Seismic Testing Plans To Be Made Public

BY HOLLIE HUGHES

As part of new requirements announced by the federal Government, Hunter residents will have 30 days to give their feedback on recently lodged plans for further Seismic testing to begin.

The public call-out comes after plans continue for 3D Seismic testing in search for gas off the coast of Newcastle after 2D tests took place last year.

Wilderness Society spokesperson Naomi Hodgson welcomes the opportunity for the public to submit their concerns about the project but says there must be more community discussion around the plans,

"We expect an outpouring of community opposition to these plans during the feedback period and urge Newcastle residents to speak up have their say."

Hodgson is calling on Asset Energy to make it's next Seismic testing environment plan public,

"It is crucial that the next consultation plan is made public so the community will know if there will be an open dialogue with key relevant stakeholders, Seismic testing is a hot-button issue in coastal communities and those concerned deserve the opportunity for formal imput and genuine consultation, not just a chance to lodge an objection with no following reply or engagement."

Image sourced: https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=seismic%20testing&qs=n&form=QBIR&sp=-1&pq=seismic%20test&sc=8-12&sk=&cvid=DC9FFB2CC7D3403CA674617C7FDEDED7

Young Motorcyclist Critical After Bad Crash At Mayfield

BY IAN CROUCH

Investigations are continuing into a horrific crash at Mayfield this morning.

Police say it appears a 21-year-old man from Noraville was riding a motorbike which attempted to turn onto Industrial Drive from Bull Street at about 6.30am when he was struck by a westbound 4-wheel-drive.

The young man was rushed to the John Hunter Hospital unconscious with critical head and chest injuries - he's currently undergoing surgery.

The driver of the 4-wheel-drive was taken to hospital for mandatory tests.


Officers from the Forensic Services Group set up a crime scene and have been gathering evidence all morning. The Police Rescue Squad was also brought in to obtain aerial photographs of the crash scene

Two of three westbound lanes on Industrial Drive are still closed, but police expect to have the road reopened by 1pm.

The Crash Scene At Mayfield Picture: theherald.com.au

State Government Back Flips On Fingal Bay Link Road Promise

BY IAN CROUCH

The newly re-elected Berejiklian government has abandoned an election promise to build the Fingal Bay Link Road at Port Stephens.

Duty MLC, Catherine Cusack told the Fairfax the project won't be going ahead because voters re-elected Kate Washington, who ran on a platform of opposing the road and therefore voters wishes need to be respected.

Roads Minister, Melinda Pavey joined Liberal candidate Jaime Abbott, Catherine Cusack and Port Stephens mayor, Ryan Palmer for the $188 million announcement on March 5, promising to work with Roads and Maritime Services to come up with designs by the end of the year.

At the time, sitting Labor MP, Kate Washington described the promise as a fantasy and said it amounted to $140,000 for each of the town's residents, saying it would be cheaper to hire helicopters for everyone to get in and out of Fingal Bay every day.

Port Stephens mayor, Ryan Palmer says he's surprised by the back-flip and hopes the $188 million dollars can be redirected to other projects in the shire.

Port Stephens mayor Ryan Palmer with Jaime Abbott, Melinda Pavey and Catherine Cusack at the March 5 announcement Picture: therherald.com.au

Renewed Plea to find Driver Responsible for Fatal Hit and Run

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

Hunter Valley Police have released details of a car they believe may have been involved in a fatal hit and run near Singleton last year.

43-year-old Ian Pullen was hit by a car sometime between 4am and 5:30am on Saturday, September 29th and left to die.

His body was discovered by the side of the road at Carrington Street, Glenridding.

Strike Force Awabakil was established to investigate the incident but no arrests have been made.

Officers have now renewed their appeal for public assistance to find the driver responsible.

Police are now searching for a white utility with a black front bumper bar and have released the below image of a ute believed to be of a similar make and model.

Anyone who believes they can identify the vehicle or assist officers with their inquiries is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

Newcastle Research Competitive on the World Stage

BY ALICE PEART
A national report evaluating the quality of research by Universities has ranked Newcastle as 8^th for research in Australia with 95 percent now assessed as 'at or above world standard'. 

The 2018 Excellence in Research Australia is a government assessment conducted every three years aimed at identifying how Australian Universities compare to the world standard of research. 

Newcastle achieved the highest possible rating for their research across 30 fields representing a steady increase since the first release of the rankings in 2010.  

Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky said it was particularly impressive to see 100 percent of their STEMM research areas, and almost 90 percent of CABLE research, rated as 'at or above world standard'. 

While predominantly receiving high ratings several areas of research have seemingly fallen through the cracks with Economics, Political Science, Computation Theory and Mathematics, Digital Media and Religious Studies assessed as below world average. 

One area, Interdisciplinary Engineering, received a rating of 'well below' world average, placing them in the one percent of Australian Universities to fall into that category.  

Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Deb Hodgson speaking to 2NURFM today said, "It allows us to see where we sit in the sector. 

So certainly that is the position of the institution now is to take stock, investigate where we're falling behind and invest in those areas". 

Of the 42 institutions assessed across Australia less than half had improved their ratings. 

State Government Urged to Fund Park and Ride as Council Grants Reprieve

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery is calling on the state government to continue funding Newcastle's Park and Ride bus service.

Last Thursday, council CEO Jeremy Bath was shocked to read in an article from The Newcastle Herald that state funding for the service would likely finish at the end of March despite positive talks between council and the government.

The NSW government was expected to formally advise council of its decision by last Friday but is yet to do so, leading to a decision from council to step in and cover the costs until the end of April.

City of Newcastle has agreed to underwrite the service for the month of April while it undertakes a detailed cost analysis of the operation, but Sonia Hornery says the burden shouldn't fall on local government.

"Really it's a state government responsibility and it should be funded by the state government for the people who live in the western suburbs," said Ms Hornery.

"I urge them to have some courage, consider the needs of the people of the western suburbs of Newcastle and continue to fund the popular Park and Ride system."

The service won't run on Friday, March 29th due to the Super Rugby match at McDonald Jones Stadium but will operate as usual from Monday.

Image: The Herald

 

Two Caravans Destroyed In Wallsend Shed Fire

BY IAN CROUCH

Police are investigating the cause of a fire which destroyed a large shed and two caravans at Wallsend.

Eight fire trucks and 30 firefighters were called to Downie Lane at about 10.15pm on Wednesday to find the shed engulfed in flames.

Several LPG cylinders were also inside the shed.

Police say a couple were using one of the caravans as temporary accommodation were not inside at the time.

It took fire crews about half an hour to extinguish the blaze.

New Food and Beer Festival for Lake Macquarie

BY ADRIANA FLAHERTY

A new festival will be held in Lake Macquarie at the end of May to celebrate the city's arts and culture sector.

The inaugural 'Belmont Beers, Blues and BBQ' event will offer attendees the opportunity to experience live Australian music, local craft beer and barbeque cuisine from around the world.

Bondi Cigars, Kevin Borich and Catfish Soup will perform at the adults-only event, which will take place on the 25th of May at Belmont South Foreshore.

Mayor Kay Fraser said the community has been eager for more events and Council on Monday voted to place a draft 5-year action plan for the city's night economy on public exhibition.

“Our draft Night-time Economy Action Plan identified a need for diversity in the events we offer, as well as more options in terms of evening and night-time events in Lake Macquarie City,” Cr Fraser said.

“I am sure this event will be a huge success and hope to see it become an annual event on the Lake Macquarie festival and events scene.”

More information on the festival is available on Council's website.

Belmont South Foreshore. Image: Lake Macquarie City Council

Newcastle Now Accusing Council CEO Of Being "Scandalous" Following Discrepancy Claims

BY JARROD MELMETH

Newcastle Now has hit back at council following claims the Business Improvement Association has a $1.1 million discrepancy relating to staffing costs.

In a statement, City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath said a breakdown of the groups' expenses for the past three years does not match the groups audited reports for the same three years.

Mr Bath claims the group listed expenditure on wages at $244,949, but an audit put that figure at $1,384,488.95.

"Until I terminated its funding on 31 December last year, Newcastle Now was spending 56 per cent of its annual income on employee and administration expenses. This is money that ratepayers expect would be spent promoting the CBD.

"Newcastle Now's financial explanation is concerning. Unless they can reasonably account for the $1.1 million discrepancy in their employee costs, my recommendation to council will be that a new agreement shouldn't be offered to Newcastle Now for the new financial year," Mr. Bath said.

However, Newcastle Now Chairman Ed Duc denies the figures saying they are "incorrect".

"An organization that is handling $800,000, or thereabouts, of ratepayers money has to be very careful as to what it does with that money. 

"The truth of the matter is, in order to spend that money, you need to have administration. Our administration costs, we know, are 20 per cent. That is 20 per cent of the gross special benefit rate. The remainder of the funds Bath is talking about are expanded wages for programs approved by the traders through the elected board," Mr Duc said.

Issues between Newcastle Now and City of Newcastle date back to a year ago when Mr Duc and Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes exchanged words during a council meeting after Ms Nelmes raised questions about how the group was promoting the city during light rail construction.

Mr Bath rehashed the light rail issue in his statement.

"The past 12 months were the most challenging faced by many traders in the Newcastle CBD due to the light rail construction.

"In a year when Newcastle Now should have been investing every last cent into promoting and activating the CBD, we now know that they instead spent more than half a million dollars on employee and administration costs," Mr Bath said.

Mr Duc describes Mr Bath as "scandalous" describing his attitude as "unbelievable."

"He knows that this is not true and we are trying to figure out just what motivation he has behind making these scurrilous claims," Mr Duc said.

Newcastle Now will be writing to the Office of Local Government asking for it to come in and review the situation.

Pictured L-R: Newcastle Now Chairman Ed Duc and Council CEO
Jeremy Bath. Image: Newcastle Herald.

Man To Face Court Over Violent Domestic Incident In Newcastle

BY IAN CROUCH

A man is due to face court today (Wednesday) accused of choking and detaining a woman for several hours during a domestic incident in Newcastle.

It's alleged the 42-year-old attacked a 43-year-old woman at her Hamilton East home last Friday, grabbing her around the throat until she fell to the ground and then standing on her chest and neck before punching her in the face.

Police say he then armed himself with a hammer and forced the woman to travel with him to his Bolton Point home where he kept her against her will for several hours before taking her home - but kept her house and car keys.

The woman contacted friends and police from the Domestic Violence High Risk Offender Team commenced inquiries. 

The man was arrested at Brunkerville yesterday without incident.

He's been refused bail charged with detain for advantage, intentionally choke person without consent, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and stalking/intimidation.

Newcastle Basketball Will Hold State Government to Stadium Promise

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

Newcastle Basketball will look to keep the pressure on the state government to deliver on its recent promise for a $25 million dollar stadium at Lake Macquarie.

The Coalition made the commitment just nine days prior to the state election, promising a 4000 seat multi-sport indoor facility for Hillsborough to be built on land contributed by Lake Macquarie City Council.

General Manager Neil Goffet said they've outgrown the current facility at Broadmeadow Stadium which was built in 1969 and holds just over 2000 spectators.

"It's 50 years old, it's falling down around us, so to get something like this would not only be a boost for current members but for thousands of new members I'm sure would come along," said Mr Goffet.

Newcastle Basketball has welcomed the Coalition's promise but at this point, says Neil Goffet, that's all it is.

"So we'll need to pursue that through the right channels and hopefully we can get it slated for the budget in June and get that happening in the next 12 months," said Mr Goffet.

"It'd be the greatest investment in basketball in the 70-odd years that our association has been running."

Neil Goffet said the government is well aware of the urgency needed to move on from the deteriorating Broadmeadow Stadium but he's aware the party has plenty of promises to keep across the state.

"We're just one of them but we'll try and get ourselves to the front of the queue," he said.

"They're well aware of the urgency regarding the dilapidated state this place is in and we understand the need to get this moving as fast as possible, so we'll certainly continue our conversations with them."

Having secured his seat at the state election, Lake Macquarie Independent MP Greg Piper is expected to continue pushing for the stadium's development, which he has advocated for consistently.

Former Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald, Newcastle Basketball Life Member and Olympian Terry Charlton, Neil Goffet, Greg Piper and Basketball Australia Deputy Chair David Reid at the Coalition's funding commitment earlier this month. Image: Newcastle Basketball

Beachside Vigil Held For Newcastle Cyclist

BY IAN CROUCH

A sunset vigil was on Monday night for a cyclist who was tragically killed in a collision with a truck in the Newcastle CBD last week.

It's believed Brigitte Nilsen was on her way to yoga class last Wednesday morning when she was involved in a collision on the corner of King and Perkins Streets and died at the scene.

The 57-year-old had been living in Newcastle for 5 years after returning from Norway to live in Australia for the second time.

She's survived by her 30-year-old son, Jack who lives in Norway.

Friends and members of the public rode from the crash site to Newcastle Ocean Baths where Ms Nilsen loved to go for a swim.

Brigitte Nilsen was tragically killed in a cycling crash last week. Picture: therherald.com.au

Former Knights Star Being Investigated Over Drug Supply Ring

BY IAN CROUCH

It's been revealed former Newcastle Knights player, Jarrod Mullen nearly died from a drug overdose in December last year.

The 31-year-old spent two days in intensive care and then 6 weeks in rehabilitation after overdosing at a party.

It comes as police confirm 10 people have been charged over an alleged drug supply ring operating in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

Mullen is also reportedly being investigated but has not been charged at this stage.

He's currently serving a four year ban after testing positive to steroids in 2017.

Former Knights star Jarrod Mullen faces drugs probe Picture: foxsports.com.au

Community Calls for Balance in Bid to Stop Dartbrook Reopening

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

Farmers, business owners, health professionals and families have come together in the Upper Hunter to prevent more coal mines being opened in their backyard.

A new committee has been formed in response to a proposal from Australian Pacific Coal to reopen Dartbrook underground mine which was mothballed in 2006 following three deaths at the site over a twelve-year period.

Plans to reopen the mine and extend operations until 2027 are in their final stages after the NSW Department of Planning & Environment provided a positive recommendation in January of this year.

An Independent Planning Commission (IPC) meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 9 and new committee Friends of the Upper Hunter is urging fellow residents to have their opinions on the project heard.

The group believes the region has reached a tipping point in the number of mines it can safely sustain and hopes to see the same success Groundswell Gloucester had earlier this year in its bid to stop the opening of the controversial Rocky Hill Mine.

A major concern for the group is Australian Pacific Coal's long-term plan to run an open-cut mine on the site.

Committee member Kirsty O'Connell said it's not about being anti-mining but about finding balance for the community and ensuring healthy communities and clean air going into the future.

"We also need to be able to position ourselves for the future and to invest and strengthen those other industries that are going to be important as we go through these transitions with the mining industry," said Ms O'Connell.

"We really want to make sure there is enough quality land, there's enough water, there's enough space for those industries that will create jobs for everyone in the community now and into the future."

Kirsty O'Connell said it's about taking care of the health of local communities as the region continues to see worrying trends in air quality.

"There's been two separate reports now that the Upper Hunter, and particular the postcode 2333, is one of the most polluted in the country and certainly the most polluted airshed in NSW."

The group is also stressing the effect the mine's reopening could have on air quality for residents of the Lower Hunter, with unwashed coal to be delivered to Newcastle via the railway line.

Independent Planning Commission Meeting will be "Critical"

Friends of the Upper Hunter view the proposal to reopen the underground mine as a "stepping stone" towards an open-cut mine and Kirsty O'Connell believes next month's IPC meeting will be critical in the fight against Dartbrook's reopening.

"We want to make sure the community is wide awake to the strategic importance of the underground proposal, the fact that it does pave the way for an open-cut mine,

That's why it's really important that anyone who doesn't want an open-cut on the doorstep of Aberdeen and the Hunter River actually has a say now," she said.

"We're really trying to encourage as many people as possible to put in a written submission because typically people forget or they think it doesn't matter, and we're really trying to tell people strongly 'Your objection matters',

It only needs to be a sentence, it can be confidential, but please get an objection in and make sure our concerns are heard on this."

Anyone interested in having their say on the issue can apply to speak at the meeting before April 1st or provide a written submission via the IPC website.

Friends of the Upper Hunter has also provided a direct link to the submission portal on its website.

The meeting will take place at 10am at the Upper Hunter Conservatorium of Music in Muswellbrook on Tuesday, April 9.

Meeting Sought With Local MP

The group has sought a meeting with re-elected MP Michael Johnsen to make sure he's clear on the details of Australian Pacific Coal's proposal.

"The state government has already set out in it's Hunter Region Plan a fantastic plan for diversification of the local economy and for transition, in fact, those are some of the priorities for the Upper Hunter," said Ms O'Connell.

"We're really encouraged that Michael Johnsen was one of the councillors who voted for Upper Hunter Council's first Coal and Coal Seam Gas policy,

He was part of that unanimous vote and what we're calling on him to do is to stand by those principles he was exhibiting in 2011 and call for the protection of farming and for the protection of our communities."

A map of Upper Hunter Mines. Image: Friends of the Upper Hunter via Australian Pacific Coal

Denman Train Derailment: Tracks Deteriorate Faster than Expected.

BY KAYNE STEPHENS

The report into the derailment of an empty coal train in Denman in 2016 has been released by the Australian Transport Safety Burea has shown that defects in train tracks could deteriorate faster than expected.

The 1.5 kilometre long train bound for Wilpinjong Colliery near Mudgee had some of its wheels mount the rail over a stretch of track in Denman and fall between the rails, leaving a 71-kilometre trail of damage to track and level crossings before the incident had been noticed by track crews.

The derailment site was under a speed restriction after geometry defects were identified a week earlier, and repairs had been planned to occur the day after the derailment.

The train left Kooragang Coal Terminal in the early hours of the morning on 19 January 2016, and passed through the speed-restricted stretch of track between Ogilvie Road and Rosemount Road level crossings.

The left-hand wheels of the 64th wagon mounted the rail along the stretch, and traveled along the railhead for 10 metres before dropping off between the rails.

Crews were alerted damage caused to a signal prompted crews to investigate, discovering the damage to track.

The drivers who were unaware of the derailment were asked to stop the train and inspect the carriages. 

The ATSB noted in its report that the defects deteriorated faster than expected, causing the derailment before the planned repairs.

The report states that, "Factors that can contribute to rapid deterioration should be considered when developing maintenance responses."

The wheels of the 64th wagon left a trail of damage after travelling 71km from the derailment site. 

Port Stephens Key Battleground for State Election

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

Port Stephens will likely prove to be a key win for whoever is successful at the seat in the state election.

The Liberal-National and Labor parties have fought fierce campaigns to win the marginal seat, with major commitments made by both parties.

In a final message to voters, incumbent Labor MP Kate Washington reinforced her party's clear message that it will prioritise schools and hospitals over stadiums.

"The voters should be sending a very clear message to this government, that they do not want stadiums in Sydney,

That they want to see local hospitals and local schools resources before splurging billions of dollars on wasteful stadiums." said Ms Washington.

Kate Washington's key opponent, Liberal candidate Jaimie Abbott, said voters need to consider the benefits they've seen during the Berejiklian government's term.

"The people of Port Stephens have a choice, they can go back to the same old Labor where sixteen years they ran our budget into the ground,

Or they can choose the Liberals, who've been able to pay back the debt and rebuild the budget to be able to invest in important infrastructure here in Port Stephens." said Ms Abbott.

The duplication of Nelson Bay Road, the reacquisition of the Mambo Wetlands and Tafe funding have proved to be the key issues throughout the campaign.

The Key Issues:

Nelson Bay Road Duplication

Both parties have pledged funds for this long-awaited project.

The Liberal-Nationals have pledged a total of $275 million dollars for the duplication of Nelson Bay Road.

Former Premier Mike Baird announced $70 million dollars in 2015 for duplication of the stretch between Stockton Bridge and Anna Bay, boosted by an additional commitment made by Premier Glady Berejiklian in January this year of $205 million dollars for the duplication of Williamtown to Bobs Farm.

NSW Labor last week announced a commitment of $600-million-dollars to fund the full duplication of the road.

The opposition's commitment would see the project delivered in three stages and is dependent on the party winning office for a second term.


TAFE Funding

TAFE cuts have proved to be an important issue across the state and most of the Hunter, with a number of Labor and Independent candidates from the region drawing attention to recent concerns raised by TAFE staff.

The NSW Liberal-National government announced in February it would fund the construction of a new TAFE campus at Nelson Bay, which Labor criticised at the time for lacking detail.

It was later revealed the Coalition's plan would see a Connected Learning Centre built, similar to the campus opened at Singleton earlier this year.

"This is a really exciting model of service delivery for those communities where there aren't sufficient students for a full-on apprenticeship course," said Duty MLC Catherine Cusack.

"This offers an opportunity to deliver these courses locally, whether it be hairdressing, all of these apprentices who otherwise have to travel into Newcastle, and therefore we're not getting the TAFE participation rates we'd like."


Mambo Wetlands

Both incumbent Labor MP Kate Washington and Liberal Candidate Jaimie Abbott have expressed support for a state government acquisition of the Mambo Wetlands following the Department of Education's sale of the site in 2016.

The Berejiklian Government indicated early last year it would explore its options for purchasing the Wetlands and later claimed the owner would not accept an offer to purchase the site.

NSW Labor promised in March 2018 it will buy back the land through compulsory acquisition if elected.

Bush Fire Danger Period extended in Hunter Valley District

BY JESSICA KRAUSE

The Hunter Valley District's Bush Fire Danger Period has been extended until April 30 due to ongoing dry conditions.

The extension was ordered by the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), and will mean those wanting to light a fire will still require a fire permit.after the usual cutoff date of March 31st.

The RFS advises the extension only applies to those in the Singleton and Muswellbrook Local Government Areas.

Anyone requiring a fire permit can go to their local fire station or NSW RFS Fire Control Centre to apply for one.

(Picture: RFS)

Westpac Chopper Called In To Find Vehicle Rollover At Upper Rouchel

BY IAN CROUCH

Two people have been airlifted to hospital after their 4 wheel drive rolled down a steep gully on a private property in the Upper Hunter.

Emergency services took a fragmented triple zero call at about 7.30 last night to a property off Bowmans Gully Road at Upper Rouchel saying a vehicle had rolled and the driver had been ejected.

However, police and ambulance crews were unable to locate the vehicle and the Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter was called in - they found crash site at about 9pm and a 4 wheel drive ambulance was sent to the scene.

A 54-year-old man from Dungog was found with chest injuries and his 27-year-old male passenger suffered minor injuries - they were flown to the John Hunter Hospital in a stable condition.

Police say the pair were out feeding cattle when the crash occurred.

BREAKING! Crews Battle House Fire At Wallsend

BY IAN CROUCH

Fire crews have been called to a house fire at Wallsend.

The residents of a 2 storey townhouse on Diana Street called Triple Zero just after 3.30am on Thursday with three fire trucks arriving from Wallsend and Lambton to find a fire on the first floor.

They've managed to knock down the fire and contain it to the ground floor.

All the occupants have managed to escape.

Police and ambulance have also been called to the scene.

The cause of the fire has not been determined at this stage.

NSW Labor's 3-point Plan for Coal Mine Workers

BY JARROD MELMETH

NSW Labor has announced a 3-point plan for coal mine workers, including those in the Hunter in an effort to improve job security and working conditions.

The plan includes a cap for contracted, labour-hire and casual coal mining of 20 percent which means at least 80 percent of workers on land subject to approval must be directly employed by the approval holder or any other entity that operates the mine.

A new licensing scheme for labour-hire companies would also be introduced which would require those operating in the mining industry to comply with laws regarding workplace safety, pay, and conditions - including providing the same pay and conditions as those enjoyed by directly employed workers.

Shadow Minister for Industrial Relations, Industry, and Resources Adam Searle said the plan will halt the creeping insecurity and the erosion of pay and conditions for workers in NSW.

"A Daley Labor Government wants well paid, secure and locally-based mining jobs in the coal mining industry. We know that many disputes arise because big mining companies want to casualise and contract out their work. This is bad for workers and the resulting disputes have disrupted the NSW coal supply.

"There has been too much contracting out of jobs in the industry, undermining the economic security of local workers. That has to stop, and Labor has a positive plan to work with companies and workers to ensure, decently paid jobs and a resilient industry," Mr Searle said.

Mr Searle went on to call on the National Party to sign on to the plan, accusing the party of desperate empty promises when it came to protecting workers.

Incumbent Upper Hunter Nationals MP Michael Johnsen said mandating how businesses run their business is ridiculous.

"It is a 3-point plan which is effectively going to shut the coal industry down even quicker than Labor want to do it by 2030.

The best thing Labor can do is, actually at a federal level, to support the Nationals legislation which is on the table and has already had its second read. All it is waiting on is a debate and a vote. That is what Labor need to support if they want to support workers in the mining industry," Mr Johnsen said.

Under the Nationals new legislation, all employees in the national system will have access to a minimum standard of right to request casual conversion which cannot be traded away, irrespective of whether their terms and conditions of employment are set by a modern award, enterprise agreement or any other targets.

CFMEU Northern Mining and NSW Energy District President Peter Jordan is applauding Labors plan describing it as "a practical initiative to address job insecurity in the industry and the Hunter region." Mr Jordan said.

Cyclist Killed in Truck Collision

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

A woman has died following a collision between a truck and a bicycle in Newcastle East.

Emergency services were called to the intersection of Hunter and Perkins Streets around 9:30.

NSW Ambulance Paramedics treated the female cyclist but she died at the scene.

The truck driver was uninjured and has been taken to the Mater Hospital for mandatory testing.

Newcastle City Police Officers attended the scene and will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The victim is yet to be formally identified.

Newcastle's Historic Victoria Theatre "Not Eligible" For State Arts Funding

BY IAN CROUCH

The owner of Newcastle's historic Victoria Theatre in Perkins Street has been told the venue's revitalisation is not eligible for state arts funding.

Century Group, which owns Sydney's Enmore Theatre, purchased the dilapidated building in 2015 in the hope of seeing it restored to its former glory as a live performance space.

The company's Executive Director, Greg Khoury wrote to Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Arts Minister, Don Harwin in January seeking funding for the revitalisation and redevelopment of the iconic theatre with a view to placing it in a trust to enable its long term operation.

In a letter to Mr Khoury dated 6 March, Don Harwin advised that the theatre's revitalisation plan would not qualify for funding under any of the established categories through the Arts and Cultural Development Program. However, Mr Harwin went on to say that the 1000 seat theatre may be eligible for funding under he Program  once it becomes a functioning venue.

State member for Newcastle, Tim Crackanthorp has slammed the Berejiklian Government for its failure to match Labor's promise to provide $3 million towards reviving the theatre if it wins government on Saturday.

" The Berejiklian Government has the wrong priorities - preferring to splurge billions on Sydney stadiums while Newcastle misses out once again. Labor's decision to invest in Victoria Theatre will help promote Newcastle as an arts and culture hub for domestic and international visitors." he said.

The Victoria Theatre picture: victoriatheatre.com.au

Father And Son Badly Burnt In Boat Explosion At Lemon Tree Passage

BY IAN CROUCH

A father and son have suffered serious burns in a boat explosion at Lemon Tree Passage.

The 48-year-old man and his 11-year-old son were working on board a cabin cruiser at the local marina just before 5.30pm on Monday when petrol ignited causing the explosion.

Emergency services rushed to the scene with the boat fire quickly extinguished.

The 48-year-old was airlifted to the Royal North Shore Hospital suffering burns to his body, while the boy was flown to Westmead Children's Hospital by the Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter in a serious but stable condition.

The injured boy being treated before being flown to hospital. Picture: dailytelegraph.com.au

Father and Son Injured In Boat Explosion Picture: dailytelegraph.com.au

Police Station Promised for Singleton

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

NSW Labor has promised to invest in a new Police station for Singleton if successful at Saturday's election.

The current station is located in a heritage building the party says is ill-equipped for modern policing.

The $17 million dollar commitment would be put towards delivering a new purpose-built facility and includes funding for a continuous police presence in the area.

Country Labor Candidate for the Upper Hunter, Melanie Dagg, said the existing station is a Workplace Health and Safety risk for officers who are already stretched.

"This is something that the community has been calling out for for a long time, it's something that the Police Association has been calling for as well," said Ms Dagg.

"We understand that the current facility, while it's a beautiful building, is just not fit for purpose,

What we want to do is provide a brand new facility for them, and this also builds on our previous announcement that we will provide extra police officers for the area too."

Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault and Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison joined Ms Dagg for the announcement, highlighting the need for private interview rooms the current station lacks.

"When we have victims of domestic, family or sexual violence we need to be able to ensure they can be interviewed in a space which is safe for them and also safe for those interviewing them."

An appropriate site for the new building will be determined through consultation with the Police Commissioner, the local Superintendent and the community, and discussions will be held with the Office of Environment and Heritage to decide the future of the existing building.

Labor says planning for the new station will begin immediately if the party is elected.

Image: Singleton Argus

One Month on, Light Rail Running Well

BY KAYNE STEPHENS

One month since its opening, Newcastle's light rail service is being regarded as a success for public transport in the city.

Opal tap-on data released last week revealed 4,300 passengers on average were using the service daily - well above the forecasted numbers of 1,800 per day.

The service encountered minor breakdowns earlier in the month, but passengers have taken well to the service.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald said teething problems were always expected, but shouldn't be the norm.

"A complex piece of infrastructure like this can always throw up a challenge, but I'm very confident it's going to continue to service public transport extremely well across Newcastle," he said.

Discussions were raised this month about the possible expansion of the service, including lines to Broadmeadow Stadium and John Hunter Hospital. Given the performance of the light rail in the first month, Scot MacDonald said it was worth considering.

"Obviously if you are going to extend it, you need to see that it has been embraced and numbers are holding up, so I think it adds to the case," he said.

"Those factors are coming into play now. I'm very hopeful that's what will happen in the future."

Scot MacDonald says he's quite pleased with how the service has performed in its first month, and expects the trends to continue.

"I think it'll be more than a honeymoon period. I think people are settling into it now as it's one month today. I will be very very surprised if this doesn't firm up or maybe even lift when people get used to it," he said.

The light rail service runs six stops between Newcastle Interchange and Newcastle Beach. The fare for using the service is $2.20 for Adult Opal cards, and $1.10 for Concession, with it costing only 20c or 10c for concessions if transferring to or from a train service.

Newcastle's light rail is celebrating its one-moth milestone. Picture: Transport for NSW

Caravan Destroyed By Fire At Cardiff

BY IAN CROUCH

Investigators are looking into the cause of a fire which guttered a caravan at Cardiff overnight.

Newcastle Fire Command received almost a dozen calls to Byron Street at about 1.30am on Monday, with crews from Cardiff and Charlestown arriving to find the unoccupied caravan up in flames.

It's taken about 20 minutes to extinguish using a special compressed air foam system.

Police Investigate Home Invasion At Cardiff

BY IAN CROUCH

Two men are recovering in the John Hunter Hospital after a home invasion at Cardiff.

Police say two men dressed in black and armed with a crowbar and a baseball bat forced their way into a home on Harrison Street at about 11.00pm on Sunday and assaulted two male residents aged 41 and 46 before running off and making their getaway in a vehicle.

The victims managed to raise the alarm and emergency services arrived a short time later.

The victims were taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries and are reported to be in a stable condition.

Police believe the offenders and the victim were known to each other.

A motive for the attack is not yet clear.

Anyone who can assist police with their inquiries is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Students Rally for Better Climate Policies

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

Thousands of students across the Hunter have rallied today in a call for action on climate change.

Children walked out of their classes to attend the protests as part of a global movement started by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg, whose work on the movement has seen her nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize.

The Newcastle School Strike 4 Climate saw students gather at the city's Civic Park at midday before students later marched to Federal MP Sharon Claydon's office.

Ms Claydon welcomed the action, saying students should be congratulated for getting active on the issues that matter.

In the Upper Hunter, students and their supporters gathered at 10am outside Dungog Town Hall for a four-hour rally.

The Fridays For Future movement started by Ms Thunberg has faced wide criticism, with politicians and commentators suggesting children should show they care by attending rallies in their spare time rather than during school hours.

School Students at Friday's Event. Image: Hollie Hughes/2NURFM News

Smart City Strategy Announced

BY HOLLIE HUGHES

Shadow Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Yasmin Catley along with Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp and Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes have announced that under a Daley Labor Government, 10 Million Dollars will be pledged towards a new Smart City Strategy.

The Strategy will include the express rollout of electric vehicles in New South Wales by building more fast-charging stations and ensuring that every new apartment block in Newcastle will have at least one electric vehicle charger.

Yasmin Catley outlined that the goals of the Smart City initiative,

"Labor will put 10 Million Dollars on the table to ensure that the state fleet is 25% electric vehicles by 2025."

If elected, the infrastructure rollout would be accompanied by a community education campaign explaining the new realities of electric vehicle ownership.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes welcomed the announcement as an opportunity to make sure that Newcastle remains at the forefront of innovation and new sustainable technology,

"We have an ambitious plan to roll-out the fast vehicle charging stations across the City of Newcastle and today's announcement will enable us to speed up the delivery of this technology to encourage the uptake of environmentally friendly electric vehicles."

Nuatali Nelmes, Yasmin Catley and Tim Crakanthorp try out the electric vehicle. Image: Hollie Hughes/2NURFM News

Coalition Commits to Williamtown Special Activation Precinct

BY ELISE AKSNES

A promise from the state government to designate Williamtown as a Special Activation Precinct (SAP) could offer assistance to residents and business impacted by PFAS contamination.

Port Stephens Liberal candidate Jaimie Abbott says she will work with the State Government, Newcastle Airport and Port Stephens Council to establish a SAP and address necessary PFAS remediation work.

The designation would mean Williamtown would be identified by the state government as an area where businesses could thrive.

Jaimie Abbott said the precinct could make way for property buybacks which residents have spent years calling for.

"This provides the framework for the federal government to come in and acquire the properties who've been affected by PFAS," said Ms Abbott.

"Businesses will be able to have development approvals approved faster and they'll also be able to receive financial incentive to set up shop in the Williamtown Special Activation Precinct."

The announcement follows a $20 million dollar commitment from both federal and state levels of the Labor party, which promises to ban PFAS and fund a clean-up of drain systems.

Jaimie Abbott said if the state government is re-elected the necessary scoping studies will take place to develop a business case for the Williamtown SAP.

"This Government is serious about attracting businesses and jobs to the Port Stephens region. SAP status will offer essential infrastructure and streamlined planning processes for industries and sectors responsible for driving significant growth," said Ms Abbott.

Jaimie Abbott says the Williamtown Special Activation Precinct will provide more opportunities with industries beyond defence, including health and residential care, tertiary education and skills, renewable energy and tourism and hospitality.

Mayor Ryan Palmer said the SAP could include an update of the Newcastle Airport runway and terminal, an extension of the M1 to Raymond Terrace and enhance road links to the airport and the port of Newcastle.

"The SAP will provide an immense benefit to our region, and I welcome any steps towards implementing such a precinct at Williamtown," said Mr Palmer.

Williamtown. Image: News Corp

Man Killed By Police At Glendale Was Out On Bail

BY IAN CROUCH

It's been revealed the man shot dead by police at Glendale had only been released on bail in January and was due to face court again next week for allegedly stabbing an inmate at Kempsey Gaol.

It's emerged 21-year-old Tafari Walton had a history of mental illness and domestic violence and served two years gaol over a siege at his mother's Vena Street home in 2016 where he was shot dead yesterday after allegedly lunging at police with a hunting knife.

Walton was wanted over the stabbing death of his former girlfriend, 27-year-old Gabriella Thompson on Wednesday, leaving behind the couple's only child.

A Go Fund Me page set up to support Ms Thompson's child has so far raised more than $5000. 

Gabriella Thompson was murdered by her ex-partner Tafari Walton

Girl Missing From Waratah

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

UPDATE:

Police have advised Maddison has been found safe and well.


Police are seeking assistance to locate a 13-year-old girl missing from Waratah since March 5th.

Maddison Sawka Finn is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 170cm tall, of a slim build, with long black hair and a mole above her left eyebrow.

She was reported missing on Tuesday, March 12th and police believe Maddison may be in the Newcastle, Raymond Terrace or Taree areas.

Anyone with information on Maddison's whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at their website or on 1800 333 000.

Maddison Sawka Finn. Image: NSW Police

Labor to Commit $20 Million for PFAS Clean Up

BY ALICE PEART

NSW Labor has announced their policy in conjunction with federal Labor funding for the management of PFAS contaminated sites at Williamtown today.

The state and federal opposition governments have promised to contribute $10 million each for a new Drain Mangement Plan in Williamtown, Salt Ash, and Fullerton Cove.

The plan focuses on the removal of soil from contaminated drain sites responsible for leaking PFAS into an affected area up to 50km wide.

PFAS are toxic chemicals from firefighting foam used on defense bases across the country for more than 30 years which remain in the soil and groundwater of the affected areas.

The plan unveiled today further pledged to ban PFAS chemicals in NSW, create a state Response Plan, and appoint an NSW PFAS Response Coordinator to oversee all state operations on the contaminated sites.

Labor's national PFAS policy was not announced, details will be released before the next federal election.

Photo by Alice Peart/2NURFM 

UPDATE: Man Shot Dead by Police in Stabbing Manhunt

BY IAN CROUCH AND MADELAINE MCNEILL

NSW Police have launched a critical incident investigation following the shooting death of a 21-year-old man at a home in GLENDALE this morning.

Officers are yet to confirm the deceased is the same man they began searching for after the fatal stabbing of a 27-year-old woman at a Stephens Avenue home yesterday morning.

Police allege the man threatened officers with a knife when they confronted him.

A Critical Incident Team will investigate the circumstances of the incident, including the discharge of a police firearm.

Inquiries are continuing.

EARLIER:

The search continues for a man wanted in connection with the stabbing death of a woman at Glendale.

Emergency services were called to a home in Stephens Avenue at about 11.30am on Wednesday morning where the 26-year-old woman was found with stab wounds - she was rushed to the John Hunter Hospital where she died.

Police now want to speak to a man known as Tafari Walton.

He's described as being in his 20's, having a dark complexion with a long black ponytail and wearing a grey top and black shorts.

It's believed he may be driving a white 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander with NSW registration AW6 7VV.


Police are urging if anyone knows the whereabouts of Mr Walton or the vehicle not to approach but to call triple-zero immediately.

Wanted for questioning: Tafari Walton

Newcastle Man Charged for Online Child Exploitation

BY ADRIANA FLAHERTY

Strike Force Trawler have arrested a Newcastle man over allegedly grooming a child online.

Strike Force detectives arrested the 22-year old man yesterday in his Lambton home after months of engaging with him online.

The investigation began in January 2018 when the Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad's Child Exploitation Internet Unit (CEIU) believed the man was sending indecent material to a 14-year-old girl.

The man was charged at Waratah Police Station for using a carriage service to groom a persons under 16 years of age.

A search warrant was granted for police to undertake the search of the property, where investigators found multiple electronic devices that will undergo forensic examination.

He is due to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Thursday 11 April 2019 and until then has been granted strict conditional bail.

Anyone with information about internet predators should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/

World's Greatest Shave Kicks Off Australia Wide

BY CATHERINE ALLEN AND MAVIE PEDRO

Hunter residents are preparing to shave, cut or colour their hair in support of the World's Greatest Shave, which kicks off across Australia today with around 20,000 Australians supporting the cause.

Through the iconic Australian campaign, funds were raised to support the 100,000 Australians experiencing blood cancers including leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and Myelodysplastic Disorder (MDS).

The demand for the Leukaemia Foundation services have already reached an all-time high, and a boom is predicted over the next decade.

"The pressure on our services, which include emotional and practical support and the provision of vital, disease-specific information and education, will only continue to grow and be put under pressure," said Leukaemia Foundation CEO Bill Petch.

The need for the foundation's patient accommodation service has also increased.

This critical service affords families from regional areas in need of support a home-away-from-home, free of charge.

Marianne Trimbell the Community Relationships Coordinator for the Leukaemia Foundation in the Hunter says that every day 35 people across the nation are diagnosed with blood cancer with that number expected to rise to 52 people daily by 2025.

"It's our 21st year of having World's Greatest Shave which is one of our main fundraising activities.

"A very big part [of allocated funding] is our driver's service which takes people to and from appointments. We drive as far as Port Stephens up to the lower Hunter, out to Awaba and Morisset areas into the John Hunter and Mater hospitals".

"We've had over 2 million people take part in shave in the last 21 years, so put your hand up and be one of them".

If you want to support the Leukaemia Foundation's World's Greatest Shave or sign up for the event, please visit www.worldsgreatestshave.com or call 1800 500 068.

Man Faces Court Over Raymond Terrace Carjacking And Pursuit

BY IAN CROUCH

A man is due to front court later this month over an alleged carjacking and police pursuit at Raymond Terrace.

Police say a 45-year-old man was at home in Corelli Close on Saturday night when a man known to him and a woman requested a lift.

The trio left the home before police attempted to stop their car on Irrawang Street for a Random Breath Test.

However, it's alleged the male passenger threatened the 45-year-old driver which led to a police pursuit.

The driver managed to escape after slowing down and jumping from the car, which then took off.

Acting on information, officers arrested a 40-year-old man on Hanbury Street, Mayfield yesterday after a shot foot pursuit.

He faced court charged with aggravated take/drive motor vehicle with person in it - in company, stalk/intimidate intend fear physical harm (domestic) and custody of a knife in a public place.

The 40-year-old has been refused bail to face Raymond Terrace Local Court on Monday March 25.

Police are still searching for the woman.

Labor Commits to Eight Year Duplication Plan: Nelson Bay Rd

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

The fight for the marginal seat of Port Stephens has ramped up again, with state Labor committing $600 million for a major roads project.

The opposition is promising to fully duplicate Nelson Bay Road in 8 years; depending on the party winning office at the next two elections.

The project would see duplication delivered in three stages: Medowie Road to Stockton, Williamtown to Bobs Farm and Anna Bay to Nelson Bay.

It comes after the Berejiklian Government in January announced $205 million to duplicate the stretch from Williamtown to Bobs Farm, promising work would start in 2019 and be completed within three years.

It followed a previous announcement in 2015, where then Premier Mike Baird said work would begin in his term of government for a $70 million duplication of Stockton Bridge to Anna Bay.

That project is yet to begin, and Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said voters cannot trust the Liberal-Nationals to deliver in the next term of government.

"The government has made all sorts of empty promises to our community," she said, "they stood here in 2015 and said full duplication of Nelson Bay Road and we've not seen a thing.

"The only thing that we're getting is a roundabout upgrade which won't even be completed by the election," Ms Washington said.

Works to upgrade the roundabout intersecting Nelson Bay and Medowie Roads are currently being carried out as part of the government's road safety plan for the area.

NSW Shadow Roads, Maritime and Freight Minister Jodi McKay admitted the price tag of Labor's three-part plan is currently based on estimates.

"It is an extrapolation based on what we believe it will cost...our commitment today is $600 million on the table and the full duplication now," Ms McKay said, "if that means that there is more money required, we will put more money on the table..."

Work has been carried out on Nelson Bay Road since 2002, however motorists are still bottlenecked into single lanes, creating heavy traffic during peak holiday periods.