car during a stranger danger incident at Hamilton North.

Police say the girls, aged 15 and 12, were walking along Clyde Street when a white sedan with black and white number plates pulled up near them, and the driver beckoned them to get inside.

The pair ran away, while police are now looking for the man - he's been described as having a dark complexion, about 173 centimetres tall with a solid build, short brown hair and is aged in his 40s.

Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers.

Fairfax Facing Backlash Over Beresfield Closure

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

Fairfax Media is facing backlash following yesterday's revelation it will close its Beresfield printing plant and share printing networks with Newscorp.

With up to 70 local workers set to be made redundant as a result of the closure, the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union is calling on the media giant to treat its printing staff with respect.

According to AMWU's National Secretary Lorraine Cassin, the Union last week received a document outlining a Deloitte study which showed closures would occur, but when Fairfax and Newscorp were approached by the Union regarding the rumours both companies vehemently denied the information.

"They've forgotten there are actually people behind those numbers," Ms Cassin told 2NURFM News.

"They're employees, and they're part of a community, and if they want their paper out there and to be read by the community then they should show respect for the workers and for the community."

Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery has also responded to the news and is calling on Fairfax to reconsider its decision.

The MP says the already-struggling area doesn't deserve to lose another industry and she's concerned potential flow-on effects may further harm other local industries.

"Our local papers should be printed locally," Sonia Hornery said.

"It's time to support local jobs and our local economy."

Lorraine Cassin says Fairfax, in correspondence with the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union, claimed consultation was underway, but the Union is disappointed this consultation didn't take place before the final decision was made.

"It's not consultation when you've announced you're closing the site, but now we'll come and talk to you about what that actually means," she said.

"I'm really disappointed on behalf of our members."

Fairfax has indicated to the AMWU that all employees affected by the closure will receive appropriate support and will be paid their full entitlements.

The Printing Plant at Beresfield. Image: Fairfax

Drivers Needed For Newcastle Light Rail

BY NADIA D'ANDREA

With construction drawing to a close, around 20 additional staff are needed to operate Newcastle's light rail system.

Keolis Downer Hunter is recruiting drivers and operational staff its new multimodal centre at Wickham.

Testing for the Newcastle light rail will commence in the coming months, “which means we need drivers to go,” Corporate Affairs Director, Andrew Fletcher said.

Keolis Downer is encouraging anyone who is interested to apply for the available positions.

"The most important requirement for our applicants is to be safety focused, where passengers are concerned and public transport is involved.

"But they also need good multitasking abilities - plenty of spatial awareness, peripheral vision, they need to be aware of pedestrian and vehicle movements at all times and they need to be fairly customer-centric," Mr Fletcher said. 

Successful applicants will undergo a rigorous 30-day long training course, which is a mix of "classroom style education and also on the job training...

"Being in the vehicles, getting familiar with the vehicles and during the testing and commissioning phase being out on the streets and getting familiar with the route as well," Mr Fletcher said. 

Man's Body Discovered Near Tree at Charlestown

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A man's body has been found in bushland at Charlestown.

Police responded to reports of the grim discovery around 1:15pm on Tuesday, attending the scene just off Charlestown Road.

Lake Macquarie Police established a crime scene, however initial investigations suggest the death was not suspicious.

Officers have been unable to identify the body, but it's believed the man was homeless and known to frequent the Warners Bay, Charlestown, Cardiff and Kotara South areas.

Police say the man was known for carrying plastic shopping bags and wearing them on the inside of his shoes.

He's also reportedly usually seen drinking a cup of coffee, and is described as being Caucasion, around 162 centimetres tall and aged in his 50s.

Anyone who may be able to identify this man or has any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Boy Critical After Singleton Housefire

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A five-year-old boy is fighting for life in a Sydney hospital following a significant house fire at Singleton Heights this morning.

Fire crews rushed to the home on Bridgeman Road around 8am this morning, where a mother and her four children, aged between three and 16, luckily escaped with only minor injuries.

However, a five-year-old boy sustained serious burns to his body - he's been airlifted to Westmead Hospital in a critical condition, while the family's home has been totally destroyed.

Hunter Valley police have established a crime scene, and the cause of the blaze is yet unknown.

Anyone with information is urged to come forward.

Two Fight For Life Following Collision at Stroud

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Two women remain in a critical condition in the John Hunter hospital following a two-vehicle smash at Stroud yesterday afternoon.

Two Toyotas, a sedan and SUV, collided on The Buckets Way with three people injured; the female driver of one car, the 74-year-old male driver of the other and his female passenger.

The women, aged in their 60s were airlifted by the Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter to Newcastle, while the male driver of the SUV was taken there via ambulance in a stable condition.

It's unknown how their recovery is tracking. 

Beresfield Printing Press to Close: Fairfax Strike Deal with Newscorp

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Fairfax has announced they will close down their Beresfield printing press as part of a surprising agreement with rival, News Corp, to use each other's printing networks.

Mastheads like The Newcastle Herald will now be printed out of News Corp's North Richmond plant in Sydney, transitioning operations from Beresfield and Queensland's Orniston, leading to their closure at a date yet unknown.

It means around 120 workers collectively, 70 at Beresfield, are facing job uncertainty, with Fairfax promising to provide comprehensive assistance and meet all legal obligations.

In a statement provided to the Australian Stock Exchange, Fairfax Media Chief Executive Greg Hywood said it's all in a bid to keep newspaper production alive for years to come in an era of digitisation.

"These are landmark initiatives...better utilisation of existing print assets makes sense and will deliver economic benefits," he said.

"Our decision to rationalise some printing assets reduces capital intensity.

"We expect the combination of the new arrangement...to result in an annualised full-year benefit of approximately $15 million," Mr Hywood said.

Copies of The Newcastle Herald and its regional titles will continue to be distributed as usual around the Hunter.

UoN Researcher Warns Against Smoking with Cancer

BY GRACE LANCASTER

Researchers at the University of Newcastle are speaking up about the danger of smoking after being diagnosed with cancer.

With around fifty per cent of cancer patients recorded as continuing to smoke, researchers are now warning of the impact it can have on the effectiveness of treatment and overall survival.

"Smoking actually interferes with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and it also slows wound healing from surgery," says University of Newcastle Researcher, Kristen McCarter, "but cancer patients continuing to smoke also experience all of the harm that anyone without cancer would experience."

A free cancer research event was held today at the Hunter Medical Research Institute to keep patients informed on treatment decisions, where questions were opened to the public.

"Everyone sort of knows that smoking causes lung cancer and that continuing to smoke is harmful in that area, although some lung cancer patients might think the damage is already done and that there isn't a point in quitting but there certainly is," says Ms McCarter.

Anyone interested in being an advisor in the Hunter Cancer Research Alliance Consumer Advisor Panel is advised to visit the HCRA website here: www.hcra.com.au.

Fatal Crash on Central Coast Sees Two Taken to John Hunter

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Two men have been taken to the John Hunter Hospital following a deadly two-vehicle crash on the Central Coast.

Emergency services were called out to Wilfred Barrett Drive at Magenta after reports a Mitsubishi Lancer and Range Rover had collided just after 11am this morning.

The male driver and two passengers of the Range Rover, a man and woman, were removed from the vehicle, and the woman was airlifted to Westmead Hospital in Sydney in a critical condition.

The men were conveyed to the John Hunter with serious injuries.

Police say the driver of the Mitsubishi sadly couldn't be saved, and a report is now being prepared for the coroner.

Fourth Man Charged Over Cardiff Break and Enter

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A fourth man has finally been charged over an aggravated break and enter four months ago at Cardiff.

Lake Macquarie Police have been investigating the Penylan Street incident following reports a group of people were bearing firearms as they stole a vehicle from the house on March 28, which was later involved in a pursuit through Edgeworth.

Three men, aged 18, 20 and 21 have already been arrested, with police yesterday tracking down a 23-year-old man at a home in Fletcher Street, Wallsend.

He'll face Newcastle Local Court today on multiple charges.

Gardening Tools Brandished During Wallsend Road Rage

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

We're being reminded to keep our cool after prangs on the road, following an alarming road rage incident at Wallsend.

Police say a Holden Commodore and an Isuzu ute were involved in a minor collision yesterday afternoon on the Newcastle Link Road before one motorist reportedly drove away.

The other driver followed, and the two vehicles eventually came to a stop, with several people allegedly pulling out garden tools and using them to damage each other's cars.

Officers arrived on the scene too late to catch the group, and are now appealing to anyone with dashcam footage to come forward as investigations continue.

Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000.

Motorcyclist Injured in Collision With Car, Newcastle

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A man injured in a motorbike and car collision on Hunter Street this morning has been taken to the John Hunter Hospital.

Around 8:50am, a car turning right off Hunter Street into Steel Street near KFC collided with the male rider travelling in the opposite direction.

NSW Ambulance says the man, aged in his 60s, was treated at the scene for a leg injury and was conveyed via road to hospital shortly after in a stable condition.

They say the driver of the Toyota SUV involved managed to escape without harm.

John Hunter Roadworks Renew Calls To Expedite The Newcastle Inner City Bypass

BY JARROD MELMETH

Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery says while she welcomes traffic improvement measures at the John Hunter Hospital, only the construction of a second entrance and expedition of Stage 5 of the Newcastle Inner City Bypass will solve the major traffic issues.

The roadworks due to commence on Wednesday, July 18, will see the resurfacing of the road leading into the Hospital and down past the main entry. The works will also see the road alongside the front of the Hospital and main carparks turned into two way so that cars do not have to travel around the Hospital if leaving from the carpark near the Pathology Building.

Ms Hornery said while it won't stop the major congestion, it will hopefully ease some of the significant delays motorists experience.

"The solution is that we look at alternative roads being built as well. That means expediting the completion of the Newcastle Inner City Bypass from Jesmond to Rankin Park.

"It also means looking at how we can get commuters, staff, visitors and patients in the John Hunter Hospital off the road. This could be achieved through the re-installation of the free shuttle service that used to operate very successfully from Macdonald Jones Stadium.

"If the government were fair dinkum about easing congestion they would improve public transport so commuters from around the area can get to places like the John Hunter, the Mater and the University without being forced to drive because they have no alternative," Ms Hornery said.

The road travelling west at the John Hunter Hospital campus set to be
turned into two-way driving.

Know Your Rights: MyHealth Record Opt Out

BY JARROD MELMETH

From this week, Hunter New England Health patients who do not want their medical records stored on the national My Health Record database have until October 15 to opt out.

Under the scheme, people's medical records will be stored on a national database, to be viewed by patients, doctors and other medical staff at any time.

My Health Record is set to come into effect by the end of the year, but patients are being warned about potential privacy and security issues, with a three-month window to say they don't want the Australian government to make an online medical file for them.

Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network Executive Manager John Bailey said he believes the system is more secure than a paper one.

"The system is built on military-grade security systems. The Commonwealth government have taken great cares to make sure that it is secure. Obviously, no system is absolutely secure and it would be a foolhardy person who said that it was.

"The reality of it is, it is much more secure than the paper record in a practitioners office and it is much more safe and secure than an exercise book that people are carrying around," Mr Bailey said.

For more information about My Health Record click here.