592 new COVID cases in Hunter New England on Christmas Eve

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England Health District has recorded another 592 new COVID-19 infections and no deaths. 

There are currently 6,729 active cases across the district. 13 of these are in hospital with the virus, and two are in intensive care.

CASE BREAKDOWN

• Newcastle - 194
• Lake Macquarie - 175
• Maitland - 75
• Cessnock - 33
• Port Stephens - 30
• Mid Coast - 18
• Tamworth - 17
• Singleton - 16
• Armidale - 10
• Muswellbrook - 5
• Moree Plains - 4
• Upper Hunter - 4
• Inverell - 3
• Dungog - 2
• Glen Innes - 2
• Gunnedah - 1
• Tenterfield - 1
• Uralla - 1
• Walcha - 1

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 5,612 new local cases and one death.

382 people are in hospital with the virus, including 53 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93.5 per cent double dose and 94.9 per cent single dose.

Grant program to get Hunter country shows back on track in the new year

BY CONNOR MARSELOS

The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW is encouraging the Hunter to take advantage of recently announced grants from the State Government to stage country and agricultural shows in 2022.

The Country Show Support Package, worth up to 5 million dollars, will help show organisers with supplies and equipment, and provide them with clarity about their financial situation during the pandemic.

190 agricultural shows across the Hunter and rural NSW will be supported in the funding. 

General Agriculture Manager Murray Wilton says he's confident the grant money will go a long way for rural communities. 

"The country shows are often the largest event that are held in the area," Mr Wilton said.

"They hold the community together."

It comes as a number of Hunter shows were forced to cancel their events for the second year in a row. 

Applications opened on the 14th of December and will close on the 29th of April 2022 or when the available funding is exhausted.

Police investigating suspicious fire in Bar Beach unit

BY DAKOTA TAIT

There's been a unit fire in Bar Beach on Friday morning.

Around 3am, crews were called to the scene on Nickson St.

At least three crews attended the blaze.

One man was removed from the scene by neighbours without injuries, and has been taken to hospital, just as a precaution.

The extent of the damages is currently unknown.

Police believe the fire is suspicious, and are investigating.

Almost 1000 new COVID cases in Hunter New England

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England Health District has recorded another 976 new COVID-19 infections and no deaths. 

There are currently 6,507 active cases across the district. 14 of these are in hospital with the virus, and two are in intensive care.

CASE BREAKDOWN

• Newcastle - 338
• Lake Macquarie - 316
• Maitland - 142
• Port Stephens - 61
• Cessnock - 42
• Mid Coast - 20
• Singleton - 10
• Tamworth - 10
• Moree Plains - 9
• Muswellbrook - 8
• Upper Hunter - 6
• Dungog - 5
• Narrabri - 1
• Liverpool Plains - 1
• Armidale - 1
• Uralla - 1

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 5,715 new local cases and one death.

347 people are in hospital with the virus, including 45 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93.5 per cent double dose and 94.9 per cent single dose.

Privium Homes put into liquidation, homeowners likely to lose out

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Building giant Privium Homes has officially been put into liquidation, after a creditors meeting on Wednesday. 

The decision means Hunter home owners aren't likely to get their money back. 

FTI Consulting says it will look into the viability of recovery actions as part of the liquidation, but homeowners and other unsecured creditors are second to line to a number of entities, including Westpac and the Bank of New York. 

It's also been revealed the company was already insolvent in August, even as new contracts were still being accepted. 

An investigation is set to commence, but it's likely Privium will face a range of offences, including around the improper handling of insurance.

Newcastle Writers Festival to introduce new writing program in schools

BY JAMES CARTER

The Newcastle Writers Festival has received a $200,000 federal grant to develop a Hunter creative writing program for primary school students. 

A team of writers will work with schools on short and long term creative writing projects and boost literacy rates across the region. 

Festival director Rosemarie Milsom said the grant will provide much-needed seed funding for the Story Hunter program.

 “Before the pandemic we welcomed 3000 primary students in Newcastle and Cessnock to events each year and demand long ago outstripped our capacity to deliver more programming,” she said. 

“We recognise the need to support under-served schools in our region and provide opportunities for children to develop their creative writing skills. In the decade since the festival was established, our goal has remained constant: to support the local literary community and this includes the next generation of writers. It is more important than ever given the impact of COVID-19 on young people. We hope Story Hunter will provide an innovative and engaging creative outlet.”

The program will incorporate local Aboriginal language and work with community leaders to ensure the program is culturally appropriate. 

The Federal Government’s Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund is part of the government's Arts and Cultural Development Program and was implemented in response to the impact of COVID-19 on the arts sector. The fund supports artists and organisations through the delivery and presentation of activities across all art forms.

The RISE funding will enable the organisation to appoint a Story Hunter coordinator and a team of 

writers who will work with schools on short and long-term creative writing projects

Popular children's writer Matt Stanton at the 2019 Newcastle Writers Festival
Image : Chris Patterson

Hunter New England records 623 new COVID cases, just 11 in hospital

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England Health District has recorded another 623 new COVID-19 infections and no deaths. 

There are currently 5,728 active cases across the district. 11 of these are in hospital with the virus, and one is in intensive care.

CASE BREAKDOWN

• Newcastle - 226
• Lake Macquarie - 208
• Maitland - 97
• Port Stephens - 33
• Cessnock - 20
• Mid Coast - 18
• Tamworth - 7
• Singleton - 5
• Muswellbrook - 2
• Moree Plains - 2
• Dungog - 1
• Glen Innes - 1
• Gunnedah - 1
• Liverpool Plains - 1
• Narrabri - 1

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 3,763 new local cases and two deaths.

302 people are in hospital with the virus, including 40 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93.4 per cent double dose and 94.9 per cent single dose.

Last push to save GP Access After Hours before Christmas goodbye

BY DAKOTA TAIT

There's just two days left until the Hunter's GP Access After Hours service is scheduled to shut.

The Mater clinic will close for good on Christmas Eve, while other clinics will cut back on their opening hours. 

An online rally's happening today, which could be the last chance to save the service. 

At least 11,000 people signed a petition calling on the Governments to restore funding cuts.

It's hoped either the Federal or State Government could be a last minute lifeline, but New South Wales maintains it's the responsibility of the Commonwealth.

It's estimated the service saves as much a $21.7 million in unnecessary presentations at the emergency department.

There's also fear the closures and scaling back could more pressure on the already exasperated John Hunter Hospital.

Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon says it's now just 48 hours until the worst Christmas present ever.

"We cannot get by without GP Access After Hours," Ms Claydon said. "We don't have to access to bulk billing doctors in our community."

"This is a service that has proved to be exceptional, to provide quality healthcare, to be there when people need it, and to abandon this service now, makes no sense whatsoever."

820 new COVID cases in Hunter New England

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England Health District has recorded another 820 new COVID-19 infections and no deaths. 

There are currently 5,169 active cases across the district. 14 of these are in hospital with the virus, and one is in intensive care.

CASE BREAKDOWN

• Newcastle - 326
• Lake Macquarie - 254
• Maitland - 133
• Port Stephens - 48
• Cessnock - 26
• Singleton - 7
• Muswellbrook - 7
• Mid Coast - 6
• Moree Plains - 6
• Tamworth - 3
• Dungog - 2
• Narrabri - 1
• Upper Hunter - 1

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 3,057 new local cases and two deaths.

284 people are in hospital with the virus, including 39 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93.4 per cent double dose and 94.9 per cent single dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

All 680 people who checked into the Argyle House nightclub in Newcastle from 9pm on Wednesday December 8 to 3am on Thursday December 9 have been assessed as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Anyone who attended the University of Newcastle Medical Ball at Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre (NEX) on Friday December 10 have also been classified as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

People who were at Finnegan's Hotel from 6:30pm on Friday December 10 to 2:30am on Saturday December 11, and Saturday December 11 from 7pm to close, are close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

People who were at the Cambridge Hotel from 6:30pm on Friday December 10 to 2:30am on Saturday December 11, on Saturday December 11 from 7pm to close, and Sunday December 12 from 6pm to close, are also close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Household contacts of these cases are also being asked to get tested and isolate until the close contact returns a negative test.

Kurri Kurri gas plant given the green light after email mishap

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The controversial Kurri Kurri gas plant will go ahead, revealed after an email bungle on Monday afternoon.

Key stakeholders found out about the approval when they received an email from the planning portal in error on Monday afternoon.

The Planning Minister has since formally approved the project, ticking off the last hurdle. 

It's likely to be Rob Stokes' last action in the role, after the portfolio changed hands in the Cabinet's latest reshuffle. 

Gas Free Hunter Alliance's Fiona Lee says it's not a shock it's been announced in the days before Christmas.

"We know that the State Government's trying to hide this approval by announcing it when people are just distracted," Ms Lee said.

"They want to slip it under the radar, they know it's a really unpopular project."

Construction of the new plant is set to begin next year.

The Federal Government's pushed the project as a necessary complement to keep electricity supply stable and affordable.

But Ms Lee says it just doesn't add up with the State's net zero emissions targets.

"We'll continue to try and stop the gas plant from moving ahead, at every stage," Ms Lee said.

"We'll be launching a legal case and looking at every other avenue to have this ridiculous waste of public money stopped."

Image credit: infrastructurepipeline.org

Marks Point man faces 26 charges relating to child sexual abuse

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A Marks Point man's been by charged by police in Lake Macquarie after an investigation into the alleged sexual abuse of young children in the State's north. 

Detectives from Lake Macquarie Police District established Strike Force Friar last March, to investigate multiple reports of child sexual abuse that occurred between 1993 and 2020.

The 64-year-old was arrested in Swansea on Monday morning by investigators working with the State Crime Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad.

He's been charged with 26 offences. 

• Indecent assault with victim under the age of 10 (13 counts)
• Indecent assault person under 16 years of age
• Sexual intercourse with person under the age of 10 (three counts)
• Aggravated indecent assault – victim under the age of 16 (three counts)
• Commit act of indecency with person under 16 years (two counts)
• Commit act of indecency with person under 10 years
• Sexually touch another person without consent, and
• Carry out sexual act with another without consent (two counts)

Police allege he abused seven children in the Lake Macquarie and Narrabri areas, who were known to him. 

He was refused bail, and will appear before Belmont Local Court again in February.

Final numbers roll in for close Hunter council races

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter's next councils are taking shape this week, as preferences and allocated the final numbers in December's local government elections are counted.

In Port Stephens, the close race between incumbent Mayor Ryan Palmer and Labor challenger Leah Anderson ended with Palmer in the lead by just half a percentage point.

Sue Moore will also serve a second consecutive term in Singleton, marking 22 years on council.

Maitland's seen an upset, with Philip Penfold taking the top job from Loretta Baker, despite initial fears the preferences wouldn't flow in his direction.

In Newcastle, nine of the 13 councillors are set to be women, including Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes.

The Liberals and Greens have both added new members to their council team.

The Newcastle Independents are likely to be left with only John Church.

Wanted man found hiding in Cessnock cupboard

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A wanted man's been arrested in Cessnock on Monday afternoon.

The 29-year-old Tenambit man was wanted for a breach of bail, and was found hiding in a bedroom cupboard in a house on Dixon Street.

He was arrested and taken to Cessnock Police Station where he was charged with fail to comply with extended/interim supervision order (four counts), destroy or damage property less than $2,000, contravene apprehended domestic violence order, and breach of bail.

The man was refused bail to appear at Cessnock Local Court on Tuesday.

660 new COVID cases in Hunter New England

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England Health District has recorded another 660 new COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 4,368 active cases across the district. 17 of these are in hospital with the virus, and three are in intensive care.

CASE BREAKDOWN

• Newcastle - 294
• Lake Macquarie - 220
• Maitland - 75
• Cessnock - 19
• Port Stephens - 16
• Singleton - 16
• Muswellbrook - 5
• Tamworth - 4
• Upper Hunter - 4
• Inverell - 3
• Armidale - 2
• Dungog - 1
• Mid Coast - 1

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 2,501 new local cases and no deaths.

261 people are in hospital with the virus, including 33 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93.4 per cent double dose and 94.9 per cent single dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

All 680 people who checked into the Argyle House nightclub in Newcastle from 9pm on Wednesday December 8 to 3am on Thursday December 9 have been assessed as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Anyone who attended the University of Newcastle Medical Ball at Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre (NEX) on Friday December 10 have also been classified as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

People who were at Finnegan's Hotel from 6:30pm on Friday December 10 to 2:30am on Saturday December 11, and Saturday December 11 from 7pm to close, are close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

People who were at the Cambridge Hotel from 6:30pm on Friday December 10 to 2:30am on Saturday December 11, on Saturday December 11 from 7pm to close, and Sunday December 12 from 6pm to close, are also close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Household contacts of these cases are also being asked to get tested and isolate until the close contact returns a negative test.

Greens Candidate Calls For City Sexual Harassment Policy

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Greens Candidate for Ward 3, Sinead Francis-Coan has started an online petition, calling on Newcastle venues to adopt a sexual harassment policy. 

The Newcastle: Let's raise the bar petition calls on local venues to develop a harassment prevention and response policy, and to ensure staff and security are appropriately trained to deal with incidents. 

The policy would also see venues using signage to communicate prevention and reporting practices to clientele, as well as the implementation of a log for sexual harassment incidents. 

These practices would represent each participating venue making a public commitment to maintaining a harassment-free environment.

"We haven't had a lot of opportunities to go out lately, but even so, over one weekend people were choosing not to go to particular venues and were leaving places early just because of what they experienced when they were there," Ms Francis-Coan said.

"Of course, I hold the people responsible themselves if they are harassing someone, but I think the venues are in a really key position to be able to model by example and be on the front foot. That is what I am encouraging. " 

Ms Francis-Coan said the campaign isn't "looking to reinvent to wheel", but rather aims to highlight best practice steps which already exist and can be implemented by venue staff. 

One of these includes the use of a code word between patrons and venue staff which would alert them to unwanted sexual attention. 

The petition currently has 153 signatures and can be found on the change.org website. 

"It is steadily tricking through and I know there are a lot of different stakeholders ready to talk which means we are starting to get somewhere." Ms Francis-Coan said. 

Sinead Francis-Coan

More industrial action on the Hunter rail network

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter's facing more disruption on the rail network today, as the Rail, Tram and Bus Union prepare for an overnight stoppage across the State.

The stoppage is scheduled to run from 8pm on Monday to 4am on Tuesday morning, but it's likely disruptions will begin as early as 3:30pm this afternoon.

Intercity and Regional services will be significantly impacted by the action.

Although it's currently in negotiations with the NSW Government over privatisation issues and the treatment of rail workers, the union's maintained a steady campaign of industrial action in recent weeks.

But NSW TrainLink Chief Executive Dale Merrick says the union should reconsider the action ahead of the holiday period.

“To take action that potentially ruins Christmas for some regional customers, after a tough year already, is pretty poor form," Mr Merrick said.

“We want unions to consider withdrawing the action altogether and focus on taking the bargaining forward."

It's likely the stoppage will have flow-on effects later in the week.

 

Carly McBride murderer sentenced to 27 years in jail

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The man convicted of murdering Carly McBride has been sentenced to a maximum of 27 years in prison.

Sayle Kenneth Newson was convicted of murdering his girlfriend in a jealous rage, and dumping her body in the bush at Scone.

A three-year investigation eventually turned around to focus on him, after he initially her missing.

He won't be eligible for parole for at least 19 years and nine months.

At his earliest possible release in 2038, he'll be 61.

Testing Clinic Tempers Flare as the Hunter Nears Capacity

 By SAMUEL BARTLETT

COVID-19 testing clinics across the Hunter are being forced to turn motorists away due to the influx of cases in the region.

With 674 new COVID cases in the Hunter New England Health District today, motorists at drive through clinics are waiting hours to receive a swab.

NSW Health have also said they won't be notifying every close contact or even every positive case. 

The change means people could be waiting indefinitely for a test result or in the community while infectious without knowing.

Tempers are flaring at packed clinics with drivers being encouraged to look elsewhere to get a test.

Shadow Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley says the Government needs to open the clinics for longer and do whatever necessary to keep the region under control.

She says, "we've discovered that the testing clinics have reduced their hours so far that we're seeing absolute chaos out on the streets,"

"We've got a significant number of cases in the hunter now and as a result a lot of people have been in contact, and they want to be tested," she explains.

"The Government is asking them to get tested however that is near impossible right throughout the Hunter,"

"We've called on the government to be nimble and to provide the resources that we need when appropriate." 

Newcastle music festival cancelled by NSW Health

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Lunar Electric music festival scheduled in Newcastle this Saturday has been cancelled amid skyrocketing COVID cases in the Hunter.

NSW Health issued a public health order late on Thursday afternoon, instructing organisers not to proceed with the event at Camp Shortland.

The festival faced strong backlash from the community, although organisers stated on Wednesday, they intended to go forward irrespective of the health situation.

Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp requested the Health Minister conduct a full risk assessment of the event ahead of the Ministry's decision on Thursday. 

He says it's a sensible, if last minute move.

"The Government is moving very slowly, I think it's a very Sydney-centric government and they just don't quite realise how bad it is in Newcastle and the Hunter," Mr Crakanthorp said.

"People are really hurting, and unfortunately the risk the festival posed, to be another superspreader, was just far too great."

Ticket holders will be receiving a refund, despite organisers initially refusing requests from attendees who changed their minds before the event was cancelled. 

The event won't be rescheduled. 

Mr Crakanthorp says it's no time to play with fire, a week out from Christmas.

"In the current situation, I just don't see how in good conscience the festival could have gone ahead," Mr Crakanthorp said.

"This outbreak has had a devastating effect on households and local businesses, and we just can't afford to have more people go into isolation or compromise others' health and safety."

674 new COVID cases and one death in Hunter New England

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England Health District has recorded another 674 new COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 2,122 active cases across the district. 12 of these are in hospital with the virus, and three are in intensive care.

Sadly, a woman in her 60s from the Northern Tablelands has passed away at St Vincent's Hospital. 

She wasn't vaccinated and had underlying health conditions.

CASE BREAKDOWN

• Newcastle - 308
• Lake Macquarie - 190
• Maitland - 53 
• Port Stephens - 41
• Cessnock - 24
• Mid Coast - 13
• Singleton - 11
• Tamworth - 8
• Muswellbrook - 7
• Upper Hunter - 5
• Gunnedah - 4
• Inverell - 3
• Armidale - 2
• Moree Plains - 2
• Walcha - 2
• Dungog - 1

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 2,213 new local cases and one death.

215 people are in hospital with the virus, including 24 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93.3 per cent double dose and 94.8 per cent single dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

All 680 people who checked into the Argyle House nightclub in Newcastle from 9pm on Wednesday December 8 to 3am on Thursday December 9 have been assessed as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Anyone who attended the University of Newcastle Medical Ball at Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre (NEX) on Friday December 10 have also been classified as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

People who were at Finnegan's Hotel from 6:30pm on Friday December 10 to 2:30am on Saturday December 11, and Saturday December 11 from 7pm to close, are close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

People who were at the Cambridge Hotel from 6:30pm on Friday December 10 to 2:30am on Saturday December 11, on Saturday December 11 from 7pm to close, and Sunday December 12 from 6pm to close, are also close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Household contacts of these cases are also being asked to get tested and isolate until the close contact returns a negative test.

3rd Man Charged Over Alleged Murder Of Stacey Klimovitch At Stockton

 BY IAN CROUCH

Strike Force detectives have charged a 3rd man in connection with the alleged shooting murder of Stockton grandmother, Stacey Klimovitch.

The 61-year-old died from a gunshot wound when she answered the door of her Queen Street home on June 9 this year.

Two men aged 29 and 46 have been charged over their involvement with the alleged shooting murder and remain before the courts.

Inquiries led investigators to Silverwater Gaol in Sydney's west on Wednesday where they spoke to a 64-year-old inmate.

He's now been charged with murder and being an accessory after the fact to murder and is due to front Newcastle Local Court on Monday December 20, 2021. 

Stacey Klimovitch was gunned down at the front door of her Stockton home

Second Man Fined Over Argyle Super Spreader COVID Outbreak

 BY IAN CROUCH

A second man has been fined over a COVID outbreak at the Argyle House Nightclub in Newcastle.

Officers from the Port Stephens Hunter District received information from NSW Health concerning a 20-year-old man who'd been directed to self-isolate at a Rutherford property from Wednesday the 8th of December as he was a close contact of a positive COVID case.

However he attended the Argyle that night and subsequently returned a positive COVID test - he's now self-isolating.

Police spoke with the man yesterday and issued a $5000 fine for failing to comply with a COVID-19 Direction Notice.

Another 20-year-old man who attended a boat party in Sydney was earlier fined $10,000 for ignoring a direction to self-isolate and attended the Argyle last Wednesday and a home at Adamstown on Saturday.

He's also self-isolating after contracting the virus. 

The Argyle Nightclub outbreak has since been linked to hundreds of cases.

 

 

Businesses worried Newcastle outbreak will be the last straw

BY DAKOTA TAIT

There's concern the rapid climb in COVID cases across the Hunter will spell doom for small businesses who have only just started to recover.

It's likely a large number of local businesses are banking on strong Christmas trade to bolster their return.

But there's fear businesses who just barely managed to survive the previous lockdowns, won't make it through if the numbers keep up.

Trade confidence has plummeted, as businesses see high numbers of cancellations, or are forced to close their doors due to isolating or infected staff. 

Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes says we could be facing a virtual lockdown.

"I'm pretty confident that we won't go into another lockdown, based on what the Government has been saying over the last couple of days, but that doesn't stop the community changing their habits in not engaging, not going out, not going to venues," Mr Hawes said.

"In a sense, you have a slowdown in trade that's not generated by a lockdown, but just generated by a response to the spike in the virus."

The December 15 reopening milestone has proven not as exciting for Newcastle as initially hoped by the business community.

Some venues have decided to keep restrictions such as mask mandates and check-ins, and shut their doors to the unvaccinated.

Mr Hawes says despite restrictions easing, the Government can't afford to take a back seat.

"The support stuff is still out there at the moment, not all of it's been withdrawn, but we have started engaging with the Government to try and make sure that if businesses are forced to the brink again, through no fault of their own, that some of these assistance packages will be available," Mr Hawes said.

"They haven't been withdrawn yet, but we want to make sure that they're going to be continuing."

Hunter community cheering as PM gives PEP11 the boot

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Federal Government has said, they won't give the green tick to a controversial gas exploration permit off the Hunter coast.

The Government advised New South Wales and the National Offshore Petroleum Titles Administrator of their decision to refuse Advent Energy's application to extend PEP11 on Wednesday.

The future of the license has been in limbo for more than 300 days.

There's concern offshore drilling would devastate the marine environment, as well as industries reliant on the ocean and beaches.

Shortland MP Pat Conroy says the community's welcoming the move.

"It would imperil tens of thousands of local jobs," Mr Conroy said.

"You just think about all the jobs that depend upon our pristine coastline, whether it's tourism, whale-watching, hospitality, the cafes and restaurants along our coast, commercial fishing, recreational fishing, the bait shops."

"They all depend on our beautiful and healthy beaches and marine ecosystem."

The Federal Government announced the refusal, citing the community opposition and their own disagreeing with reasons for the extension, as well as concern the company couldn't raise funds in a timely manner. 

Mr Conroy says it's about time the permit was shown the door.

"For many of us, the only place we were allowed to go during the COVID lockdown was the beach, so lots of people were worried about losing their beaches and coastline," Mr Conroy said.

"I'm still angry that the Government took 300 days more than they did, but I am relieved by this decision."

633 new cases across Hunter New England

BY DAKOTA TAIT

It's a frightening day of numbers, with the Hunter New England Health District recording another 633 new COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 1452 active cases across the district. Nine of these are in hospital with the virus, and two are in intensive care.

CASE BREAKDOWN

• Newcastle - 267
• Lake Macquarie - 213
• Maitland - 45
• Port Stephens - 40
• Cessnock - 30
• Mid Coast - 8
• Singleton - 8
• Muswellbrook - 7
• Armidale - 4
• Upper Hunter - 4
• Tamworth - 3
• Dungog - 1
• Gunnedah - 1
• Inverell - 1
• Moree Plains - 1

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 1,742 new local cases and no deaths.

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

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93.3 per cent double dose and 94.8 per cent single dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

All 680 people who checked into the Argyle House nightclub in Newcastle from 9pm on Wednesday December 8 to 3am on Thursday December 9 have been assessed as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Anyone who attended the University of Newcastle Medical Ball at Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre (NEX) on Friday December 10 have also been classified as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

People who were at Finnegan's Hotel from 6:30pm on Friday December 10 to 2:30am on Saturday December 11 are close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

People who were at the Cambridge Hotel from 6:30pm on Friday December 10 to 2:30am on Saturday December 11 are also close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Household contacts of these cases are also being asked to get tested and isolate until the close contact returns a negative test.

UPDATE! Garbage Truck Rolls Over At Salamander Bay: Driver Trapped

 BY IAN CROUCH

 Newcastle Fire Command says the driver of a garbage truck has been safely freed from the vehicle after it partially rolled over at the Salamander Waste Station early Thursday.

Crews arrived on scene just after 4.30am and worked to stabilse the truck before extricating the driver. in an hour-long operation.

He was assessed at the scene by paramedics and was not injured.

Efforts are continuing to get the truck back on its wheels.

+++

Emergency services have been called to reports of a truck rollover at the Salamander Waste Station in Port Stephens.

Police, Fire and Ambulance crews arrived at the Tarrant Road facility just after 4.30am on Thursday to find a garbage truck had partially rolled over on a bend against a chain mesh fance, trapping the driver.

It's understood the driver is not injured, however he is not able to get out of the vehicle.

Fire crews will use a winch and vehicle props to stabilise the truck before attempting to extricate the driver.

Cambridge Hotel Listed As COVID Venue Of Concern

 BY IAN CROUCH

NSW Health has advised another popular Newcastle pub is a COVID venue of concern.

Anyone who attended the Cambridge Hotel in Newcastle West between 6.30pm last Friday and 2.30am on Saturday is a close contact and must immediately get tested and isolate for 7 days.

All household contacts of close contacts should also be tested and self-isolate until a negative result is received by everyone in the household.

The Cambridge was visited by confirmed cases of COVID-19, and it's likely some of those have the Omicron variant.

It follows a spike in cases linked to the Argyle House Nightclub, a medical ball at NEX on Friday night, and another high risk exposure at Finnegan's Hotel on Darby Street.  

 

NSW Health has listed The Cambridge Hotel as a venue of concern

BREAKING! 424 new COVID cases across Hunter New England

BY DAKOTA TAIT

It's a shocking day of numbers, with the Hunter New England Health District recording another 424 new COVID-19 infections. 

So far, 150 people who went to Argyle House last week have tested positive.

At least two cases are now confirmed to have the Omicron variant - one's connected to the Argyle cluster.

There are currently 827 active cases across the district. Seven of these are in hospital with the virus, and three are in intensive care.

CASE BREAKDOWN

• Newcastle - 243
• Lake Macquarie -76
• Maitland - 69
• Port Stephens - 18
• Cessnock - 7
• Mid Coast - 4
• Moree Plains - 2
• Singleton - 2
• Tamworth - 2
• Armidale - 1

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 1,360 new local cases and one death.

166 people are in hospital with the virus, including 24 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93.2 per cent double dose and 94.8 per cent single dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

All 680 people who checked into the Argyle House nightclub in Newcastle from 9pm on Wednesday December 8 to 3am on Thursday December 9 have been assessed as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Anyone who attended the University of Newcastle Medical Ball at Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre (NEX) on Friday December 10 have also been classified as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

People who were at Finnegan's Hotel from 6:30pm on Friday December 10 to 2:30am on Saturday December 11 are also close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Household contacts of these cases are also being asked to get tested and isolate until the close contact returns a negative test.

Police Arrest 4th Person Over Fatal Shooting At Cooks Hill

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police have charged a 4th person over the alleged fatal shooting of a man at Cooks Hill earlier this year.

40-year-old Wes Prentice died from a gunshot wound to the chest at a Darby Street unit.

Two men and a woman were subsequently arrested and are now before the courts.

Yesterday, (Tuesday 14 December, 2021) a 35-year-old woman was arrested in Maude Street at Belmont.

She's been refused bail charged with being an accessory after the fact of murder and is due to face Belmont Court today via audio visual link.

224 new COVID cases in Hunter New England, at least two confirmed Omicron

BY DAKOTA TAIT

It's a shocking day of numbers, with the Hunter New England Health District recording another 224 new COVID-19 infections. 

So far, 150 people who went to Argyle House last week have tested positive.

At least two cases are now confirmed to have the Omicron variant - one's connected to the Argyle cluster.

There are currently 425 active cases across the district. Five of these are in hospital with the virus, and three are in intensive care.

CASE BREAKDOWN

• Newcastle - 116
• Lake Macquarie - 48
• Maitland - 28
• Port Stephens - 11
• Cessnock - 7
• Mid Coast - 5
• Singleton - 5
• Inverell - 2
• Dungog - 1
• Tamworth - 1

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 804 new local cases and one death.

168 people are in hospital with the virus, including 21 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93.2 per cent double dose and 94.8 per cent single dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

All 680 people who checked into the Argyle House nightclub in Newcastle from 9pm on Wednesday December 8 to 3am on Thursday December 9 have been assessed as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Anyone who attended the University of Newcastle Medical Ball at Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre (NEX) on Friday December 10 have also been classified as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

People who were at Finnegan's Hotel from 6:30pm on Friday December 10 to 2:30am on Saturday December 11 are also close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Household contacts of these cases are also being asked to get tested and isolate until the close contact returns a negative test.

Lake Macquarie regatta hoping to raise more than half a million for charity

BY SIOBHAN HARVEY 

The annual Heaven Can Wait Charity Sailing Regatta is set to run over the first weekend of February 2022 on Lake Macquarie. 

The Regatta includes a number of races with the most notable being the 24 hour endurance race.

Vice Commodore, Royal Motor Yacht Club Mel Steiner, says it's the toughest sailing race in the event.

"The 24 Hour Endurance race tests yachtsmen of all caliber's and some yachties would claim it's tougher than doing a Hobart because of the toll on the crews. Short race legs with lots of sail changes and very little rest whilst keeping an eye on the lake navigation marks, are just some of the challenges crews need to accommodate," he said. 

Money raised by the event funds the Cancer Councils Home Help Program in the Hunter, which assists terminal and recovering patients with domestic tasks. 

After a tough year due to the Covid pandemic, it is hoped that the next Regatta will be able to pull the charity over the Half Million Dollar line in funds raised. 

Mr Steiner says with increased publicity and promotion they should surpass their goal. 

"Every year we contact our previous contestants of the regatta, which is around 350 people and invite them back, we contact all the local yacht clubs from Newcastle down to Canberra to ask to promote the event through the clubs and associations, along with using our website and Facebook page to advertise the charity event," he said. 

"So anyone who is thinking about donating to charities we would love to have their support, we encourage people to donate as they would normally to any charity, but to donate to this charity as we are on our way to reaching a significant goal". 

Source: https://www.rmyctoronto.com.au/heaven-can-wait

Man Facing Court Over Alleged Sexual Assault At Islington

 BY IAN CROUCH

A man accused of a sexual assault at Islington is due to face court today (Tuesday 14 December, 2021).

A 23-year-old woman was walking to her car on Maitland Road last Friday night when she was approached from behind by a man.

It's alleged he sexually assaulted her before a passer-by intervened and chased the man onto Maitland Road, Beaumont Street and Fern Street.

Investigations led officers to a workplace at Sandgate yesterday morning where a 47-year-old man was arrested.

He's been charged with aggravated sexual assault and inflict actual bodily harm and refused bail.

 

Last chance for the Hunter to post in time for Christmas

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Today's the last chance for the Hunter to send packages in the standard Parcel Post if they want gifts to make it in time for Christmas.

Those running behind in the Christmas rush have until Monday 20th December to take advantage of the Express Post instead.

It's important to know that some parts of the Hunter aren't included in the Express Post network.

Australia Post are expected to break last December's delivery record of more than 52 million parcels across the country, and it's likely three million parcels could be delivered on some peak days.

Image credit: auspost.com.au

Hunter courthouses to go solar-powered with new State program

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter courthouses are set to be a little more energy efficient, with a new solar panel program rolling out across New South Wales.

The $1.8 million rollout is part of the State's push to halve emissions by 2030, and hit net zero by 2050.

Broadmeadow, Muswellbrook, Toronto, Belmont, and Woy Woy courthouses will all get the upgrade.

The buildings will also be outfitted with energy saving LED lighting and motion sensor activation in rooms such as meeting rooms and bathrooms.

The program's expected to generate 2,311 MWh of electricity a year, or reduce annual carbon emissions by 360 households. 

Work on the upgrades will begin early next year and is expected to be completed by June.

84 COVID cases linked to Argyle House outbreak, at least one confirmed Omicron

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England region has recorded another 7 fresh COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 201 active cases across the district. Four of these are in hospital with the virus, and two are in intensive care.

84 people who visited the Argyle House nightclub have also tested positive for COVID, with a number of these cases likely to be the Omicron variant.

At least one active case has been confirmed to have the Omicron variant.

CASE BREAKDOWN

• Newcastle - 12
• Lake Macquarie - 9
• Maitland - 3
• Muswellbrook - 1
• Port Stephens - 1

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 536 new local cases and no deaths.

171 people are in hospital with the virus, including 24 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93.1 per cent double dose and 94.8 per cent single dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

All 680 people who checked into the Argyle House nightclub in Newcastle from 9pm on December 8 to 3am on December 9 have been assessed as close contacts and must get tested immediately and isolate for seven days.

Household contacts of these cases are also being asked to get tested and isolate until the close contact returns a negative test.

BREAKING! Two-year-old boy hit by bus in Hamilton North

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A two-year-old boy's been hit by a bus in Hamilton North on Monday morning.

The incident happened on Chatham Road just after 8am.

Three paramedic crews attended the scene to stabilize his condition and treat the boy for leg injuries.

He's been taken to the John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition.

NSW Ambulance Inspector Jim Duffy says the boy was conscious throughout.

“The leg injuries were severe, so paramedics stabilised the patient and tried to manage the pain," Mr Duffy said.

“This was a very challenging job to attend. I can’t stress enough the danger that motor vehicles pose to children – and the need for constant vigilance around roads.”

BREAKING! Men Sought Over Home Invasion At Wickham

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police are searching for two men wanted over a home invasion at Wickham lovernight.

Police say the pair forced their way into a unit on Hannell Street at about 9.15pm on Sunday and demanded money from the sole male occupant.

The 62-year-old has told police the men snatched a backpack containing a small amount of money from a bench and ran off.

Both men are described as being Caucasian - one is 45 to 50 years old, the other is between 20 and 25.

The victim, who wasn't injured, has not been able to identify the pair and police are checking CCTV footage.  

 

 

Omicron Covid Case Confirmed In The Hunter

 BY IAN CROUCH

NSW Health says there are now 24 people with COVID-19 linked to the Argyle House nightclub in Newcastle and one is likely to have the Omicron variant.

Health authorities say a young woman who returned from the UK has been self-isolating in the Hunter since becoming infectious, along with her close household contacts.  

It's believed she's not inked to the Argyle cluster.

It's prompted an update to the health advice - anyone who was at the nightclub between 9pm last Wednesday and 3am on Thursday is now a close contact and should get tested immediately and self-isolate for 7 days if fully vaccinated or 14 days if not.

680 people visited the venue during this time.

Public Health Physician DR David Durrheim says it's likely more cases with the Omicron variant will occur.

"We should probably prepare ourselves that we are going to get more Omicron cases coming in from overseas with open borders and it's very important therefore that we don't ignore even the mildest of symptoms," he said.

 

Domestic violence service forced to cut back support for women in need

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A women's domestic violence and homelessness service has been forced to cut back services, saying the capacity just isn't there to keep up with demand.

Nova For Women And Children will cut back on non-urgent referrals and a waiting list won't be kept for non-urgent crisis accommodation requests.

The service's Newcastle and Charlestown hubs will now be shut on Tuesdays.

There's reports staff are burnt-out and struggling to keep up.

More than 150 women are currently waiting for support across the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie areas alone.

Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon says the Federal Government has a responsibility to step up funding.

"The Prime Minister's promise of extra funding has really turned out to be nothing but a heartless con for our services in Newcastle," Ms Claydon said.

"Just another hollow announcement from a Government that seems to be hell bent on not actually following through on anything that they have allegedly committed to."

The news comes at the closing of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

Ms Claydon is also set to speak at a Hunter Workers rally at Civic Park on Friday, calling on the Government to provide ten days paid domestic violence leave.

The cut to services will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, but the current model is likely to remain in place until at least next year.

11 new COVID cases in Hunter New England

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England region has recorded another 11 fresh COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 173 active cases across the district. No one's in hospital with the virus.

CASE BREAKDOWN

MID COAST - 7

NEWCASTLE - 2

PORT STEPHENS - 1

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 516 new local cases and no deaths.

158 people are in hospital with the virus, including 24 in intensive care.

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93 per cent double dose and 94.7 per cent single dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

There are no local exposure sites to report.

Hunter youth set to hit the airwaves thanks to State grants

BY BONNIE ARMSTRONG 

Young people in regional New South Wales will now have the chance to connect with their community with the announcement of the NSW Government's Regional Youth Radio Program. 

Deputy Minister Paul Toole and Regional Youth Minister Bronnie Taylor launched the program on the 9th of December, with up to $100,000 worth of grants available for new projects that can enable young people to lead and participate in youth radio and podcasting. 

The program hopes to help develop skills and offer training to young journalists in the Hunter hoping to give them a voice in the community. 

Youth Minister Bronnie Taylor says its an excellent way to give young people an opportunity to further their career and interest in journalism. 

"It prioritises regional and rural journalism into the future and allows people the opportunity to apply for these grants to further their career and interest because I think now more than ever we look for sources of truth," Ms Taylor said.

Eligible applicants can apply for one-off grants between $2,500 and $20,000 for content creation, skill development, training and essential equipment to support radio and podcasting. 

"We know that regional journalism is a huge part of our community, so I'm really pleased to be able to put up these grant programs and I really look forward to lot of people applying," Ms Taylor said

"I think when people feel really strongly and passionately about certain issues, they need the tools and the skills to get that message across."

Man Facing Court Over Violent Incident At Pokolbin Hotel

 BY IAN CROUCH

More charges have been laid over a violent incident at a Pokolbin pub last month.

Police say three men lashed out at hotel staff after being refused entry, with one of the men kicking and punching an employee.

A 32-year-old man was arrested at Kurri Kurri on Thursday.

He's due to face Cessnock Court today (Friday 10 December, 2021) charged with affray, intimidate police, failing to leave and remaining in the vicinity of licensed premises.

A second man is already before the courts.

 

Man To Face Court After Shots Allegedly Fired Into Aberdeen Home

 BY IAN CROUCH

Court today for a man accused of firing gunshots into a house at Aberdeen.

Police were called to reports of shots fired at McAdam Street just before 12.30pm on Thursday.

No-one was injured.

Inquiries led to the arrest of a 62-year-old man in nearby MacQueen Street where a search of his home allegedly uncovered several firearms and ammunition.

The man's been charged with several firearms offences and drug possession and has been refused bail to face Muswellbrook Local Court today.

Lake Macquarie man passes away from COVID, six new cases across the Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter New England region has recorded another 13 fresh COVID-19 infections. 

There are currently 190 active cases across the district. No one's currently in hospital with the virus.

4,403 cases have been detected across the Hunter New England Health District since August 5.

Sadly, a man in his 70s from Lake Macquarie has passed away at Gosford Hospital.

He had received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine and had significant underlying health conditions.

CASE BREAKDOWN

MID COAST - 7

Taree 4, Purfleet 3.

LAKE MACQUARIE - 2

Bonnells Bay 1, Cardiff 1.

NEWCASTLE - 2

Mayfield 1, Wallsend 1.

DUNGOG - 1

Martins Creek 1.

MAITLAND - 1

Bolwarra Heights 1.

STATEWIDE

NSW has recorded 420 new local cases and one death.

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

The statewide vaccination rates are currently at 93 per cent double dose and 94.7 per cent single dose.

EXPOSURE SITES

There are no local exposure sites to report.

BREAKING! Man charged after stabbing man and threatening family with a scalpel

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A man will face Newcastle Local Court today, charged over a series of alleged armed robberies at Newcastle overnight.

A 26-year-old man was seated in his stationary vehicle on Beaumont Street late Wednesday afternoon, when another man opened the driver’s side door and demanded he get out. 

It's alleged the man grabbed the driver and pulled him from the car, before a brief struggle ensued and he stabbed the driver in the chest with a scalpel. 

The driver was able to grab the keys from the ignition before the man fled the scene on foot, heading south along Beaumont Street. 

A short time later, the man allegedly entered a chemist on the same street before demanding cash from an employee and stealing drinks. 

The man then walked towards the intersection of Tudor and Beaumont Streets, where he opened the passenger side door of another car and allegedly threatened a 33-year-old woman with a scalpel. 

The woman, who had two young children in the vehicle, circled the block before the man attempted to undo one of the child’s restraints. 

The woman pulled over and removed the children from the car, before the man stole the vehicle and drove away. 

Officers from Newcastle City Police District commenced extensive searches and inquiries in the nearby area, and observed a white Ford Kuga on Darby Street at Cooks Hill around 7pm. 

The driver failed to stop as directed and a pursuit was initiated, continuing through Merewether until the car was stopped at Flowerdale Avenue. 

A 39-year-old Queensland man was arrested and taken to Newcastle Police Station.

He's been charged with two counts of robbery armed with an offensive weapon, aggravated robbery with wounding/grievous bodily harm, and police pursuit – not stop – drive at speed. 

The man was refused bail.

New legislation hoping to make funding fairer for Newcastle

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A new bill put forward by Labor MP's in State Parliament is being touted as a solution to pork barrelling across the Hunter.

It's hoped the Government Grants Administration Bill 2021 will bring more fairness to the funding process.

Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp says Newcastle knows too well what it's like to miss out.

"This will bring accountability to the grants process by reforming guidelines, giving the Attorney-General new powers to actually follow the money, impose new reporting requirements on ministers and agencies," Mr Crakanthorp said.

"For example, if a department makes a recommendation for grants and the minister wants to change it, the minister actually has to put the reason in writing."

There's concern the Government's flip-flopped Newcastle between regional and metropolitan status, meaning the city often misses out on both funding streams.

The Premier's recent announcement of the new Minister for Cities portfolio has been raised as a possible solution to stop Newcastle and other regional centres, such as Wollongong, from falling through the cracks.

But Mr Crakanthorp says we need more than a name change to make sure Newcastle gets it's fair share.

"I'm an optimist, I hope that it does make a change, but really we need to legislate to make these grants a little bit fairer in their distribution," Mr Crakanthorp said.

"It's okay to shift the chess pieces on the chessboard, but really you've got to make the rules pretty strict, otherwise we're going to see a large amount of pork barrelling moving forward."

Image credit: www.visitnewcastle.com.au

Fears For Man Missing From Hamilton

 BY IAN CROUCH

The search continues for a man missing from Hamilton.

58-year-old Colin Whittaker was last seen on Beaumont Street at about 9.50pm on November 21.

Police say he hasn't made contact with his family and hasn't used his bank account and doesn't have a mobile phone.

He's described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 180 and 185cm
tall with a slim build, grey hair and green eyes.

Missing man Colin Whittaker

BREAKING! Man Rescued From Flooded Causeway At Jerrys Plains

 BY IAN CROUCH

A man has been rescued from a flooded causeway at Jerrys Plains in the Upper Hunter .

Police, SES and Fire and Rescue crews were called to the causeway on Edderton Road just after midnight on Thursday to find the 26-year-old man from Aberdeen perched on the bonnet of his 4 week drive, with fast-flowing floodwater up to the windows of the vehicle.

He was thrown a life jacket and pulled to safety.

The man told Police he'd only just driven across the causeway without any difficulty, before returning 10 minutes later and getting stuck.

The 4-wheel-drive is still in the flooded causeway and will be retrieved once the water level subsides.

Richmond Vale Rail Trail another step closer to being realised

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Newcastle's share of the long-awaited Richmond Vale Rail Trail has been given the green light by planning authorities.

The Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel approved the development application for the 13 kilometres of the shared track located in the Newcastle Local Government Area.

The Richmond Vale Rail Trail supporters group are welcoming the approval, although sections from Hexham Junction to Tarro and a link with the Shortland Wetlands haven't yet made the cut.

Vice-president Terry Lewin says it's exciting to see things fall into place.

"The original community consultations were about five years ago, so it's taken that long to get to this particular point," Mr Lewin said.

"Essentially it's going to be a mix of different approvals as a result mainly of the mixture of terrain that the trail goes through."

"Into the future, you'll be able to start down on the lake, on the Fernleigh Track, ride all the way through Newcastle through the Richmond Vale Rail Trail, all the way up to Kurri and then actually connect to other shared pathways."

The completed track would save cyclists from risking travel on the Pacific Motorway, Hunter Expressway, and New England Highway. 

Mr Lewin says there's potential for tourism too.

"The absolutely massive thing about this trail, unlike any other trails in Australia, is that it goes through areas that are relatively inaccessible otherwise," Mr Lewin said.

"By being able to connect to the Hunter Wetlands national park, Stockrington state conservation areas, through a whole lot of tunnels in the Sugarloaf range, you'll actually be able to access areas that you wouldn't have been able to access any other way."