Tuesday 30 November 2021

State and local reps come together for works to refresh Wallsend roads

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Labor councillors say they'll breathe new life into Wallsend Local Centre if they're successful in holding on to their majority after the Newcastle council election this Saturday.

It's hoped replacing the roundabout at the intersection of Cowper and Kokera Streets with traffic lights will help speed up traffic flow.

There's also plans to install a new culvert bypass beneath the Cowper Street bridge, in hopes to help stormwater flow into Ironbark Creek for flood mitigation.

Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery says it's exciting to see local government commit to a much-needed investment in the suburb.

"I am seeing and witnessing this continuation and commitment to, not only to better traffic flow, but really and seriously looking at flood mitigation, so we can prepare Wallsend for the future," Ms Hornery said.

The works are the third stage of the Wallsend Local Centre works program, following replacement of the Tyrell Street bridge and other initiatives last year. 

Ms Hornery says the suburb's long overdue for a facelift.

"There are improvements with pedestrian flows, and bicycle tracks, and we're looking at also making it more attractive with trees and other sorts of landscaping, to make it look better as well," Ms Hornery said.

Image credit: newcastle.nsw.gov.au


One new COVID case in the Hunter, but Cardiff church on alert

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England region has recorded another 10 fresh COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 405 active cases across the district. 4 of these are in hospital with the virus, including one in intensive care.

4,320 cases have been detected across the Hunter New England Health District since August 5.

A man in his 50s has passed away at Tamworth Hospital.

He had underlying health conditions and only had one dose of a vaccine.


CASE BREAKDOWN

MOREE PLAINS - 5

Moree 5.

MID COAST - 4

Harrington 2, Purfleet 1, Taree 1.

UPPER HUNTER - 1

Scone 1.


STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 179 new local cases and three deaths.

160 people are in hospital with the virus, including 26 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 92.4 per cent double dose and 94.5 per cent single dose.


EXPOSURE SITES

The Macquarie Life Church at Cardiff has been identified as a possible COVID exposure site.

NSW Health is advising anyone who was there between 10am and 12 noon on Sunday 21 November to monitor for symptoms for 14 days, and get tested if symptoms develop.





Possible COVID exposure at Macquarie Life Church

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Macquarie Life Church at Cardiff has been identified as a possible COVID exposure site.

NSW Health is advising anyone who was there between 10am and 12 noon on Sunday 21 November to monitor for symptoms for 14 days, and get tested if symptoms develop.

Major symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, and a loss of taste or smell.

Coastal Funding Awarded To Hunter Councils

 BY IAN CROUCH

Three Hunter Councils will share in more than $256,000 from the state government's Coastal and Estuary Grant program to assist with coastal management.

Lake Macquarie Council is receiving more than $192,000 to undertake foreshore protection and vegetation restoration on islands at Swansea.

Maitland is getting $45,000 for an education campaign following erosion of the banks of the Hunter River due to boating, four wheel drive access and illegal dumping.

And Port Stephens will use $19,000 to address erosion at the Nelson Bay foreshore adjacent to the eastern groyne.

Lake Macquarie Council is receiving more than $192,000 for coastal management




Plans To Welcome International Students Back To Newcastle Delayed

 BY IAN CROUCH

The University of Newcastle's plans to welcome back international students has been put on hold.

The Morrison government has delayed re-opening the Australian border to skilled workers, international students and other visa holders until it gathers more information about the Omicron coronavirus variant.

Border restrictions were due to be lifted on Wedneday, but this has now been delayed until December 15.

250 international students are due to arrive early next month, with 14 heading to Newcastle.


Image Credit: University of Newcastle

Monday 29 November 2021

Newcastle Light Rail services back on track after mechanical issues

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Most Newcastle Light Rail services are running again after being suspended over the weekend due to a mechanical issue.

Services shut last Thursday afternoon after a fault with the gearbox.

Transport for NSW says the problem is unrelated to faults identified with Sydney's Inner West fleet. 

Full capacity services are expected to resume later in the week.

Image credit: newcastletransport.info






Budding homeowners left out of pocket in Privium collapse

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Families, couples and budding homeowners across the Hunter are concerned they could be left with no house and no deposit following the Privium Homes collapse.

It's been revealed a number of customers handed over cash to the company, without knowing Privium had not attached mandatory insurance to their contracts.

The Department of Fair Trading is investigating at least 11 cases where the mandatory insurance wasn't purchased. 

Jarrod Sansom, a full-time PhD student, says he and his partner can't afford to build a home with a different firm unless they get their deposit back.

"The $16,000 that we've lost, that we can't afford to lose now that the cost of building has gone up, and as a student I don't really have much money to go around," Mr Sansom said.

"It's very difficult, I'm just trying to be strong for my partner."

FTI Consulting have since approached a number of affected people with forms to become unsecured creditors.

While Fair Trading has also launched investigations, it's unclear where homeowners stand.

"We just did what we were told," Mr Sansom said. 

"It was our first time buying a house, so we jus trusted the professionals and we never saw anything, any information, that would indicate that Privium were in trouble, by any means."

Homeowners, subcontractors, and other unsecured creditors are expected to soon vote at a creditor's meeting, in a push to replace administrators appointed by Privium Homes boss Robert Harder to oversee the liquidation with independent ones.

But in the meantime, Mr Sansom says it's been radio silence.

"We should just be able to do what we want now, but that's not the case, and we've been told, to get clarity, you should contact a solicitor because the answers aren't here yet," Mr Sansom said.

"But that's fifteen hundred more dollars at least. It feels wrong to spend more money, when they're in the wrong, like they've taken our money, and now I've got to spend more money to get answers or to get things back on track?"



10 new COVID cases in Hunter New England

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England region has recorded another 10 fresh COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 423 active cases across the district. 4 of these are in hospital with the virus, including one in intensive care.

4,310 cases have been detected across the Hunter New England Health District since August 5.


CASE BREAKDOWN

MID COAST - 5

Wingham 2, Taree 1, Harrington 1, Tuncurry 1.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 2

Glendale 1, Macquarie Hills 1.

ARMIDALE - 1

Armidale 1.

CESSNOCK - 1

Cliftleigh 1.

MAITLAND - 1

Rutherford 1.


STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 150 new local cases and no deaths.

170 people are in hospital with the virus, including 25 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 92.4 per cent double dose and 94.5 per cent single dose.


EXPOSURE SITES

There are no local exposure sites to report.



Woman Charged After Being Rescued From Drifting Boat Off Port Stephens

 BY IAN CROUCH

A flood rescue has taken an unexpected twist when a woman was arrested after being rescued from her drifting boat at Port Stephens.

On Saturday, Marine Rescue and Water Police were alerted to a 3 metre tinny adrift off Tomaree Headland after the vessel ran into mechanical issues.

They rescued a 35-year-old Nelson Bay woman in driving rain and 25 knot south-westerlies who wasn't wearing a life jacket.

The unregistered boat was towed back to Shoal Bay Boat ramp where Police conducted a search of the vessel and the woman's belongings, allegedly finding a quantity of the drug ICE and cannabis.

The woman is due to face Raymond Terrace Court on January 10 charged with two counts of drug possession, mastering an unregistered vessel and marine safety offences..





Accused Shooter Expected To Be Extradited Over Stacey Klimovitch Murder

 BY IAN CROUCH

The man accused of firing the shot which killed Stockton grandmother, Stacey Klimovitch in June is expected to face an extradition hearing in a Canberra court today (Monday 29 November, 2021).

46-year-old Jason Paul Hawkins the ACT magistrates Court on Saturday following his arrest on Friday night.

The man accused of orchestrating the alleged murder, 29-year-old Stuart Daniel Campbell did not apply for bail when he faced Newcastle Bail Court on Saturday - his matter has been adjourned until January 27.

Mr Campbell is the former partner of Stacy Klimovitch's daughter.



61-year-old Stacey Klimovitch was shot dead when she answered the door of her Stockton home on 9 June, 2021

Saturday 27 November 2021

Moderate To Major Flood Warning Issued For Hunter River At Muswellbrook, Denman And Downstream

 MODERATE FLOODING IS OCCURRING AT MUSWELLBROOK AND DENMAN

MAJOR FLOODING POSSIBLE AT SINGLETON SATURDAY NIGHT

MODERATE FLOODING POSSIBLE AT MAITLAND SUNDAY.

There is currently moderate flooding at Muswellbrook, where river levels peaked at 9.90 metres around midnight Friday, just below the major flood level. The main flood peak is now approaching Denman where river levels are expected to peak this morning, with moderate flooding.

Flood waters from the Upper Hunter will combine with large inflows from the Goulburn River and Wybong Creek. These flood flows are expected to cause moderate and possibly major flooding to develop at Singleton during Saturday afternoon into Sunday. Moderate flooding is possible at Maitland on Sunday.

Upper Hunter:

Moderate flooding is occurring at Muswellbrook and Denman. River levels along the Kingdon Ponds and Hunter River at Aberdeen have fallen below minor flood levels.

The Hunter River at Muswellbrook peaked at 9.90 metres around midnight Friday into Saturday and is currently at 8.63 metres and falling, with moderate flooding.

The Hunter River at Denman is expected to peak near 8.90 metres around 09:00 am Saturday, with moderate flooding.

Lower Hunter:

Moderate and possibly Major flooding is expected at Singleton. Moderate flooding is possible at Maitland.

The Hunter River at Singleton is expected to exceed the minor flood level (10.00 m) around midday Saturday. The river level is likely to exceed the moderate flood level (11.50 m) early Saturday evening and may reach the major flood level (13.00 m) overnight Saturday into Sunday. Further rises possible.

Here is the latest advice from the Bureau of Meteorology:


The Hunter River at Maitland (Belmore Bridge) is expected to exceed the minor flood level (5.90 m) around 11:00 am Saturday morning on the high tide. The river level may reach the moderate flood level (8.90 m) overnight Sunday into Monday. Further rises possible.

Flood Safety Advice:

In life threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately. If you require rescue, assistance to evacuate or other emergency help, ring NSW SES on 132 500.

  • * Avoid drowning. Stay out of rising water, seek refuge in the highest available place.
  • * Prevent damage to your vehicle. Move it under cover, away from areas likely to flood.
  • * Avoid being swept away. Stay out of fast-flowing creeks and storm drains.
  • * Never drive, ride or walk through flood water. Flood water can be deceptive and dangerous.

For more emergency information, advice, and access to the latest river heights and rainfall observations and forecasts:

* NSW SES: www.ses.nsw.gov.au

* RMS Live Traffic: www.livetraffic.com

* Latest River Heights and Rainfall Observations: www.bom.gov.au/nsw/flood/midnorth.shtml

* Latest NSW Warnings: www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/

* Rainfall Forecasts: www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/

* BOM NSW Twitter: www.twitter.com/BOM_NSW

Moderate to Major Flooding Expected For Hunter River Picture: SES


Two Men Arrested Over Stacey Klimovitch Murder At Stockton

 Strike Force Backhouse detectives have charged a man with murder and are seeking the extradition of a second man from the ACT as part of an ongoing investigation into the fatal shooting of a woman in Stockton earlier this year.

Just after 8pm on Wednesday 9 June 2021, emergency services were called to a home on Queen Street, Stockton, following reports of a shooting.

A 61-year-old woman answered her front door before she was shot; she died at the scene and was later identified as Stacey Klimovitch.

Officers from Newcastle City Police District established Strike Force Backhouse to investigate the circumstances surrounding Stacey’s murder.

Following extensive inquiries, detectives arrested a 29-year-old man on Wharf Road, Honeysuckle, about 11am yesterday (Friday 26 November 2021).

The 29-year-old man was taken to Newcastle Police Station where he was charged with murder.

Police will allege in court that the man orchestrated the murder.

He was bail refused to appear at Newcastle Bail Court today (Saturday 27 November 2021).

With assistance from Australian Federal Police (AFP), a 46-year-old man was arrested on a NSW warrant at a home in Chisholm, ACT, about 6.45pm.

He was taken to a local police station where the NSW warrant was executed.

The man will appear at court, and strike force detectives will apply for his extradition to NSW in the coming days, where he will be charged with murder.

Police will allege in court that the man discharged the firearm that killed Stacey Klimovitch.

Investigations are ongoing.



Friday 26 November 2021

Deputy Mayor Paul Le Mottee barred from Port Stephens ballot

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Port Stephens Deputy Lord Mayor Paul Le Mottee says a mouse click has cost him his chance at the council election, after the Electoral Commission rejected his nomination.

"There's thirteen forms I had to upload, they were all signed and dated correctly, there's timestamps to demonstrate on my computer that that's exactly what happened," Cr Le Mottee said.

"But where it went wrong, was I inadvertently, when I uploaded the thirteen forms, on one just form I inadvertently uploaded the unsigned version instead of the signed version."

Cr Le Mottee says other invalid applications had been made aware of their mistake, although he had not.

It's the first time the process has happened online, instead of with a returning officer present.

"The outpouring of support I've had, from nearly every other councillor, and from many of the staff, from the general public, many people who I know, many people who I don't know, that have rung me to express support, has been quite outstanding," Cr Le Mottee said. 

"It's really been touching, and it just makes it all the more disappointing that a little mouse click like this has brought this undone."

Cr Le Mottee says he won't challenge the election in the courts, saying he doesn't want to send voters back to the polls. 

"I'm disappointed I'm not going to be there to represent my part of the world, but it is only a relatively short term, two and three quarter years, not the full four year term, so I'll just let that be," Cr Le Mottee said.



BREAKING! Two vehicle accident on Pacific Highway at Heatherbrae

BY DAKOTA TAIT

There's been a two vehicle crash on the Pacific Highway at Heatherbrae earlier this morning.

A semi-trailer and a car are involved, and one person's being treated by an ambulance.

There's continued heavy rain conditions, and traffic is backing up in both northbound and southbound queues.  



Hunter New England records 15 new COVID cases

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England region has recorded another 15 fresh COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 502 active cases across the district. 7 of these are in hospital with the virus, including one in intensive care.

4,264 cases have been detected across the Hunter New England Health District since August 5.


CASE BREAKDOWN

MOREE PLAINS - 4

Moree 3, Boggabilla 1.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 3

Macquarie Hills 3.

TAMWORTH - 3

West Tamworth 2, Tamworth 1.

NEWCASTLE - 2

Warabrook 1, Waratah West 1.

MID COAST - 2

Strathcedar 1, Taree 1.

ARMIDALE - 1

Armidale 1.


STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 261 new local cases and no deaths.

185 people are in hospital with the virus, including 27 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 92.2 per cent double dose and 94.5 per cent single dose.


EXPOSURE SITES

There are no local exposure sites to report.

UPDATE! Muswellbrook Home Destroyed By Fire: Man Faces Court

 BY IAN CROUCH

A Hunter Valley mine worker has faced court accused of setting fire to a Muswellbrook home.

As we reported on Friday, the Brook Street homey was destroyed in the early hours.

Fairfax reports Zachery Mitchell Barwick faced Newcastle Bail Court on Saturday charged with damaging a property by fire or explosion.

He's been granted strict conditional bail to face Muswelbrook Court on December 6.

It's estimated the fire caused $400,000 worth of damage to the home. 

EARLIER:

Police are treating a fire which destroyed a home at Muswellbrook overnight as suspicious.

Firefighters from Muswellbrook and Aberdeen were called to the fibro and tile home on Brooks Street just before 2.00am on Friday to find half the property already up in flames.

They took two hours to fully extinguish and mop up the fire.

No-one was home at the time and Police have set up a crime scene as investigations continue.




Firefighters arrived to find half the house already up in flames. Picture Aberdeen Fire & Rescue


New Initiative in Place for Mayfield Business Scene

 BY CHARLOTTE LLOYD 

Locals of the Hunter's Mayfield Suburb, is part of a new initiative to support and revitalise local businesses the communities and the environment. 

The One Cool Thing + Happy Business Initiative in conjunction with the Mayfield Business Association has a particular focus on providing businesses and retailers with resources and ideas that improve their business revenue and local engagement. 

Following the pandemic, local businesses within and beyond the Hunter have seen drop in their numbers with locals turning to online shopping from big organisations for convenience and ease. 

Novocastrian Entrepreneur and founder of the project Evan Sutters is calling on the community to support their local with a focus on where they spend their time and money. 

"It is our hope that the result will be a business precinct that is more creative offline, with less vacant shops, more foot traffic and re-energised streets."

Founder of Hapzly, Sutter is hoping this new initiative will be more engaging for locals rather than the usual CSR initiatives that lack the 'human' factor and as well as this, doesn't have a focus on the economic, social and environment aspects. 

'Conscious Consumerism' has been a claimed as the way for businesses to focus their attention on benefiting people, planet, customers and the community with the initiative offering up to 115 ideas and resources moving forward. 

Maitland Road, Mayfield
Image Credit: https://www.newcastleonhunter.org

Thursday 25 November 2021

Free tax clinic sets up shop in the Hunter

BY BONNIE ARMSTRONG

A new independent tax clinic is set to open in the Hunter to provide disadvantaged and vulnerable members of the community free support and advice, following the latest expansion of the National Tax Clinic Program. 

Small businesses and Non-profit Charities will also have access to the services after being triaged and consulted. 

Professor Christian Boedker says the service will go a long way for those who need it most.

"This program is targeted for individuals who do not have the knowledge or may not have the financial means to seek help from a tax agent," Prof Boedker said.

Assistant Treasurer the Hon. Michael Sukkar announced $300,000 has been awarded to the project, set to open in the Newcastle University’s Greater Bank Finance Lab from 2022-2024.

Students studying tax and finance related programs at Newcastle University will work with clients to provide tax advice and gain real life work experience within their study field. 

Professor Christian Boedker says it's not only great for the community, but for education too.

"This is a great opportunity to introduce students to work intergraded learning programs that we are proud to offer across the University," Prof Boedker said.

"Students in the business school will have the opportunity to spend about 100 hours in the tax clinic, while being supported by tax professionals." 

Professor Boedker and Christian O'Connor will manage the clinic, while registered tax agent Kylie Brand will supervise students and check any tax returns, which must be signed off by a registered tax agent. 



36 new COVID cases in Hunter New England

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England region has recorded another 36 fresh COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 541 active cases across the district. 9 of these are in hospital with the virus, including two in intensive care.

4,249 cases have been detected across the Hunter New England Health District since August 5.


CASE BREAKDOWN

LAKE MACQUARIE - 11

Macquarie Hills 5, Cardiff 5, Barnsley 1.

MOREE PLAINS - 7

Moree 7.

NEWCASTLE - 6

Hamilton 2, Jesmond 1, Merewether 1, North Lambton 1, Newcastle 1.

MID COAST - 1

Taree 2, Harrington 1, Wingham 1.

INVERELL - 3

Inverell 3.

PORT STEPHENS - 2

Corlette 1, Shoal Bay 1.

TAMWORTH - 1

Tamworth 1.

CESSNOCK - 1

Kurri Kurri 1.

GWYDIR - 1

Warialda 1.

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 276 new local cases and no deaths.

191 people are in hospital with the virus, including 31 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 92.1 per cent double dose and 94.4 per cent single dose.


EXPOSURE SITES

There are no local exposure sites to report.







Wednesday 24 November 2021

Hunter coalition to advise Parliament on plans to future-proof the region

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter Jobs Alliance has been offered a place on an expert panel to advise State Parliament on how to spend an annual $25 million as part of the Royalties for Rejuvenation fund for mining communities.

It's hoped the money could help further the Alliance's push for a new "Hunter Valley Authority", which would help guide the region's development alongside the Government in a similar way to the new panel. 

The Alliance was launched last November as a coalition of unions and environmental organisations to help the region and local mining communities move into a post-coal economy.

They're hoping to launch a new Future-proofing the Hunter: Voices from our community report at an event in Singleton this evening, based on consultation with the community.

Alliance coordinator Warrick Jordan says it's the sort of ideas in that report they'll be taking to the panel.

"There's things that are focused on supporting individual workers, there's support for small businesses, in particular to diversify, that's an essential part of any regional adjustment program," Mr Jordan said.

"There's also longer-term approaches around attracting investment and attracting and diversifying industry."

More than 100 people are expected the attend the launch of the report at Club Singleton this evening, but the Alliance will join Business Hunter, the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, and an organisation representing the region's ten councils at a roundtable in Singleton on December 6.

Mr Jordan says it's a real privilege for the Alliance to be able to advocate for the Hunter.

"We know that when you're trying to get to grips with major economic changes, it's really important to have as many community voices around the table as possible, and it's really important to be feeding those ideas in," Mr Jordan said.

"The Hunter Jobs Alliance is just one voice of many, and there's a lot of stakeholders who've got good things to contribute."

This comes after weeks of protests by Blockade Australia activists at the Port of Newcastle and Hunter coal train lines, with fears local workers sympathetic to environmental concerns may have been alienated.

But Mr Jordan says a just transition doesn't need to compromise on the climate.

"You know, global issues around climate change and the like, that obviously a lot of people are concerned about," Mr Jordan said.

"There's a place for a more common sense response, and a more middle-ground conversation, and we think that the community is absolutely up for that, and we can see progress on that front."



New Facilities for Students in the Hunter

 BY CHARLOTTE LLOYD 

The Morrison Government has announced funding for three Hunter schools as part of the Capital Grants Program. 

The successful school applicants of the program are ALESCO Senior College in North Lakes, St Phillip's Christian College, Salamander Bay and St Brigid's Catholic College in Lake Munmorah. 

Each school will be receiving varying funding amounts based on their reconstruction and infrastructure proposals. 

The refurbishments are all set to modernise  schools with up-to-date facilities which is in hopes to help kids thrive in the classroom with high-end learning facilities. 

Among the redevelopments are general learning areas, outdoor breakout areas, and administration and staff amenities, to benefit both students and teachers of the schools. 

Patron Senator for The Hunter Region Hollie Hughes says, 

"This money is going to ensure that where students actually learn and look to the future and come out with the best result, have the absolute best facilities that they can have." 

Nine new cases in Lake Macquarie, just one in Newcastle

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England region has recorded another 22 fresh COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 561 active cases across the district. 10 of these are in hospital with the virus, including three in intensive care.

4,213 cases have been detected across the Hunter New England Health District since August 5.


CASE BREAKDOWN

LAKE MACQUARIE - 9

Macquarie Hills 4, Cardiff 4, Gateshead 1.

MID COAST - 6

Taree 3, Wingham 2, Cundletown 1.

MOREE PLAINS - 5

Moree 5.

NEWCASTLE - 1

Wickham 1.

ARMIDALE - 1

Old Mill 1.

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 248 new local cases and two deaths.

195 people are in hospital with the virus, including 35 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 92 per cent double dose and 94.4 per cent single dose.


EXPOSURE SITES

There are no local exposure sites to report.





Hunter TAFE To Offer Free Hospitality Courses

 BY JORDAN REGNIS

TAFE NSW will be offering free courses to school leavers and job seekers in the local community this summer.

Hamilton TAFE will be offering courses in hospitality and barista.

Head of Hospitality Toni Foot says this program will increase employability for school-aged residents.

"The hospitality skills are transferrable to anything with customer service, including retail and business administration," Ms Foot said.

The summer schools program is funded by the NSW government, and will be delivered both in - person and online.

"The program is particularly aimed at those in the 16 - 24 age bracket," Ms Foot said.

"We are delivering the barista courses at Hamilton campus which is at Parry st in Newcastle West and the state in entertainment and hospitality online."

 







Work Under Way To Clear Waste From Former Stockton Tip Site

 BY IAN CROUCH

Testing will be undertaken on waste material being dug up from the former Stockton Tip before it's taken to the Summerhill Waste Management Centre.

Large swell exposed the former Newcastle Council landfill site a few months ago.

Excavators will be used this week to dig up about 3,500 cubic metres of waste near Corroba Oval.

Water Minister, Melinda Pavey says the waste will be temporarily stockpiled on an adjacent Hunter Water site for the next couple of weeks, covered with geo-fabric and dampened with water to prevent dust emissions.

She says quantity surveying will then be done before the stockpile is permanently transferred to the Summerhill Centre.

Work is under way to clean up the former Stockton Tip site this week Picture: newcastleherald.com.au




Detectives Arrest 4th Person Over Alleged Murder Of David King At Salt Ash

 BY IAN CROUCH

Detectives investigating the murder of Tanilba Bay drug dealer, David King have arrested a 4th suspect in the case.

The 45-year-old was found shot dead in the driver's seat of a car which had crashed in Hideaway Drive at Salt Ash on August 29.

Three men aged 26, 27 and 29 are before the courts on murder and accessory to murder charges.

Following further inquiries, a 28-year-old man was arrested at Newcastle Police Station on Tuesday.

He's been charged with murder, take or detain person and possessing a shortened firearm without authority and refused bail to face Raymond Terrace Local Court on January 17.

Alleged murder victim David King


 

Tuesday 23 November 2021

Newcastle Independents announce review of sporting facilities, calls to increase spending

BY JAMES CARTER

The Newcastle Independents have announced they will conduct a review of local sports facilities, after a forum identified 'years of neglect" and high levels of frustration with the current Labor Council. 

The forum, conducted by Councillors John Church and Kath Elliott, Ward 2 candidate PJ Fallon and Ward 3 candidate Dave Wild, identified 'significant deficiencies' within local infrastructure for sporting clubs. 

Councillor Church said the sporting groups they have engaged with have universally described facilities as not up to scratch.

"It was fantastic to engage with the sporting community and hear the issues they face, but disappointing at the same time that they put so many hours of their own time in each year, only to be let down by the poor facilities and playing fields ".

“At the same time , some clubs have had increases of thousand of dollars in fees from one year to the next. One football club is paying $90,000 in fees to Council and can’t get any action on improvements,” Cr Church said. 

“Instead we see Labor spending millions on high end representative sport, at the expense of the kids and families who are playing sport every weekend and deserve to have good facilities.”

The Independents have pledged to focus on increased female and disabled participation 

Labor Councilors have submitted a motion to council to acknowledge and congratulate City of Newcastle Parks and Recreation Staff for the delivery of over $21 million in capital works upgrades for local sporting facilities. 

In the motion, they note the NSW Government has made the City of Newcastle ineligible to apply for funding to enhance women's sporting facilities including changes rooms. 

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes wrote to the Deputy Premier outlining the results of an audit of local sporting venues finding that only one of 63 facilities has identified female friendly change rooms to cater for high quality sport. 

Councillor Elliott has also visited numerous facilities in the Ward 4 area, with the Beresfield Touch Association the worst.

"There is a bird's nest in the roof, with a hole in the ceiling.  I could actually see the birds when I was there, and the canteen is not at all fit for purpose.  This is a huge and growing organisation; all these clubs pay fees to use these facilities, we need to cater to their needs better than what we have been."

The Notice of Motion from the Labor Councillor will be considered by Council this evening. 

The Beresfield Touch Association building
on a visit by Councillor Elliott
Image: Supplied


16 new COVID cases in Hunter New England, 10 in the Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England region has recorded another 16 fresh COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 601 active cases across the district. 9 of these are in hospital with the virus, including three in intensive care.

4,191 cases have been detected across the Hunter New England Health District since August 5.


CASE BREAKDOWN

LAKE MACQUARIE - 4

Macquarie Hills 3, Charlestown 1.

MIDCOAST - 4

Taree 3, Bootawa 1.

NEWCASTLE - 4

Broadmeadow 2, Merewether 1, Newcastle East 1.

MAITLAND - 2

Rutherford 2.

MOREE PLAINS - 1

Moree 1.

TAMWORTH - 1

Tamworth 1.

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 173 new local cases and one death.

196 people are in hospital with the virus, including 34 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 91.9 per cent double dose and 94.4 per cent single dose.


EXPOSURE SITES

There are no local exposure sites to report.



Coal protestor sentenced to a year in prison

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A 22-year-old climate change activist has been sentenced to 12 months imprisonment at Newcastle Local Court just a week after being arrested in protest actions across the Hunter.

Eric Serge Herbert was first arrested on November 10 after climbing aboard a coal train, and again the following week, after being discovered by police at Kooragang Island.

He was charged with cause obstruction to railway locomotive or rolling stock, attempted hinder working of mining equipment, and attempted assisting obstruction of rail locomotive or rolling stock, and will not be eligible for parole for at least six months.

He's one of 29 people arrested this month in relation to Blockade Australia protests.





Firefighters Called To Disused Church In Newcastle East

 BY IAN CROUCH

Squatters are being blamed for a fire which damaged a disused church in Newcastle East.

Fire crews from Newcastle and Lambton were called to the former St Mark's Chapel in Morgan Street at about 4.15pm on Monday.

Newcastle Fire Command says rubbish had been set alight inside, causing damage to the altar.

The fire was quickly contained before it could spread to the rest of the building, with crews completing fire firefighting duties at 5.30pm.


 


Monday 22 November 2021

Early voting for local councils now open across the Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Voters hoping to skip the queues in the Hunter's upcoming council elections can head to an early voting booth, starting on Monday.

We're being encouraged to consider voting ahead of time, with concerns COVID restrictions might lead to long lines at the ballot box. 

Most pre-poll offices across the Hunter will be open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday, with accessibility options for people in need.

Residents in any of the Hunter's local government areas can place their vote early until the day before elections on December 4.

You can locate your nearest pre-poll office at https://www.elections.nsw.gov.au/Elections.



Labor councillors promise facelift for Mayfield shopping district

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Newcastle Labor councillors are hoping to give Mayfield's high street shopping precinct a facelift if they're reelected following elections in December.

The multi-stage urban renewal works would see new footpaths and roads, drainage improvements, as well as upgrades to trees, street furniture, lighting, parking, and cycleways.

They're set to present the proposal as a notice of motion at next Tuesday's council meeting.

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen says the suburb's due for investment.

"It's, unfortunately, a really tired part of the city, that has been experiencing some issues over the last few years," Cr Clausen said.

"We see, and certainly based on that success in those other local centre upgrades, amazing opportunity to improve Mayfield, to restore it as a vibrant shopping district."

If the project goes ahead, it would be the latest in local Labor's successful local centres program.

"Over the past term of council we've delivered upgrades in Beresfield, in Carrington, in Wallsend, in Merewether, and in Kotara," Cr Clausen said.

"The opportunity for this project is to add Mayfield to that list, seeing a total rejuvenation, revitalization of the main street, Maitland Road, working very closely with the local business community."


Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes & Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen with Brook Motors General Manager Warren Pulbrook.


Anti-coal strike force facing criticism after raid on community environment group

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Officers with the newly established Strike Force Tuohy are under fire after a controversial raid on the Hunter Community Environment Centre on Friday afternoon.

Police searched the organisation's Hamilton North office following almost two weeks of anti-coal protests, seizing banners and corflutes from the address.

But the Environment Centre maintains it has no affiliation with Blockade Australia or the activists who are living in a sharehouse at the property.

Centre Coordinator Jo Lynch says they're hoping to come to a resolution with police.

"The Hunter Community Environment Centre doesn't have anything to do with those protests, and we're hoping that the police can discover that," Ms Lynch said.

"Unfortunately, with the search warrant, they took a lot of our gear and seized a lot of our stuff as evidence."

Shadow Minister for Climate Change Pat Conroy spoke to reporters earlier on Friday, condemning the protests across the Hunter.

But Ms Lynch says police are approaching things the wrong way.

"It's a bit of mistake on the police's behalf, a bit of an overreach," Ms Lynch said.

"And an assumption on their behalf that a lot of people have described as pretty shocking and unfair, and a little, an overreaction, certainly an overreaction."

Image credit: hcec.org.au


New Disability and Social Housing in the Region

BY OLIVIA DILLON

People with disabilities will benefit from more housing options thanks to a funding boost through the NSW Government's Community Housing Innovation Fund. 

Wyee and Morriset are among 14 regions across the state set to receive support from the project, and will use the funds to provide social and disability housing for vulnerable people in the Hunter. 

The NSW Government will invest $1.5 million in Aruma Services and their delivery of five disability group homes in Wyee, which will enable 20 people to live and receive support via the National Disability Insurance Scheme. 

Morriset will also benefit from the injection, with $5 million being promised to Evolve Housing for the construction of 18 new homes, including 14 social housing properties and four homes for people with disabilities. 

General manager of Evolve Services Jitender Balani, says he hopes the project will result in positive outcomes for tenants and the community alike. 

"We want to help people, both from an employment and accommodation point of view."

Mr Balani also noted how much the service relies on support from the Government, and said they will continue to advocate for more funding to support those in need.

"It's a really good initiative by the New South Wales Government and we are very thankful to them for making this funding available, because if this sort of funding is not available, it can be very difficult to make any social housing project viable via a community housing provider." he said. 


Evolve Housing will build 18 homes in Morriset


30 new COVID cases across Hunter New England

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England region has recorded another 30 fresh COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 625 active cases across the district. 12 of these are in hospital with the virus, including three in intensive care.

4,176 cases have been detected across the Hunter New England Health District since August 5.


CASE BREAKDOWN

MOREE PLAINS - 11

Moree 11.

MIDCOAST - 8

Taree 4, Wingham 1, Cedar Party 1, Krambach 1, Old Bar 1.

NEWCASTLE - 7

Jesmond 3, Mayfield 1, New Lambton Heights 1, Wallsend 1, Waratah West 1.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 2

Cameron Park 1, Macquarie Hills 1.

NARRABRI - 1

Narrabri 1.

PORT STEPHENS - 1

Nelson Bay 1.

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 180 new local cases and one death.

202 people are in hospital with the virus, including 30 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 91.8 per cent double dose and 94.4 per cent single dose.


EXPOSURE SITES

There are no local exposure sites to report.
















Life Education giving the gift of help for regional and rural children this Christmas

 By CONNOR MARSELOS


Life Education is working in collaboration with Woolworths to provide children in rural and regional areas with the necessary nutrition and coping skills to manage both mental and physical health.

The Life Ed Children's Thrive Fund is designed to help children living in regional areas in the run-up to Christmas this year.

It's launching in December after helping school-aged children with health and wellbeing education for the past 40 years.

One in six children aged 4 - 17 in rural areas are experiencing mental health problems and have been facing droughts, bushfires, floods and economic hardship.

Acting Life Education CEO Josy Shaw says its important to help children in regional areas.

"We also know that they often just generally face more health challenges, mental and physical and even substance abuse challenges compared to city children." she said.

 Life Ed presently provides services for one-third of the children population aged 3-13. Miss Shaw hopes by 2025, they are able to reach one million children per year in the 3-13 age bracket. They are presently seeing roughly 700,000 children per year.

Miss Shaw says it only takes $25 to help one child with the skills they need to break the cycle of disadvantage.

To find about more, head to: https://www.lifeeducation.org.au/

Former Classroom Destroyed By Fire At Belmont

 BY IAN CROUCH

Fire has destroyed an abandoned classroom at Belmont early today.

Fire crews from Belmont, Tingira Heights and Charlestown were called to the site on the corner of the Walter and Victoria Streets at about 3.30am on Monday to find the former classroom  engulfed in flames.

It's taken them about an hour and a quarter to fully extinguish and mop up the fire.

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





Newcastle Records Small Spike In Latest Round of COVID cases

 BY IAN CROUCH

Newcastle has topped the list in the latest round of confirmed COVID cases in the Hunter New England Health District.

Of the 32 cases in the entire health district, 16 are from the Hunter

Ten cases were confirmed in Newcastle on Saturday night, with three each in Maryland and Wallsend and another two in Jesmond.

Elsewhere, Lake Macquarie recorded two cases at Windale and Maitland, Singleton, Cessnock and Port Stephens recorded one each.

Individual cases were recorded at North Lambton, Hamilton, Rathmines, Darlington, Thornton, Kurri Kurri and Raymond Terrace.

Statewide, 176 people were recorded in Sunday's update and there were two deaths in Sydney hospitals.

Currently 192 people are in  hospital, with 32 in ICU.

Vaccination rates hit 94.4% for first dose and 91.8% fully vaccinated for people over the age of 16. 


 

UPDATE! Woman Killed By Falling Tree Branch at Cooranbong

 BY IAN CROUCH

A bushwalker has died after being struck by a falling tree branch at Cooranbong.

Police say a 37-year-old woman from Sydney was walking through the Watagans National Park with two family members late on Sunday when she was struck by the falling branch.

Emergency services were called, but despite the efforts of relatives and first responders, the woman was not able to be revived and died at the scene.

Police say at the time of the incident, weather conditions were poor, with the area having been drenched by heavy rain throughout the day.

A report is being prepared for the Coroner.



Friday 19 November 2021

More than 10,000 back petition to save GP Access After Hours

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Labor MP's were in Toronto on Friday morning, holding a doorstop with local GP's and families to help save GP Access After Hours.

10,500 people across the Hunter have signed a petition calling on the Federal Government to abandon cuts to the service. 

Shortland MP Pat Conroy says tens of thousands of families are depending on things to turn around for the better.

"As a father of young kids, I've used the service many times. My older relatives have used that service," Mr Conroy said.

"It is a great service that stops our already under pressure emergency departments from being clogged up further, and it's part of series of attacks on health outcomes in this region."

It's believed the service has provided more than a million urgent consultations over the past 20 years.

The After Hours care is also estimated to have saved $21.7 million in the cost of unnecessary emergency department presentations every year.  

Hunter GP Association Secretary Lee Fong told reporters it was a vital part of the Hunter's health infrastructure, especially for families and the elderly.

"In the after hours, GP Access provides a really urgent service to them, so if we're talking about cutting back, maybe even removing the service, what's going to fill that void?" Mr Fong said.

"I hear nothing except, 'Go to the emergency department.' That isn't good enough. This service has to be retained."

Paterson MP Meryl Swanson says it's a Hunter institution, and it should be here to stay.

"For every parent that's sat in an emergency waiting room for hours on end, at the John Hunter, at Maitland Hospital," Ms Swanson said.

"For every parent that has tried to get their kid into see a doctor when they can't, GP Access has been the answer, and this government wants to cut GP Access. It is death by a thousand cuts thanks to the Morrison Government."



40 COVID cases in Hunter New England, three in the Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England region has recorded another 40 fresh COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 698 active cases across the district. 12 of these are in hospital with the virus, including three in intensive care.

4,086 cases have been detected across the Hunter New England Health District since August 5.


CASE BREAKDOWN

MID COAST - 15

Taree 9, Wingham 3, Tinonee 1, Tuncurry 1, Chatham 1.

INVERELL - 13

Inverell 11, Tingha 2.

MOREE PLAINS - 7

Moree 6, Boggabilla 1.

TAMWORTH - 2

Moonbi 1, Tamworth 1.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 1

Speers Point 1.

NEWCASTLE - 1

North Lambton 1.

MAITLAND - 1

Rutherford 1.

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 216 new local cases and three deaths.

196 people are in hospital with the virus, including 28 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 91.5 per cent double dose and 94.3 per cent single dose.


EXPOSURE SITES

There are no local exposure sites to report.












Lake Macquarie students win big in environmental awards

BY BONNIE ARMSTRONG

Eight primary and high schools across in Lake Macquarie have received Environmental Awards in response to their conscious efforts in creating sustainability in schools. 

Programs such as installing recycling pods, managing waste and landfill, and aquaponics systems have all been introduced to the students in order for them to gain skills of environmental care. 

Sustainability Engagement Officer Pamela Baker says she thinks "it's very important for them to learn how to recycle and how we can reduce waste to landfill". 

"That's why it's really good when schools implement these waste type systems, just so we can get our recycling right". 

This year’s awards were sponsored by Hunter Resource Recovery, Delta Electricity, Centennial Coal and Sanitarium. 

 

2021 Lake Macquarie School Environment Awards winners

 

Sponsor

Category

Winner

Hunter Resource Recovery

Overall High School

St Mary’s Catholic College

Hunter Resource Recovery

Overall Primary School

Hillsborough Public School

Hunter Resource Recovery

Waste

Dudley Public School

Delta Electricity

Innovation

St John Vianney’s Public School

Delta Electricity

Ongoing Commitment

St Mary’s Primary Public School

Centennial Coal Mandalong

Natural Environment

Cooranbong Public School

Sanitarium

Energy

Awaba Public School

Lake Macquarie City Council

Encouragement

Biraban Public School

Students from Dudley Public School's Green Team with Principal Kris Carey and one of the new recycling pods.