Newcastle Light Rail to Launch February 18th

BY JORDYN RANKIN AND MADELAINE MCNEILL

After a long wait, the official launch of the Newcastle's Light Rail has been announced.

The first services will begin on Monday, February 18th and will run daily between 5am and 1am.

A community open day will be held on Sunday, February 17th to allow residents to test the service, with free trips and a range of activities lined up at the tram line's six stops.

Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance says the open day is a way to thank residents for their tolerance during construction.

Keolis Downer Hunter Managing Director Mark Dunlop said the Newcastle Transport team will have boots on the ground to help passengers use the service once it launches.

"We anticipate there will be some minor kinks to iron out initially as passengers get used to it," said Mr Dunlop.

"We expect the service to improve daily as the system is optimised, and we're committed to helping our passengers get the most out of light rail."

Andrew Constance during Light Rail Testing last year.

Jets Coach Cited Over VAR Comments

BY IAN CROUCH

Newcastle Jets Coach, Ernie Merrick is facing another fine for his public criticism of the Video Assistant Referee in last Sunday's 2-nil loss to Perth.

He's been issued a show cause notice by the FFA after saying "the guy in the VAR was having a cup of tea or was probably asleep" when Roy O'Donovan was bundled over by Perth defender, Shane  Lowry.

Merrick copped a $1500 fine in March last year for after describing the performance of the referee and VAR as disgraceful during the Jets 2-all draw with the Western Sydney Wanderers.

Ernie Merrick

Newcastle Police Seek Help To Find Carjackers

BY IAN CROUCH

Newcastle Police are appealing for help to track down two people responsible for a carjacking at Cooks Hill.

The man and woman stole a 2017 Silver Toyota Corolla at about 6.30am last Sunday near the intersection of Darby and Tyrell Streets after the driver offered them a lift from Hamilton East.

The male is described as being about 40 to 50 years old with short dark curly hair and the woman is 30 to 40 with blonde medium length hair.

The rego number of the car is CQ 26 FH.

Port Stephens Rate Rise Could Become Reality

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

Port Stephens residents could be in for a rate rise next year following Council's announcement it will be applying to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for a Special Rate Variation.

Council has proposed a 7.5% increase over seven years, which could cost residents hundreds of extra dollars.

The final vote on the controversial rate rise took place at last night's council meeting, with the majority voting to support the move despite community concerns over affordability.

Council's application to IPART is due by February 11, and submissions on the rate variation will then be open for public submissions for a month until March 11.

Mayor Ryan Palmer says Council realises people don't want to pay more, but it can't afford to build much-needed infrastructure without the increase.

"We've gone through an extensive community consultation period, with many consultations held over a long period of time," said Cr Palmer.

"And we realise, we want to make sure that we're catching those most vulnerable and we've introduced a Rates Assistance Program to ensure they have assistance."

West Ward councillor Giacomo Arnott voted against the Special Rate Variation, believing it could do serious harm to the city's struggling residents.

"The Rates Assistance Program looks good on paper but when you actually drill into the details it's not going to provide enough assistance for people who are going to need it," said Cr Arnott.

"It's only going to have enough money put into it to support 100 people a year, the charities are saying 200 people per year will be needing it."

The final decision from IPART is expected to be handed down in mid-May, and if approved the rate rise will come into effect at the beginning of the next financial year on July 1st, 2020.

Giacomo Arnott and opposers of the Special Rate Variation. Image: News of the Area

Nine Mile Beach Faces 4-Wheel Drive Restrictions

BY IAN CROUCH

The number of four wheel drives descending on Nine Mile Beach over the long weekend has the local wetland authority worried.

Hundreds of vehicles took to the strip between Blacksmiths and Redhead over the weekend, sparking concerns about environmental damage along the crown land reserve.

It's prompted the Belmont Wetlands State Park Board to consider conducting a review into how it manages the coastal strip.

One option being considered is to place restrictions on the number of vehicles allowed on the sand at any one time during public holidays.

Major public holidays such as Australia Day are drawing ever-increasing numbers to the beach, which is also putting cost pressures on the Board who provided bins and toilets and put on extra rangers to patrol the area.

The board has received government funding to commission two technical studies - one into the park's recreational use and another on coastal management.

The results of these studies will be used to guide a strategy on how to manage the number of vehicles and visitors during peak weekends next summer and press the case for government funding for new infrastructure which may be needed.

Four-wheel drives line the shore of Nine Mile Beach on Australia Day Photo: Heliservices Newcastle

 

  

Hunter Labor MPs Support Legal Action Against NSW Ports

BY IAN CROUCH

The Hunter's state Labor MP's are vowing to work with the competition watchdog to ensure Newcastle is not deprived of a container terminal.

They've written a joint letter to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to support its Federal Court action against NSW Ports over an anti-competitive contact which would effectively compensate Port Kembla and Port Botany if a container terminal was developed in Newcastle.

The Hunter ALP members say while Newcastle is a major coal port, developing a container terminal would supercharge local job opportunities, improve linkages across the state and provide new commercial opportunities.

They say it would also reduce pollution and congestion in Sydney, lower the state's freight costs and boost the NSW economy by $6 billion by 2050.

Labor has instigated a parliamentary inquiry which begins this week into the impact of the Port of Newcastle lease arrangements.

Farley Residents Say No To Proposed Crematorium

BY IAN CROUCH

Farley residents are calling on Maitland Council to reject plans for a proposed crematorium in the rural village.

The development has been on the drawing board since April last year, but many residents only first became aware of it when a story was published in the Maitland Mercury on January 14.

Locals are concerned about the impact of mercury and dioxin emissions from the crematorium.

Residents only have until February 12 to lodge submissions.

A public meeting is being held on Tuesday morning at 10.15 adjacent to the proposed site on Old North Road.

Laundry Fire At Bar Beach Units Being Treated As Suspicious

BY IAN CROUCH

A fire which caused severe damage to a common laundry of a Bar Beach unit block this morning is being treated as suspicious.

Firefighters from Cooks Hill and Merewether were called to Nickson Street just after 3 o'clock this morning to find the laundry area well alight.

They took about 45 minutes to extinguish and mop up the blaze.

They'd earlier been called to extinguish a rubbish fire at the same unit complex, and there are reports of a man seen acting suspiciously in the area at the time. 

Coal Pile Fire Kooragang Island

BY IAN CROUCH

Firefighters are working to contain a coal fire at Kooragang Island.

Crews were called to the coal corridor off Cormorant Road just before 10.30pm on Monday to find a pile of waste coal alight.

Newcastle Fire Command says the fire is deep seated and will take several hours to extinguish.

There is no immediate threat to property.

6 fire trucks and an RFS bulk water carrier were initially called to the scene, with crews being rotated through the night.

Heavy machinery will be brought in on Tuesday morning to break up the pile 

Vacant Coles Development May Finally See Some Action

BY CATHERINE ALLEN

The ongoing odyssey that has been the building site on Maitland Road in Mayfield, may finally see a resolution.

Supermarket giant Coles has handed in modified plans for the development of a new store at the site, to Newcastle City Council.

The latest proposal plans for a slight reduction to the internal layout, decreasing the size of the Coles store and increasing space for other specialty shops on the site.

Construction on the project was put on hold in mid-2017 following several impediments, the most challenging of which was an upgrade to the traffic lights at the intersection of Maitland Road and Havelock Street.

The supermarket's new plans do not address this issue however, a spokesperson for the company has said that they are working with the council and local authorities in relation to the issue.

Iver Davies the Interim Chairman of the Mayfield Business Association said they would welcome the Coles development going ahead.

"We've been disappointed that it has taken so many years to get to this stage but at least its happening," Mr Davies said.

"We have been most upset with the condition that the sites been left in because it's just been earthworks and it looks extremely untidy.

"It's a real positive for Mayfield and it will give us three huge supermarkets".

Construction on the $17 million project is planned to recommence in around six months time.

Newcastle Herald.

Hunter's Lifesavers and Fireys Gearing up for Hot Australia Day

BY KAYNE STEPHENS

Newcastle residents flocking to the beach this Australia Day long-weekend are being urged by Hunter lifesavers to be safe and cautious in the water.

Temperatures are set to reach 37 degrees Celsius and in addition to being sun-smart, beach-goers are being reminded to stay between the flags and act responsibly in the surf.

Hunter Surf Life Saving branch President, Henry Scruten, says the lifeguards are preparing for one of the busiest beach days of the year.

"The Australia Day long weekend is a bumper for us. All of our surf lifesavers will be available, all of the surf clubs will be open and will have all their patrols set," he said.

"We're asking the bathing public to adhere to the rules, stay between the flags, and if you've celebrated Australia day too long - stay out of the water."

Meanwhile, the Fire and Rescue NSW is urging people to be fire-safe in the Hunter over the weekend, with both high temperatures and hot barbeques expected for Australia Day.

Chief Superintendent Michael Morris from FRNSW says it's important to be mindful of the risks while enjoying the weekend.

“BBQ Fires and gas cylinder leaks can turn a weekend holiday into a disaster, so we encourage the community to not be complacent with their barbeques, and to know some simple fire safety tips, to avoid potential disasters,” he said.

"We want people to have fun, and enjoy their social occasions, with groups of people gathering around the barbie. Just always adopt fire safety practices, and enjoy a safe barbie!"

Henry Scruten from Hunter Surf Lifesavers suggests people can escape the heat by jumping in the water.

"For those that may be interested, the Stockton Surf Club are having an across-the-harbour swim on Saturday, and the Newcastle Surf Lifesaving Club are holding a swim from Nobby's Beach around to Newcastle.

"There will be additional patrols, and we're treating Saturday like a public holiday. Saturday, Sunday, and Monday will be full patrols on all of our beaches," he said.

Newcastle's beaches will be heavily patrolled as swimmers are encouraged to swim safely this Australia Day.

Body Found Following Search for Missing Corlette Man

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

Police say they have located the body of a man reported missing from Nelson Bay last week.

Officers conducted an extensive search for 90-year-old Barry Greentree after his family reported him missing when he failed to return home on January 17.

Around 6 o'clock this morning a motorist spotted a vehicle down an embankment near Raleigh on the state's mid-north coast and notified police.



The body of a man, which has yet to be formally identified, was located inside the car.

Inquiries into the incident are continuing and police are not treating the man's death as suspicious.

Missing Corlette man Barry Greentree.

Belmont Baths Upgrade to Include Aquatic Wheelchair Facilities

BY KAYNE STEPHENS

New showers, toilets, change rooms, and aquatic wheelchair storage will be built at the Belmont Baths as part of a $720,000 update of the amenities facilities.

Lake Macquarie City Council has announced plans to demolish the old amenities block to make way for the brand new facility.

The upgrade is being supported by the NSW state government's Stronger Country Communities Fund, which will contribute to the facility's upgrade of its change rooms and parking.

Accessibility at the site will be brought to standard, complementing the installation of a wheelchair ramp into the baths in December.

Four additional toilets will be installed, as well as ambulant and family change rooms.

Brendan Callander from Lake Macquarie City Council says the works will make Belmont Baths even better for locals and visitors alike.

"Any time we add something like this, it really does give that facility a real boost for the community. It freshens it up and makes it look great," he said.

"The new baths facility has been really well received by the community and I think this will only add to that."

Among the biggest changes will be the construction of an aquatic wheelchair storage area, which will allow persons with a disability to swim in the water.

Brendan Callander says there's plenty in store for swimmers, including swimmers using a wheelchair.

"The baths have got an accessible ramp and these facilities will provide not only change room facilities for people with a disability, but also storage for an aquatic wheelchair.

"That will mean people will be able to use the news ramps with a wheelchair that can actually access the water," he said.

Two disabled parking spaces will also be upgraded as part of the plan.

Work will begin early next week on the demolition and construction of the amenities, and temporary toilets will be provided during construction.

The upgraded amenities will complete the site following the 2018 upgrade to the baths.
Photo: Lake Macquarie Council

Mayfield Coles Supermarket To Finally Get Off The Ground

BY IAN CROUCH

It's hoped work will finally start this year on the Coles development at Mayfield.

The 17-million dollar supermarket development on Maitland Road has been on the drawing board since 2010 but has been plagued with planning issues.

Coles has made more amendments to the plans and expects to start construction in 6 months subject to its new development application being approved.

Nearby residents and business owners say they've had to put up with an unsightly mound of dirt at the development site for years.

Artist's Impression Of Proposed Coles Mayfield Development

Hunter needs "Commitment to Change" with Domestic Violence statistics high

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Local Greens members are calling on fellow candidates in the region to take the 'Safe State Pledge', and make a "commitment to change" in dealing with domestic, sexual and family violence in 2019.

Data shows there were 624 incidents of domestic violence in the area last year, with Hunter postcodes showing high numbers in comparison to the state average. 

The 'Safe State Pledge' developed by NSW Women's Alliance puts forward 49 recommendations, to begin a new and comprehensive approach to the issue in 2019.

"I commend all the groups that have come together to design this campaign, I haven't personally seen such a comprehensive and positive campaign,"  Greens Candidate for Wallsend, Sinead Francis-Coan said.

"It's about creating change, it's not about condemning anyone for the work they've been trying to do, it's about moving into the future."

The pledge involves focusing on early intervention, creating cultural change by teaching respectful relationships in school, supporting affected children and ensuring crisis housing is immediately available for victims.

"It's always on the agenda for Governments, but we haven't seen any real change," Ms Francis-Coan said.

"I know that whenever people leave a situation, there's not a lot of options of where they can go in our region, so that really needs to be a focus."

Previous initiatives such as the 2014 "Going home and staying home" project, which aimed to create safe spaces for women within the home and avoid less stable situations,  caused major funding cuts to front-line services such as crisis housing support.

"We have the opportunity here to really turn that around and if we can act as leaders in dealing with this, and as part of this campaign see a big turn around," Ms Francis-Coan said.

The pledge can be made online people can endorse the campaign as an individual, as part of a community group or political party.

    Image: Concrete Playground 

Former Hunter Cinema Employee to Face Fraud Charges

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

A man who worked at a cinema chain in the Hunter is set to face court for alleged fraudulent charges made on a company credit card.

The 40-year-old worked for Event Cinemas at a number of locations including Glendale and Kotara from 2006 until his resignation in 2017.

It's alleged he used a company issued card to fraudulently create and register three businesses between 2010 and 2017, accumulating over $220-thousand-dollars worth of charges.

The company launched an internal investigation in December 2017 after discovering the charges and raised the matter with Sydney Police Station, who referred it to Newcastle City Police District.

Following an investigation, police yesterday issued the man a Future Court Attendance Notice.

The man is due to appear at Newcastle Local Court on March 14.

Three Teens Injured In Bad Crash At Medowie

BY IAN CROUCH

Three teenagers have been taken to hospital after a bad crash at Medowie overnight.

They were travelling in an SUV which crashed and rolled into trees on Ringwood Road late on Wednesday afternoon.

A 17-year-old boy, who was a passenger in the car, had to be freed from the wreckage.

He's been taken by Ambulance to the John Hunter Hospital with a severe leg fracture.

A 17-year-old girl and a 15-year-old boy were treated at the scene before they were also taken to the John Hunter.

The Crash Scene At Medowie. Picture: Port Stephens SES

Battery Blamed For Belmont North House Fire

BY IAN CROUCH

Quick thinking by a Belmont North resident has prevented his house from going up in flames.

Fire crews from Belmont and Tingira Heights were called to the single level timber cottage on Arlington Street at about 8.00pm Wednesday to reports of a fire in a bedroom.

Police say it appears a lithium battery sitting on a bed caught alight.

The male resident grabbed two fire extinguishers from the garage, smashing the bedroom window and managed to douse the flames by the time firefighters arrived.

The bedroom sustained smoke damage in the fire.

Accused Bolton Point Murderer Faces Court

BY IAN CROUCH

It's emerged a man charged over the murder of Glen Smith at Bolton Point was due to be sentenced this week for possessing a knife and having goods in custody.

Paul Russell Newburn is accused of stabbing Mr Smith multiple times with a home-made sword after he intervened during an altercation in Leumeah Place on Sunday night.

The 32-year-old was arrested at the Belmont McDonalds on Monday night after a major manhunt.

Fairfax reports Newburn sobbed as he faced court yesterday charged with murder.

He didn't enter a plea and will remain in custody, with the case adjourned to Belmont Local Court on March 20.

Alleged Murder Victim Glen Smith Died From Multiple Stab Wounds

Calvary Mater Newcastle Appoints First Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer

BY CATHERINE ALLEN

Calvary Mater Hospital in Newcastle has appointed Kamilaroi woman Margaret Whitson to the role of Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer following community consultation that revealed a need for the position.

"It's been a wish of the community for a while now," said the hospital's Director of Mission Mary Ringstad.

"We conducted a cultural safety audit two years ago, and it was very apparent from the Aboriginal community that one of the critical determinants of their at-home-ness in a hospital environment and their comfort at being in a hospital environment, is the presence of an Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer."

"This person actually provides the vital link for the Aboriginal community in coming into hospital and feeling confident and safe in this environment".

Ms Whitson will be responsible for providing advocacy, education, emotional, practical, social and welfare support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their families, ensuring referrals and linkages are made to appropriate community support programs.

The position will also enable Ms Whitson to work with hospital staff in creating and implementing programs and strategies that will assist in improving health outcomes for Indigenous patients.

"We are delighted that Margaret is now on hand to provide the support our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their families need while being cared for at Calvary Mater Newcastle,"

"Margaret's work in the hospital directly contributes to the outcomes for this at-risk population," Ms Ringstad said.

Margaret Whitson will be available at Calvary Mater Newcastle from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5pm.

 

Man Arrested Over Cooks Hill Carjacking

BY IAN CROUCH

A couple have been the victims of a terrifying carjacking at Cooks Hill.

They were travelling down Darby Street in their Mercedes at about 7.00pm on Monday night when an object was thrown at the car.

The male driver pulled over and chased the alleged culprit, a 32-year-old man, who police say dropped handbags he'd earlier stolen during a break-in.

The victim stopped to pick up the property before returning to his car to find the offender had dragged his partner from the drivers seat and driven off.

He was later identified by police and arrested in the vicinity of Darby Street and is due to face court today.

The car was a recovered in nearby Bruce Street.

Concerns For Missing Elderly Man From Corlette

BY IAN CROUCH

Police are appealing for help from the public to locate an elderly man who's gone missing from his Port Stephens home.

Barry Greentree was last seen at his home on Sailfish Street, Corlette at about 11 o'clock last Thursday morning.

There are concerns for the 90-year-old's welfare as he requires regular treatment for a medical condition.

He's described as being of Caucasian appearance with a solid build and fair complexion, about 165 centimetres tall with grey hair and blue eyes.

It's believed he could be heading towards Tamworth and Casino in a blue Hyundai sedan with the rego number BSF 74H.

Missing: Barry Greentree

Man Arrested Over Fatal Stabbing At Bolton Point

BY IAN CROUCH

Police have arrested a 32-year-old man over Sunday's fatal stabbing at Bolton Point.

35-year-old Glen Smith died from stab wounds to his chest and arms when he stepped in to help a woman on Leumeah Place, when her alleged attacker turned on him.

Following extensive inquires, police arrested a 32-year-old man at the McDonalds restaurant on the corner of the Pacific Highway and Glover Street at Belmont at about 7 o'clock last night.

He's been refused bail to face Newcastle Local Court today charged with murder.

Alleged Stabbing Victim Glen Smith

Trial Of Shark Drum Lines Set To Go Ahead Off Newcastle Beaches

BY IAN CROUCH

Newcastle is set to join a trial of shark drum lines off the city's beaches in a bid to protect surfers and swimmers from shark attacks.

NSW Primary Industries Minister, Niall Blair is expected to announce the three month trial from February 1 in Newcastle this morning.

The SMART (Shark Management Alert in Real Time) drum lines will be positioned about 500 metres offshore from Stockton, Nobbys, Newcastle, Bar Beach, Dixon Park and Merewether.

The drum lines send a signal to a boat when a shark is caught using a baited hook.

If it's a great white, tiger or bull shark, it's tagged and released a kilometre offshore.

Trial Of Shark Drum Lines Earmarked For Newcastle Beaches

Birmingham Gardens Home Fire Bombed

BY IAN CROUCH

A house at Birmingham Gardens has been damaged in an early morning fire bomb attack.

Neighbours of the single storey home on Wilkinson Avenue alerted emergency services just after 3.00am on Monday but managed to douse the flames before fire crews arrived.

It's believed a molotov cocktail was thrown through the window of a front bedroom.

Police say the house is being renovated and was unoccupied, however an elderly woman lives in a granny flat behind the premises - she was not injured.

A crime scene has been established and forensic officers will continue inquiries this morning.

UPDATE: Police Investigate Fatal Stabbing At Bolton Point

BY IAN CROUCH

Police have released a description of a man who fled the scene of a fatal stabbing at Bolton Point.

A number of people were at a home in Leumeah Place just after 10.30 last night when it's believed a brawl broke out.

A 35-year-old man suffered a stab wound during the altercation and was rushed to the John Hunter Hospital but died just before midnight.

After speaking to several witnesses, police say they want to speak to a man who ran off before officers arrived.

He's described as being 32-years-old, of Caucasian appearance and about 172 centimetres tall.

Detectives are urging the man to come forward.


EARLIER:

A man is assisting police with their inquiries following the alleged stabbing death of a man at Bolton Point.

Police were called to reports of a brawl at Leumeah Place at about 10.45pm on Sunday.

They arrived to find a 35-year-old man had been stabbed - he was rushed to the John Hunter Hospital but died just before midnight.

A man in his 50's who's believed to have witnessed the incident is assisting police with their inquiries.

Officers are searching for another male in relation to the stabbing who fled the scene.

Police have set up a crime scene and are speaking to several witnesses as inquiries continue.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact  Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

First Sod Turned at Maitland Hospital

The first sod has been turned at the site of the new Maitland Hospital today.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard joined Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot Macdonald in Metford to help turn the sod, marking a key milestone in the hotly contested project.

The facility's future has repeatedly been raised in the lead up to the state election, most recently with Labor's announcement it will match the state government's commitment to build the hospital if elected.

“The Hunter community is getting a magnificent, world-class hospital with significantly expanded services, including a chemotherapy service for the first time,” said Mr Hazzard.

"Since 2011, the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government has overseen 94 new and upgraded hospitals and health facilities, either already completed or underway.”

The sod turning followed the Health Minister's earlier announcement that Tomaree Hospital will be receiving a new heart monitoring system thanks to $44 thousand dollars in funding from the state government.

A new Telemetry monitoring system is set to improve patient flow in the hospital, freeing up beds in the Emergency Department.

While speaking to media, Brad Hazzard also confirmed there are upgrades on the way for John Hunter Hospital.

He couldn't confirm when the announcement regarding those upgrades would be made, but he assures it will be made, regardless of whether it comes before or after the March 23 election.

The turning of the first sod at the future Maitland Hospital site. Image: Ian Crouch/2NURFM News

Special Infrastructure Contribution Risks Pressure for Hunter Home Buyers

BY JORDYN RANKIN AND MADELAINE MCNEILL

The recently announced Hunter Region Special Infrastructure Contribution is concerning news for local homebuilders, according to the Housing Industry Association (HIA).

The HIA says the new home building industry is one of the most heavily taxed sectors in the Australian economy, and added costs implied in the draft Hunter Region SIC will further reduce housing affordability for Hunter families.

Association Executive Director Craig Jennion believes these extra costs will impact homeowners greatly, as levies paid by developers often go straight onto the price of a new home.

The NSW Government has recognised vital infrastructure is required for future development of the Hunter, but the HIA warns the government needs to consider the cost of the proposed new funding model.

HIA Executive Director Craig Jennion says charges relating to the development of an asset that will be used by the whole community should be met by the broader community and not passed onto home buyers.

"Any proposal that brings on new infrastructure is really good for the community as well as the industry to allow more housing to occur," said Mr Jennion.

"Unfortunately, the NSW government' new Hunter Region Special Infrastructure Contribution plan is putting more costs onto homeowners."

The Hunter Business Chamber welcomed the draft SIC, but CEO Bob Hawes says there is a lot of work to do to assess the proposed model and is encouraging residents to view the plan and offer feedback.

"It will not only impact the potential feasibility of development but ultimately the price at which developers are able to offer blocks of land or particular industrial and residential developments for sale," said Mr Hawes.

"And that has a very broad impact on the community, given the amount of new subdivision that's ahead of this region in times to come."

The draft Hunter Region SIC can be viewed here and submissions can be made online until February 25th.

Hundreds Of Dead Fish Dumped At Jimmys Beach

BY IAN CROUCH

Port Stephens residents are furious after hundreds of undersize dead fish and stingrays were dumped in the shallows of Jimmys Beach.

It's believed a net stretched between two boats was used to catch the fish, however unwanted and undersize species were then dumped at the eastern end of the beach last weekend.

It's thought a commercial fishing operator from outside the area may be responsible.

The Department of Primary Industries is investigating and says commercial operators who fail to immediately return non-target or undersize fish to the water during hauling operations face a maximum fine of $22,000.

Police Investigate Suspicious House Fire At Muswellbrook

BY IAN CROUCH

Police have set up a crime scene after a vacant house went up in flames at Muswellbrook overnight.

Firefighters from Muswellbrook and Aberdeen were called to the single level home in Tocal Way just after 10.30pm on Wednesday to find the property well alight.

The house was destroyed in the blaze and forensic officers are combing though the rubble to determine how it started.

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

A firefighter tackles the flames in Tocal Way Picture: Muswellbrook Fire & Rescue

Head-On Crash At Williamtown Leaves Three People In Hospital

BY IAN CROUCH

Two people remain in a critical condition after a head-on smash at Williamtown.

A red Toyota Echo and a white Holden Statesman were involved in a head-on crash on Cabbage Tree Road just after 1.30pm on Wednesday, trapping three people in the cars.

The Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter flew a 62-year-old woman to the John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition with multiple injuries.

A 54-year-old man was trapped in his car for 90 minutes before being freed and taken to the John Hunter in a critical condition.

A second man aged 54 is in a stable condition.

Cabbage Tree Road was re-opened at about 6.40pm.

The Crumpled Wreck Of The Holden Statesman. Picture: Westpac Rescue Helicopter

Police Dog Tracks Down Couple Involved In High Speed Pursuit From Hexham To Salt Ash

BY IAN CROUCH

Two people are due to face court next month over a high speed pursuit from Newcastle to Port Stephens.

Highway Patrol officers detected a vehicle speeding on the Newcastle Inner City Bypass just after 11 o'clock on Tuesday night and initiated a pursuit when the car failed to stop.

It's claimed the car reached speeds of up to 165 kilometres per hour in an 80 zone.

The chase continued for several minutes to the intersection of Nelson Bay Road and Richardson Road at Salt Ash where it was terminated when the car crossed to the wrong side of the road.

A short time later, officers located the car dumped nearby and a police dog found the alleged driver and passenger hiding in bushland.

The 24-year-old male driver from Kogarah has been charged with exceeding the speed limit by 45 kilometres per hour, police pursuit (Skye's Law), drive recklessly, drive in a manner dangerous and driving with an expired license.

His 24-year-old female passenger has been charged with failing to disclose her identity, refusing to disclose the driver's identity and drug possession.

The pair have been granted conditional bail to face Raymond Local Court on 11 February, 2019.

State Heatwave Plan Activated Ahead of Temperature Hike

BY CATHERINE ALLEN

Prepare to be hit by mammoth temperatures this week as an Australia-wide heatwave hits.

The Bureau of Meteorology has indicated temperatures are expected to rise over the coming days, hitting temperatures above 40 degrees.

According to The Bureau of Meteorology, the Hunter region will get the worst of the heat from January 16th to 17th with the predicted temperature registering as extreme.

NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Jeff Loy says that as the weather heats up "to take extra care," and warns motorists not to leave pets, children or vulnerable people in cars.

"As the weather heats up, I cannot stress enough to motorists that it's not only an offence for children or pets to be left unattended in a vehicle, it can be deadly.

"It can be just as dangerous to leave the elderly and disabled members of the community in cars during days of extreme heat," Deputy Commissioner Loy said.

The Red Cross is also urging people to take extra care and follow some simple tips to stay cool; drink regularly, eat little and often, stay indoors, take cool showers, find areas of shade, and maintain air flow.

Australian Red Cross' National Emergency Services Manager Andrew Coghan warns that heatwaves can be just as harmful for people as natural disasters.

"Extremely hot weather can cause serious health problems - most people don't know that more Australians have died as a result of heatwaves than because of floods, bushfires or cyclones".

Extreme heat can also cause disruptions to other aspects of daily life such as electricity cuts, school and workplace closures and disruptions to public transport.

For more information and tips visit the Beat the Heat website or the Bureau of Meteorology.

http://www.bom.gov.au/australia/heatwave/