Man in 40s dies with COVID-19, as the Hunter records 73 new cases

 BY JARROD MELMETH

A man in his 40s is the Hunter's latest fatality with COVID-19, as the region records 73 new cases.

He was being cared for in the John Hunter Hospital, was partially vaccinated and had underlying health issues.

CASE BREAKDOWN

LAKE MACQUARIE - 19

Cameron Park 5, Cardiff 3, Jewells 3, Swansea 2, Toronto 2, Windale 1, Teralba 1, Killingworth 1, Gateshead 1.

MID COAST - 14

Taree 11, Forster 1, Nabiac 1, Tuncurry 1.

TAMWORTH - 9

Tamworth 3, South Tamworth 4, West Tamworth 1, Oxley Vale 1.

CESSNOCK - 8

Kurri Kurri 3, Cessnock 2, Ellalong 1, Weston 1, Heddon Greta 1.

MAITLAND - 6

Maitland 1, East Maitland 1, Gillieston Heights 1, Metford 1, Rutherford 1, Tenambit 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 6

Raymond Terrace 3,  Soldiers Point 1, Nelson Bay 1, Karuah 1.

NEWCASTLE - 

Carrington 2, Mayfield 2, Wallsend 1.

ARMIDALE - 3

Armidale 3.

SINGLETON - 2

Singleton 1, St Clair 1.

INVERELL - 1

Tingha 1.

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 236 new local cases and three deaths in the latest reporting period.

The states vaccination rates are currently at 93.5 per cent single dose and 87 per cent double dose.

There are 343 people being cared for in hospital, including 81 in intensive care.

EXPOSURE SITES

There are no exposure sites to report.

54 fresh COVID-19 cases in the Hunter

BY JARROD MELMETH

54 new cases of COVID-19 have been announced in the Hunter on Friday.

The local health district has topped the states case numbers again.

Of the 856 active cases in the region, there are 17 being cared for in hospital, including four in intensive care.

36 of Friday's cases were infectious in the community, while 39 are linked to existing cases.

CASE BREAKDOWN

NEWCASTLE - 15

Hamilton South 4, Wallsend 3, Mayfield 2, New Lambton 2, Adamstown 1, Carrington 1, Islington 1, Merewether 1.

MID COAST - 10

Taree 5, Forster 2, Tuncurry 2, Tea Gardens.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 7

Jewells, Morisset 1, Mount Hutton 1, Redhead 1, Swansea 1, West Wallsend 1, Windale 1.

CESSNOCK - 6

Kearsley 2, Cessnock 1, Greta 1, Kurri Kurri 1, Neath 1.

TAMWORTH - 6

Tamworth 5, West Tamworth 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 4

Raymond Terrace 2, Anna Bay 1, Heatherbrae 1.

MAITLAND - 3

Bolwarra Heights 1, Chisholm 1, Rosebrook 1.

SINGLETON 2

Darlington 1, Hunterview 1.

ARMIDALE - 1

Armidale 1.

STATWIDE

NSW recorded 268 new local cases and two deaths statewide. 

The states vaccination rates are currently at 93.4 per cent single dose and 86.5 per cent double dose.

Across the state there are 363 people being cared for in hospital, including 80 in intensive care.

EXPOSURE SITES

Two exposure sites have been listed by health authorities overnight at Charlestown and Cessnock.

Anyone who attended the following venues at the specified dates and times is considered a casual contact and must get tested and isolate until a negative result is received.

• Cessnock Courthouse (public waiting areas) on Wednesday 20 October between 9am - 3:35pm
• Allan's Mens Hairdressing, Charlestown on Saturday 23 October between 9:55am - 10:15am

CCTV Footage Released Of Cameron Park Ram Raid

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police are stepping up their appeal for information following a brazen ATM theft at Cameron Park last month.

A forklift was used to smash through the front doors of the Cameron Park Plaza Shopping Centre in the early hours of Sunday September 5, with the ATM removed and carried away.

Remnants of the machine were found at a nearby building site and the forklift was dumped in bushland.

Detectives have released CCTV footage depicting two men they wish to speak with in relation to the incident.

Robbery and Serious Crime Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Andrew Koutsoufis is urging anyone with information about the forklift's movements on the night of the ram raid to come forward.

"This was a particularly brazen and destructive robbery which caused thousands of dollars of damage and no doubt would've taken a certain degree of planning from those involved. It was also unique given the use of the forklift," he said.

We've posted the footage on the 2NURFM Hunter News Facebook page.

A still image from the CCTV footage of the two men police want to speak to

Newcastle GP Access After Hours to close its doors due rising costs and lack of funding

BY JARROD MELMETH

A bulk-billed GP service in Newcastle used by around 15,000 people across the Hunter will cease operations at the end of the year.

The Calvary Mater Hospital at Waratah will close its GP Access After Hours service on December 24 due to rising operational costs and stagnant funding.

Other after hours service across the region will also have reduced hours from January 2022. These include at Belmont and Toronto where services on weekends will be halved, as well as services at Maitland and John Hunter Hospitals reduced by one hour each day.

There are concerns about the closure of the Calvary Mater service and the reduction in hours of other services across the region, as there are very limited local bulk-billing GP services. 

Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon says the reduction is services will only place more pressure on a system already under the pump.

"We do not want people turning up to tertiary health settings, such as hospitals and emergency departments, when they could be well treated and much better treated in more appropriate settings.

"This is something that our doctors in Newcastle and the Hunter knew 20 years ago when they set up this service," Ms Claydon said.

Hunter records another day of high COVID-19 cases, as active cases take a dive

BY JARROD MELMETH

It's another day of high COVID-19 case numbers for the Hunter with 79 announced on Thursday.

The Hunter New England Health District is the states largest source of COVID infections. In second is South Western Sydney with 51 new cases.

There are currently 838 active cases across the region, down from 1,010 on Wednesday. 21 of the active cases are being cared for in hospital, including four in intensive care.

Of Thursday's cases, 41 were infectious in the community, while 51 are linked to existing cases.

Health authorities say they're seeing  transmission occurring in indoor settings such as gyms and households, including in fully vaccinated people.

CASE BREAKDOWN

LAKE MACQUARIE - 18

Belmont North 3, Valentine 3, Toronto 2, Windale 1, Cameron Park 1, Cardiff 1, Morisset 1, Swansea 1, Tingara Heights 1, Warners Bay 1, Whitebridge 1, Gateshead 1.

NEWCASTLE - 17

Mayfield 3, North Lambton 3, Elermore Vale 2, Hamilton South 2, Carrington 1, Georgetown 1, Maryville 1, New Lambton 1, Newcastle East 1, The Hill 1, Wallsend 1.

TAMWORTH - 11

East Tamworth 4, South Tamworth 2, West Tamworth 2, Oxley Vale 1, Tamworth 1, Warral.

PORT STEPHENS - 8

Raymond Terrace 5, Mallabula 1, Soldiers Point 1, Tanilba Bay 1.

MAITLAND - 7

Woodberry 4, East Maitland 1, Maitland 1, Tenambit 1.

CESSNOCK - 6

Kurri Kurri 3, Cessnock 2, Aberdare 1.

MID COAST - 5

Chatham 2, Harrington 1, Old Bar 1, Taree 1.

DUNGOG - 2

Martins Creek 1, Clarencetown 1.

MOREE - 2

Moree 2.

ARMIDALE - 1

Armidale 1.

SINGLETON - 1

Hunterview 1.

TENTERFIELD - 1

Woodside 1.

STATWIDE

NSW has recorded 293 new cases and two deaths across the state.

Vaccination rates are currently at 93.3 per cent single dose and 86 per cent double dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

There are no exposure sites to report

Emergency services free person from vehicle at Lake Macquarie

BY JARROD MELMETH 

A person has been freed from a vehicle overnight at Lake Macquarie.

Emergency services, including police, RFS and ambulance, were called to Silverwater Road, Silverwater just before 7pm, where they found a vehicle had collided with a tree and the occupant was still trapped inside.

Fire and Rescue NSW extricated the occupant who was then transferred into the care of paramedics.

Superintendent Scott Dodson says this is a timely reminder that calling Triple Zero (000) for a fire emergency can be the difference between life and death, or a building or other property being saved or destroyed. 

Fire and Rescue NSW freeing the occupant
in Silverwater overnight.

New Development In Murder Of Stockton Grandmother Stacey Klimovitch

 BY IAN CROUCH

Strike Force detectives investigating the murder of Stockton grandmother, Stacey Klimovitch have released details of a vehicle of interest.

The 61-year-old was shot in the chest after she answered the front door of her Queen Street home just after 8.00pm on Wednesday June 9, 2021.

Police believe a dark coloured 2013 to 2017 Holden Commodore VF SSV V8 sedan is linked to the shooting and the persons involved either directly or through a third party.

Anyone who may have noticed a vehicle matching the description in the area at the time of the shooting is urge to contact Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers.

Police believe a vehicle similar to this is linked to the shooting at Stockton in June

Sports grants hoping to get Newcastle off the couch after COVID

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Applications are now open to sport clubs in Newcastle for the Local Sports Grant Program.

$50,000 is on offer in four categories across the electorate, with grants up to $2,000 available for Sport Development, up to $5,000 for Sport Event or Sport Access, and up to $15,000 for Sport Facility.

Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp says the program is a great opportunity, and for better or for worse, "very oversubscribed".

"We get well over $100,000 in applications, people love getting money for their sporting club and so they should," Mr Crakanthorp said.

It's hoped the State Government grants will be a much-needed boost to sport as the regions open up.

"Coming out of COVID, it's really important to get money to our sporting groups, and particularly those for young girls and young women and the disadvantaged and disabled in particular," Mr Crakanthorp said.

"It's good for your mental health, good for your physicality, good to get the kids off the Xbox, it's all good."

You can find out more at https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/local-sport-grant-program. Applications close on Friday 19th November.

Almost one-third of states daily COVID-19 cases in the Hunter

BY JARROD MELMETH

83 new cases of COVID-19 have been announced for the Hunter today, making up almost one-third of the states cases.

There are currently 1,010 active cases across the region, of which 23 are in hospital, including five in intensive care.

Dr Marianne Gale from NSW Health says Raymond Terrace, Kurri Kurri, Cessnock Carrington and Mayfield are all among the suburbs with the highest case numbers in the state.

2,811 cases of COVID have been recorded since August 5.

CASE BREAKDOWN

NEWCASTLE - 24

Carrington 7, Mayfield 6, Wallsend 4, Mayfield East 3, Adamstown Heights 1, Black Hill 1, Merewether 1, Waratah 1.

CESSNOCK - 20

Kurri Kurri 12, Cessnock 5, Weston 2, Bellbird Heights 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 11 

Raymond Terrace 10, Nelson 1.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 7

Cardiff South 1, Charlestown 1, Jewells 1, Macquarie Hills 1, Morisset 1, Toronto 1, Windale 1.

MAITLAND - 6

Rutherford 2, Ashtonfield 1, Morpeth 1, Windella 1, Woodberry 1.

TAMWORTH - 6

Tamworth 4, South Tamworth 1, West Tamworth 1.

MID COAST - 5

Taree 4, Forster 1.

DUNGOG - 3

Martins Creek 3.

ARMIDALE - 1

Armidale 1.

STATWIDE

NSW has recorded 304 new local COVID cases and three deaths.

The states vaccination rates are currently at 93.2 per cent single dose and 85.5 per cent double dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

There are no exposure sites to report.

City of Newcastle Councillor grills Lord Mayor over "fake community consultation"

BY JARROD MELMETH

Tuesday night's City of Newcastle council meeting saw tensions reach an all-time high, as the saga of the construction of basketball courts within National Park continues.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes moved a mayoral minute celebrated the construction of the six courts at National park after a public voice session last week, which saw council staff grilled about the process by community members.

Cr Nelmes said in her motion that she commends "our Parks and Recreation team for revitalising this desolate, black-asphalted eyesore and unused section of National Park and returning it back to the community, for local people and families to enjoy." 

At the councils public voice session on the issue, members of Friends of National Park spoke outlining their angst among community members, who were hoping the area would become parkland. They asked for a commitment to more green space, no more asphalt, an open and transparent decision making process and genuine consultation.

Greens Councillor John Mackenzie spoke against the Mayoral Minute at Tuesday night's meeting describing the whole situation as “fake community consultation”.

"This motion looks to rewrite history and say this was the decision all along, which is not at all the case and in fact the horse has now bolted and is long gone. The construction of those basketball is now underway. This can't be how council does business. 

"National Park is community land. When we seek community input, we are getting a mandate for the kinds of things that we do on that land. It's not up for council to decide. Unilaterally, no one on this council has the right to decide what happens on community land. That's why we go to consultation. That's why we have a whole series of process around a plan of management to ensure that the uses of our community land are consistent with all of the principles and do find a balance.

"The fact the basketball courts are well liked, has absolutely nothing to do with the decision to unilaterally push ahead with a decision during a plan of management process that we knew was going to be controversial," Cr Mackenzie said.

Cr Nelmes hit back by accusing some councillors of using community members as political pawns.

"It's very disappointing for the friends of National Park because I think they're being used as political footballs in this process. That whole speech [Cr Mackenzie's] and diatribe on council processes and staff, is very grandstandy at best, and very glib," Cr Nelmes said.

The motion was supported by the majority of councillors. 

Picture: City of Newcastle

Missing Sydney Man Could Be In The Hunter Valley

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police believe a man reported missing from Sydney could be in the Hunter Valley.

36-year-old Jason O'Donovan was last seen at his Marsden Park home last Friday 22 October and Police and his family say his disappearance is out of character.

He's described as being of Caucasian appearance, abut 175cm tall with a thin build and light brown hair.

Jason is known to frequent the Singleton area.

If you've seen him or know his whereabouts, contact Crime Stoppers.

Missing Man Jason O'Donovan

Muswellbrook Rams struggling to fill committee positions, as they warn the club may fold

BY JARROD MELMETH

A local rugby league club is calling for volunteers to help with operations of the club, warning the club may fold.

The Muswellbrook Rams RLFC was unable to fill key executive roles at its annual general meeting over the weekend.

An extraordinary meeting is set to be held on November 6, where if the club does not fill a committee the Rams will be forced to fold and will have to pull out of the 2022 Group 21 rugby league season.

In a post to Facebook the club says it is in a great position on and off the field.

"Coaches have been appointed for 1st grade, reserve's and also 18's.

"If you've ever wanted to get involved and run the club please message this page," the Rams said.

Image: Muswellbrook Rams Senior RLFC Facebook

49 new COVID-19 cases in the Hunter, as health authorities call out Kurri Kurri

BY JARROD MELMETH

49 new local COVID019 cases have been recorded across the Hunter, bringing the regions total since August 5 to 2,729.

There are currently 940 active cases across the region, of which 24 are in hospital, including six in intensive care.

Of Tuesday's 49 cases, 32 were infectious in the community, while 28 are linked to existing cases.

Dr Jeremy McAnulty from NSW Health is calling on residents in the Kurri Kurri area to come forward for testing due to a rise in cases.

CASE BREAKDOWN

NEWCASTLE - 12

Carrington 2, Hamilton South 2, Jesmond 2, Broadmeadow 1, Cooks Hill 1, Elermore Vale 1, Mayfield 1, Mayfield East 1, Mayfield West 1.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 8

Windale 3, Bolton Point 2, Belmont South 1, Cardiff 1, Cardiff South 1.

MAITLAND - 8

Thornton 3, Rutherford 2, Tenambit 2, Gillieston Heights 1.

CESSNOCK - 8

Kurri Kurri 5, Cessnock 2, Heddon Greta 1.

MID COAST - 6

Taree 3, Harrington 1, Tuncurry 1, Wingham 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 5

Raymond Terrace 4, Corlette 1.

DUNGOG - 2

Gresford 1, Clarencetown 1.

STATWIDE

NSW has recorded 282 new local COVID cases and one death in the latest reporting period to 8pm on Monday night.

The states COVID vaccination rates have surpassed 93 per cent single dose and 85 per cent double dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

Just one exposure site has been listed by health authorities overnight at Lambton.

Anyone who attended the following venues at the specified dates and times is considered a casual contact and must get tested and isolate until a negative result is received.

• Elder Street Practice, Lambton on Wednesday 20 October between 2:30pm - 2:50pm.

UPDATE! Concerns For Missing Man From Booragul

 BY IAN CROUCH

Lake Macquarie Police say a 71-year-old man with dementia who went missing from a Booragul care facility overnight has been found safe and well early Tuesday morning.

Police say they would like to thank the public and the media for their cooperation.

EARLIER: 

Police are asking for help to find a man who's gone missing from Lake Macquarie.

71-year-old Keith Metcalfe was last seen at a care facility in Toronto Road at Booragul at about 6.30pm on Monday.

There are concerns for Keith welfare as he lives with dementia.

He's described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 180cm tall, medium build, with a bald head and grey goatee.

Keith was last seen wearing a striped white top with a blue collar and brown pants.

If you've spotted Keith, call police immediately.

Missing Man Keith Metcalfe

59 new COVID-19 cases in the Hunter, as the virus makes its way to Moree

BY JARROD MELMETH

59 new cases of COVID-19 have been recorded across the Hunter New England Health district.

The virus has made its way across the local health district, from Lake Macquarie, to the Mid-Coast and all the way over to Moree.

Of Monday's fresh cases, 40 were infectious in the community, while 46 are linked to existing cases.

There are currently 924 active cases across the region, of which 27 are in hospital, including six in intensive care.

2,680 cases of COVID have been detected in the Hunter since August 5.

CASE BREAKDOWN

NEWCASTLE - 19

Elermore Vale 4, Maryland 3, Carrington 2, Jesmond 2, Mayfield 2, Hamilton South 1, Islington 1, Mayfield West 1, Merewether 1, The Hill 1, Tighes Hill 1.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 16

Bolton Point 5, Windale 3, Belmont South 1, Blacksmiths 1, Cardiff 1, Cardiff South 1, Carey Bay 1, Charlestown 1, Gateshead 1, Morisset 1.

CESSNOCK - 7

Mulbring 2, Cessnock 1, Cliftleigh 1, Kurri Kurri 1, Millfield 1, Weston 1,

PORT STEPHENS - 6

Raymond Terrace 5, Tomago 1.

MAITLAND - 4

Thornton 2, Gillieston Heights 1, Rutherford 1.

ARMIDALE - 2

Armidale 2.

MID COAST - 1

Harrington 1.

SINGLETON - 1

Singleton 1.

DUNGOG - 1

Clarence Town 1.

TAMWORTH - 1

Hilvue 1.

MOREE PLAINS - 1

Moree 1.

STATWIDE

NSW has recorded 294 new cases of COVID-19 and four deaths statewide.

The vaccination rates are showing no signs of slowing down with single doses surpassing 93 per cent and double doses almost at 85 per cent.

EXPOSURE SITES

Just one exposure site has been listed by health authorities overnight at Windale.

Anyone who attended the following venues at the specified dates and times is considered a casual contact and must get tested and isolate until a negative result is received.

• Windale Community Medical Centre on Wednesday 20 October between 4:10pm - 4:55pm

Woman Escapes With Only Minor Injuries After Spectacular Crash At Glendale

 BY IAN CROUCH

A woman has been taken to hospital with only minor injuries after a spectacular crash at Glendale overnight.

Newcastle Fire Command says crews were called to reports of a car into a house in Reservoir Road just after 9.30pm on Sunday.

Police say a car left the road and hit a fence before flipping and crashing into the carport of a neighbouring home, landing upside down on a car parked inside. 

The 30-year-old driver was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital in a stable condition.

No-one else was hurt in the incident and police inquiries are continuing.

The crash scene at Glendale on Sunday night Picture; Cardiff Fire & Rescue

 

Man Charged With Drug Offences After Vehicle Stop At Cessnock

 BY IAN CROUCH

Cessnock Police found more than they bargained  for when they pulled over a Holden Commodore for a random breath test in Aberdare Street on Saturday.

They say the 36-year-old man behind the wheel was disqualified from driving, while a roadside drug test came back positive for the drug ICE.

A search of the car allegedly uncovered cannabis, 100 litres of fertiliser, electrical equipment and powered globes.

They also found a number of safety breaches and issued a defect notice on the car.

The man's been charged with driving while disqualified, drug offences and goods in custody.

78 new COVID-19 infections in the Hunter

BY JARROD MELMETH

78 new cases of COVID-19 have been recorded across the Hunter.

There are currently 892 active cases across the region, of which 24 are being cared for in hospital, including four in intensive care.

49 of Saturday's cases were infectious in the community, while 56 are linked to existing cases.

There have been 2,569 cases recorded in the Hunter New England Health district since August 5.

CASE BREAKDOWN

LAKE MACQUARIE - 21

Macquarie Hills 3, Warners Bay 3, Cardiff Heights 2, Dudley 2, Holmesville 2, West Wallsend 2, Bolton Point 1, Bonnells Bay 1, Charlestown 1, Gateshead 1, Jewells 1, Toronto 1, Windale 1.

NEWCASTLE - 20

Jesmond 4, Tarro 4, New Lambton 2, Waratah West 2, Carrington 1, Elermore Vale 1, Hamilton 1, Hamilton South 1, Islington 1, Mayfield 1, North Lambton 1, Tighes Hill 1.

MID COAST - 15

Taree 8, Wingham 2, Forster 2, Harrington 1, Tuncurry1.

CESSNOCK - 10

Cessnock 6, Kurri Kurri 2, Aberdare 1, Abermain 1.

MAITLAND - 6

Rutherford 4, East Maitland 1, Woodberry 1.

DUNGOG - 2

Clarence Town 1, Martins Creek 1.

TAMWORTH - 2

Tamworth 1, West Tamworth.

MUSWELLBROOK - 1

Castle Rock 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 1

Raymond Terrace 1.

STATWIDE

332 new cases of COVID-19 and two deaths were recorded across NSW.

The vaccination rates are at 92.8 per cent single dose and 83.7 per cent double dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

Two exposure sites have been listed by health authorities overnight at Hamilton and Charlestown.

Anyone who attended the following venues at the specified dates and times is considered a casual contact and must get tested and isolate until a negative result is received.

• Jimbo's Barbershop, Hamilton on Wednesday 133 October between 1:15pm - 2:05pm
• Just Cuts, Charlestown on Friday 15 October between 4:05pm - 4:45pm

My support for net-zero emissions can't be bought : Hunter Nationals MP

BY JARROD MELMETH

The Hunter's only federal Nationals MP says he won't be bribed to abandon his principles, as discussions continue for an agreement on net-zero emissions.

Lyne MP Dr David Gillespie has been involved with the discussions currently taking place within the Liberal-Nationals coalition.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison is heading to the United Nations Climate Summit in Glasgow next week, and is eager to reach an agreement with the junior coalition partner so he can present Australia's plan for net-zero.

On Thursday, Mr Morrison will depart for a G20 meeting in Rome and then head to the climate summit in Glasgow, alongside leaders from advanced economies who have already pledged to meet the net-zero target by 2050.

Dr Gillespie says he doesn't want other countries dictating our industries and our people.

"People wont know what they've got until its gone. As the old song goes. 

"We don't want to go along, in an attempt to improve the environment around the globe, we sign up and then we have all these rules being forced on us to shut down our industries.

"There is a global push coming out of the United Nations, through the major capital and financial markets and in the boardrooms to force penalties against industries and livelihoods that have fed, clothed and powered our regions, our state and the nation. We have to put some ring fencing around that because we don't want our cities to grind to a halt because we shut down these industries," Dr Gillespie said.

When asked whether he was pushing for something from the government in return for his support, Dr Gillespie says he can't be bought.

"I can't be any more specific than saying we are not asking for 40 pieces of silver to abandon our principles. We stand for strong regions who require employment and protection of our industries," Dr Gillespie said.

It's understood the Prime Minister is considering a regional economic package in an effort to sway the Nationals, which they will meet to discuss on Sunday. 

Multi-million dollar Cessnock Airport upgrades welcomed by Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley owner

BY JARROD MELMETH

Cessnock Council says it will proceed with an almost $9 million upgrade of Cessnock Airport after receiving a cash injection from the state government.

$6.6 million has been awarded to the project by the NSW Government with the remaining $2.2 million to come from council.

The upgrades will see the widening and resealing of taxiways; provision of aprons and aircraft parking areas, improved fuel area access, runway rehabilitation, water and sewer connections, installation of non-precision GPS approaches for RWY 17/35 and an upgrade to the eastern terminal.

The project is being welcomed by neighboring Crown Plaza Hunter Valley owner Jerry Schwartz, who has been lobbying for upgrades to the airport for years.

Mr Schwartz says its a step in the right direction of his vision for a commercial operation.

"There are so many benefits to this and that is why I have been trying to champion the airport.

"Unfortunately, the only way to get to the Hunter is by car. There are no train lines, which is something I've certainly looked at. 

"By coming to the Hunter by air, it's only half-an-hour from Sydney. That makes it so much closer to Sydney and that much easier to get here. This would have major economic benefits for the region and would really unlock its potential," Mr Schwartz said.

There are conditions which come with the funding from the state government which means the project and all works must be completed by 30 June 2022. 

Cessnock Mayor Bob Pynsent says he is excited to see this project kick off as it has the potential to create nearly 60 jobs and will be a welcome boost for the economy.

"Our tourism industry has been hit hard in recent times and this project will transform Cessnock Airport into one of the state's top airports for general aviation and improve the visitor experience," Cr Pynsent said.

Pictured: Aerial view of Cessnock Airport.

61 fresh COVID-19 cases in the Hunter, new cases in Dungog and Singleton

BY JARROD MELMETH

The Hunter has recorded 61 new cases of COVID-19.

29 of the new cases were infectious in the community, while 33 are linked to existing cases.

There are currently 963 active cases across the region, 21 of those being cared for in hospital, including four in intensive care.

2,491 cases have been recorded since August 5.

CASE BREAKDOWN

NEWCASTLE - 17

Mayfield 3, Wallsend 2, Adamstown 1, Carrington 1, Fletcher 1, Hamilton South 1, Maryland 1, Mayfield West 1, Merewether 1, New Lambton 1, North Lambton 1, Tarro 1, Tighes Hill 1, Waratah West 1.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 10

Belmont North 2, Belmont 1, Bolton Point 1, Cardiff 1, Cardiff Heights 1, Gateshead 1, Macquarie Hills 1, Whitebridge 1, Windale 1.

MID COAST - 9

Harrington 5, Taree 4.

CESSNOCK - 7

Cessnock 2, Abermain 1, Cliftleigh 1, Ellalong 1, Kearsley 1, Kurri Kurri 1.

MAITLAND - 6

Gillieston Heights 2, East Maitland 1, Rutherford 1, Telarah 1, Thornton 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 4

Raymond Terrace 2, Brandy Hill 1, Medowie 1.

TAMWORTH - 4

Tamworth 2, East Tamworth 1, Oxley Vale 1.

SINGLETON - 3

Singleton Heights 2, Singleton 1.

DUNGOG - 1

Vacy 1.

STATWIDE

345 new cases of COVID-19 and five deaths were recorded across NSW.

The vaccination rates are at 92.7 per cent single dose and 83 per cent double dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

Only one exposure site has been listed overnight at Kotara.

Anyone who attended the following venues at the specified dates and times is considered a casual contact and must get tested and isolate until a negative result is received.

• EMF Kotara on Wednesday 13 October between 10am - 11:05am & Thursday 14 October between 9:10am - 10:15am

Swimmers Saved From Drowning At Central Coast Beach

 BY IAN CROUCH

Two young swimmers are recovering in the John Hunter Hospital after getting into trouble on the Central Coast.

The Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter was called to Budgewoi Beach just before 4.30pm on Thursday where two young men aged 18 and 21 were dragged from the water by Lifeguards and bystanders after getting caught in a rip.

Paramedics treated the pair, who'd swallowed a fair amount of sea water during their ordeal, before they were flown to Newcastle in a stable condition for observation with non-life threatening injuries.

74 new COVID-19 cases in the Hunter, a quarter in Newcastle

BY JARROD MELMETH

74 new cases of COVID-19 have been recorded across the Hunter, a quarter of those in the Newcastle local government area.

There are currently 940 active cases across the region, of which 23 are being cared for in hospital, including three in intensive care.

Of Thursday's new cases, 30 were infectious in the community while 35 have been linked to existing cases.

CASE BREAKDOWN

NEWCASTLE - 23

Elermore Vale 3, Hamilton 1, Hamilton South 3, Jesmond 3, New Lambton Heights 2, Wallsend 2, Adamstown 1, Birmingham Gardens 1, Mayfield West 1, Merewether 1, North Lambton 1, Tarro 1, The Hill 1.

MAITLAND - 15

Rutherford 6, Metford 4, Woodberry 3, Lorn 1, Thornton 1.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 12

Dudley 2, Macquarie Hills 2, Belmont North 1, Bolton Point 1, Cardiff South 1, Gateshead 1, Pelican 1, West Wallsend 1, Windale 1, Wyee 1.

CESSNOCK - 9

Cessnock 8, Kurri Kurri 1.

MID COAST - 8

Taree 4, Cundletown 1, Killabakh 1, Purfleet 1, Hawks Nest 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 4

Raymond Terrace 1, Williamtown 1, Karuah 1.

TAMWORTH - 3

East Tamworth 1, South Tamworth 1 and West Tamworth 1.

STATWIDE

NSW recorded 372 new local COVID cases recorded across the state and one death.

92.5 per cent of the eligible adult population have had one dose of a vaccine, 82.3 per cent are double dosed.

EXPOSURE SITES

There are no exposure sites to report.

BREAKING! Man Suffers Severe Burns In Cooks Hill Unit Fire

BY IAN CROUCH

A 41-year-old man has been flown to Sydney's Royal North Shore Hospital with severe burns after a unit fire at Cooks Hill.

Fire & Rescue NSW says crews were called to the Darby Street apartment complex at 6.47am on Thursday where a fire had engulfed two second floor units.

Residents assisted the injured man to safety and an off-duty nurse treated him before Ambulance paramedics arrived. 

It's believed an explosion sparked the blaze but Police say the cause is not yet known and a crime scene has been set up as investigations continue

Darby Street is closed between Bull and Parry Streets, while Dawson Street is also closed.

Police are urging members of the public to avoid the area.

Pictured: The blaze as it occurred on Thursday morning.
Image: Marilyn Lean/Facebook

Online workshops to prepare Newcastle students for an innovative city

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Newcastle students will have the chance to take part in online workshops next month, learning about sustainability and innovation for the city's future.

The City of Newcastle Sustainnovation Challenge is set to connect students with industry and community in a pair of two-day workshops, exploring solutions to issues such ageing communities, plastic waste, and smarter living.

Students from nine secondary schools will take part, including Newcastle High, Lambton High, Hunter School of the Performing Arts, West Wallsend High, Merewether High, St. Philip's Christian College, Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College, and Big Picture Education Cooks Hill Campus.

Project Director Duncan Burck says it's a first-of-a-kind learning experience for young people with the potential for "showcasing potential career pathways".

"You've got to go through a sort of journey of discovery, because the key thing in innovation isn't so much how you make something work, it's how you really get in and understand the problem and get to the point of really loving the problem," Mr Burck said.

"Once you're at that level, you're going to get much more creative in coming up with ideas."

It's hoped the ideas with the most smart city potential could be developed further and even implemented.

Mr Burck says it was great to see the City of Newcastle get behind the project. 

"From being an industrial powerhouse, to being an internationally recognised smart city," Mr Burck said.

"The more that we can communicate with our young people, the better ideas we're going to get as a city, and they want to see that happen, they want to see more people involved in the sort of innovation and ecosystem, starting at high school."

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

Job Tenders Now Open For School Building Projects Across the Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A number of tender opportunities for architects, engineers, and builders have opened up across the Hunter as part of a State Government school building initiative.

Jobs are on offer at local projects such as improvements to Hunter River High School and Irrawang High School, as well as the upcoming Newcastle Education Campus.

Across the state, $3.3 billion will be invested in 44 public schools and is expected to generate around 16,000 new jobs.

At least $75 million is also promised for the Newcastle Education Campus. 

Premier Dominic Perrottet says the investment will be a boost to both education and the economy as we learn to live with COVID-19.

"Today’s announcement provides further certainty to businesses and school communities,” Mr Perrottet said.

“For our kids to be the best and brightest they need the bricks and mortar to support them and we’re delivering that in spades.” 

Police looking for missing teenager from Maitland

BY JARROD MELMETH

Police are seeking the public's assistance in locating a teenager missing from Maitland.

15-year-old Tia was last seen in Maitland around 7pm on Monday 18 October.

She is described as Aboriginal in appearance, has brown/black hair, about 150cm tall, thin build, and has brown eyes.

Tia was last seen wearing black tights, thongs, and a red jumper. 

Anyone with information about her whereabouts is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Maitland Police Station on 4934 0200.

MISSING: Tia

Maitland man, 40, dies with COVID-19, as the Hunter records 63 new cases

BY JARROD MELMETH

A man in his 40's has died in Maitland Hospital in the latest reporting period to 8pm on Tuesday night.

Health authorities say the man from Maitland was not vaccinated.

In terms of new infections, 63 fresh cases of COVID-19 have been recorded in the Hunter, bringing the regions total to 2,355 cases since August 5.

There are currently 1,049 active cases of which 24 people are being cared for in hospital, including three in intensive care.

40 of the new cases were infectious in the community, while 51 are linked to existing cases.

CASE BREAKDOWN

LAKE MACQUARIE - 22

Macquarie Hills 3, Mount Hutton 3, Cardiff Heights 2, Holmesville 2, Windale 2, Wyee 1, Belmont 1, Carey Bay 1, Charlestown 1, Toronto 1, Warners Bay 1 and West Wallsend 1.

NEWCASTLE - 10

Hamilton South 3, Wallsend 2, Birmingham Gardens 1, Jesmond 1, Mayfield 1, Newcastle West 1 and North Lambton 1.

CESSNOCK - 8

Abermain 3, Cessnock 2, Aberdare 1, Pelaw Main 1 and Weston 1.

MAITLAND - 7

Horseshoe Bend 2, Woodberry 2, Gillieston Heights 1, Metford 1 and Rutherford 1.

MID COAST - 5

Taree 4 and Killabakh 1.

TAMWORTH - 5

West Tamworth 4 and Tamworth 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 3

Raymond Terrace 3.

SINGLETON - 2

Hunterview 1 and Singleton 1.

STATWIDE

NSW has recorded 283 new local COVID cases and seven deaths.

The vaccination rates are currently at 92.3 per cent single dose and 81.6 per cent double dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

A number of COVID exposure sites have been listed overnight including at Kotara, Glendale, Cessnock and East Maitland.

Anyone who attended the following venues at the specified dates and times is considered a casual contact and must get tested and isolate until a negative result is received.

• Pearl Nails, Westfield Kotara on Wednesday 13 October between 4:50pm - 5:30pm
• Chemistworks, Glendale on Monday 11 October between 9:35pm - 10pm
• Cessnock Court House on Wednesday 13 October between 10am - 10:50am
• Kmart, East Maitland (previously listed as Greenhills) on Wednesday 13 October between 12:30pm - 1:35pm

Two Men Airlifted To Hospital After Separate Accidents In The Upper Hunter

 BY IAN CROUCH

The Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter has been kept busy overnight and Wednesday morning with serious accidents in the Upper Hunter.

The chopper was called to a bad crash involving a car, a ute and a mobile crane on the Golden Highway at Jerrys Plains just after 7.00am on Wednesday.

A 45-year-old man who was driving the ute suffered serious head injuries after being thrown from the vehicle.

He was airlifted to the John Hunter Hospital in a serious but stable condition for further treatment.

Meanwhile, a 68-year-old man suffered serious burns to his lower limbs after stepping into a drain filled with boiling fatty water at the Scone Abattoir.

The industrial accident happened at the Muffett Street site just before midnight.

The man was stabilised by the Helicopter's Critical Care Team before being flown to the John Hunter Hospital.

Shirtless Robbo Chastised For Appearing Unclothed During Newcastle Council Zoom Meeting

 BY IAN CROUCH

A shirtless Allan Robinson has been chastised for appearing unclothed during a public online meeting of Newcastle Council.

Fairfax reports Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes abruptly stopped the development applications committee meeting on Tuesday night when she spotted the bare-chested Councillor Robinson on a Zoom call.

She called Councillor Robinson to order saying he couldn't be unclothed on a council meeting, saying it brings the council into disrepute and she didn't want to deal with it.

Allan Robinson responded and could be seen on the public webcast shirtless, by his comments couldn't be heard.

He later defended his actions saying he wasn't nude and could only be seen above the waist.

He said he was late for the meeting and had been in dirty work clothes from his day job in demolition, removing them so his wife could put them in the wash. 

A leaked image of a shirtless Allan Robinson during the council Zoom meeting - this view was not seen on the public webcast. Picture therherald.com.au

Upper Hunter Store Worker Bashed By Non Mask-Wearing Man

 BY IAN CROUCH

A man is due to front court next month accused of bashing an Upper Hunter store worker after refusing to wear a face mask.

Police say a man entered a food store on Mayne Street at Murrurundi at about 4.15pm on Tuesday and became verbally aggressive towards a male employee who'd offered him a mask before leaving the store.

It's alleged the man returned a short time later and walked behind the counter before assaulting the worker and repeatedly attempting to drag him from the store while threatening him.

Customers went to the aid of the injured employee and the man left the store.

The 30-year-old worker was treated at Murrurundi Hospital for cuts and bruises to his face and swelling to his left eye.

Following inquiries, Police attended a home in Rosella Street, Murrurundi and arrested a 53-year-old man.

He's been granted conditional bail to face Scone Local Court on November 18 charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

35 new COVID-19 cases recorded in the Hunter

BY JARROD MELMETH

The Hunter has recorded a welcome drop in case numbers, with 35 announced for the region on Tuesday.

20 were infectious in the community and 18 are linked to existing cases. 28 people are being cared for in hospital with the virus, including two in ICU.

CASE BREAKDOWN

LAKE MACQUARIE - 13

Wyee 3, Charlestown 2, Speers Point 2, Croudace Bay 1, Dora Creek 1, Edgeworth 1, Gateshead 1, Warners Bay 1 and Windale 1.

MID COAST - 6

Wingham 3, Taree 2 and Glenthorne 1.

CESSNOCK - 5

Abermain 4 and Bellbird 1.

MAITLAND - 4

Abermain 4, Bellbird 1, Rutherford 2, Metford 1 and Gillieston Heights 1.

NEWCASTLE - 4

Bar Beach 2, Mayfield 1 and Merewether 1.

TAMWORTH - 2

Daruka 1 and West Tamworth 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 1

Raymond Terrace 1.

STATWIDE

NSW has recorded 273 new local COVID cases and four deaths in the 24 hours to 8pm on Monday night.

Vaccination rates are slowly climbing with single doses rising 0.1 to 92.1 per cent, and double doses up 0.5 to 80.8 per cent.

EXPOSURE SITES

A number of COVID exposure sites have been listed overnight including at Maitland, Singleton and Newcastle.

Anyone who attended the following venues at the specified dates and times is considered a casual contact and must get tested and isolate until a negative result is received.

• New World Tobacconist, Maitland on Monday 11 October between 7am - 1pm
• Singleton Gym and Swim (gym weights floor) 
• Wednesday 14 October between 6:15pm - 7:35pm
• Thursday 14 October between 5:20pm - 6:45pm

Anyone who attended the following venues is asked to monitor for symptoms and get a test if symptoms are present or develop.

• Honeysuckle Social, Newcastle on Wednesday 13 October between 6pm - 8pm

M1 Motorway Extension To Raymond Terrace Takes Another Step Forward

BY IAN CROUCH

The M1 Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace has taken another step towards fruition with the state government calling for expressions of interest from pre-qualified contractors to build the 2-billion dollar road.

It follows the release of an environmental impact statement in July for the long-awaited 15 kilometre project.

Business Hunter CEO, Bob Hawes has welcomed the announcement, saying they want to capitalise on the whole-of-project economic pipeline.

"Like all major capital projects of this scale, it's the pipeline of subcontract work that the project will open up that is the real opportunity for our local businesses who will have the advantage of proximity to the massive project," he said.

The government is expected to call for tenders in January next year, with construction work likely to start in 2023.

M1 Pacific Motorway Extension Overview
 Picture: Caportal.com.au

Two men charged over alleged Wallsend break and enter

BY JARROD MELMETH

Police have charged two men over an alleged violent break and enter at Wallsend on Sunday night.

The incident took place at around 11:30pm at a home on Chalmers Road, where four people, three men and a woman were inside. 

Police say two men aged 18 and 20 arrived and entered through the front door, before a verbal altercation occurred and the situation became physical. The younger man allegedly struck a 34-year-old man with a plastic pipe several times.

It will be further alleged the 18-year-old brandished a firearm and threatened the four occupants, before the pair fled the scene on foot.

The 34-year-old suffered lacerations to his head, which were treated at the John Hunter Hospital.

Newcastle City Police attended the scene and established a crime scene. 

A short time later police arrested the two men, the 20-year-old at William Street, Jesmond and the 18-year-old at Victory Parade.

Both men were taken to Waratah Police Station and charged with special aggravated break and enter commit serious indictable offence-weapon, possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit, assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company of others and common assault.

The pair were refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Monday.

COVID-19 claims the life of Cessnock woman in her 30's, as the region records 63 new cases

BY JARROD MELMETH

Another person in the Hunter has lost their life with COVID-19, becoming the third death in two days.

Monday's death was a woman in her 30's from Cessnock who was not vaccinated and had underlying health conditions. It comes after the region recorded two deaths on Sunday, a woman in her 50's from Newcastle and a woman in her 70's from Cessnock.

The Hunter recorded 63 of the states 265 new local cases on Monday.

Of the 63 new cases, 30 were infectious in the community and 39 are linked to existing cases. 29 of the 1,097 active cases are being cared for in hospital, including four in ICU.

CASE BREAKDOWN

LAKE MACQUARIE - 15

Charlestown 6, Windale 2, Belmont 1, Cardiff South 1, Croudace Bay 1, Macquarie Hills 1, Holmesville 1, Speers Point 1 and Wyee 1.

MID COAST - 13

Taree 4 Tuncurry 3, Forster 2, Wingham 2, Nabiac 1 and North Arm Cove 1.

NEWCASTLE - 12

Wallsend 7, Birmingham Gardens 1, Hamilton 1, Jesmond 1, Lambton 1 and Mayfield 1.

MAITLAND - 11

Maitland 3, East Maitland 2, Metford 2, Bolwarra Heights 1, Rutherford 1, Telarah 1 and Tenambit 1.

CESSNOCK - 6

Cessnock 4, Kearsley 1 and Weston 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 2

Fingal Bay 2.

TAMWORTH - 2

Oxley Vale 1 and South Tamworth 1.

MUSWELLBROOK - 1

Muswellbrook 1.

SINGLETON - 1

Singleton 1.

STATWIDE

NSW has recorded another significant drop in statewide cases with 265 announced on Monday. The daily case numbers have seen a decrease every day for the past five days, during the easing of restrictions.

The vaccination rates currently stand at 80.3 per cent double dose and 92 per cent single dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

Only one local COVID exposure site has been listed overnight at Bellbird.

Anyone who attended the following venues at the specified dates and times is considered a casual contact and must get tested and isolate until a negative result is received.

• Bellbird Hotel on Wednesday 13 October between 3:25pm - 4:30pm

Hunter teen airlifted to hospital with life threatening burns

BY JARROD MELMETH

A teenager has been airlifted to the Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney after suffering serious burns during an incident at Raymond Terrace.

Just after 8pm on Sunday night, NSW Ambulance was called to the scene where they began treatment on the 17-year-old who had life threatening burns to his entire body, reportedly from a bonfire. 

Due the serious nature of the burns, the Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter was called to the scene before the teenager was placed in an induced coma and put on life support.

He was flown to Sydney in a critical condition. 

Hunter residents urged to be vigilant of "deceptively attractive" weed, after local infestation discovered

BY JARROD MELMETH

Hunter Local Land Services are urging locals to be on the lookout for a deceptively attractive, but noxious weed which has been found near Cessnock.

The weed is a floating freshwater plant from South America and is a serious biosecurity threat, as it can rapidly invade and smother waterways. It is a prohibited matter in NSW, the highest class a weed can be under the NSW Biosecurity Act. 

Hunter Regional Weeds Coordinator Matt Kennedy says in a good setting, Frogbit can spread rapidly, reproduces very quickly and can take over a whole dam.

"It spreads via seed and plant material and has multiple ways of reproduction which just increases its ability to be invasive. It can be carried to other water ways by animals, clogging up whole creek systems, dams which can have a really detrimental impact on the water flow and anything that relies on it," Mr Kennedy said.

MidCoast Council have controlled three infestations of Frogbit since 2017 when the weed appeared at Greenpoint. These three sites are actively monitored, but no new plants have been discovered since specialised treatment of the area.

Mr Kennedy says ongoing surveillance will be undertaken around the site of the Cessnock infestation for at least the next three years.

"Neighbouring councils have been notified and their teams are on notice to keep a look out for the weed downstream and on the Hunter River, with some targeted inspections underway.

"We're asking the community to be vigilant as well, all residents of the Hunter Region are asked to play their part in safeguard our waterways," Mr Kennedy said.

Anyone who suspects a Frogbit infestation is being urged to take photo's of the weed and forward them onto their local Biosecurity Weeds officer. Local contacts can be found online here.

Pictured: Frogbit Weed choking a local waterway.

Two dead with COVID-19, as the Hunter records 71 new cases

BY JARROD MELMETH 

Two people from the Hunter have died with COVID-19, as the region records 73 new cases.

The two people who have died with the virus are from the Cessnock and Newcastle areas. One was a woman in her 50's who died at the Calvary Mater Hospital at Waratah. The Second was a woman in her 70's from Cessnock who died at the John Hunter Hospital. Both were double vaccinated but had underlying health issues.

The only other local health district that recorded higher daily numbers than the Hunter was Sydney with 74 cases announced on Sunday.

Of the 73 new cases recorded on Saturday, 27 were infectious in the community and 45 are linked to existing cases. 26 of the total 1,061 active cases are being cared for in hospital, including three in ICU.

CASE BREAKDOWN

NEWCASTLE - 19

Bar Beach 2, Jesmond 2, Merewether 2, Mayfield 2, New Lambton 2, Wallsend 2, Cooks Hill 1, Elermore Vale 1, Fletcher 1, Hamilton 1, Hamilton South 1, Newcastle West 1 and Newcastle 1.

MAITLAND - 17

Horseshoe Bend 3, Maitland 3, Rutherford 3, Thornton 3, Gillieston Heights 2, East Maitland 1, Metford 1 and Raworth 1.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 16

Speers Point 3, Edgeworth 2, Barnsley 1, Belmont 1, Belmont South 1, Cardiff South 1, Charlestown 1, Marks Point 1, Mount Hutton 1, Teralba 1, Valentine 1, Warners Bay 1 and Windale 1.

CESSNOCK - 12

Paxton 3, Cessnock 2, Aberdare 1, Bellbird Heights 1, East Cessnock 1, Ellalong 1, Greta 1, Mount Vincent 1 and Pelaw Main 1.

MID COAST - 6

Taree 2, Forster 1, Tuncurry 1, Cedar Party 1 and Wingham 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 2

Raymond Terrace 1 and Williamtown 1.

SINGLETON - 1

Singleton 1.

STATWIDE

NSW has recorded another drop in case numbers with 301 cases and ten deaths announced on Sunday.

The state has hit the 80 per cent double dose vaccination rate, which will see more freedoms unlocked on Monday. These new freedoms for the fully vaccinated include masks no longer being mandatory in office buildings, increase of visitors to a home from 10 to 20, carpooling permitted, outdoor gatherings up to 50 people and community sport permitted with capacity limits.

Single dose vaccinations are currently at 91.9 per cent.

EXPOSURE SITES

A number of COVID exposure sites have been listed overnight including at Shortland, Tenambit and Rutherford.

Anyone who attended the following venues at the specified dates and times is considered a casual contact and must get tested and isolate until a negative result is received.

• Shortland Hotel on Monday 11 October between 6:55pm - 7:50pm
• The Regal Inn, Tenambit on Tuesday 12 October between 4:45pm - 6pm
• Beaumont Tiles, Rutherford on Monday 11 October between 7:30am - 5pm
• Hunter Valley Motor Sports, Rutherford on Wednesday 13 September between 9:45am - 10:10am

51 new COVID-19 cases across the Hunter

BY JARROD MELMETH

The Hunter has recorded another 51 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, bringing the regions total to 2,125 since August 5.

There are currently 1,121 active cases across the local health district, of which 26 are being cared for in hospital, including four in intensive care.

Of Saturdays cases, 21 were infectious in the community, while 34 are linked to existing cases.

CASE BREAKDOWN

NEWCASTLE - 11

Merewether 5, Jesmond 1, Mayfield 1, Elermore Vale 1, New Lambton Heights 1, Newcastle 1 and Wallsend 1.

CESSNOCK - 10

Cessnock 6, Bellbird 2, Paxton 1 and Quorrobolong 1.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 8

Macquarie Hills , Barnsley 1, Cardiff Heights 1, Edgeworth 1, Valentine 1 and Marks Point 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 7

Raymond Terrace, Karuah 1, Lemon Tree Passge 1, Swan Bay 1 and Raymond Terrace East 1.

MAITLAND - 6

East Maitland 2, Morpeth 1, Metford 1, Gillieston Heights 1 and Maitland 1.

TAMWORTH -6

Tamworth 4, West Tamworth 1 and South Tamworth 1.

MID-COAST - 2

Taree 2.

MUSWELLBROOK 1

Muswellbrook 1.

STATWIDE

NSW has recorded its lowest day since August 9, with 319 announced on Saturday.

The states vaccinations rates are at 78.8 per cent double dose and 91.7 per cent single dose. First doses have begun to slow, climbing just one per cent over three days.

EXPOSURE SITES

A number of COVID exposure sites have been listed overnight including at East Maitland, Hawks Nest and Wallsend.

Anyone who attended the following venues at the specified dates and times is considered a casual contact and must get tested and isolate until a negative result is received.

• Douglas Hanly Moir Pathology, East Maitland on Saturday 9 October between 9:30am - 9:50am
• Hawks Nest Bowling Club on Wednesday 13 October between 5:15pm - 7:45pm
• BP Service Station, Wallsend
• Tuesday 12 October between 6am - 2pm
• Wednesday 13 October between 11am - 4pm

John Hunter Hospital youth mental health facility set for an upgrade

BY JARROD MELMETH

Designs for the new Nexus Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit at the John Hunter Hospital have been unveiled.

The new facility, which will have the capacity to care for 12-people, has been designed co-designed with young people who have experience in adolescent mental health, their families, clinicians and staff.

The upgrades include a dedicated courtyard, carer accommodation, family zones, recreation areas and rooms which feature more natural light. 

Hunter New England Health Chief Executive Michael Di Rienzo says the proposed layout provides an environment that balances the needs for privacy, activity and creativity.

“This co-design approach enables us to provide a modern, therapeutic environment for young people admitted to the state-wide inpatient service.

“Working with teens and children with lived experience provides the opportunity to build a contemporary unit that best meets their needs," Mr Di Rienzo said.

The Newcastle facility is one of nine state-wide acute youth mental health services and supports young people from the Hunter New England region.

Hunter New England Health says work on the new unit is expected to begin in 2025 following the commissioning of the Acute Services Building, which is set to be delivered as part of the $835 million John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct.