Raymond Terrace Library vending machine providing free period packs

BY JAMES CARTER

Raymond Terrace Library has installed Port Stephens first 'Share the Dignity" vending machine to provide free period packs at the press of a button.

The vending machine aims to reduce period poverty in the local community and support access to safe, hygienic menstrual products. 

The system dispenses packs of 6 tampons and 2 pads to ensure that community members have access to basic sanitary items during their menstrual cycle. 

Port Stephens Council Library Services Manager Kris Abbott says many people struggle to afford menstrual products each month. 

“[People] shouldn’t have to choose between purchasing food for their family or buying sanitary products and using something else as a substitute," Ms Abbott said

The machine is located in the Raymond Terrace Library women's toilet and can be accessed by pressing the green button. 

A 10-minute delay between dispensing packs prevents misuse of the machine.

Kris Abbott and Library Circulation Coordinator Nada with
 the Share the Dignity vending machine Image: Supplied

Hunter Teachers Hoping For Priority in Vaccine Rollout

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Independent Education Union is pushing for teachers across the Hunter and the State to be prioritised in NSW's vaccination campaign.

There's concern about the possibility of schools becoming local COVID hotspots, after thousands of staff and students in Sydney were forced to isolate over the past week.

NSW/ACT IEU Secretary Mark Northam says speeding up the vaccine rollout for teachers would be "significant step forward" for keeping schools open.

"Certainly not displacing frontline health workers, we're not suggesting that at all," Mr Northam said. 

"But we are suggesting that teachers should be prioritised and support staff to be vaccinated so that schools can operate smoothly and well in Term 3." 

The Union's also calling on the Government to provide paid vaccination leave for teachers and staff to book their shot in their busy schedules.

"The communities that our members serve, their appreciation of the role and function of a teacher during what's been a fairly tumultuous year in education, schools have achieved magnificent things," Mr Northam said.

"I think it's time for a bit of repayment of the good stocks that teachers and support staff have built up."

Hamilton Community Pantry set to continue after Council decision

BY JAMES CARTER

Newcastle City Council has enacted a late motion to allowing the Hamilton Community Pantry to continue after officers threatened to remove the service

At Monday nights meeting, Council adopted the item saying they will continue to support the "appropriate, safe and clean provision of items and services that are needed like the Hamilton Community Pantry" and will work with Food Not Bombs and other organisations.

The motion comes after the Hamilton Community Pantry was slated for removal by the council on June 16, due to reports of antisocial behaviour in the area. 

City of Newcastle staff and police attended the community pantry later in the week and provided a list of resources for vulnerable people in the area to access. 

A petition was launched to save the community pantry and has garnered over 5000 signatures. 

A community event to show support for the pantry was scheduled for Wednesday but was scaled back due to COVID-19 restrictions. 

The community-run pantry located at Hamilton train station provides those experiencing homelessness with clothing, food and blankets. 

Community members can leave goods in the pantry which consists of several lockers and cupboards. 

The Hamilton Community Pantry
 Image: Food Not Bombs Newcastle

Sydney woman fined after being caught in Port Stephens

BY JARROD MELMETH

A Sydney woman has been handed a $1000 penalty infringement notice after being found in the carpark of a Nelson Bay Hotel.

About 12pm on Tuesday, officers from the Port Stephens-Hunter District spoke to the 26-year-old woman where it was established she resided in Sydney's CBD and that she was in the area to visit a friend.

The woman was subsequently issued a $1000 fine and directed to immediately return to Sydney.

Deputy Commissioner Gary Warboys says now is not the time for people in locked down areas to be travelling around the state.

"Can I be clear abut this, if you're from any area covered under the public health order, we don't want to see you away from your home without a valid reason.

"Going on holidays is not a valid reason," DC Warboys said.

Photo: AusTracks.

Hunter Domestic Violence Support Organisations Set to Benefit From COVID Grants

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter organisations supporting victims of domestic violence have been given a helping hand in the latest round of a grant program supporting women through the pandemic.

A number of local groups have managed to benefit in the third round of the $8.6 million COVID-19 Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Infrastructure Grant Program.

Maitland's Carrie's Place is set to put the cash toward refurbishing their refuge with a new kitchen and facilities, as well as efforts to improve disability access. 

Upper Hunter Homeless Support, Samaritans Foundation, Port Stephens Family Family and Neighbourhood Services Inc., Family Support Newcastle and Survivor's R Us Incorporated have all also received funding for renovations, repairs, and new infrastructure.

Carrie's Place CEO Jayne Clowes says the funds will go a long way toward providing the best conditions for their clients.

"Your own environment and your own surroundings are important to you," Ms Clowes said. "We need to make sure that our women and children feel safe and secure." 

"So it's a fantastic opportunity for Carrie's Place to be able to use this funding to improve our services for the clients that we support." 

Lake Macquarie waste facility hit with fine for "putrid" smell

BY JARROD MELMETH

An Awaba Waste facility has been fined $8,000 for alleged offensive odours.

The NSW Environment Protection Authority says it received a number of complaints from nearby residents and neighbours about a nauseating smell from the Remondis Australia facility at Awaba on April 14 and 15, 2021.

EPA officers who attended the site immediately detected strong putrid odours which were traced to a stockpile of composting material.

The officers identified that aerators being used to dry out compost following intense rain were discharging putrid air, which was travelling to the nearby community.

EPA Director Regulatory Operations Adam Gilligan said it was unacceptable for the community to be 

impacted by odours.

“People reported feeling nauseous from the overpowering odour.

“Residents should not have to endure smells that make them feel ill.

“We don’t want to see residents unable to enjoy their homes and gardens. 

“The EPA is aware of how this incident affected the surrounding community - every complaint made to our Environment Line is logged and looked into.

“It is an offence for any licenced facility to emit offensive odours to the surrounding community and that is why the EPA has issued this fine," Mr Gilligan said.

Remondis co-operated with the EPA investigation and made changes to the way operations are carried out at the facility, particularly following extreme wet weather.

Aeration equipment is now only used by Remondis during the day and in certain wind conditions, rather than at night when the atmosphere is still, which can cause odours to linger.

Pictured: The waste site at Awaba.
Image: Supplied.

Hunter residents urged to spend local this weekend

BY JAMES CARTER    

Business Hunter says COVID lockdowns in Sydney will have an impact on local Hunter business as restrictions cancel school holiday trips.

CEO Bob Hawes says that cancellations open up more opportunity for Hunter residents to book a trip in our own region and keep affected businesses afloat.

"We imagine some people in the Hunter may have changed their plans from wanting to travel outside the region and for those people we are really encouraging  them to have a look at what is in our own backyard"

Cancellations of accommodation, dining and event tickets from visitors to the Hunter opens up an opportunity for residents to support business that have been impacted by the restrictions. 

"We are encouraging people to take advantage of those (cancellations) and see what this region has to offer," Mr Hawes said.

Hunter businesses are seeing similar comparisons in booking trends to those in late 2020, with pre-emptive cancellations and deferments on the rise according to Business Hunter. 

Mr Hawes says Business Hunter is supportive of the NSW Government's precautionary approach to the recent outbreak and has confidence in the contact tracing abilities of NSW Health. 

"We are hoping people in the region get out there and spend, spend, spend and school holidays is always a period that we would like to see activity around our fantastic attractions and we might have to dig deep locally to see that come to par.

"The best thing we can all do is obey the regulations that have been put in place and get vaccinated as soon as we can," Mr Hawes said.

Mr Hawes suggests Hunter residents take advantage of their Dine and Discover vouchers.  

New South Wales residents have until July 31st to use their vouchers, which total to $100 of funds to be spent on dining in at restaurants, cafés, bars, wineries, pubs or clubs or entertainment and recreation, including cultural institutions, live music, and arts venues.

Hunter Business CEO Bob Hawes is urging Hunter residents to spend local
Image: pxhere.com

$3 Million Boost for Regional Football Clubs

 BY SAMUEL BARTLETT

Hunter football clubs have received a share of almost $3 million from the NSW government’s Regional Sports Facility Fund. 

The NSW government committed $50 million to fund regional clubs over two years, helping create spaces and facilities that enable communities to enjoy and take part in sport. 

The state government allocated $25 million to round one for 2020-21, with eight projects associated with Northern NSW Football clubs successful in applications totaling $2,897,553. 

Football clubs in the Hunter Valley, Macquarie and Newcastle zones have been some of the successful applicants to upgrade fields, lighting and changerooms.

Northern NSW Football CEO David Eland says the successful applications reaffirmed their commitment to advocate for regional clubs

He says, “in a number of cases our Community Football team here at Northern NSW Football identified club projects that aligned with various local infrastructure strategies and provided support and access to our consultants to assist our applicants,”

“These types of successful facility projects will help increase participation and accessibility and facilitate quality football experiences in a safe and welcoming environment.” 

Port Stephens Council received $840,000 and $260,000 for upgrades to the King Park Regional Sport Complex and Tomaree Regional Sport Complex respectively.

David Eland says, "there's a huge need for investment, our audit and strategy identifies that there's up to $300 million worth of investment required in facilities, but $3 million is a great start,"

Dudley Redhead United have received $271,000 to install new lights down at Myalls oval which is great news and I know that they've been trying for years to get their second field under lights,"

"Its going to increase that clubs capacity enormously," he says.

Northern NSW Football enlisted the help of consultants to make sure club submissions for grants were the best they could possibly be and Mr Eland says they'll continue to support clubs whenever they can.

"The football community can be assured that every time there is money available, Northern NSW Football will be working with them to apply for it," he said.

Port Stephens dance teacher charged with sexual abuse

BY JARROD MELMETH 

A dance teacher will face court on Thursday charged over the alleged sexual abuse of students in Port Stephens.

In March detectives from Port Stephen-Hunter Police District began investigating reports of inappropriate behaviour by the dance teacher towards a number of students.

The 27-year-old was arrested on Wednesday and charged with 12 offences, including three counts of aggravated indecent assault-victim under authority under, three counts of indecent assault person under 16 years of age, aggravated sex assault- victim under the age of 16 years, aggravated sex assault- victim under authority of offender, assault with act of indecency, common assault, sexual intercourse reckless as to consent (ACT not NSW) and sexual intercourse with person under care (aged between 17 and 18).

Police will alleged the man sexually abused four students and a girl, aged between 12 and 17, who were known to him between 2013 and 2019.

The man from Corlette, was refused bail to appear at Raymond Terrace Local Court on Thursday.

$60 million boost to frontline support for domestic violence

BY JAMES CARTER

Frontline support for women and families affected by domestic violence has received a $60 million boost over 2 years.

The NSW budget announcement brings further funding to the area and strengthens existing programs such as the Staying Home leaving Violence program. 

Joplin Higgins, a family lawyer of Joplin Lawyers says she appreciates the efforts made in the budget.

"It was good to see from the state government that there was a recognition that money is needed to go to women and families"

"The budget estimated 800 new houses but regional NSW is facing a 50,000 deficit in social housing"

"Social housing should have been on the lips of the state government to help women flee domestic violence" 

The new funding falls short of meeting the needs for housing and funds to help them leave says Mrs Higgins. 

Joplin Higgins
Image: joplinlawyers.com.au 

Fitzgibbon slams Vaile outcome as 'Modern day McCarthyism' in speech

 BY JAMES CARTER

Hunter MP Joel Fitzgibbon has described the campaign to remove Mark Vaile as Chancellor of the University of Newcastle as 'misleading, ideological and shrill' in a speech to parliament.

Speaking to the House of Representatives on on Tuesday, Mr Fitzgibbon called out progressives for targeting those working in the coal industry. 

In an interview, the MP says he remained quiet during the protests to avoid disadvantaging the university but believes its time to call out those rallying against Hunter industries.

"This is a form of modern day McCarthyism, people are being blacklisted because of where they work and in this case the coal mining industry and if we demonize Mark Vaile for his association with the coal mining industry then we demonize all coal workers" 

Mr Vaile chairs in the board of Whitehaven Coal but Mr Fitzgibbon presented to the parliament that he also is the chair of a renewables investment fund and has extensive management experience.

Mr Fitzgibbon says Mr Vaile would have not changed the University's direction towards becoming carbon-neutral by 2025. 

 "I have had an overwhelmingly positive response from people who are sick and tired of demonization of people that work hard in our coal industry everyday, we should be proud of them and they should be proud of what they do" Mr Fitzgibbon said.

Hunter MP Joel Fitzgibbon
Image: twitter.com/fitzhunter

Hunter Prison Guard Accused Of Inappropriate Sexual Behaviour

BY IAN CROUCH

 A prison guard is due to face court today (Wednesday 23 June, 2021) accused of inappropriate sexual behaviour towards a female employee at a gaol in the Hunter region.

Detectives from the Robbery and Serious Crime Squad commenced an investigation last month following a referral from the correctional facility.

They arrested a 59-year-old man at his Lake Macquarie home on Friday June 4 and charged him with two counts of common assault and incite other to do sexual act with them without consent.

Police will allege the man attempted to instigate sexual activity with a female colleague in April and inappropriately touched her on a number of occasions.

He's been granted strict conditional bail to appear at Cessnock Court.

The man has been suspended by Corrective Services NSW.

Three People Seriously Injured In Car And Train Collision Near Dungog

 BY IAN CROUCH

Three people remain in a serious condition in the John Hunter Hospital after their car collided with a train at Wallarobba.

Emergency services were called a rural rail crossing about 15 kilometres south of Dungog just after 4.30pm on Tuesday to reports a Toyota Tarago had collided with a passenger train.

A 59-year-old woman who was driving the car and a 65-year-old female passenger suffered serious injuries, while a 65-year-old man was thrown from the vehicle and also suffered serious injuries.

They were treated by paramedics before being flown to hospital.

The train driver and his nine passengers escaped injury.

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

The crumpled wreck of the Tarago at Wallarobba. Picture 9News

Hunter Nurses, Paramedics & Police To Get Pay Rise

 BY IAN CROUCH

Frontline public sector workers who kept the Hunter community safe during the Coronavirus pandemic will get a pay rise from the 1st of July.

Hospital workers, paramedics and police will be among those to receive a 2.5 per cent increase.

It follows a concerted campaign by nurses who argued the government needed to keep it's promise for the full increase after offering just 1.1 per cent.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the Government's decision to boost pay came on the back of renewed confidence in the NSW economy.

Meanwhile, Hunter Ambulance paramedics are again taking industrial action on Tuesday despite the announcement.

They'll only respond to like-threatening emergencies.

The Health Services union says the salaries of NSW  paramedics are not keeping up with their interstate counterparts

Health Services Union Secretary, Gerard Hayes says paramedics will still respond in urgent circumstances.

"The Ambulance Service is there to supply support to the community. The important issue is that any serious case of life-threatening case will be responded to. Low acuity cases will take some time to respond to" he said.

Gerard Hayes

 

Vaile Pulls Pin On UON Chancellor Appointment

 BY IAN CROUCH

Former Deputy Prime Minister Mark Vaile has taken a parting swipe at his opponents after deciding not to take up his appointment as Chancellor of the University of Newcastle.

The announcement of his appointment two weeks ago prompted a storm of protest from academics, students, donors and community members over his links to the coal industry being at odds with the university's aim to become carbon neutral by 2025.

Detractors say appointing the Chairman of Whitehaven Coal would've hampered the university's role in leading the region through structural change away from a reliance on fossil fuels.

In a statement, Mark Vaile said he made the difficult decision not to pursue the Chancellor's position,  describing an unjustified campaign against him, saying it demonstrates contempt for proper process.

Current Chancellor, Paul Jeans will continue in the role until a replacement is found.

Mark Vaile

Cessnock pursuit leads to double arrest

BY JARROD MELMETH

Two people have been charged after a police pursuit in Cessnock overnight.

Officers from the Hunter Valley Police District attempted to stop a Subaru Forester which allegedly sped away from them.

A pursuit was initiated which saw the Forester reach speeds up to 110kmp/h, before it lost control and crashed into a tree on Lomas Lane at Nulkaba.

The 38-year-old male and 21-year-old female passengers fled into nearby bushland before being tracked 2km through the heavy bushland.

During a search of the vehicle police seized a balaclava and two mobile phones.

The woman was also charged with five outstanding arrest warrants and refused bail to appear at Cessnock local court today, while the man was given conditional bail to appear before court in July.

Boy Survives Fall Down Lift Shaft At Wangi Power Station

 BY IAN CROUCH

A 14-year-old boy has had a lucky escape from serious injury after falling down a lift shaft at the old Wangi Power Station.

Emergency services were called to the disused power plant on Summerhill Drive just before 2.00pm on Sunday where the boy had fallen about 10 metres.

Luckily, he landed on a ledge which prevented him falling a further 50 metres to the bottom. Rescuers say the boy most likely would not have survived the 60 metre fall.

He was rescued by Police, Fire & Rescue and Ambulance teams and taken to the John Hunter Hospital in a stable condition with a broken wrist.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The incident prompted a multi-agency emergency response Picture: sydneynewstoday.com.au

15 new police recruits for the Hunter

BY JARROD MELMETH

The Hunter will share in 15 new police recruits after they were sworn in as probationary constables at a ceremony in Goulburn on Friday.

Lake Macquarie will receive six, Port Stephens-Hunter five, and Hunter Valley four who are among a total of 192 new recruits across the state.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott says the new recruits will bring a fresh boost to the Force.

"Congratulations to the men and women of class 347, who graduate today and will join the NSW Police Force at its strongest and most efficient.

"After eight months of world-class training, the attesting officers will join their stations next Monday and invigorate the policing capabilities of this state," Mr Elliott said.

The total 192 recruits consists of 137 men and 55 women, 21 were born overseas and seven recruits are Indigenous.

Pictured: The new recruits sworn in on Friday.
Image: NSW Police Force.

Hunter CEO Sleepout raises big bucks for homeless service

BY JARROD MELMETH

Over 40 Hunter leaders braved the elements on Thursday night taking part in the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout at Hunter Stadium.

Nationally $8 million was raised, with $160,000 coming from the Hunter.

The money raised by Hunter CEO's will be given to Matthew Talbot Homeless Service in Newcastle who offer support to homeless men and children across the region. Its outreach workers visit parks, streets, services and homes.

The St Vincent De Paul Society says on average around 500 people are experiencing homelessness, either sleeping unsafely outdoors or in cars, couch surfing in overcrowding households, or in budget accommodation such as caravan parks.

Around 3,852 applicants are waiting for social housing throughout the region.

Vinnies North East Regional Director Clare Van Doorn says it was a great learning experience for the CEO's.

"We had some people who we have helped through our work speak to the CEO's and they had a really good chat about what it is like to be homeless and they types of things that they go through.

"It was really good for the CEO's who may not come in contact with these people to really step into their shoes," Ms Van Doorn said.

Windale Man Facing 11 Drug Supply Offences After Three Month Investigation

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A Windale man is facing charges of 11 drug supply offences after a three month police investigation.

Officers arrested the 55 year old yesterday morning, and located methylamphetamine in a concealed compartment of his car.

Police also seized more than $180,000 in cash, a supply of methylamphetamine and cannabis, and two electronic stun devices from nearby properties.

The offences include supply large commercial quantity drug, supply prohibited drug on an ongoing basis, take part supply commercial quantity prohibited drug, and knowingly deal with proceeds of crime.

The man was refused bail to appear at Belmont Local Court today.

BREAKING! Fire Crews Called To Lambton Hotel

 BY IAN CROUCH

Quick work by a passer-by has prevented a fire spreading at a Lambton Hotel.

Firefighters were called to the Northumberland Hotel in Elder Street just before 5.00am on Friday, arriving to find the pub heavily smoke-logged.

Newcastle Fire Command says a passer-by managed to extinguish a small fire before crews arrived.

The fire caused minor damage to some carpet and an interior wall.

Crews have used extraction fans to ventilate the building.

Meanwhile, crews were also called to the park across the street a short time later where they used buckets of water to put out a small rubbish fire.

Drunk and Disqualified Driver Charged

BY JARROD MELMETH

A disqualified driver has been charged after being pulled over by police on King Street and returning a high range breath test reading of 0.151.

About 11:30pm on Wednesday 16 June, officers attached to Newcastle City Police District stopped a Subaru Impreza on King Street, Newcastle West. 

Police allege the 30-year-old driver became argumentative and belligerent towards them and refused to submit the test.

The driver was arrested and taken to Newcastle Police Station where his demeanor continued to be argumentative and belligerent. 

He is due to appear before Newcastle Local Court in July.

Council orders shut down of community food cupboard

BY JARROD MELMETH

Newcastle City Council has ordered the shut down of the community food cupboard at Hamilton Train Station saying it has a regulatory responsibility to manage the use of the public land.

The community led initiative which provides food and clothing for disadvantaged and vulnerable locals was born during the first COVID-19 lockdown, in response to the hardships it created.

A petition has been launched, which as of Thursday had 1,400 signatures in just over 12 hours. It is calling for the council to reverse its decision.

Community member Elena Pavlou Kirri says closing down the cupboard will have a detrimental effect on our most vulnerable.

"The pantry was put in place by community members and maintained by community members. 

"It shares with not only people who are struggling with homelessness, food insecurity and financial insecurity but also just broadly members of the community engaging in a mutual sharing network, giving what you can and taking what you need.

"I think the communities self-sustainability, the ability for members of the community to feel self-sufficient, to feel a sense of efficacy is really important and for the council to undermine that by suggesting that their aide is central and the only legitimate or valid aide is really undermining this community as a whole," Ms Pavlou Kirri said.

In a statement, City of Newcastle says it has a responsibility to do everything that it reasonably can to ensure that the community can access our public spaces safely.

"The City is working with the NSW Police as well as state government agencies, and local community welfare providers to connect people with support ahead of the planned removal of an unlicensed community pantry operating in a park.

"Over the coming weeks, NSW Police, City of Newcastle rangers and the Department of Community and Justice will attend the park to connect community members with alternate support if required prior to the pantry being removed," The statement said.

The petition can be found here.

Pictured: The community food cupboard at Hamilton Station.
Source: Food Not Bombs Newcastle.

$7.5 million commitment for brain cancer research at the University Of Newcastle

BY JARROD MELMETH 

Brain cancer research will have a dedicated team at the University of Newcastle following a $7.5 million commitment from the Mark Hughes Foundation.

The announcement was made at the official launch of the 2021 NRL Beanie for Brain Cancer Round, and aims to dramatically intensify Australia's brain cancer research efforts.

The five-year philanthropic commitment to the University of Newcastle will support a dedicated brain cancer team to drive critical research, education and health care improvements at a national scale for brain cancer patients, their families and careers, and health professionals. 

Mark Hughes, a former Newcastle Knights NRL player, said the establishment of the team will build on the work of others, including MHF partners at the Hunter Research medical Institute and the Brain Cancer Group, to take the research to the next level.

"This is a commitment to building a bigger team to bring help and hope to people with brain cancer and their families.

"By partnering with the University of Newcastle we are expanding the support team around every brain cancer patient, not just here, but everywhere around the world.

"We are not starting from scratch either. There’s no time. This is about taking brain cancer research to the next level and quickly," Mr Hughes said.

Each year around 1,600 Australians are diagnosed with brain cancer and around 1,200 die. Formed in 2014 by Mark and Kirralee Hughes, after Mark was diagnosed with a high-grade brain cancer, MHF has played a significant part in addressing chronic underfunding of brain cancer.

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Alex Zelinsky says the University is honoured to be given the opportunity to advance brain cancer research and education in the name of the Mark Hughes Foundation and is committed to the urgent pursuit of a cure.

“Working with the Mark Hughes Foundation is a reminder of how deeply personal and urgent this fight is.

“By establishing the Foundation, Mark has drawn attention to how prevalent brain cancer is in our region alone. We’re deeply committed to improving health outcomes in our region but we know that our discoveries and efforts don’t stop with us. What we achieve will have national and global impact," Mr Zelinsky said.

The University of Newcastle brain cancer team will cover the breadth of prevention, early detection, recovery and rehabilitation, and treatments and models of care for all stages of brain cancer. 

Pictured: Mark Hughes. 
Source: Supplies by UON.

Senior Homes Approved Despite Opposition

 BY CHARLOTTE LLOYD 

Lake Macquarie Council has approved a seniors housing development comprising of 66 self-care dwellings and eight residential care facility beds following Tuesday's meeting. 

The approval follows significant opposition from residents along Hillsborough Road, Warner's Bay. 

The submissions received in response to the application objected to the proposal put forth by the council and detailed concerns about the reduced amount of parking, lighting, fire and flood possibilities, building height, privacy impacts and increased traffic flow. 

Council staff have said the application meets all requirements from Transport NSW and the Rural Fire Service. 

Councilors Kevin Baker and Kay Fraser who supported the application said they acknowledge the public concern but there is need for the development in the area.

The Concept Plan approved at Warners Bay

Newcastle CBD Terrace Severely Damaged By Fire

 BY IAN CROUCH

Fire has caused severe damage to the top floor of a Newcastle city terrace house overnight.

Newcastle Fire Command says five fire trucks and a ladder platform were called to the 4 storey building on Scott Street, Newcastle East at about 7.45pm on Tuesday to find a fire in the roof space.

It's taken crews about 2-and-a-half hours to extinguish and mop up the fire.

The occupants of the home and neighbours either side were safely evacuated without injury.

Although the exact cause is not yet known, Police say the fire was accidental and most likely caused by a naked flame.

Lemon Tree Passage Police Station Weeks Away From Opening

BY JARROD MELMETH

The new Lemon Tree Passage police station will be commissioned on June 30.

Port Stephens-Hunter Police say the current station on Cook Parade will not be in use while the transition to the new facility on Meredith Avenue takes place. 

However, they say the community can be rest assured that patrols on the Tilligery Peninsula will remain the same, and calls to the Lemon Tree Passage station will be diverted to Raymond Terrace station.

The design of the $1.5 million station has drawn criticism from residents and local MP Kate Washington.

Ms Washington took to social media in April saying another $1.5 million 'Swedish sauna' was delivered on the back of a truck this week.

The new station being delivered to the new site.
Photo: Port Stephens Examiner.

Lower Hunter Dam Plans To Be Made Public

BY JARROD MELMETH

Hunter Water will be forced to table plans it has to build a dam in the Lower Hunter in the state Parliament.

Independent Upper House MLC Justin Field successfully moved a standing order which will require the company to release the documents within 21 days of the order.

Mr Field says its all about ensuring the government and Hunter Water are doing things by the books and that the process is transparent.

"I know there has been a lot of concern over the last decade or so about water planning in the Lower Hunter and we of course remember what happened with Tillegra Dam.

"The Community has spoken really clearly in the past. They don't want to see money going into new dams. They want to see it going into water efficiency and recycling.

"The latest community survey strengthened that argument and its clear there is a real concern that Hunter Water and the government are still pushing ahead with their plans for new dam proposals.

"Its clear we need all the information in the public domain will ensure that the community understands what Hunter Water is doing and Hunter Water understands that they must respond to the communities expectations," Mr Field said.

In particular Mr Field is focused on potential plans for dams at Limeburners Creek and Upper Chichester.

The current dam at Chichester. Photo Hunter Water.

Westpac Rescue Helicopter Reaches 10,000 Flying Milestone

 BY ZARA HANDSCOMB

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter service reached a 10,000 hour flying milestone in the AugustaWestland (AW139) aeromedical aircraft on Saturday.

The AW139 was introduced in 2017 and covers a range of different emergencies every day across the entirety of Northern NSW and across the NSW QLD border. 

The Westpac Rescue service provides aeromedical search, rescue and, inter-hospital transfers to care for communities from the North of the Hawkesbury River up to the Queensland border. 

The day the service hit 10,000 flying hours, all three bases were called to support people from various locations ranging from Tenterfield, down to Howes Valley. 

The achievement highlights the hard efforts of the staff across the four bases, engineers, pilots, air crew officers, NSW Ambulance Critical Care Paramedics and NSW Health Doctors. 

One overlooked, essential service to the operation of Westpac Rescue aircraft is the maintenance team, a critical aspect keeping the aircraft safe. CEO Richard Jones says, "Each time an aircraft is needed, there is an expert team of ground personnel who have ensured the aircraft can safely perform to the highest standard."

Thirty-Four heavy maintenance events have taken place since the introduction of the AW139 in 2017. With a total of 120 weeks of heavy maintenance at the Deep Level Maintenance Facility in Broadmeadow.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter service was established in 1975 and continues to be crucial service supported by the community and fundraising. The service runs four different helicopters over three bases in Belmont, Lismore and Tamworth. 

CEO Richard Jones says he would like to thank all those who made it possible.

"Our incredible supporters across Northern NSW who have helped us reach this milestone, keeping our service in the air is a team effort which is only made possible thanks to the generosity of our community," Mr Jones said.

Photo, Courtesy of: Northern NSW Helicopter Rescue Service

BREAKING! Man Stabbed Multiple Times Near Newcastle Ocean Baths

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police are appealing for information after a man was found with multiple stab wounds in Newcastle East.

Emergency services were called to Shortland Esplanade near the Ocean Baths at about 9.45pm on Monday, finding an 18-year-old man with several knife wounds to his shoulder and back.

He was taken to the John Hunter Hospital in a serious but stable condition with non life-threatening injuries.

A crime scene was established and the area cordoned off for several hours.

Police believe the victim was with his girlfriend when he was injured in an unprovoked attack - the woman was not injured during the altercation.

Anyone who witnessed the incident is urged to contact Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police examine the crime scene at near the Ocean Baths Picture: newcastleherald.com.au

 

 

Community Calls To Use Tomaree Lodge As Emergency Housing

BY DAKOTA TAIT

There's a new push to use the now vacant Tomaree Lodge as crisis accommodation for local families in need of a home.

The former disability care centre has been empty since the last residents left last month. 

Port Stephens MP Kate Washington says she'd like to see Tomaree Lodge put to good use while the Government sorts out the future of the site.

"The people that are really struggling are those that are vulnerable, there are people sleeping rough, there are families sleeping in tents," Ms Washington said. 

"This is my proposal for the Government that we utilise the vacant homes sitting at the Tomaree Lodge site just as a short-term solution to help us through."

The Yacaaba Centre and Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Service has backed the idea, while the Shoal Bay Community Association says they'll support the proposal if logistical issues are ironed out.

It's understood there's also concern about the Government's plans ahead of community consultation. 

"Going forward, we need to ensure that the future of the site is determined by community with the support of Government," Ms Washington. 

"So far, Government has not advised any of us of its plans for the site, and the community's very concerned about the future and the security of the site."

Ms Washington says the proposal would be a great outcome for the heritage site.

"It seems like a sensible solution to offer emergency housing for families that are struggling at Tomaree Lodge to assist in this crisis," Ms Washington said. 

"We want the Government to come on board with community to ensure that decisions are being made with us to get the best outcome for that really special site."

Image credit: https://trra.com.au/

University of Newcastle Set To Welcome Back International Students

BY JARROD MELMETH 

The University of Newcastle is excited to bring back international students under a state government pilot plan.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet made the announcement on Thursday with the plans to bring in 250 students through Sydney each fortnight.

The students will spend their two weeks quarantine in purpose-built student accommodation before heading to universities around the state.

The University of Newcastle says it will only receive around 8 students in the first instance but this number will grow if the pilot is successful. 

All up the university has over 6,000 international students.

Vice Chancellor Alex Zelinksy says the university has been working collaboratively with the NSW Government and other universities on this pilot initiative for more than 12 months.

"Our international students are a much-valued part of our community and we look forward to welcoming them back to our campuses in due course," Mr Zelinksy said.

The plans are set to be operational by mid-year should they be approved.

The NSW Treasurer says the plans wont come at the expense of returning Australians.

"We will continue to bring back 3,000 people per week, well more than any other state," Mr Perrottet said.

Man Killed In Early Morning Crash At Balickera

 BY IAN CROUCH

Forensic officers will examine the scene of a fatal crash north of Raymond Terrace early Friday.

A utility left Italia Road at Balickera just before 5.30am and crashed into trees.

Residents of a nearby house located the vehicle and alerted emergency services.

The male driver in his early 20's was the sole occupant of the car and died at the scene.

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

A report is being prepared for the Coroner.

'Operation Queens Birthday' Targeting Hunter Drivers

BY JARROD MELMETH

Police will be stationed across the Hunter from Midnight tonight, targeting dangerous driving as part of 'Operation Queens Birthday 2021'.

Motorists are being warned against driving drunk, under the influence of drugs, dangerously or distracted. 

Double demerits will also be in place from 12am Friday 11 June through to midnight Monday 14 June.

Operation Commander Superintendent Stephen Hegarty says the message is simple, be patient and obey the road rules.

"There will be a number of cars on the road as people travel up and down the coast and inland, so we're asking everyone to be extra careful.

"We want everyone to get to their destinations safely and enjoy the long weekend without tragedy," Supt. Hegarty said.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott echoed these calls saying there is no excuse for putting the lives of others at risk. 

Superintendent Stephen Hegarty addressing 
the media this morning.

Thornton Boarding House Plans Rejected By Council

BY JARROD MELMETH

A proposed 42-room boarding house at Thornton has been rejected by Maitland City Councilors.

The development application sought to demolish existing structures and construct four, three-storey boarding houses at Burnham Road.

The plans were tipped for refusal before the meeting on Tuesday night after garnering 57 submissions which were all against the project.

The council resolution found the development application provided insufficient information, was not suitable for the site, not in the public interest and it would have a "detrimental impact on the amenity and character of the area."

Concept plans for the boarding house.

Interior designs for the boarding house.

Police On The Hunt For Road Rage Driver

BY JARROD MELMETH

Police are appealing for dashcam footage following a road rage incident in Kotara South. 

Its alleged an incident occurred between a white Skoda sedan and a white Volkswagen hatch on Myall Road about 9:30am on Wednesday 26 May. 

Following the incident the two cars came to a stop on Charlestown Road when the 59-year-old male driver of the sedan approached the hatch.

Police have been told the driver of the hatch then reversed hitting the driver, knocking him to the ground.

The hatch then drove away from the scene at speed southbound along Charlestown Road.

The injured man was assisted by bystanders and assessed by NSW Ambulance before being taken to the John Hunter Hospital where he was treated for fractured ribs and bruising.

Anyone with dashcam footage from either Myall Road or Charlestown Road between 9:15 and 9:45am or may have witness the incident is being urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

Photo: Jarrod Melmeth

Man Accused Of Killing 18-Year-Old Girlfriend At Metford To Face Trial

 BY IAN CROUCH

A man accused of killing his 18-year-old girlfriend at Metford ast year is set to stand trial charged with murder.

Emerald Wardle was found dead in the bedroom of a Galway Crescent home in June 2020.

Her boyfriend, 21-year-old Jordan Miller called triple-oh, telling police he was hearing voices.

He faced Newcastle Local Court via video link on Wednesday.

His solicitor told the court he was willing to plead guilty to manslaughter, but this was rejected by the Crown Prosecutor.

The case has been adjourned to Sydney's Supreme Court next month for a trial date to be set.

Emerald Wardle was found dead in the bedroom of a Metford home

BREAKING! Police Investigating Armed Robbery At Glendale

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police are investigating an armed robbery at Glendale.

Police say a person confronted the console operator with a knife at the 7/11 on Main Road at about 3.30am on Thursday.

The offender escaped with cash and cigarettes.

Police say the console operator was not injured and a crime scene has been established as investigations continue.

UPDATE! Police Investigate Fatal Shooting At Stockton

BY IAN CROUCH

UPDATE:

Police are appealing for information after a woman was shot dead in what is believed to be a targeted attack.

The woman in her 60s was shot in the chest when she opened her front door the shooter.

The victims 31-year-old daughter and newborn granddaughter were inside the home at the time of the shooting.

Police believe there was no altercation before the victim was shot.

Newcastle Police Commander Detective Superintendent Wayne Humphrey says police are still working out the identity of the shooter and they did not expect to make any arrests anytime soon.

Detective Superintendent Wayne Humphrey

 

EARLIER:

A woman has been shot dead at Stockton overnight.

Police and paramedics were called to a home on Queen Street just after 8.00pm on Wednesday.

Police have been told the woman answered her front door when she was shot.

She's yet to be formally identified but is believed to be aged 61.

Strike Force Backhouse has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Detectives are appealing for anyone in the surrounding area with CCTV or dashcam footage to contact Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police at the scene in Queen Street on Wednesday night Picture: Newcastle Herald/Donna Page

Controversial Parklets To Be Removed From Shoal Bay Shopfront

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Port Stephens Council has passed a motion to remove controversial public furniture from the Shoal Bay shopping strip.

More than 600 people signed a petition to have the parklets removed and five parking spaces restored.

Helen Love, owner of The Body Spot massage, says she and other community members and business owners were thrilled by the news.

"We're absolutely ecstatic, we thought it was fantastic," Ms Love said.

"We've been consistently at council since January this year and so the whole community is really pleased, and it's good to know that you can actually have a voice."

Locals complained the parklets were impacting business access and made it difficult for elderly shoppers to park.

"Most of the community is an aging community, and so they rely being able to actually pop to the shops and have easy access to the shops," Ms Love said.

"But they took away the main street parking, and they're also doing a lot of works on the foreshore at the moment, so that's reduced parking as well."

The parklets are set to be removed by the end of the month.

But Ms Love says the parklets are only in the "wrong spot".

"We never really had an opposition to the parklets as per se," Ms Love said.

"We've mentioned to them a few other areas around Port Stephens where we think they can be actually installed, so we're just leaving that up to council to figure that out."

Image credit: https://www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/

Barrington Tops Road Closure A Snag for Snow Chasers

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Snow chasers could have their dreams dashed this winter, with a major road closure at Gloucester blocking access to the Barrington Tops.

Barrington Tops Forest Road was shut for structural damage suffered in the March floods earlier this year, and there's concern the road could collapse at any moment.

Accomodation Gloucester owner Trudy Schultz said the road is likely to remain out of action for the whole season.

"We are going to have quite a lot of snow this weekend, I would say," Ms Schultz said.

"You can access the snow via Gloucester Tops, because apparently it's going to be snowing down to six hundred metres, but please don't access the Barrington Tops via Gloucester side and don't try and take backroads because you're going put people's lives at risk." 

While local businesses are usually preparing for peak tourism season, Ms Schultz said accommodation properties like hers are coming in under capacity.

Ms Schultz said the Forestry Corporation needs to sort the road out sooner rather than later.

"We've been through a drought, where Gloucester ran put of water, we were trucking in water," Ms Schultz said.

"We've had the bushfires, we've had major flood back in March and now we have a road that can't access the Barrington Tops."

"I know it's going to take a lot to do, but instead of just talking about it, we really need to start, because it's going to effect the whole Gloucester district, right down to Stroud, the whole area."

Image credit: https://barringtoncoast.com.au/

Hunter Pharmacists Want COVID Vaccine

 BY IAN CROUCH

The Newcastle-based president of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia says local pharmacies should be given the all clear to administer COVID vaccines.

Chelsea Felkai has told Fairfax community pharmacies already have the infrastructure in place to deliver the vaccine now, so it makes more sense to use them rather than spend money on a vaccination centre at Belmont.

She says the Society is also working on a proposal to NSW Health to allow pharmacies to deliver the vaccine in regional and rural areas where there were few, if any health services available to offer the jab.

Chelsea Felkai

Two Dozen Newcastle Pubs And Clubs Invited To Lift Lockouts

 BY IAN CROUCH

The state government will remove late-night lockouts and drinks restrictions in Newcastle in a 12 month trial set to start on July 1.

24 of the city's pubs and nightclubs will be invited to take part in the trial, which will allow venues to trade until 3.30am, provided they have development consent to do so.

Customer Service Minister, Victor Dominello says the move aims to boost the city's night-time economy.

Inner-city Newcastle and Hamilton are the only locations in NSW where lockouts are still in place.

Opponents say the lockouts have led to a dramatic cut in alcohol-fueled violence in the city.

Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello announces the 12 month No-Lockout trial in March Photo: newcastelherald.com.au

Teachers On Strike Over Staff Shortage

BY JARROD MELMETH

Staff have walked off the job at Newcastle Senior School over concerns about staff shortages.

The Union reports there have been more than 20 unfilled teacher absences at Newcastle Senior School this year and teachers are fed up with the disruption staff shortages are having on teaching and learning programs.

The school specialises in the education of children with an intellectual disability which requires an intensive amount of work for teachers.

NSW Teachers Federation Deputy President Henry Rajendra says having insufficient staff places a huge burden on teachers and affects the provision of curriculum across the school.

"The teacher shortage is impacting on the ability of staff to take leave of seek professional learning opportunities.

"Students are missing out on the education they deserve due to lack of staffing, including casual teacher relief.

"The Gallop inquiry into the work of teachers found earlier this year that uncompetitive salaries for teachers and unsustainable workloads are leading to teacher shortages

"The workloads of teachers have increased every year, but their salaries have fallen every year compared to other professions," Mr Rajendra said.

The Union says it isn't ruling out further action if these simple requests are not met.

Snow Chasers Advised To Give The Barringtons A Miss

 BY IAN CROUCH

Snow chasers are being advised to give the Barrington Tops a miss this winter due to poor road conditions.

The Forestry Commission says the Barrington Tops Forest Road, which is the main access point from the coast, remains closed after major structural damage was sustained during the March floods.

Work is under way to repair the road but it's not expected to be finished before next winter.

Forestry says other roads in the area just can't cope with the volume of traffic.

If you're looking an alternative, areas to the north such as Nundle, Walcha and Guyra are expecting good snow falls this week.

 

Snow Chasers Urged To Stay Away From Barrington Tops Picture portnews.com.au

New Emergency Communications Centre Up And Running At Raymond Terrace

 BY IAN CROUCH

Emergency services across the Hunter will now be able to communicate better and respond more quickly with the opening of a new communications centre at Raymond Terrace.

The Public Safety Network site is part of a $600 million investment in essential infrastructure by the state government and comes in the wake of the recent floods and devastating bushfires 18 months ago.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin says it will connect all emergency services and provide more reliable radio links.

"The Public Safety Network provides emergency services with a single integrated network on which to communicate and ensure that frontline responders have a more reliable network to help keep people and property safe," he said.

 

New Emergency Communications Centre Opens At Raymond Terrace. Picture: telco.nsw.gov.au 

Site Chosen For Hunter Mass Vaccination Hub

 BY IAN  CROUCH

The former Belmont Bunnings has been chosen as the site for the Hunter's mass vaccination hub.

Work has begun on transforming the Pacific Highway warehouse, which is due to open in mid July.

The centre is expected to administer up to 20,000 COVID-19 vaccines per week.

The centre will employ up to 100 nurses, 25 pharmacists or pharmacy technicians and around 200 other support staff.

The former Bunnings store at 393 Pacific Highway will become the Hunter's Mass Vaccination Centre Picture: newcastleherald.com.au