Rescission Motion for Controversial Coon Island Name Change

 BY SAMUEL BARTLTET

Three Lake Macquarie councilors are fighting the name change of Pirrita Island, saying the community doesn't want it. 

In a recent survey, 56% of 2120 responses wished to leave the name as Coon Island but council moved a motion to change the name on Monday this week. Councilors Jason Pauling, John Gilbert and Colin Grigg say the community has been ignored.

"Council went to the community, asked them what they thought, and then effectively thumbed their nose at the response they got," Jason Pauling said on Friday.

"My primary concern is, when this all started I made reference that this looked like it would be a sham-consultation and council had already made up its mind, and the results of this survey being disregarded would appear to support that," he said.

But according to other members on council and community groups, the name change isn't about playing politics but changing something which people find offensive.

Councilor Kevin Baker says the name has been hurting people in that community for a significant amount of time.

"It really is a name that has racist connotations, the name comes from one of the original people who lived on the island, who had the name simply because he came out of the coal mines with black dust on his face," councilor Baker said.

"Its time that we moved on from this name that does hurt members of our community and move to a more inclusive name that does recognise the history of the island."

When you combine the feedback from the community as well as the genuine engagement that went on with the key stakeholders and the family group, the feedback overwhelmingly showed there was need for change," he said.

Bahtabah Aboriginal Land Council said in a statement that they considered the term as derogatory.

However, councilor Pauling says "the history books say that he looked like a racoon,"

"I know this whole argument but even the history books that say 'he was named because he had a black face,' they don't say anything further than that," he explained.

"There is no direct link to that being a racial slur,"

"That's where the community is,"

"It's not based on racism, they're trying to hold onto their memories and they feel that they haven't been appropriately consulted," he finished.

BREAKING! Woman sexually assaulted at her home in North Lambton

BY JARROD MELMETH

Police are investigating a break and enter and sexual assault in North Lambton on Thursday.

A 20-year-old woman was insider her bedroom at her home on Turana Parade when a man entered the room with a knife and threatened her.

She attempted to alert her neighbours before the man grabbed her and sexually assaulted her.

Police say a short time later, the man fled on foot and the woman sought assistance from other residents, who contacted police.

A crime scene was established by Newcastle City Police Officers.

Detectives have commenced an investigation under Strike Force Oorin, with assistance from the State Crime Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad.

The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance, aged in his early to mid-20s, of a solid and athletic build, with a broad nose, short black hair and unshaven.

As investigations continue, police are urging anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam footage from Turana Parade, Lester Parade, Faulkner Crescent, Sunset Boulevard and University Drive between 1pm and 5pm Thursday 29 July or who may have information which could assist investigators to contact Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Hunter Street Turns Single Lane For Bike Lane Trial

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter Street will rely on just one lane in each direction to make way for a trial of brand new bike lanes in the city's west.

Single direction bike lanes are currently being installed on both sides of the road between National Park Street and Worth Place.

A number of on-street parks and bus stops are also set to be moved, and the speed limit reduced to 40 kilometres an hour as part of the project.

No parking spaces will be lost, despite major changes to the road.

Newcastle Cycleways President Sam Reich says he hopes "world standard" bike lane options will go a long way to encouraging more people to get out of their cars and into the saddle.

"The main barriers to more people riding their bikes is not the weather, it's not the terrain, it's not people's fitness," Mr Reich said.

"The factor preventing it is this perception of lack of safety on bicycles, when bicycles mix with traffic."

It's hoped, if the trial is successful, the cycleway could be extended to Islington Park and all the way to Mayfield.

The works are expected to be wrapped up by September.

Image credit: https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/

Former youth worker charged with child sex offences in the Hunter

BY JARROD MELMETH

A former youth worker has been charged with 15 historic sex offences which took place across the Hunter Region dating back to the 1990s.

Late last year, Lake Macquarie Police established a strike force to investigate the allegations of alleged child sexual offences against two teenage boys between 1990 and 2004 in  Muswellbrook and Gateshead.

On Thursday, Strike Force Eiraban lead to the arrest of a 71-year-old man from Marks Point who attended Belmont Police Station where he was arrested.

The man was charges with 15 offences, including sex assault (incite indecent act under 16 and under authority); three counts of sexual intercourse with person 10 or over and under 16 years, sexual intercourse with person 10 and under 16 years; sexual intercourse with person 14 or over and under 16 years; aggravated indecent assault of a victim under the authority of offender; and supply prohibited drug.

Police will allege the man formerly worked as a youth worker in the region.

He appeared before Belmont Local Court, where he was refused bail and will appear at Newcastle Local Court on Friday.

BREAKING! Motorcyclist Injured In Crash At Tomago

BY IAN CROUCH

Emergency services have been called to a serious crash at Tomago.

Police say a car and motorbike collided on Old Punt Road at about 5.00am on Friday - it's believed the car was turning into a driveway when the crash occurred.

The motorbike rider, an 18-year-old man,  has suffered significant injuries and has been taken to the John Hunter Hospital by road ambulance.

The male driver of the car was not injured.

Police have set up a crime scene and Old Punt Road is closed southbound between Kennington Drive and Tomago Road.

BREAKING! Man Arrested After High Speed Pursuit At Broadmeadow

BY IAN CROUCH

One man is in custody and another is on the run after a high speed pursuit at Broadmeadow early Friday.

Officers noticed a Kia Cerato suspected of being stolen from a hire car company on Lambton Road at about 2.00am.

The driver failed to stop, with the car taking off at speeds allegedly reaching 100 km/hr in a 60 km/hr zone.

The car lost control on Croudace Street, New Lambton Heights near the John Hunter Hospital and the occupants fled into bushland.

One of them, a man in 40's, was arrested a short time later - he's currently assisting police with their inquiries.

Lake Macquarie Council Names Contractor For Weir Road Bridge

BY PATRICK ALDERTON 

Lake Macquarie City Council has appointed a contractor to oversee the construction of the new Weir Road Bridge. 

The multi-million dollar bridge works, to be delivered by Robson Civil Projects, will consist of the construction of a new dual-lane bridge, road realignment works and the construction of a three-metre wide pathway on the bridge's northern side. 

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser believes that the Lake Macquarie community will welcome the news. 

"Once complete, it will enable a reliable and safe passage for motorists to travel between Barnsley and Teralba," Ms Fraser said. 

Robson Civil Projects Division Manager Chris Janetzki says the company is extremely proud to be tasked with the project. 

"Robson Civil Projects are very excited to be involved in this project and we look forward to delivering a quality product for the Lake Macquarie Community," Mr Janetzki said. 

Lake Macquarie Council will jointly fund the project with the Australian Government, who have pledged $4.7 million toward the bridge, with the Council funding the remainder of the project. 

Construction of the bridge is set to begin in late August, with the bridge expected to be operational in mid-2022. 

An artist's impression of the New Weir Road Bridge. 
Image supplied. 

Social factors a big contributor to where students study

BY LAURA RUMBEL 

New research conducted on accommodation at Australian universities has shown that regional and remote students prioritise social factors when deciding where to study and live when relocating for university. 

The research led by Doctor Julia Cook from the University of Newcastle found on-campus accommodation provided a sense of connectedness, however was not always preferred by all students. 

The research which was funded by the National Centre for Student Equity in Higher Education (NCSEHE) conducted surveys and interviews indicating students' choice of university, based on factors including study programs on offer and cost of living. 

The research found that students who lived on campus reported higher levels of housing satisfaction and experienced more positive relationships. 

The research also found that on-campus accommodation was not always suitable or available to all. 

 "Students who are a little bit older, those who have dependence, families or those who are living with a disability are simply not wanting to live in a highly social environment," Dr Cook said. 

The research team recommends to student accommodation providers and universities to think about how to bring some of the benefits of social connectedness to students in all kinds of accommodation. 

"Some of the things we've recommended are orientation activities, social activities and programs that are specific to regional and remote students," Dr Cook said. 

Affordability of accommodation was also an important factor for regional and remote students when determining whether to live on-campus while studying at university. 

While students working one to ten hours weekly during the university semester reported little impact on their studies, the degree of impact was shown to increase depending on the number of hours worked. 

"Regional, rural and remote students coming from disadvantaged backgrounds are likely to suffer more in their studies, owing to the greater financial and time demands of long working hours," Dr Cook said. 

The potential of the research to shape future decisions and practices around students relocating to study was noted by NCSEHE Director Professor Sarah O'Shea. 

Source: John Holland

Aboriginal Community Advisory Group Seeking Local Leaders

BY PATRICK ALDERTON 

Hunter Local Land Services has issued a callout to Aboriginal people actively involved in their local community. 

The callout is seeking people with a passion in cultural land management and cultural awareness to join the Aboriginal Community Advisory Group (ACAG), which was formed in 2014. 

The group, meeting twice a year, aims to connect its members with Hunter Local Land Services Board members to contribute to solving key issues in the community. The ACAG is looking for members for the next two years to assist with issues including National Resource Management, Sustainable Agriculture, Biosecurity and Emergency Management. 

Community Engagement Team Leader Eva Tarkowski says that the Hunter Local Land Services is looking for motivated and passionate individuals who have an active involvement in local Aboriginal communities in the Hunter region. 

"We're looking for experience in community consultation, as well as a good understanding of current and future issues."  said Mrs Tarkowski

Potential applicants are encouraged to register their interest on the Hunter Local Land Services website. 

An Expression of Interest form can be found here: https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/regions/hunter/community-advisory-groups/aboriginal-community-advisory-group

Source: Manning River Times 

Police Use Hi-Tech To Find Missing Hunter Man

 BY IAN  CROUCH

Police have used Geo-targeting technology to help find a missing man at Kurri Kurri.

19-year-old Jayden Conn was last seen leaving his Greta Street home on Tuesday night.

As fears for Jayden's safety and welfare mounted, Police sent text messages to mobile phones in the area in the hope a member of the public might have seen him.

Just after 8.00pm on Wednesday, a member of the community found Jayden safe and well in Maitland and contacted Police.

Jayden Conn has been found safe and well

Nine People Arrested After Wild Pursuit Through Lake Macquarie

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police have charged nine people, including eight teenagers following a wild pursuit through Lake Macquarie.

A Highway Patrol crew spotted a Honda Civic being driven at speed on the Hunter Expressway at about 11.15am on Wednesday - it's alleged the car was travelling in excess of 200km/h in a 110km/h zone.

A pursuit began at Church Street, Minmi but was terminated at Wallsend due to the manner of driving.

The car was spotted again several times before being dumped in Arthur Street Cardiff.

Officers set up a perimeter, with PolAir and the Dog Unit helping in the search for the group.

A 19-year-old woman, who was driving the car, and eight teenagers aged between 13 and 17 were subsequently arrested - they've been charged with stolen vehicle offences and issued fines for breaching the Public Health Order.

The woman is due to face court today, (Thursday 29 July, 2021).

BREAKING! Police pursuit ends in arrest at Lake Macquarie

BY JARROD MELMETH

A man has been arrested after a senior constable was injured during an attempted arrest and police pursuits in Lake Macquarie.

Police alleged about 2:45pm on Tuesday, officers attended a carpark at Bennetts Green where they noticed a grey Volkswagen Amarok Ute with stolen number plates.

When officers approached the vehicle the male driver attempted to drive off, during which a male senior constable was injured after his arm was pushed into the damaged windows broken glass.

The driver then fled the scene in the Volkswagen, heading into Windale. 

Police initiated a pursuit into the surrounding streets but terminated it a short time later after failing to locate the vehicle.

On Wednesday as part of ongoing inquiries police attempted to stop the same vehicle northbound on the Pacific Highway about 9am before a pursuit was again initiated reaching speeds of up to 160km/hr in a 100km/hr zone.

During the pursuit the driver crashed into bushland off Lakeview Parade, Pelican.

Following an extensive search involving the dog unit, the 35-year-old was arrested in Little Pelican a short time later.

The Caves Beach man was taken to Belmont Police Station where he is assisting police with their investigations. 

Police arresting the 35-year-old. 

Police hunting reckless motorbike riders

BY JARROD MELMETH 

Police are asking for the publics assistance to help identify three motorbike riders who were riding dangerously in Wallsend.

Police say the trio were caught on camera riding recklessly along Cowper Street around 4pm on Thursday 22 July.

Anyone with information is being urged to contact Newcastle Police on 4926 6599 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Pictured: The three riders the police are hunting.
Image: Supplied.

Footage of the riders from Newcastle Police.

Residential Land Sales Slowing Down Across the Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Residential land sales are losing steam across the Hunter, slowing down by around 23 percent compared to last quarter. 

The latest Housing Industry Association report is seeing lot prices rise significantly, with a serious shortage of shovel-ready land. 

Land sales have fallen by 13.10 percent in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie and 32.7 percent in the Hunter Valley.

Meanwhile, the median lot price in the Hunter Valley has now risen to $215,000, a 3.42 percent increase on last December.

Executive Director Craig Jennion says it's likely to take some time for the industry to catch up with the demand created by last year's Homebuilder initiative.

"In Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, unfortunately we've seen prices go up six percent in the last quarter, and 20 percent over the last 12 months," Mr Jennion said. "That's a result of supply and demand."

"It takes up to ten years to bring a parcel of land to market, and we expect throughout this year, whilst there's lots of bulldozers trying to bring land to market, that it will just take a little bit of time for that to occur." 

Art Gallery Loan Stirs Dissent in Newcastle Council Chambers

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Newcastle Council will seek an almost $23 million dollar loan to fund the Newcastle Art Gallery expansion, despite opposition from Independent councillors.

Six Labor councillors and the Greens' John Mackenzie backed Tuesday night's motion to pursue a 10 year loan with the Treasury Corporation, but Independents and sole Liberal Brad Luke opposed the move.

Cr John Church said ratepayers deserved to provide feedback on the plans, and other approaches to funding should have been considered beforehand. 

"The decision last night, I think was rushed," Cr Church said. "We didn't give the community a chance to say whether they want the council to take out a 10 year loan of nearly $23 million dollars." 

"And we didn't ask the second question - if we do want that money, is the Art Gallery the community's priority project?" 

Cr Church also suggested an incremental approach to the works with the money currently available could prompt State or Federal investment.

But Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes shot down the possibility, saying Cr Church's comments demonstrated "complete ignorance" about capital works projects.

"You cannot stage this project," Cr Nelmes said. "Instead of being a project that costs around $35 million dollars, staging it is likely to double."

The Newcastle Art Gallery also endorsed the move, citing historically low interest rates.

Cr Nelmes said it was a vote of confidence in arts and tourism.

"It has been on the books for over 16 years and there has been no State or Federal Government funding that is forthcoming," Cr Nelmes said.

"There is a pathway to ensuring this project is delivered for our community, at a very low cost to ratepayers, at 0.88 of a percent." 

Cr Church maintained the council was putting "the cart before the horse".

"The community should have been asked the question and had a chance to have their say prior to Labor rushing this decision," Cr Church said.

Image credit: www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au

Step forward for Black Hill to Raymond Terrace M1 Extension

BY JARROD MELMETH 

The NSW Government has released the environmental impact statement for the M1 Pacific Motorway extension between Black Hill and Raymond Terrace.

The 28-page document outlines the impact of the $2 billion jointly funded state and federal project on the surrounding environment. 

The 15 kilometre road is set to bypass Beresfield, Hexham and Heatherbrae and will see the construction of four new interchanges at Black Hill, Tarro, Tomago and Raymond Terrace, as well as a 2.6 kilometre bridge over the Hunter River floodplain.

The project has been on the infrastructure list in the Hunter Region since the first concept report was released in 2005. 

Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes says he is pleased both levels of government are moving ahead with this next step.

"This project has taken on significant importance as it is one of the last stretches of the M1 link from Sydney to Brisbane to be upgraded.

"We are relieved this step has been taken and were concerned the project was stalling, notwithstanding there are allocations in respective government budgets for the project.

"The concepts and designs have changed significantly since 2005 and it is important that the community and businesses understand how the project links into existing development and road infrastructure as well as facilitating future development," Mr Hawes said.

Feedback on the EIS can be provided here until August 28.

The new bridge passing over the existing road.

View of the new road from Tarro Railway Station.

The interchange to be built at Tomago.

Singleton Council and Singleton Business Chamber join to support local businesses

BY CHARLOTTE LLOYD

Following the recent lockdown restrictions within Greater Sydney, Singleton Council and Singleton Business Chamber have decided to join forces to support businesses within the local area. 

Council and the business chamber says the impacts of the Sydney lockdown ripple into Singleton with travel restrictions affecting suppliers as well as customers from the city. 

The Business Supporting Business initiative has been reinstated for the fourth time since the initial lockdown last year and allows businesses to apply for $250 worth of Spend in Singleton gift vouchers that allows businesses to purchase essential supplies from other local businesses. 

Singleton Council and Business Chamber are confident that in its fourth round the Business Supporting Business program is an efficient way that has been tried and tested to keep businesses afloat. 

A one-on-one information session will be held on Wednesday 4th August and Wednesday 11th August in order for businesses to access information and support personal to them. 

These sessions are in an effort to seek clarification of what support business are after and an opportunity to ask any questions that businesses may have. 

Singleton Council Business Support Project Coordinator
Katrina Crawford and Singleton Business Chamber president Sue Gilroy.

BREAKING! Elderly Woman Suffers Serious Burns In Brightwaters House Fire

BY IAN CROUCH

Emergency services and the region's Westpac Rescue Helicopter have been called to a house fire at Brightwaters.

Police, fire and ambulance crews arrived at the Bulgonia Road home just before 10 o'clock on Wednesday morning to find a fire in the kitchen.

Firefighters have extinguished the blaze with CO2 extinguishers.

NSW Ambulance says a woman in her 80's has been flown to hospital in a serious but stable condition with burns to the left side of her face and her left hand.

Police Investigate Armed Robbery At Birmingham Gardens

BY IAN CROUCH

A man has escaped with cigarettes following an armed robbery overnight at Birmingham Gardens

Police say the man and his dog walked into the Matilda Service Station on Sandgate Road just after 8.30pm on Tuesday night.

He slammed a meat cleaver down on the counter and ordered the attendant to hand over cigarettes before leaving.

The worker was shaken but uninjured.

Detectives are reviewing CCTV footage in a bid to identify the suspect. 

BREAKING! Fire Crews Called To House Fire At Muswellbrook

BY IAN CROUCH

Firefighters are battling a house fire at Muswellbrook.

Crews from Muswellbrook and Aberdeen were called to the brick and tile home on Adams Street just before 4.00am on Wednesday to find smoke and flames issuing from the house.

They took about 15 minutes to knock down the flames.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus then entered the home but found no-one inside.

Police and Ambulance are also at the scene.

Newcastle Fire Command says the home has been severely damaged.

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

The house on Adams Street was extensively damaged by fire Picture: Aberdeen Fire & Rescue

 

Mine rehabilitation reforms to bring transparency about environmental decisions

BY JAMES CARTER

Mining reforms introduced by the NSW Government will allow the public to access information about mine rehabilitation to promote transparency and public understanding of rehabilitation requirements. 

Operators of existing and new mines across  NSW will be required to show their plans for progressive rehabilitation and report annually on rehabilitation outcomes.

Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Resources John Barilaro said several amendments have been made to the Mining Regulation 2016 to modernise the framework.

“These reforms will strengthen the rehabilitation framework, encouraging best practice rehabilitation and ultimately ensure that mining lease holders progressively rehabilitate mine sites over the course of their project, and not just at closure.” Mr Barilaro said.

The new changes will require mine operators to prepare a management plan to identify and achieve outcomes, carry out rehabilitation risk assessments, develop a program to demonstrate rehabilitation approaches and release annual reports on performance. 

Dave Layzell, Member for the Upper Hunter says the reforms are all about making sure progressive rehabilitation occurs across the Hunter Region. 

"It is all about tightening up some of the rules for rehabilitation to make sure all the mine operators are doing the right thing by their rehabilitation plans and we are requiring them to prepare a good management plan and take out risk assessments and demonstrate they are actually rehabilitating mines as they go.

"Some of the mines themselves are probably already doing this in some form or another, and it is important that we have an even playing field across mining operations to make sure that everyone is doing the right thing." Mr Layzell said.

Information about rehabilitation plans will be made publicly available by the NSW Resources Regulator to promote accountability in the form of detailed reports and case studies. 

Mine sites in the Upper Hunter
Image: Google Maps

New Name for Coon Island

BY ZARA HANDSCOMB 

Coon Island and Coon Island Point in Swansea will be renamed Pirrita Island and Miners Point respectively.

The Island was named after the first recorded permanent of the island, Herbert Heany. Who was nicknamed 'coon', as he was often found with coal dust on his face. 

After many years of reports deeming the name of Coon Island of racist nature, Lake Macquarie Council and Bahtabah Local Aboriginal Council came together to review the name. The name change considered feedback from community a community survey, and key stakeholders, traditional owners and the Heany family.

Lake Macquarie councillor, Kevin Baker has slammed the former name saying it "was a name that was genuinely racist and genuinely hurtful to a lot of people in our community." 

Over two-thousand people submitted survey responses regarding the name change, in which fifty-six percent responded negatively. The motion to change the name was passed 8-5 and the council are due to submit an application to the Geographical names board. 

Cr Baker says this will enable the community to commence healing, "...we recognise both the European history and the significant contribution minors have had to the area, plus the sixty-thousand years plus of Indigenous history that the places have. Now is the time for the community to come together, embrace our shared history and heal," Cr Baker said. 

Image: Royal Haskoning 

Man Bashed And Robbed At Warabrook Railway Station

 BY IAN CROUCH

Two people are due to face court today (Tuesday 27 July, 2021)  accused of assaulting and robbing a man at the Warabrook Railway Station on Monday night.

Police say a 25-year-old man was riding his bicycle near the station just after 7.00pm when he was stopped by 3 people who assaulted him before making off with his bike and other belongings.

He was taken to the Mater Hospital for treatment.

A short time later, police arrested a 17-year-old girl at Jesmond and a 22-year-old man at Waratah West.

They've been refused bail to face court today charged with robbery in company.

Police are yet to speak to the 3rd alleged offender.

The pushbike has been recovered.

RFS Crews Battle Bushfire At Fingal Bay

 BY IAN CROUCH

It's believed a bushfire which tore through the Fingal Bay headland late on Monday night was deliberately lit.

Rural Fire Service crews from Fingal Bay, Soldiers Point and Anna Bay were called to Barry Park off Marine Drive just before 10pm.

They managed to bring the fire under control within about 30 minutes and no properties were under threat.

The fire is listed at Advice level this morning.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

A firefighter tackles the flames at Barry Park on Monday night Picture: Fingal Bay RFS

Stockton Fire Victim Remembered As A Much-Loved Larrikin

 BY IAN CROUCH

The sister of a man who died in Monday's devastating unit fire at Stockton has described her older brother as a larrikin and a happy man who wouldn't hurt anyone.

Firefighters found the body of 55-year-old Graham Cameron in unit one of the Fullerton Street housing commission complex.

His sister, Bernice Hughes has told Fairfax, Graham grew up in Balmain and enjoyed playing rugby league and swimming competitively, making the move to Stockton five years ago.

Graham enjoyed a few beers at local watering holes and loved the 90's Coolio hit, Gangsta's Paradise.

He was in remission from cancer and lived alone with his beloved dog, Izzy who survived the fire.

Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the fire.

Graham Cameron is being remembered as a
 loveable larrikin
Picture: lakemacquarieonlinenews.com.au

Port of Newcastle Invests $28.4 Million in Mobile Harbour Cranes

 BY OLIVIA DILLON 

Despite a decision by the federal court to uphold the constraints on the Port of Newcastle, the organisation is pushing ahead with its plans to expand its container handling capabilities.

The Port has purchased two mobile harbour cranes at a cost of $28.4 million dollars, so as to further enhance its existing project cargo, general cargo and container handling capability.

Port of Newcastle's Executive Manager of Trade and Business Development, Paul Brown, said the cranes will help to increase efficiency at the Port. 

“Our customers already benefit from Port of Newcastle’s uncongested road, dedicated freight rail and berth access and this investment will enable both existing and new customers to utilise the Port’s infrastructure to move their oversized equipment and containerised cargo even more efficiently through Newcastle than they currently can.”

Our team look forward to working with customers and new trades alike to identify how the mobile harbour cranes service can benefit their supply chain, improve efficiency and further support their ability to successfully compete in international markets." 

The cranes are expected to arrive in mid-2022 and are capable of handling an array of project cargo, including wind turbines, mining equipment and timber. 

Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody, said the investment represents part of the Port’s long-term diversification plans to better meet the demands of customers and boost the economy. 

“We are firmly focused on seizing opportunities that will create a broad mix of trade opportunities which help to support our local industry, boost jobs in addition to the 9000 positions the Port directly and indirectly supports now, and build a prosperous local, state and national economy.” 

Mr Carmody said that while he cannot currently announce the go-ahead of their $2.4 billion Multi-purpose Deepwater Terminal project, the Port of Newcastle's goals are unwavering. 

Mobile Harbour Cranes

Identity of man shot dead in Cooks Hill released

BY JARROD MELMETH

Police have released the identify of the man who was fatally shot in Cooks Hill last Thursday.

40-year-old Wesley Prentice from Rutherford was gunned down inside a unit on Darby Street.

Police are continuing their investigations and are asking for assistance from the public and anyone who may have dashcam footage from Darby Street and nearby Parkway Avenue, Tooke and Brooks Streets about 12:45pm last Thursday.

Members of the public say they saw two people - a man and a woman - running from the scene at the time of the incident.

Superintendent Wayne Humphrey says police have had a good response from the public with information about the incident and the postmortem is being undertaken on Monday. 

Pictured: Superintendent Wayne Humphrey speaking to the
 media this morning.

Councillors Respond to Local Election Delay

 BY OLIVIA DILLON 

The upcoming local government elections have been postponed for a second time, as the current COVID-19 outbreak continues to worsen throughout the state. 

On Saturday, the NSW Minister for Local Government, Shelley Hancock, confirmed the election, already a year late, has been pushed back from September 4th to December 4th for all NSW councils except the Central Coast. 

The fate of the Central Coast election is in the hands of Council administrator, Dick Persson. 

Newcastle Lord Mayor, Nuatali Nelmes, was disappointed following the announcement and questioned the need for another postponement, saying every other state could manage COVID-safe elections during the pandemic.

"Elections could have proceeded as originally planned in regional NSW and places like Newcastle with additional COVID-safe measures in place."

"Other states have held their elections during the pandemic; there was a by-election held in Brisbane yesterday." 

Cessnock Labor Councillor, Jay Suvaal, said that while he understood the health advice, he did not think it should have come to this. 

"While I support the health advice and believe people's safety must come first, I strongly believe it should not have come to this. We are now, again, seeing the results of Federal and State Liberal Governments failing to manage the pandemic response properly." 

"We are fortunate that our community of Cessnock has mostly been spared the worst of the pandemic, but the failings of the Prime Minister and Premier cannot be allowed to continue. They must take action now in the best interest of the people. The community of Cessnock deserves better. The people of NSW and Australia deserve better," he said. 

Councillor for Maitland, Phillip Penfold, was also disappointed with the news, but said that it would not effect his bid to become Mayor. 

"I'll still be contesting the mayoralty and I have team of candidates that are eager to run in each ward so we look forward to it. We were ready for the 4th of September and we will be even more ready for the 4th of December." 

Local Government Elections have been Postponed
Image: Newcastle Herald

BREAKING! Crews Battle Deadly Unit Fire At Stockton

BY IAN CROUCH

One person has died and another has been rescued as crews battle a fire in a unit block at Stockton.

Newcastle Fire Command says they received a triple-oh call just after 5.00am on Monday to the unit complex in Fullerton Street.

It's understood unit one has been destroyed while units 2 to 5 are smoke affected.

Several residents from nearby units managed to self evacuate.

Fullerton Street is closed as the fire operation continues.

Fatal fire in Fullerton Street Stockton
 Picture: Stockton Community Page/Dan Graham

Crews Contain Bushfire At Fern Bay

 BY IAN CROUCH

Strong winds have hampered efforts to contain an overnight bushfire at Fern Bay.

Four Fire & Rescue and three RFS trucks were called to Braid Road at about 10.30pm on Sunday.

Newcastle Fire Command says although there are homes in the area, no properties were under threat.

Crews took around 2-and-a-half hours to extinguish and black out the fire, which burnt through about 1 hectare of bush. 

Felled Power Pole Sparks Grass Fire At Jerrys Plains

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police are treating a fire which tore through four hectares of grassland as Jerrys Plains early Monday morning as suspicious.

Hunter Valley Police say a power pole was deliberately cut down with a chain saw in Edderton Road at about 3.00am on Monday, bringing down live power lines which started the fire.

8 RFS trucks attended the fire, taking around 30 minutes to bring the flames under control.

Police say no homes were under threat, however power was cut to one rural property.

Police say a grass fire at Jerrys Plains was sparked by an act of vandalism

Crews Battle Shipping Container Fire At Morisset Park Through The Night

 BY IAN CROUCH

Firefighters have taken several hours to extinguish a fire in a storage container at Morisset Park overnight,

Newcastle Fire Command says several Fire & Rescue and RFS crews were called to Trinity Point Drive just after 12.30am on Monday morning to find a gas bottle next to a shipping container had caught alight.

The fire quickly spread inside the container, which was filled with piles of cardboard, and the office area of an adjacent restaurant.

The office area sustained only minor damage but the storage shed took around five hours to extinguish due to multiple re-ignitions.

Police say no-one was injured and the fire is not being treated as suspicious.

Boarding House Residents Left Behind by Eviction Notice Laws

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Newcastle councillors are pushing to improve eviction notice standards, following reports residents were given just 29 days to vacate a Cooks Hill property.

Cr Carol Duncan is set to present the notice of motion at next Tuesday's council meeting. 

It's hoped the motion could establish new rules requiring operators to provide sufficient notice and routine updates to tenants regarding development applications.

Cr Duncan says boarding house residents are already some of the Hunter's most vulnerable residents.

"In boarding houses you often see that there are a large number of people who may have literacy problems or disability issues, and they're certainly not being looked after," Cr Duncan said.

The Labor councillors behind the motion are hoping this is just the start of efforts to improve the city's housing situation.

"The problem is that people need much more time to get themselves reestablished in suitable housing," Cr Duncan said.

"Particularly at the moment we're seeing escalating rental prices and property prices and a terrible shortage of social and affordable houses."

Councillor Carol Duncan at Parkway Avenue.

Maitland's Popup Vaccination Clinic Proves Huge Success

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A popup vaccination clinic at Maitland Showground on Thursday has been a huge success, despite highlighting the serious demand for the shot across the Hunter.

Around 300 people were given the AstraZeneca jab in just three hours, including walk-ins.

The queue was parked out an hour and half before opening, and included groups all the way from under 40s to over 90s. 

Dr Craig Richards from the Lorn Surgery says they're hoping to get another clinic up and running in two weeks' time.

"I think there's a very high demand for vaccination, but we're still just currently limited by the lack of Pfizer, which is most appropriate for people under 60," Dr Richards said. 

It's hoped the region could establish a larger and more permanent clinic with the arrival of Pfizer supplies in Australia.

"I think we definitely do need an accessible mass vaccination option in the Hunter Valley," Dr Richards said.

"Belmont is a bit of a hike for people, but at the moment there's probably a fairly complementary sort of role going on there, Belmont providing Pfizer for the region, and Maitland providing AstraZeneca."

UPDATE! Police appealing for dashcam footage following fatal shooting at Cooks Hill

BY JARROD MELMETH

UPDATE 10AM:

Police are appealing for dashcam footage as they continue to investigate a fatal shooting at Cooks Hill on Thursday afternoon.

Emergency services were called to a Unit on Darby Street at about 12:45pm where a 40-year-old man had been fatally shot.

Police have been told two people - a man and a woman - were seen running from the scene shortly after 

Anyone who was in the vicinity of Darby Street, and nearby Parkway Avenue, Tooke and Brooks Streets who may have dashcam footage is being urged to contact Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers.

EARLIER

BY IAN CROUCH

A man has died after being shot at Cooks Hill on Thursday afternoon.

Emergency services were called to a unit block in Darby Street at about 12.45pm where they found a man inside a unit with a gunshot wound to the chest.

Despite the best efforts of paramedics, he died at the scene.

Police say the man is yet to be formally identified.

Newcastle Police Commander, Superintendent Wayne Humphrey told reporters there were a number of people inside the unit at the time who've taken off and they are being sought by Police for questioning.

He said witnesses have told them a male and a female were seen running from the unit block around the time of the shooting and the man had blood on his face.

Anyone who saw the pair near the intersection of Parkway Avenue is urged to contact Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers immediately on 1800 333 000.

Police at the scene in Cooks Hill.
Image: ABC Newcastle.

Newcastle Greens call for affordable housing levy on infill developments

BY JAMES CARTER

The Newcastle Greens have announced a commitment to create a 15% affordable housing levy on infill developments in the high density and catalyst areas of the city.

Initially raised in February 2019 in, the Greens have highlighted the idea in a pre-election pitch.

Greens Councillor and Lord Mayoral candidate John Mackenzie put forward a motion in March 2019 where council agreed to establish an affordable housing levy scheme, but it is still yet to be implemented.  

A local housing strategy was released last year but an affordable housing scheme is yet to be implemented. 

Councillor Mackenzie says the current housing crisis means the affordability scheme needs to be fast tracked. 

"Rental accommodation is almost completely gone and homelessness services in the city are saying this is the worst they have ever seen and are having to make more turn backs than ever before."

Newcastle is set to lose 226 rental properties which have been subsidised under the National Rental Affordability Scheme over the next six years according to a NRAS report. 

The federal program was discontinued by the Abbot government in 2014 aimed to increase medium to large scale investment in affordable housing.

The intention was to have affordable housing stock continually added so that as the 10 year contracts expired there would be additional houses built to replace them.

The proposed levy would be 15% on privately owned properties and 30% on government developments such as the Hunter Park development.  

"It would apply to those areas where we are seeing large scale urban renewal growth in particular the CBD, Wickham, Adamstown and Newcastle West"

"In those sorts of areas where we are seeing large scale developments in high density areas but we are not seeing a comparative amount of affordable or social housing being put in at the same time," Cr Mackenzie said.

Affordable Housing in Newcastle
Image: Google Maps

Man extradited from Queensland over East Maitland axe attack

BY JARROD MELMETH 

A 23-year-old man has been extradited from Queensland to NSW over an axe attack at East Maitland last week.

Just before 8pm on July 13, a man and a woman were inside a home on Alliance Street when a group of five people arrived at the home before an argument broke out.

Police will allege the 28-year-old woman was assaulted and the 35-year-old man was struck several rimes with the tomahawk.

Since the incident, two people have been charged in relation to the incident.

Following further inquiries, detectives from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District, assisted by officers from the Queensland Police Service, travelled to the Sunshine Coast where they arrested the 23-year-old man on Tuesday.

A request for the mans extradition was granted at the Maroochydore Magistrates Court.

On Wednesday he was taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station charged with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and affray.

The Tarro man was refused bail to appear at Raymond Terrace Local Court today.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing. 

Police Seek Help To Identify Lake Macquarie Service Station Armed Robber

 BY IAN CROUCH

Lake Macquarie Police have released CCTV footage as they continue investigations into several armed robberies.

Detectives from Strike Force Woonooka are investigating four armed robberies at three Lake Macquarie service stations in the past month.

The first hold-up was at the 7/11 on Main Road Cardiff at about 3.00am on Thursday June 10 where a man dressed in dark clothing and a face covering threatened the attendant with a large knife before running off with cash and cigarettes.

It's believed the man made another unsuccessful attempt at the same 7/11 store on Tuesday June 29.

He's also believed responsible for armed robberies on 2 other service stations on Main Road at Edgeworth at about 10.50pm on Saturday 12 June and Collier Street Redhead at about 7.15pm on Friday 9 July.

Anyone who can assist police is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

 

Tighes Hill and Mayfield poised for major developments

BY JARROD MELMETH

Mayfield and Tighes Hill are set to become home to a number of new retail operators.

Central Coast based Stevens Group have submitted the fresh plans for a service station and two take away food outlets at 51 Industrial Drive, Mayfield to Newcastle Council while the Elizabeth Street, Tighes Hill light industrial area plans have passed Newcastle's Development Applications Committee and will now be voted on by councilors at next Tuesday's meeting.

The $18.6 million Tighes Hill mixed use development hopes to attract tenants in the form of but not exclusive to hardware, retail, gyms, childcares, and hospitality. The site has been unused for the best part of 10 years, and has a history of contamination as a former bulk fuel terminal and depot. The developer says the site has been cleaned up in preparation for the project.

In Mayfield, a $4.1 million plan has been lodged with Newcastle Council and if approved will be home to a service station and two take-away food outlets. The development application has sought 24/7 hours of operation.

Tighes Hill plans for a light industrial area.

Mayfield plans for service station and fast food.

Newcastle Container Terminal Hopes Quashed by Federal Court Call

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A Federal Court decision which quashed the possibility of a container terminal at the Port of Newcastle is being met with backlash.

The port has been pushing to diversify into freight and establish a larger terminal on the former BHP site at Mayfield for years, but is currently limited by laws which restrict container movements and make the project financially unfeasible. 

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is now deciding whether to proceed with an appeal against the call, after their claims the restrictions were anti-competitive and only put in place to favour Port Kembla and Port Botany, were rejected.

Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon said the Government needed to step in for the sake of the Hunter economy and its sustainability into the future.

"It is outrageous that the NSW Government has subjected us to a dodgy deal they made in order to sell and privatize the ports in NSW," Ms Claydon said. 

"It's effectively a massive constraint on Newcastle." 

The court also rejected arguments the Government lost Crown immunity from anti-competitive practice in privatizing the ports, stating the Government was not acting as a business, but only in the interest of a policy decision. 

"All pressure should be put to the NSW Liberal Government," Ms Claydon said. "This is a problem of their making, and the solution also lies with them."

"Why should we be penalised and not be in a position to develop and grow this port, help create jobs in our region, and continue to drive great economic activity in Newcastle?"

Image credit: https://www.portofnewcastle.com.au/

Federal Funding to Fix 'Black Spots'

BY CHARLOTTE LLOYD 

The Australian Government's Black Spot Program is set to receive more funding in hopes to improve 97 dangerous crash sites on local New South Wales roads between 2021 and 2023. 

The funding received will make a beneficial contribution to deaths and injuries that have occurred along community roads within New South Wales and will aid in past investments within the state. 

Chair of the NSW Black Spot Consultative Committee the Hon Dr David Gillespie says the state will receive $34.4 million under the program as well as more funds being offered from the New South Wales Government. 

Some of the high-priority locations include Maitland, Dungog, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock, Newcastle, Port Stephens and Port Macquarie. 

The Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics has found that these high-priority locations have seen a total of 15 fatal and 584 crashes in the last 5 years which is hoped to be reduced by up to 30 percent with the new improvements. 

Funding set for local 'black spots' in NSW

Ten Arrests And Seven Positive Drug Tests During Lake Macquarie Police Blitz

 BY IAN CROUCH

 Lake Macquarie Police say they're very concerned at the number drivers being caught with illicit drugs in their system.

 Officers took part in Operation Amrap between 7.00am and 5.00pm on Monday, stopping 80 vehicles and arresting 10 people.

 Of the 37 drivers subjected to a random roadside drug test, seven allegedly returned a positive result - that's 1 in 5 drivers. All were arrested and underwent secondary tests which have been sent for further testing.

 Officers also carried out 74 random breath tests, with a 43-year-old man arrested and charged after allegedly returning a mid-range alcohol reading of 0.089.

Two drivers were charged with disqualified driving and one was issued a $1000 fine for breaching the COVID Public Health Order.

 Chief Inspector Craig Reid says the comparatively high number of people caught drug driving is a big worry.

"Seven drivers out of 37 recorded a positive roadside result - that is a worrying number of motorists who proceed to put not only their own lives at risk, but the lives and safety of those on the road around them," he said.

"Lake Macquarie Police will be continuing to target drivers who think they can get away with drink or drug driving - you will see us in numbers on the main arterial roads, (and) the back routes," Ch Insp Reid said.

 

Teen To Face Court Over Pursuit At New Lambton Heights

 BY IAN CROUCH

A 17-year-old boy is due to face the Children's Court today (Wednesday 21 July, 2021) following a pursuit at New Lambton Heights early this morning.

Patrolling police noticed a motorcycle being ridden erratically on Lookout Road just after 1.30am and began following the bike when it failed to stop.

The bike was dumped nearby and the rider and his pillion passenger took off.

Police established a perimeter and the 17-year-old passenger was arrested a short time later with the assistance of a police dog.

The rider is still on the run.

Checks confirmed the motorbike was reported stolen from Adamstown at the weekend.

The boy has been refused bail charged with being carried on a conveyance taken without consent and domestic matters.

Police Investigate Fatal Motorbike Crash At Merriwa

 BY IAN CROUCH

Hunter Valley Police are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash at Merriwa overnight.

Police say a 55-year-old man and his 29-year-old pillion passenger were riding on Old Scone Road at about 10.15pm on Tuesday when the crash occurred.

The older man died at the scene while the passenger was taken by Ambulance to the John Hunter Hospital for treatment.

Investigations are continuing into the circumstances leading up to the crash and a report is being prepared for the Coroner.

NSW Government accused of deliberately running down social housing homes for profit

BY JARROD MELMETH 

A Stockton social housing resident has been handed an eviction from the Department of Communities and Justice who have deemed the home uninhabitable. 

The home has improper waterproofing work and mould, but Tammy Smith, who has lived at the property for 25-years says she has sought repairs since 2017 which were either delayed or unsatisfactorily completed.

"They just keep coming out and taking photos saying yes its going to be fixed but nothing seems to get done. 

"They've sold many homes. What are they doing with the money? There must be money there for us to have our homes fixed. 

"I'd just really like to stay in my home. I have a child who is a man now who has autism and he has been here since he was one and a half years old. This is our home," Ms Smith said.

The eviction notice follows the sale of three other properties which have been sold in Stockton for over $900,000 each.

Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp is criticising the decision to evict Ms Smith and is accusing the government of deliberately running social housing homes into the ground in order to flog them off.

"We are in a housing crisis, and there is now a minimum five year wait for a social housing property in Newcastle.

"Run it down then flog it off where the land value is the highest has become the MO for this government in Newcastle.

"This governments treatment of social housing and their own tenants is nothing short of a disgrace," Mr Crakanthorp said.

Ms Smith says she doesn't know what's going to happen with her living situation. She says a representative from the Department of Communities and Justice is meeting with her on Friday.

L-R: Tammy Smith, Tim Crakanthorp, Liz Turnball.

Lake Macquarie dangerous driving blitz ends in 10 arrests

BY JARROD MELMETH

Lake Macquarie Police conducted a dangerous driving blitz on Monday which resulted in 11 arrests.

Officers undertook Operation Amrap between 7am and 5pm targeting drink and drug driving offences, along with compliance with the current health orders.

During the operation 80 vehicles were stopped, 74 drivers undertook a random breath test, with a 43-year-old man charged with mid-range drink driving at Wangi Oval in Arcadia Vale. 

Police will allege he returned a positive test result roadside, before he was arrested and taken to Belmont Police Station where he recorded an alleged blood alcohol reading of 0.089.

The operation also saw 37 drivers undergoing random drug testing, with seven drivers returning a positive result. All drivers were arrested with secondary analysis being sent for further testing.

Two disqualified drivers were charged with driving will disqualified and one person was issued with a $1000 PIN for breaching the public health order.

Lake Macquarie Police District Duty Officer, Chief Inspector Craig Reid says it’s concerning to see the number of drivers getting behind the wheel under the influence.

“Seven drivers out of 37 recorded a positive roadside result – that is a worrying number of motorists who proceed to put not only their own lives at risk, but the lives and safety of those on the road around them. 

“Those secondary results will be forensically tested and if they return a positive result, then those drivers will be charged and put before the courts.

“Lake Macquarie Police will be continuing to target drivers who think they can get away with drink or drug driving – you will see us in numbers on the main arterial roads, the back routes,” Ch Insp Reid said.