Petition Launched to Upgrade Dangerous Thornton Intersection

BY  MADELAINE MCNEILL

A petition has been launched calling for urgent safety repairs to a notorious Thornton intersection.

The petition was launched by Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison, who has also introduced a Notice of Motion to parliament calling on the Berejiklian Government to make urgent improvements to the site.

Data obtained from Roads and Maritime Services and NSW Police shows eight crashes have been reported at or nearby the intersection over the past ten years, with four Triple Zero calls made at the site between July 2016 and June 2018.

Ms. Aitchison said many residents have complained to her office about the intersection.

"It's a regular feature of all the social media concerns but particularly, the people ringing my office are sending photos of near-misses," Jenny Aitchison told 2NURFM News.

"It's just becoming beyond a joke."

Maitland City Council has plans to improve the Haussman Drive portion of the intersection but Roads and Maritime Services holds responsibility for Raymond Terrace Road, leaving the local MP wondering why nothing has been done.

"This is a busy section of main road connection Maitland to Raymond Terrace and the location is the epicenter of residential boom," Jenny Aitchison said.

"Surely traffic lights are needed here."

Ms. Aitchison is calling on the government to investigate the site's crash history and find a solution before tragedy strikes the intersection.

"We just really want the government to act before someone dies."

Copies of Jenny Aitchison's petition are available here.

Image: Google Maps

Lake Macquarie Says Overseas Trip "Crucial"

BY KYLE CARROLL

An overseas study tour which Lake Macquarie Council has spent an estimated $34,500 on, is causing controversy with some ratepayers believing it was a complete waste of money.

The smart city study tour saw the Mayor and two council colleagues investigate smart technology in cities like Singapore, Amsterdam and London. 

Lake Macquarie Mayor, Kay Fraser says it was crucial to see first hand the technology that can be applied in the future to remain economically stable. 

"In Lake Macquarie, we have 25% of our population employed in manufacturing and mining and we know the jobs are going to be around in the next 10 to 15 years," she said.

The idea of the study tour was for the council delegation to learn first-hand from other smart city successes, failures and challenges but in doing so has risen some eyebrows.

Community organisations like the Boolaroo Action Group aren't impressed, with member Jim Sullivan saying these tours are a junket.

"These things are usually a junket and have been around for a long time," continuing, "it never brings any benefit to the city," he said.

The tour also coincided with an environmental court hearing to ensure the local council wasn't going to be slugged with an ongoing maintenance bill for the remediation on the Pasminco Cockle Creek site. 

Mr Sullivan says fighting for the prevention of an $850,000 bill would have been a much smarter option.

"Their time would have been much more beneficially spent at that Land and Environmental Court in Sydney," he said.

Cr Fraser stands by her study tour, saying with an ageing population they can't afford to miss opportunities. 

"I think it is really important for me to make sure I give this city the best opportunity for the future."

Image:Traveller.com.au

Hunter Student Wins Anzac Ambassador's Program

BY TANIA SALITRA

Muswellbrook High School student Yasmin Jimmieson has won a trip of a lifetime with five other students from across NSW to visit key Anzac battlegrounds as part of the Premier's Anzac Ambassador's Program. 

Premier Berejiklian announced the successful students this week after the students submitted an essay on the Centenary of Anzac. 

Yasmin will embark on a ten day trip starting in Greece, to explore how the Anzac story unfolded in Athens and Lemnos then walking in the footsteps of the diggers on the Western Front, travelling to Villers-Bretonneux in France, Passchendaele in Belgium and London. 

This opportunity for students to experience a first hand insight into the heroism shown by our soldiers was established to help educate the next generation about the importance of Australia's

Anzac history.

Image source: Muswellbrook High School

Bartender Sues Newcastle Club Over Keg Explosion

BY IAN CROUCH

A young bartender is suing Newcastle's Bar Beach Bowling Club after he lost his arm in an explosion there almost 4 years ago.

Jye Parker was helping to set up a beer keg in the cool room at the club in October 2014 when the blast tore off his left arm.

The Telegraph reports the 27-year-old is suing the club and Carlton United Breweries, saying they breached their duty of care.

He says the over-pressurised keg ruptured because it didn't have a gas regulating device fitted.

Jye Parker To Take Legal Action Over Horrific Workplace Incident Picture: therherald.com.au

Hunter Street To Reopen To Traffic Tonight As Light Rail Project Wraps Up

BY IAN CROUCH

The construction of Newcastle's light rail network has finished, with cars able to drive down the entire length of Hunter Street from tonight.

The fences are coming down on the final section between Merewether and Telford Streets.

It's the culmination of 12 months of work which included a major upgrade of the sewer and drainage system, new footpaths and access points to the harbour.

Testing is set to begin in coming weeks ahead of the network's official opening early next year.

It comes in time for tomorrow's re-opening of the restored Newcastle Station, with a free public event to mark the occasion.

More than 3000 people have worked on the Light Rail project.

These Hunter Street Barriers Are About To Come Down Picture: therherald.com.au

Transport, Employment Concerns of Older Novocastrians

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A new report from the NSW Council on the Ageing has identified employment as a key area of concern for Newcastle residents over the age of 50.

Residents of Charlestown, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, Swansea and Wallsend took part in one of 18 statewide focus groups, with most admitting they are concerned about securing jobs and interviews or being forced into early retirement.

"Generally people who find themselves unemployed at 50 are likely to be unemployed until retirement age," Council CEO Meagan Lawson explained.

"That obviously has far-reaching impacts on their standards of living and ability to rent or pay off mortgages," she continued, "that continues into retirement..."

Ms Lawson said local infrastructure and transport were also areas highlighted for improvement.

"They're worried about getting around - so the privatisation of bus services in Newcastle, as well as poorly constructed footpaths were identified as a big issue."

Older Novocastrians also expressed their concerns over the increasing digitisation of public information, with details of things like community events moving online.

Finally, the surveyed group said they'd like to see medical staff given extra training on how to communicate effectively.

For more information, visit the COTA website.

Coal Loader Relocation Called Off

BY KEELY JOHNSON

Tighes Hill residents are disappointed with the NSW governments recent back-flip on plans to relocate Carrington's coal loader.

The relocation was touted for investigation in the 2017 draft Newcastle Greater Metropolitan Plan, however the final version, released last week makes no mention of the idea. 

The coal terminal is located about 200 metres from residential properties, exposing residents to coal dust.   

Charlotte McCabe from the Tighes Hill Community Group is accusing the government of pandering to the interests of coal industry heavyweights. 

"We were hoping the state government would investigate alternative uses for the site," she said, "but it looks like, unfortunately, the company has been listened to instead of the community. 

"We will continue to call for the state government to look for alternatives in the future." 

Image: NBN News. 

Meningococcal Disease Claims Another Life In The Hunter

BY IAN CROUCH

A young Hunter woman has died after contracting meningococcal disease.

The 25-year-old collapsed at home last Saturday and was rushed to hospital by ambulance but was unable to be revived.

Tests have confirmed meningococcal was the cause of death.

It's the eighth confirmed case of the disease in the Hunter New England Health region and the second fatality this year.

A child is currently being cared for in another Hunter region hospital and is reported to be in a stable condition.

Gateshead Photographer Charged With Indecent Assault

BY IAN CROUCH

A Gateshead photographer is due to face court next month accused of indecently assaulting young women during photo shoots.

It's alleged the 55-year-old assaulted a then 17-year-old and a 21-year-old at his studio between 2009 and 2012.

He's been charged with two counts of incite person over 16 to commit act of indecency and two counts of assault with act of indecency and has been granted conditional bail to appear at Belmont Local Court on October 10.

Fears Held For Missing Wallsend Teen

BY IAN CROUCH

Police are appealing for help to find a teenager who's gone missing from Wallsend.

15-year-old Kyle James was last seen at his home on Wednesday September 12 and hasn't been seen or heard from since.

He's described as being of Caucasian appearance, 160 centimetres tall with a medium build, brown hair and blue eyes.

If you've seen Kyle or know where he is, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Missing Teen Kyle James

New Role in the Pipeline to Lift Newcastle Nightlife

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

We could soon see a new role created at City of Newcastle, allowing the town's nightlife to be expanded.

Called the Night Mayor or Night Tsar, the appointed person would act as an ambassador of Newcastle venues, showing off the city's nightlife to locals and tourists alike.

The ambassador would also act as a point of contact between residents and venue operators involved in disputes.

In a meeting last night, Councillors voted to support the role's creation, with finer details - like who would be the Night Mayor - still to be sorted out.

Councillor John Mackenzie said the position has been used to great success across the globe.

"Amsterdam, London, New York - they all have Night Mayors or Night Tsars," he explained, "but it's not just the big cities... of the municipal governments in the Netherlands there's 14 Night Tsars each playing a role in their local province in promoting their nighttime economy and what makes them unique."

In these countries, the position has been filled by club owners or those who've worked in the live music industry - perhaps paving the way for someone like Live Music Taskforce supporter and Screaming Jets Star Grant Walmsley to take the reigns.

Only time will tell, with Councillor Mackenzie saying the organisation hopes to open applications "very soon."

Image: Bangkok. 

Maximum Building Heights Amended in Nelson Bay

BY GEMMA FERGUSON, CATHERINE ALLEN AND JORDYN RANKIN

The Nelson Bay skyline is set to look quite different in years to come, with Port Stephens Council approving a plan to allow for taller buildings.

Last night, a majority vote of 5 to 4 moved to amend the building height restrictions outlined in the new Town Centre and Foreshore Implementation Plan.

The updated proposal will be forwarded to the Department of Planning.

According to the amendment, structures within the core of the town centre will be allowed to reach heights of only 5 storeys, while buildings on the fringe of the centre can be built as tall as 8 storeys.

"We see it as a positive - we realise we can't continue the way things are, something has to happen," said Deputy Mayor, Sarah Smith.

"We think it's the right decision for the future of Nelson Bay," Ms Smith continued.

Although, not everyone is convinced.

Geoff Washington, President of the Tomaree Ratepayers Association, has expressed his concern regarding the Council's plans.

Mr Washington fears the taller buildings will "virtually destroy the coastal township character" of his hometown.

And he isn't alone in his doubts.

"Nearly 2600 submissions went to the Council - over 90% of those opposed the highrises" Mr Washington explained.

Ms Smith agrees, "if we were talking about Gold Coast-style highrises that would be a negative for the town."

However, she reassures us that "there's certainly nothing like that being proposed" and the public's opinions have been considered throughout the process.

Tomaree Ratepayers Association will be meeting later today.

Image: TripAdvisor. 

End of Gas Exploration in Hunter and Central Coast

BY LAURA D'AMICO

Swansea and the Central Coast will see on-land gas exploration come to an end, after the cancellation of the State Government's Petroleum Exploration Licence 461.

The license, granted in 2008, originally covered over 15,000 hectares around Swansea, Wyee and Budgewoi, impacting tens of thousands of homes.

With the cancellation of the license, the towns are being assured no more gas exploration can be undertaken.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald has welcomed the announcement by Resources Minister Don Harwin, saying the cancellation removes uncertainty for the communities.

Greens MP Jeremy Buckingham said it's a good start but there is more the Government could be doing.

"It's a step in the right direction but the government needs to get serious about cancelling licenses across the Hunter and Central Coast," Mr Buckingham said.

"The region is still faced with many other petroleum exploration licenses and the prospect of offshore gas drilling, the State and Federal Government need to do much more to move away from fossil fuels towards a renewable energy future that deals with the impacts of climate change."

Georgina Woods from Lock the Gate Alliance has also long been opposed to this type of testing. 

"We welcome the buyback of the Petroleum Exploration License. It's long overdue to be honest, a great relief for local residences," Ms Woods said.

"This was a legacy exploration license from before the Chief sciences review of the Coal-Seam Gas Industry, which recommended strict new regimes for that industry in this State and it's a terrific relief that the government has finally gotten rid of it."

For more information on Government plans on resources and energy, please visit the Department of Planning and Environment.

Image Sourced from Utility Magazine

Detectives Investigate Suspicious Death At Cessnock

BY IAN CROUCH

Two people have been questioned by detectives over the death of a 36-year-old man at Cessnock.

Police were called to a home on Edith Street at about 11.00pm on Tuesday where they found the man with serious injuries in the backyard - it's believed he'd been struck by a Nissan Patrol 4WD which has since been seized for forensic examination.

The man was treated by paramedics but died at the scene.

A short time later, a 31-year-old woman and a 32-year-old man attended Cessnock Police Station - the woman's since been released pending further inquires, however the man remains in custody.

Police say all three people are known to each other and it's believed the incident is domestic related.

Two People Injured In Muswellbrook House Fire

BY IAN CROUCH

Two people have treated for burns after fire engulfed their home at Muswellbrook this morning.

Newcastle Fire Command says they received 6 triple-oh calls to a brick and tile home on Osborne Street just before 4 o'clock, arriving to find the house engulfed in flames.

A 47-year-old man suffered burns to his feet and smoke inhalation while a 22-year-old woman has been taken to Muswellbrook Hospital with burns to her hands and feet.

The home was destroyed in the blaze and fire crews are still at the scene mopping up hot spots.

The cause of the fire is not known and police have set up a crime scene.

Cooks Hill Unit Fire: Residents Evacuated

BY IAN CROUCH

Residents have been evacuated from a unit complex at Cooks Hill after a fire broke out in one of the apartments .

Fire crews from Newcastle, Merewether and the Hazmat unit were called to the block of housing commission units in Darby Street next to Darby's Pies at 4.15 this morning to find the windows blown out and flames issuing from a ground floor unit.

No-one was inside the unit at the time and all the residents of the complex have been evacuated, including an elderly woman on a top floor balcony who was helped out with the aid of a breathing apparatus extension.

Crews managed to contain the fire to the one unit - the rest of the units have been smoke logged.

The cause of the fire is not known at this stage.

Proposed Policy Changes For The Port Of Newcastle

BY JARROD MELMETH

The NSW Government have proposed changes to the Environmental Planning Policy at three Ports across the state.

Planning Minister Anthony Roberts announced yesterday policy changes for NSW's three largest seaports, Newcastle, Botany and Kembla, to streamline their operations.

Mr Roberts said the amendments give the port operators and their tenants the ability to undertake essential, day-to-day development on land within the lease areas more efficiently, subject to compliance with standards.

"Essential maintenance, installation of pollution control measures and other requirements of a working port will be able to be built under the exempt and complying development pathways.

"In addition, we are also protecting our ports from incompatible land-use encroaching on their sites and making it harder to go about their business," Mr Roberts said.

A container terminal at the Port of Newcastle has been a point of contention after it was revealed earlier this year the NSW Government had entered into an agreement meaning that if Newcastle was to build a container terminal, it would have to compensate Port Botany for any containers it handled above a limit of 30,000 a year.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald said the proposed changes would ensure Port land is protected for potential future expansion but does not set out provision for the possibility of a container port.

"It will protect the future of the Port of Newcastle. It is the primary bulk commodity port. It is already allowed to move a certain amount of containers as part of the agreement. In the future it means that those uses can continue," Mr MacDonald said.

The Department of Planning is calling on anyone interested in the amendments to review and comment on the proposed changes.

The Port of Newcastle. Image: NSW Mining.

Police Issue Warning After Ordnance Explosion

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A 4-year-old girl has undergone surgery to her hip and shoulder today after a World War Two relic exploded at Anna Bay overnight.

Police say the child's father had been fossicking around a former military range and came home with a number of projectiles, one of which detonated at the Morna Point Road property around 10pm.

The 37-year-old and his daughter both suffered superficial shrapnel wounds and were taken to the John Hunter in a stable condition.

The property has since been secured, with Defence technicians attending the house and collecting several projectile items which were rendered safe.

Neighbours should not be concerned about further explosions occurring.

The incident has prompted police to issue a stern warning to residents to avoid playing around with suspicious objects.

Chief Inspector Brian Tracey said anyone who finds army ordnances should report them immediately.

"These objects wash up very often and what should happen, quite sensibly, is people contact their local police and say they've seen an item which they believe to be an unexploded piece of ordnance and Bomb and Rescue and the Department of Defence attend that scene and make it safe," he said. 

At the time of a press conference at 11am this morning, police were yet to speak to the injured man, but said they have every intention to. 

Festival Drug Use Key Focus of UoN Lecture

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

As the national debate on festival pill testing rages on, a University of Newcastle health expert is preparing for a public lecture on the need to address mass-gathering drug use.

Professor Alison Hutton is highlighting youth events like Schoolies Week and festivals as key sites for serious public health concerns like excessive alcohol consumption and drug use.

She says we need more research into actual drug use levels and demographics before we can hope to address the issue.

"It's really hard to tell, because it's underground," she explains, "we don't know enough about it because it's illegal and people don't talk about it.

"We know that many men over the age of 35 do take recreational drugs as well, but unfortunately, we've decided this problem is fit for young people, and that's not necessarily true."

Professor Hutton believes pill testing does represent a good way to talk to people thinking of using drugs, by informing them what substance they are taking, how strong it is and what it does to their bodies.

The contentious issue has been in the headlines recently following the overdose deaths of a 23-year-old man and 21-year-old woman at Sydney's Defqon 1 event on September 15.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has vowed to shut down the event, but critics say that will only force drug-taking further underground.

Professor Hutton will use her lecture to argue we need to be increasing youth engagement with police, and says there's a few strategies which have already proven successful interstate.

"In Adelaide, a lot of young people used to drive their cars down to Schoolies, and anyone who drove their car would be offered free parking, but a condition of that free parking would be that they would have to give their keys over to the police.

"If they wanted to drive during the week, they had to go and see police, take a breathalyser test and walk a line - if they were sober they could have their keys," she explained.

Professor Hutton's lecture will be held at the Newcastle Conservatorium on Thursday 27 September from 6pm - register for free here.

Image: The Music Network. 

Rural Crime Workshop for Muswellbrook Farmers

BY LAURA D'AMICO

At a time when property holders are already struggling through drought, NSW Police say they've received increasing reports of stolen equipment and fodder, as well as illegal hunting.

Muswellbrook farmers and agribusinesses are being encouraged to attend a workshop on rural crime prevention by the NSW Farmers Association.

The workshop, at Muswellbrook District Workers Club from 6pm til 8pm tonight, comes in the wake of reported cases of hay bale theft in the region last month.

It will cover tips on dealing with trespassers and illegal hunting, drone usage over properties, the use of firearms and safe storage, fuel and property theft.

Another focus of the workshop is reporting crime and what police can do to assist landholders.

Assistant Commissioner Geoff McKechnie says the workshops are a great initiative for local police and farmers to discuss new crime prevention strategies and what both can do to help combat rural and regional crime.

"Farmers attending will hear from experienced rural crime investigators and detectives about ways they can target-harden their premises and how to reduce the levels of rural crime occurring," he says.

"People can talk to these police officers about what is concerning them at present," Assistant Commissioner McKechnie says, "and in terms of their local area and get local knowledge there and then."

The rural workshop is free and available to all farmers and agribusiness. To register and RSVP, please visit NSW Farmers.

Image sourced from muswellbrookchronicle.com.au

Drought Stricken Farmer Wins "Godsend" Lotto Prize

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A Singleton farmer who's been battling through the Upper Hunter's drought has seen his luck change, winning $200,000 on Lotto.

The winning entry took out 1st prize in the Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot on Friday night, and was purchased from the Singleton Discount Drug Store on John Street.

The man, who's remaining anonymous, has told Lotto officials he'll use it to install a water bore on his property.

"We've been going through the drought and things are a bit tough at the moment, so the win will be a godsend," he said.

"I've been buying hay for the animals and things are triple the price, so it will be very good."

Cash raining down: the money couldn't have come at a more crucial time for the Singleton farmer. Image: The Argus. 

Darby's Pies Closes With $3-Million In Debt

BY IAN CROUCH

It's been revealed iconic Newcastle bakery, Darby's Pies has been placed in liquidation owing $3million to creditors.

The business, which opened in 1969, was placed in voluntary administration in March while attempts were made to keep the company trading.

However, the decision was made at the weekend to close the doors for good yesterday, leaving 120 people out of work.

The company operated 27 stores across Newcastle.

It's unlikely the company will be able to pay employees their entitlements - they'll instead have to access the Federal Government's Fair Entitlement Scheme.

Staff at Darbys Pies were told on Monday they no longer had jobs. Picture: NBN News

UPDATED: Father And Young Daughter Rushed To Hospital After Explosion At Anna Bay

BY IAN CROUCH

A father and his young daughter have been rushed to hospital after an explosion at Anna Bay last night.

Emergency services were called to a home on Morna Point Road at about 10pm to find the 37-year-old man and his 4-year-old daughter with lacerations and shrapnel injuries.

They've been taken to the John Hunter Hospital in a serious but stable condition and are expected to undergo surgery this morning.

Police say it appears the man had been fossicking around the sand dunes at the former World War 2 military range nearby and found some old ordnance and took them home.

He was handling one of the items last night in the backyard of his home when it detonated.

The Army bomb squad was brought in from Sydney - they removed a number of items, believed to be projectiles.

Police have set up a crime scene as investigations into the incident continue.

It's prompted police to issue a warning to the community not to touch unexploded ordnance if they find any, but to mark the spot and call police immediately.

Wallsend Man Killed In Motorcycle Crash

BY IAN CROUCH

A report is being prepared for the Coroner after a Newcastle man lost his life in a motorcycle crash on the Central Coast.

Police say the 53-year-old from Wallsend was riding along Wisemans Ferry Road at Spencer at about 11.30am on Sunday he collided with a car.

He died at the scene, while a 44-year-old man driving the car was treated for minor injuries and taken to hospital for mandatory testing.

The Crash Scene At Spencer Image: NBN TV

Hunter Firefighters Kept Busy

BY IAN CROUCH

Fire crews have been kept busy across the Hunter overnight.

An investigation is under way into the cause of a fire which severely damaged a home at Cessnock overnight.

Fire crews from Cessnock and Bellbird and the RFS were called to a single storey brick and tile home in Alkira Aveune just after 1.30 this morning.

No-one was home at the time and firefighters took about 2 hours to extinguish and mop up the fire.

Meanwhile, crews have worked through the night to contain a large grass fire at Tenambit.

The fire broke out in swampland near the Maitland Pistol club off Metford Road just after 2 yesterday afternoon.

More than 50 firefighters from Fire & Rescue NSW and the RFS battled the flames, which burnt out around 6 hectares.

No properties were under threat with the blaze now listed as being under control.

Charges Laid Over Bashing At Maitland Railway Station

BY IAN CROUCH

A man is due to front court next month accused of a brutal bashing at Maitland Railway Station.

A 45-year-old man was allegedly punched in the face and kicked while waiting at the station just after 1.00am on Saturday September 15.

Just two days after releasing CCTV images, detectives yesterday arrested a 23-year-old Rutherford man.

He's been granted conditional bail to face Maitland Local Court on October 17 charged with assault occasioning grievous bodily harm and assault occasioning and actual bodily harm.

Hunter Students Hit the Trails

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

More than 200 local school students took part in the first Hunter School Mountain Bike Club racing event today at Glenrock.

The championship event is the result of a partnership between Hunter Christian School and Hunter Valley Mountain Bike Club, giving local kids a chance to get involved with mountain biking through coaching opportunities and racing events.

The initiative offers affordable after-school coaching, before-school gym and breakfast sessions and bike lock-up facilities for students at Hunter Christian School, but event organiser Jason English says students from all across the region can take part in the events.

"Doesn't matter what type of school you go to, whether it's primary or high school, whether it's a public school or a private school," said Mr English, who is a national mountain biking champion.

"We just wanted to create an event that's open for all kids, and that's what we've done."

Today's race was sponsored by a number of local businesses including Cycle Fitness Nutrition, which was forced to relocate away from Newcastle's CBD due to the disruption caused by the light rail development.

"Most of the local bike shops have come on board with some serious sponsorship, so the kids have been racing for some awesome prizes today." Jason English said.

Mr English says he hopes to run a three-race series next year, with students at today's event asking 'What's next?' on the event calendar.

Image: clickk.com.au

Environment Minister's Disappointing Response to Air Quality Concerns

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

Hunter residents are disappointed with NSW Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton after being told she doesn't have time to visit the region regarding ongoing air quality concerns.

Residents were joined by more than 30 local doctors in petitioning Ms Upton to stay overnight near the region's coal fields, hoping she could gain better insight into the air quality crisis impacting Hunter communities.

The organisation behind the petition, Doctors For The Environment, has since received a brief email from the Environment Minister's office telling them Gabrielle Upton had a 'heavily committed schedule' and would not be able to visit the region.

Spokesperson John Van der Kallen has labelled the response 'bemusing' and says it's disappointing for the community.

"We didn't actually have a time frame on our request for her to come," said Dr Van der Kallen.

"So it's bemusing that she's going to be 'too busy' indefinitely, it seems, to come and see the situation herself."

A number of inititatives have been started in recent years to improve air quality in the Hunter Valley, including the government's Clean Air for NSW plan, but Dr Van der Kallen says these processes have stalled since submissions were closed.

"The Environmental Protection Agency has been trying, and recently they've been doing more monitoring, but they're not really being given the tools so that they can actually act on these things appropriately," said Dr Van der Kallen.

He says Gabrielle Upton's response is disrespectful to the community, which has suffered air quality issues for a number of years now.

"It'd be good if those in Sydney could understand the situation a bit more so that we could get some changes happening."

Air Quality Concerns are a Major Issue in the Hunter. Image: The Herald

Pedestrian Struck by Car at Kurri Kurri

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

The Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter has been sent to the scene of a car and pedestrian collision at Kurri Kurri.

A 35-year-old man was hit by a 4WD at the intersection of Northcote and Wermol Streets around 1pm.

NSW Ambulance said the man has been treated at the scene for hip and chest pain.

He's is now being airlifted to the John Hunter Hospital with chest injuries and is in a stable condition.

Traffic is being affected in both directions.

Prisoner Escapes from Cessnock Gaol

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A prisoner has escaped from Cessnock Correctional Centre this morning.

Just after 11am, police were informed 18-year-old inmate Jake Nunn had escaped from a minimum security part of the gaol.

Nunn is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 170 centimetres tall, with a thin build, brown hair and brown eyes.

Police believe Nunn may be headed for Kurri Kurri or the Central Coast.

He was last seen wearing prison greens and joggers.

Anyone who sees Nunn should not approach him, but contact Triple Zero (000)  immediately.

Three Men Charged Over Hamilton Drug Supply

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Police have made a major drug bust targeting supply in the Hamilton area.

Officers executed two search warrants at a property in Hamilton Street, Kahibah and Wilson Street, Carrington where it's alleged they found illicit substances including MDMA, cannabis, steroids, cocaine and LSD tablets.

Police also allege they discovered a BB gun, knuckle dusters and a sum of cash at the premises.

Around 9:40pm yesterday, a 26-year-old man was arrested in Hamilton Street, Kahibah.

Another man, a 27-year-old, was arrested following a vehicle stop on Kenrick Street, Hamilton.

The pair were taken to Newcastle Police Station and both charged with multiple offences on several counts.

A third man was arrested at the Kahibah address after police allegedly found MDMA capsules on his person.

It comes after a lengthy investigation following the establishment of Strike Force Waroon, to investigate the supply of drugs in Hamilton.

The 26 and 27-year-olds will face Newcastle Local Court today after being refused bail, while the third man charged with possession is out on bail and will appear on October 8.

SWAP-It App Creating Healthy Lunchboxes

BY KYLE CARROLL

Parents and carers of Hunter school children will have a helping hand to create healthier lunchboxes with the support of a University of Newcastle research project.

The NIB foundation has provided a $500,000 grant to help researchers develop the new SWAP-It app in a bid to start healthy habits early.

Lead researcher, Luke Wolfenden says the application aims to address the nutritional intake of children to prevent unhealthy weight gain in childhood.

"Good nutrition is one of the most important determinants of children's health and well-being."

SWAP It who’s message to parents is to swap in healthy foods and swap out junk food will be delivered to 150 primary schools across the Hunter New England region.

The parent support program delivered through the app contains nutritional guidelines, weekly support messages and access to useful information through hyperlinks.

"We see the SWAP-It program as a means to support parents to pack healthy nutritious foods in their child's lunchbox on a daily basis, and therefore supporting children to play, learn, and thrive at school," A/Prof Wolfenden said.

This will directly benefit 75,000 students and 60,000 families across the Hunter over the next three year period.

Image: The Universtiy of Newcastle

Lake Macquarie Citizen of the Year 2019

BY KYLE CARROLL

Nominations for the Lake Macquarie's Australia day awards are now open to recognise those who make a positive difference to the community. 

Mayor of Lake Macquarie, Kay Fraser said many people who enrich the community go unnoticed so it is an important event to acknowledge those who make a difference.

"These special people, of which many in our city, inspire us through their achievements."

There are 4 categories open for the award with citizen and young citizen of the year, along with volunteer as well as community group of the year. 

Last years award recipients included Southlake Marketplace who supplied 4000 meals in 12 months to people in need and Teza Sankoorikal who, at 16, led the success in the Cultural Exposure Bill being passed.

"It's important to give these people these people recognition through the Australia Day awards because they challenge us all to think about how we can make our own contribution to creating a better and more caring society," Cr Fraser said.

Nomination forms are available online for the next month at lakemac.com.au/auawards, 

Lake Macquaire. Image:Traveller.com.au

Police Operation Targets Car Hoons On Newcastle Foreshore

BY IAN CROUCH

Police are cracking down on car hoons on the Newcastle foreshore

Officers from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Highway Patrol have joined forces to set up Operation Typewriter, with 8 officers using unmarked and covert vehicles  to target hoon drivers and street racing last night.

A 19-year-old man has been charged with aggravated burnout - he's also had his licence suspended and the number plates of his car confiscated for 3 months.

Another male driver was issued a fine and three vehicles were issued with defect notices.

Police say the operation will be ongoing.

UPDATE! Two People Seriously Injured In High Speed Crash At Charlestown

BY IAN CROUCH

Police are appealing for witnesses to this morning's high-speed crash at Charlestown which left three people in hospital.

It's now been revealed a Subaru WRX which crashed into the Metro Service Station on the Pacific Highway just before 2.00am had earlier been reported stolen.

Police say it appears the driver, a 24-year-old man from Taree, lost control of the car near the intersection of Frederick Street and crashed into a petrol price sign then an unattended car parked in a car port next to the service station before the vehicle caught on fire.

The three occupants managed to escape.

The driver and a 32-year-old female passenger from Gateshead remain in a serious condition in the John Hunter Hospital, while a third passenger, a 22-year-old man also from Gateshead, was taken to hospital but has since been released.

Police from the Newcastle Investigation Unit are continuing to look into the circumstances leading up to the crash and are urging witnesses to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The Crash Scene At Charlestown Picture: Carey Harris

EARLIER:


Two people have been taken to hospital after a high-speed crash at Charlestown.

Police say a Subaru WRX was heading north along the Pacific Highway just before 2 o'clock this morning when it left the road and crashed into a garden bed and a petrol price sign at the Metro Service Station near Frederick Street.

The car then careered into another car in the carport of an adjoining business.

A man driving the car and his female passenger were trapped in the wreckage before being freed and taken to the John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition.

Two of three northbound lanes on the Pacific Highway are closed as investigations continue.

NTEU Members Meet with Greens to Discuss Work Conditions

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE AND MADELAINE MCNEILL

Members of the National Tertiary Education Union from The University of Newcastle are taking part in a public forum with the NSW Greens today.

The Greens hope to apply pressure on the state government to introduce measures to reduce workplace casualisation, with less than half of working Australians in full-time positions.

The forum comes as university staff continue to negotiate with management, calling for a reduction in the institution's 2-out-of-3 casual jobs.

The Hunter Workers group have also attended the forum to discuss the need for greater job security in the local region.

Held in Sydney, the forum is also looking at the broader trend of casualisation taking place across the nation's industries.

Following the University's criticism of NTEU members for interrupting classes with strike action, Greens MP David Shoebridge says his party will keep up pressure on the government to find a solution for Hunter workers.

"The conditions on the campus have become particularly difficult for academics and for their support staff," Mr Shoebridge said.

"I don't think that's good enough, and I don't think the people of Newcastle think that's good enough for their premier educational institution."

Image: Facebook

Second City Symposium in Newcastle

BY SANZIANA TIMIS

The University of Newcastle's Hunter Research Foundation Centre will host an internationally-attended conference called "Second Cities: Smaller and Smarter symposium," taking place on the 29th and 30th of October.

With pressure on major metropolitan areas to accommodate an increase in population growth, experts say sustainability needs to come from outside these areas.

Second cities have greater opportunities to provide laid-back liveability conditions for residents, in comparison to the difficulties faced in big cities regarding house affordability, congestion and access to jobs. 

The conference will discuss innovation, infrastructure and the liveability for second cities such as Newcastle. Leading practitioners in the industry will develop plans of economic sustainability, including the 2018 Hunter Business Leader and host of the event, Kyle Loades, who vouches for the national necessity of second cities,

"Major metropolitan areas such as Melbourne and Sydney are growing fast and frankly they're struggling to keep up with the infrastructure and quality of life."

"This is where second cities such as Newcastle help people thrive and survive, to work and live a quality life."

                                                                             Source:https://www.visitnewcastle.com.au/

Stress on Housing Crisis for Homeless Women

BY LAURA D'AMICO


Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison is raising concern in regards to the housing crisis many women are facing.

Yesterday Ms Harrison gave a Notice of Motion to address the government, asking for long-term housing solutions for the ever-growing number of homeless women in the Charlestown electorate.

"These women have led conventional lives, raised families, worked part-time or in unpaid roles," Ms Harrison said.

"Many of these women are unable to maintain private rental as the high rental prices can consume practically all of their income - they are left without the financial security to care for themselves."

The rate of women who are homeless is increasing at a concerning rate, with considerable concern for those aged over 46.

With 0.01% of houses in the private rental market being affordable to women claiming a Newstart allowance, there has been an ever-present increase of women sleeping in cars and 'couch surfing'.

The worrying increase in the number of homeless women in the hunter has seen local not-for-profit support services stretched thin, and Jodie Harrison says the government needs to be doing more to fix the problem.

"The Berejiklian Government needs to stop pouring billions of dollars into rebuilding new sports stadiums in Syndey and put the money where it is needed most."

Appeal for Information: New Lambton Abduction, Robbery

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Police are asking the public for help with investigations into a New Lambton abduction and robbery.

On Saturday, August 25, a 33-year-old man was allegedly abducted from a home on Kings Road by an unknown group of people and driven to a number of locations around Newcastle.

He was threatened with a firearm and knife and forced to withdraw cash from ATMs.

The man was eventually freed and taken to the Mater Hospital as a precaution, however, sustained no physical injuries.

Strike Force Becap officers are now seeking information about a black Harley Davidson motorbike with NSW registration plates DGX 85 and a blue 2002 BMW with registration CQ 89 KV stolen from the property.

Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Shark Drones Return to Hunter Beaches

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

A drone program improving safety at local beaches is being expanded to two popular Hunter swimming spots.

The state government will roll out the drones at Birubi and Redhead beaches this summer, allowing lifeguards another set of eyes on the surf.

The drones will be in operation from November 1st and will offer a birds-eye view for lifeguards to spot potential risks from the air.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot Macdonald has said that while risk prevention is the priority, the drones will also inform future approaches for the NSW Shark Management Strategy.

The local beaches are among 15 across the NSW coast trialling the technology until April 2019.

A bull shark filmed off Redhead Beach during last season's drone trial. Image: The Herald

Boarding Houses Shut Down After Fire Risk

BY TARA LOUIS

Three boarding houses in Newcastle have received orders from City of Newcastle to shut down due to a perceived risk to life in the event of a fire.

The emergency orders have been issued on a Bourke Street heritage-listed property at Carrington and another two buildings at Waratah Street, Mayfield.

City of Newcastle CEO, Jeremy Bath, said the vulnerable boarders have been left at risk as a result of illegally constructed units and unauthorised building alterations made by the owner of the building.

"We've had to make the difficult but necessary decision to close these premises after our fire safety engineer identified an extreme risk to lives in the event of a fire," Mr Bath said.

More than 60 men are currently living across the three properties despite only 32 men being registered to board.

The owner has been ordered to pay back any forward rent and fix the illegal alterations to comply with the appropriate laws and regulations.

City of Newcastle is working alongside St Vincent de Paul Society’s Matthew Talbot Homeless Service, Family and Community Services, and Hunter Tenants Advice & Advocacy Service to find accommodation for the men.

Jeremy Bath. Picture: Newcastle Herald

Stockton Ferries to Receive Major Makeover

BY TARA LOUIS

After thirty years, the Stockton Ferries will be undergoing a major refurbishment following a commitment from Keolis Downer and Transport for NSW.

The first to receive the makeover, Hunter, is currently in Port Macquarie.

Director of Corporate Affairs, Andrew Fletcher, says "this is much more than a lick of paint and a spruce-up."

The upgrade will include the internal seating being replaced as well as new seats on the back deck, brand new floors, ceilings, windows, lighting, a bike rack and for the first time, the ferries will have surfboard racks.

Mr Fletcher hopes the makeover will positively impact patronage as he says the Stockton ferries are an "important transport choice, particularly for Stockton residents."

Hunter will be returning to the harbour before the Newcastle 500 Supercars event in November.

Shortland will be undergoing refurbishment in the new year.

Picture: Newcastle Herald

Funding Grant Available for Hunter Events

BY LAURA D'AMICO

With 2019 just around the corner, event organisers in the Hunter are being encouraged to apply for the NSW Governments Flagship Event Fund.

The fund, used earlier this year by The Newcastle Writers Festival, supports the local communities tourism industry.

Organisers can apply for annual or triennial grants to assist in marketing their events outside the local area.

The state government is making it easier for organisers to access the initiative this year, with the fund being offered in 2 rounds, with only one application process.

Applications for round one close Monday 8 October, with round two opening in February next year.

Those eligible wishing to lodge an application are can visit Destination NSW to access the grant.

Deputy Mayor Newly-Elected in Singleton

BY LAURA D'AMICO

Singleton has waved goodbye to previous Deputy Mayor Godfrey Adamthwaite who worked six years in the role, marking the start of Tony Jarrett's position among the Council.

It follows the customary voting process that took place last night at the cities Council Meeting.

Cr Tony Jarrett paid tribute to Cr Godfrey Adamthwaite and his 6-year term, acknowledging the hard work ahead of him.

"I look forward to stepping into the role, assisting our Mayor and bringing our community together for the benefit of the people who live and work in Singleton," Mr Jarrett said.

Bushfire Assistance for Cessnock and Shoalhaven

BY LAURA D'AMICO

Disaster assistance is being provided for Cessnock and Port Stephens communities affected by the mid-August bushfires.

The fires, fuelled by strong seasonal winds, scorched through over 2000 hectares, with significant operations required from first responders from the RFS and Fire & Rescue NSW.

Assistance is being jointly provided by Commonwealth-State Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) in response to the bushfires, with assistance measures available for local Councils' clean up and restoration costs, as well as for eligible people whose homes and belongings were damaged.

The NDRRA will also be providing freight subsidies for primary producers and grants for eligible non-profit organisations.

To apply for assistance you can contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority.

Further information on disaster assistance and emergency information can be found at disasterassist.gov.au and emergency.nsw.gov.au.

Young Man Dies in Seaham Crash

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

A teenager has tragically died after a single-vehicle collision at East Seaham early this morning.

Emergency services were called out to East Seaham Road just after 4:30am, where it appears the 19-year-old's Subaru Liberty had veered off the road and crashed into a power pole sometime earlier.

The young man was en route to the John Hunter Hospital when he succumbed to critical injuries.

Port Stephens Police are now appealing for any witnesses to come forward as crash investigations are launched.

Fishing Restrictions Scrapped in Marine Plan

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

The NSW Greens have slammed a state government move to backflip on fishing restrictions for 25 sites from Newcastle to Wollongong.

Access to commercial or leisure fishing was set to be reduced under the Marine Park proposal, but following backlash from anglers, including many in the Swansea area, Primary Industries Minister Niall Blair has called it off.

"What is now clear is that the proposed management methods and in some cases the sizes of the sites, offered up a narrow option that unfairly impacted on low-risk activities such as fishing and spearfishing," Mr Blair said.

"As a result, the NSW Government has taken lockouts off the table," he continued.

"We are confident there are many other ways to manage these sensitive areas, that have fishers as part of the solution and we will continue to explore these options for the rest of the consultation period.

"Today's decision does not change the fact we are still working towards a marine park that protects key marine habitats, species and the environment we all know and love," Mr Blair said.

However, Greens MP Justin Field says the government is bowing to corporate fat cats.

"They are not going to have fully protected marine sanctuaries as part of their Sydney marine park proposal," he explained, "basically, the government's position is an anti-environment, anti-science position. They have pandered to vested interests against the broader community interests and I think it's a real disgrace."

Justin Field says he's been the subject of online abuse, including threats of physical violence, by those opposed to the plan, and is calling for a reasoned debate on the issue.

Image: Illawarra Mercury. 

University of Newcastle Staff May Strike Again

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Members of the National Tertiary Education Union at Newcastle University say they will consider taking further industrial action following yesterday's day-long stoppage.

Bearing purple banners, about 150 employees staked out the NeW Space building on Hunter Street yesterday morning ahead of another enterprise bargaining meeting with uni management today.

Union member Lee says they won't rest until they secure better job security.

"Two out of three jobs at the University of Newcastle are either casual or on rolling contracts - it's an absolute shame," Lee said. 

"Most of these workers have worked for years and years in these conditions," he continued, "and these workers are asking for secure work, secure jobs, fair and equal pay increases." 

The comments came during a heated exchange between Union members criticising the NSW Government and Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald. 

"The Libs will lose, we'll change the rules," Lee said, "we've been across the road with the NTEU..."

"That would be the building that the state government helped build," Scot MacDonald said, "$20 million." 

The Union members had crashed a media conference held on Hunter Street with the Lower Hunter's five mayors and state government officials. 

The University has proposed a series of 1.9% salary increases which the Union has so far rejected. 

Image: Newcastle Herald.