CCTV Footage Released as Investigation into Fatal Heddon Greta Shooting Continues

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Homicide Squad detectives have released CCTV footage as part of an ongoing investigation into the fatal shooting of a man in Heddon Greta last year. 

25-year-old Zachery Davies-Scott was shot dead at his home on Traders Way at Heddon Greta at about 10:50pm on Tuesday the 27th of December. 

Police have been told a number of people allegedly forced entry into the home before Zachary was shot.

The group then left the scene in a white SUV which was seized by police in February. 

As the investigation continues, police have released CCTV footage showing a male at a service station in Lambton.

They believe he may be able to assist with enquiries. 

He is being described as Caucasian in appearance, of a solid build, with dark hair.

 
He was wearing a black t-shirt with a white Nike logo, black shorts, a baseball cap, a cross-body bag and, white shoes.

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

Anyone who recognises the man is being asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000

. 

A still image of the footage released by police. 

Appeal Launched for Missing Rutherford Teen

BY OLIVIA DILLON 

Port Stephens Police are asking for our help to locate a missing teenager. 

17-year-old Zeke Zielinski was last seen in Rutherford at about 9:30 yesterday morning. 

He was wearing a black hooded jumper, black jeans, and black and white Nike shoes. 

He was also carrying a guitar case.

Police say he's not in trouble but his family are concerned and want to make sure he is safe and well. 

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is being urged to contact Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

Former pilot found guilty of practicing law in Lake Macquarie without a license

BY EMILY WILLIAMS

A former pilot has been found guilty of eight charges relating to practicing law without a license whilst working in the Hunter.

Nathaniel Whitehall began working in Lake Macquarie Conveyancing's Belmont office in mid-2020.

A court has been shown evidence of him representing clients, signing contracts, drafting wills, and signing statutory declarations.

However, the NSW Law Society confirmed to the court, Mr. Whitehall had never held a certificate in any state to practice law.

Nathaniel Whitehall. Image: NCA NewsWire

The Judge found, in one instance, he took a water contract from a conveyancer who said she wasn't authorised to sign the documents. Instead, he signed the documents and responded that "humility didn't suit her".

In court, the former Qantas pilot represented himself, denying some claims but largely admitting to practicing law without a license.

Magistrate Juliana Crofts found Whitehall guilty after the one-week trial and he will return to court for sentencing on June 19th. 

What Were You Wearing Petition Tabled in Parliament

BY DANEIE GEDDES

Yesterday, Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp tabled a petition in Parliament calling on the government to mandate drink spiking and sexual violence training for all licensed venue staff in NSW. 

Last financial year, Newcastle accounted for the second highest number of spiking reports in NSW. 

The petition was created by Hunter-based advocacy group What Were You Wearing, targeting the growing number of drink spiking cases in the region. 

The petition garnered a mass of support from the local community, reaching over 20,000 signatures.

Tim Crakanthorp said the issue needs to properly be addressed. 

"The petition calls for spiking prevention kits, educational resources, and posters in venues to promote patron safety and awareness," he said. 

"The whole idea of What Were You Wearing is aimed at reducing the stigma put on victims."

What Were You Wearing Media Vice President Marcie Cheers said they've reached some remarkable milestones but there's still more to be done. 

"It's the first step in a very long battle, we've definitely hit some amazing goals, but its not over yet; it's over to the politicians now to decide the fate of drink spiking and sexual assault training," she said. 

Tim Crakanthorp says the matter should be debated in the next month. 

Newcastle Council Seeks Community Feedback On Ocean Baths

 BY IAN CROUCH

Newcastle Council is encouraging residents to have their say on the revitalisation of the city's ocean baths.

The final stage of the upgrade to the baths is already underway, however council wants to hear from the community on preferred options for the pavilion buildings.

Among the ideas being put forward is a plan for a second story, as well as options for a cafe and kiosk to operate alongside community spaces and change facilities.

Residents can head to council's website and view the preliminary options and provide feedback until June 12.

Newcastle Ocean Baths Picture: City Of Newcastle

Two Women Facing Court Over Alleged Armed Robbery At East Maitland

 BY IAN CROUCH

Two women are due to face court today (Wednesday 31 May, 2023) over their alleged involvement in a violent armed robbery at East Maitland last month.

Police say a 30-year-old man was attacked by a group of five people armed with tyre irons and a firearm at a Curtin Street home on April 4.

Officers made a number of arrests two days later including two women aged 30 and 40.

They've been held in custody pending their appearance in Newcastle Local Court today charged with Robbery While Armed With A Dangerous Weapon.  

Teen Girl Reported Missing From Salamander Bay

 BY IAN CROUCH

Port Stephens Police are asking us to keep an eye out for a missing teenage girl.

They 17-year-old Madeleine has gone missing from her Salamander Bay home and her family is worried about her welfare.

She's described as being 165cm tall with a thin build and olive skin, brown hair and brown eyes and has braces.

Madeleine is driving a Toyota Echo with NSW registration ZJF 523.
 
Police say Madeleine is not in trouble, but they need to speak with her to ensure she is safe and well.

If you've seen Madeleine or know where she is, contact Nelson Bay Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Missing girl Madeleine

Newcastle Police Search For Missing Teen

 BY IAN CROUCH

Newcastle Police are appealing for help to find a missing teenager.

13-year-old Angel Baker is known to frequent the Wallsend, Edgeworth, Kurri Kurri and Jesmond areas, including the Jesmond Shopping Centre.

Police have concerns for her welfare due to her age.

Angel is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 150cm tall with dark brown hair.

She was last seen wearing grey track pants, black hoodie, blue t-shirt and black joggers.

Anyone who's seen her or knows her whereabouts is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Missing teen Angel Baker

Energy Giant Accused of Bullying Hunter Landowners

BY BELLA MIDDLETON

                                           Photo Credit: The Conversation

Energy company Santos has been accused of bullying and intimidating land owners along the proposed Hunter Gas Pipeline route into allowing access to their land for the project.

Numerous residents along the route have received letters referring to visits and communications with the energy giant which they say never occurred. 

It comes as the company prepares to make progress on the controversial project, kicking off a new round of community consultations in the Hunter this week. 

President of the Hunter Gas Landholder Alliance Meg Bowman is shocked at claims Santos has met with local property owners without their knowledge. 

"Land owners have been sent letters stating 'thank you for recently meeting with our and access team'; these have gone out to many landholders and in none of the cases is that actually true.

We see these comments in these letters as trying to intimidate and threaten land holders."

Santos and the Hunter Gas Pipeline did not respond to questions about the letters and latest interactions with land holders. 

Fellow Hunter Gas Landholder Alliance member Anne McGowen has encouraged land holders to stand their ground and remember their right to say no. 

"I had someone contact me yesterday who said they had just received a letter from Santos. They wanted to know if anything had changed [regarding access]. I said no, nothing has changed. You have the right to say no," she said. 

"We think that Santos are sending these letters out so they can say to the department that they have been in discussions with the landowners when they haven't.

We have advised that [landowners] complain to the department and their local MPs."  

Newcastle Councillors Speak On Pool Saga

BY OLIVIA DILLON

The Member for Wallsend has hit back at claims of bullying by the Lord Mayor of Newcastle.  

It follows Tuesday night's council meeting where councillors discussed the management contracts for the city's five inland pools. 

When seven Labor councillors declared a conflict of interest over the issue, Liberal councillors were unable to form a quorum and the matter was delegated to Council's CEO Jeremy Bath. 

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes says Sonia Hornery instructed her on how to vote on the matter and in turn, created a conflict of interest. 

Sonia Hornery, who's been a long-time critic of privatisation, says the claims are false and misleading, and she won't back down from advocating for her constituents. 

Meanwhile, Liberal councillor Callum Pull says he's disappointed with how the meeting played out. 

He and Cr Jenny Barrie issued a statement today noting Council's responsibility to reach a democratic decision on issues of public interest. 

Cr Pull said although councillors are within their rights to declare a conflict, personal or political views do not constitute a private interest. 

"There's nothing wrong with having a political view... and as far as I can tell, it's never been specifically about a tender, it's always been about opposing the privatisation of the pools, which the Labor party ran a very public campaign on nine years ago when this issue first arose. 

They were not excluded from decisions then, and again, having a political view does not exclude you from assessing a tender," he said.   

In relation to the bullying allegations against Sonia Horney, Cr Pull said he's had no such experience with the Wallsend MP. 

"I have never seen anything that could be described as bullying behaviour by Sonia Hornery." 

BREAKING! Man Injured During Violent Home Invasion At Farley

 BY IAN CROUCH

A young man is recovering in hospital following a violent home invasion at Farley overnight.

Police say two armed men stormed the home in Mapplewell Circuit just before 11.00pm on Thursday and threatened the five occupants while demanding money.

One of the alleged offenders was armed with a baseball bat.

It's not clear at this stage if their demands were met before they fled.

A 22-year-old man was taken to Maitland Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

Police have set up a crime scene as investigations continue.

Teen Charged After Crashing Motorcycle into Charlestown Shop

BY OLIVIA DILLON

A teenage boy has been arrested after allegedly riding an unregistered motorbike on the footpath at Gateshead before crashing into a shop at Charlestown. 

Police were called to the Pacific Highway at Gateshead at about 8:50am on Thursday the 24th of May,  following reports a motorcyclist was riding on the footpath.

At about 10.15am, officers spotted the rider allegedly driving dangerously near pedestrians on the footpath along the Pacific Highway at Charlestown.

Police arrested the 14-year-old rider after he crashed into the counter of a nearby sporting goods store. 

He's been charged with six offences including reckless driving and use of an unregistered motor vehicle. 

He was granted strict conditional bail to appear before a Children's Court on Monday the 10th of July. 

CCTV Footage Released Of Man Wanted Over Muswellbrook Home Invasion

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police have released CCTV footage of a man as they continue investigating a violent home invasion at Muswellbrook earlier this year.

Emergency services were called to a Forbes Street address at about 1.15am on Saturday March 4.

Police were told five men armed with weapons including machetes, knives and hammers, forced their way inside and demanded money from the four occupants before assaulting them.

Two dogs also needed veterinary treatment after being struck with machetes.

Police have released CCTV footage of a man in his 30's who's wanted for questioning.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police want to speak to this man over an alleged home invasion at Muswellbrook

Two Men Hospitalised After Crashes At East Maitland And Bennetts Green

 BY IAN CROUCH

Two men have been taken to hospital following separate crashes in the Hunter overnight.

A man in his late 50's suffered suspected leg injuries when his twin cab utility collided with two other cars on Morpeth Road at East Maitland just before 6.30pm on Wednesday.

He was trapped in his car before being released and transported to hospital in a stable condition.

Meanwhile, a 28-year-old man suffered suspected chest injuries after two cars collided on the Pacific Highway at Bennetts Green at about 8.00pm.

He was also taken to hospital in a stable condition. 

BREAKING! Couple Arrested Over Alleged Theft Of Copper Across The Hunter

 BY IAN CROUCH

A couple from Sydney are due to face court over the alleged theft of thousands of dollars worth of copper from businesses in the Newcastle and Port Stephens areas.

Police say copper valued between $40,000 and $50,000 was taken over the past 3 months.

Acting on information, officers from the Tactical Assault Group arrested and a man and woman at Heatherbrae at about lunchtime on Wednesday

A 48-year-old man has been refused bail to face Raymond Terrace Court today (Thursday 25 May, 2023) charged over the alleged thefts and drug offences.

A 48-year-old woman has been granted bail to face the same court next month.

20,000 Signatures Makes History

BY DANEIE GEDDES

Newcastle Woman of the Year, Sarah Williams, has become one the youngest people in NSW to have a petition debated in state parliament. 

The 22-year-old What Were You Wearing founder has successfully reached 20,000 signatures on a petition to mandate training on drink spiking and sexual violence. 

Sarah said the team worked for weeks to spread the petition through the local community and across the state. 

"I'm immensely proud of the team for their efforts in pushing the petition," she said. 

"My younger self would never have imagined something like this. The campaign hasn't been easy, but it's been through the overwhelming help of the community that I've been able to push through." 

The petition aims to reform RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) training to ensure all security and bar staff at nightclubs are properly trained in drink spiking and sexual violence prevention. 

What Were You Wearing Media Vice President, Marcie Cheers, said it's just the first step in a long road ahead. 

"We've definitely hit some amazing goals, but its not over yet, it's over to the politicians now to decide the fate of drink spiking and sexual assault training," she said. 

The not-for-profit organisation has been pushing to reform RSA training in licensed venues across NSW and the Hunter since 2021, and launched the petition at the end of last year. 

Sarah said the What Were You Wearing team is amazed by the support of the community and is excited to move forward with the next step. 

"This petition will save lives, and we plan to embed on a national level very soon," she said. 

It's expected the petition will be debated in Parliament sometime in June.  

Cars Stolen From Samaritans At Hamilton North

 BY IAN CROUCH

Thieves have targeted the Samaritans Hamilton North premises, stealing four cars.

Police say two Kia Cerato sedans - one white and one silver, a silver Toyota Corolla sedan and a white Kia Sportage SUV were taken from the charity's Clyde Street address some time between 9.30pm last Friday and 9.00am on Saturday.

They've since recovered one of the Kia sedans from outside units on Light Street at Bar Beach and the other Kia in Robert Street at Jesmond.

No arrests have been made and police are appealing for information to identify the culprits.

Calls to Clean Up Graffiti in Newcastle CBD

BY SHY-ANN ARKINSTALL

Newcastle Councillor Jenny Barrie will raise a motion at tonight's council meeting to propose a joint effort between council and local business owners and residents to clean up the graffiti around the city.

The proposal will suggest sending letters to residents and business owners in the Hunter Mall precinct, urging them to address graffiti on their buildings and to keep the foot path clean outside their property.

Cr Barrie said the current state of the CDB reflects a lack of civic pride among its residents.

Under the proposal, property owners will be footing the bill to clean up the graffiti so owners will either have to remove it themselves or pay someone else to do it.

Council does offer free clean up of offensive graffiti within two days of reporting which can be done on the City of Newcastle website.

"It's a beautiful city and we just need to make sure that crime doesn't take over," said Cr Barrie.

Cr Barrie is urging people to report graffiti or acts of vandalism when they see them.

Balcolyn Home Saved As Boat Goes Up In Flames

 BY IAN CROUCH

Quick work by firefighters has prevented a shed fire from spreading to an adjoining home at Balcolyn early Tuesday morning.

RFS and Fire & Rescue crews were called Bay Street at about 4.20am to find a speed boat parked in an attached car port on fire.

There were concerns the fire was starting to impact the house but crews managed to knock down the flames before they could do any more damage, with the side of the house scorched and an adjacent bathroom sustaining smoke and water damage.

No-one was injured during the incident and the fire is not being treated as suspicious.

Photos courtesy of Morisset Fire & Rescue

Newcastle Public Pool Transformations to Continue at Beresfield and Lambton

BY BELLA MIDDLETON/ OLIVIA DILLON

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes

Public pools in Newcastle will offer more shaded seating and an upgraded playground as council continues its investment to enhance and improve its public swimming pool facilities.

Council has invested over $5 million in upgrading existing facilities and a further $2 million in maintaining the city's public pool network. 

Speaking at Lambton Swimming Centre on Monday, Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes announced the latest suite of improvement projects taking place. 

Eight temporary grandstands installed at Lambton Swimming Centre earlier this year will be permanently relocated with new shade covers to a number of different public pool facilities.  

The Lord Mayor said council is committed to ensuring the facilities remain attests for local residents. 

"Under previous councils, there's often been muted closures and attempted privatizations, but we have stopped that.

All pools not only will remain open, protected, and in public hands, but we are also investing in them," she said. 

Beresfield Swimming Centre will also see the introduction of a new $140,000 playground, featuring a range of children's equipment, shade sails, wider footpaths, and picnic tables installed. 

However, it's been assured this won't mean the cost of entry will rise for patrons. 

"The cost of entry, interestingly, at City of Newcastle pools is the lowest of all council areas in the Hunter region and will reman the lowest. 

We have kept Beresfield at $3.00 or under for over a decade, knowing that it's a really important community asset and we want to make sure it's as accessible as possible," Cr Nelmes said. 

Moving forward, Cr Nelmes said council is looking into environmentally-friendly ways to heat Beresfield Pool during the lead-in season.

"We're really passionate, not just about saving Beresfield pool, which we've done, but we will also be looking in the coming years to do the heat pump and solar panels to increase the water temperature there," she said.  

Councillors will vote tomorrow night to adopt the 'Inland Pools Strategy 2043' following feedback from the community. 

The tender for the construction replacement of the Lambton Swimming Centre grandstand will also be considered. 

Appeal Launched For Missing Central Coast Man

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police believe a man reported missing from the Central Coast could be travelling in a car in the Newcastle area.

31-year-old Jacob Leonard was last seen at his home on Jeannie Crescent at Berkeley Vale on Friday morning.

He may be driving a white Mazda vehicle with NSW registration plate DL91TL.

Jacob is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 165cm tall with a thin build and brown hair.

Anyone who's seen the car or knows his whereabouts is urged to call Crime Stoppers.

Police believe Jacob Leonard could be traveling through Newcastle

Man Killed In Crash At Ferrodale

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police are appealing for dashcam footage as investigations continue into a fatal crash at Ferrodale.

Emergency services were called to the Pacific Highway about 1km north of the the Medowie Road intersection at about 11.30am on Sunday to reports an SUV had left the road and hit a tree.

Police say the driver, a 70-year-old man, died at the scene.

His 70-year-old female passenger was taken to the John Hunter Hospital in a stable condition with suspected spinal injuries.

Anyone who witnessed the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

Home Destroyed By Fire At Mallabula

 BY IAN CROUCH

Fire has destroyed a home at Mallabula overnight.

Several Fire and Rescue and RFS crews were called to Essendene Gardens at 5.00pm on Sunday, arriving to find the single level concrete and iron roof home well alight.

Newcastle Fire Command says there was no-one at home at the time.

Crews battled to stop the fire from spreading to neighbouring homes, with firefighting operations wrapping up just before 8.00pm.

Fire investigators will return to the scene on Monday morning to determine what sparked the blaze.

Merewether Protest to Call For Action on Sexual and Domestic Violence

BY BLAKE QUINN & PETER HYSLOP

Merewether baths will become a centre for activism at 4:30pm this Saturday as not for profit What Where You Wearing hosts a protest calling for action against domestic and sexual violence.

First of its kind, the protest embraces a unique approach of standing on the spot as a form of resistance to raise awareness on domestic and sexual abuse, which continues to affect the lives of many in the Hunter and Newcastle area.

Spokesperson Marcie Cheers says the protest can be both a positive experience for survivors, and draw attention to safety in Newcastle's nightlife.

"In Australia at the moment and from year to date there have been multiple deaths because of domestic violence and sexual assault," she said.

"Unfortunately this is not our first protest on this topic, and this is definitely not going to be our last.

"The reason why we're doing it at the baths is so at the end we can jump into the water and it can be kind of like a metaphor for washing away all the negativity for survivors," she said.

Attendees will hear from a number of distinguished speakers presenting their personal experiences, and they're set to host discussions relating to Indigenous rights, social injustice, the LGBTQIA+ community, and people living with disabilities.

The organization also wants signatures on a petition to have mandatory drink spiking training for all bar and security staff.

"Newcastle is one of the most reported areas in Australia for drink spiking," Cheers said.

"At the end of the day we just want safety for everyone on a night out and we shouldn't have to worry about putting our drinks down or getting harassed by other people," she said.

Image: Supplied

Calvary Mater After Hours Clinic to Reopen This Month

BY OLIVIA DILLON

18 months after it was forced to close, the GP Access After Hours Clinic at the Calvary Mater Hospital will reopen at the end of the month. 

The service was reduced in December 2021 due to funding shortfalls. 

The announcement comes after the Federal Government announced a record $5.5 million investment to restore GP Access to its full capacity. 

The clinic will re-open on Monday the 29th of May and will be operational on Weekdays from 6pm-10pm, from 1pm-8pm on Saturdays, and from 9am-4pm on Sundays. 

Opening hours at the GP Access Centre in Toronto will also increase on Saturdays, with the clinic operating from 1pm-8pm from June 3rd. 

Staff at Hunter Primary Care have thanked community members and Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon for their work advocating to re-establish the service.

Police Pursuit Ends With Arrest Of Two People At Cardiff

 BY IAN CROUCH

A man and woman are due to front court today after a pursuit in an allegedly stolen car from the Newcastle to Lake Macquarie.

Police say a Suzuki Vitara was stolen from a Mayfield address yesterday afternoon and spotted by patrolling police on Steel Street at Hamilton at about 7.15 last night.

They gave chase when the driver refused to stop, with the car eventually crashing into a tree on Macquarie Road at Cardiff.

A 22-year-old woman who was driving the car was arrested along with her 43-year-old male passenger.

They've been refused bail to face Belmont Court on Friday charged with vehicle theft and driving offenses including Police Pursuit not stop.

 

BREAKING! Body Found in Search for Missing Laguna Man

BY OLIVIA DILLON

A body has been located during the search for missing Laguna man John Simpson. 

The 42-year-old was last seen driving on Great North Road at Laguna on Thursday the 13th of April, after it's believed his vehicle broke down on his way home.

When he could not be located or contacted, Hunter Valley Police officers were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

As part of inquiries, officers with assistance of specialist police resources and SES workers launched a fresh appeal for information and conducted a search operation around the Laguna area on Tuesday. 

It's there they located a body. 

A post mortem examination will be conducted to confirm the identity of the person and the cause of their death.

Investigations by Strike Force Blakely are underway. 

John Simpson

Hunter Paramedics and Patient Transport Officers Join 24 Hour Strike

BY JACQUELYN RICHARDS

Paramedics and patient transport officers across Newcastle and the Hunter are joining the strike against government inaction on wages today. 

Workers are demanding action from the government on their promise to scrap the public sector wage cap which limits pay rises at 3%. 

As part of the industrial action, workers will not be taking patients home from hospitals once they've been discharged. 

Patients will still be able to get into hospitals, but the system will be delayed as patient transport workers refuse to transfer patients seeking transport from hospitals to residential and age care facilities. 

It's estimated thousands of patients across the Hunter and the state will be inconvenienced. 

The state government has been slow moving on their promise for better pay, and Health Services Union Secretary Gerard Hayes is doubtful they'll meet their timeline to effect change by June 1st. 

"We've got 43 days until the 1st of July when a wage deal should be in place and clearly that's not going to happen," said Mr. Hayes. 

Mr. Hayes also noted the government's lack of care towards health care workers amidst the current cost of living crisis, saying it's forcing local paramedics to move out of state for work. 

If not resolved, he warns the healthcare system in New South Wales will crumble. 

"We're seeing paramedics now starting to move on mass to Queensland, to Victoria, so shortly we'll be struggling to have a paramedic service at all," he said. 

Mr. Hayes has made clear the demands the union has for healthcare workers, and says they'd like to see change actioned as quickly as possible. 

"We'd like to see a 6.5% pay rise as of the 1st of July, we'd like the government to be able to sit down with us and be able to undertake award reform of a range of awards," he said. 

"We'd like to stop the government stealing money out of workers pockets with respect to their salary packaging that health workers currently have; the government takes 50% of that salary packaging and we'd like to see a royal commission as soon as possible." 

Health Services Union members insist they don't want industrial action to harm patients, but want to ensure the government clearly understands the effect their inaction has had on workers amidst inflation and the cost of living crisis. 

"Paramedics and patient transfer officers have taken action today to ensure that the government is clearly understanding the level of anxiety that people are suffering on the back of 7% inflation and wages not moving," Mr. Hayes said. 

This is the first major industrial action which has taken place since the new state government won the election. 

Maitland Triathlon No More After 30 Years

 BY IAN CROUCH

It's been an annual event in Morpeth since 1994, but the popular Maitland Triathlon is no more.

Organisers announced on Wednesday night they've been told by traffic authorities the event is no longer regarded as safe, even though there has never been any complaints or breaches in the past.

They've been told they would have to make significant changes to their already substantial traffic plan for the event to proceed.

They say this makes holding the Triathlon unviable both financially and logistically.

Alternate routes and options were considered but were not considered viable.

Anyone who's entered for this year's event will be refunded within 7 days.

The Maitland Triathlon is no more Picture: H Events

BREAKING! Police Investigate Shooting At Gateshead

 BY IAN CROUCH

A man has suffered gunshot wounds during a shooting incident at Gateshead early Thursday.

Police and Paramedics were called to an address in Flame Street at about 4.15am, finding a 40-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his right inner thigh.

He's been stabilised at the scene before being taken to the John Hunter Hospital for treatment.

Police have set up a crime scene as investigations into the shooting get under way.

New Department to Take Over Stockton Beach Project

BY OLIVIA DILLON

The Department for Regional NSW will take over the Stockton Beach re-nourishment project. 

The Department will keep NSW Public Works on as the project manager, so it may carry out initial dredging and sand placement, as well as investigations into long-term erosion solutions. 

Minster for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty will become the Chair of the Stockton Beach Taskforce as part of the shake-up, and says a lack of clarity about who was in charge of the project was holding it back. 

The Taskforce will meet next month for the first time since June last year. 

Newcastle MP and Minister for the Hunter Tim Crakanthorp, says he looks forward to seeing the works finally go ahead. 

"First of all, we've got the $6.2 million Commonwealth and City of Newcastle project to get 300,000 cubic meters of sand onto the beach; that's a bit of a stop-gap solution."

"Then, we've got the $21 million that I've committed through the Minns Labor government to come on and do the larger offshore dredging and get a whole lot of sand onto that beach," he said. 

Mr Crakanthorp said it's about time there was an update on the progress of the project. 

"The Taskforce hasn't met for some time; I'd been pushing and pushing the former government to meet which they refused to do." 

"Now we're in government, I've directed that we have a meeting so we're getting it organised for June, and we'll start progressing that federal government grant in the initial sense and once that's expended, we'll get on to the larger $21 million in funding to get large volumes of sand onto that beach." 

Appeal To Find Missing Maitland Teen

 BY IAN CROUCH

Maitland Police are asking for our help to find a 13-year-old girl who's gone missing over the weekend.

Sinace was last seen in Maitland on Saturday at 11.30am.

Police say they need to speak with her to ensure she is safe.

Sinace is described as having olive skin, 169cm tall with light brown hair down past her shoulders, a thin build and brown eyes.

Have you seen Sinace?

UPDATE! Police Investigate Home Invasion At Windale

 BY IAN CROUCH

Lake Macquarie police have made a breakthrough in their investigation into a home invasion at Windale last week.

Police say three males forced their way into a home on Myall Street at about 2.45am on Friday - one armed with a Ramset gun - and threatened the occupants while demanding money.

They allegedly continued threatening the occupants before fleeing.

Following investigations, officers attended another home in Windale on Monday and arrested a 37-year-old man.

He's been refused bail charged with several offences including Aggravated Break, Enter and commit Serious Indictable Offence while armed with a dangerous weapon, breaching an AVO, breaching bail and drug possession.

The search continues for two other suspects.

EARLIER

Lake Macquarie Police have set up a crime scene at a home in Windale.

Few details are known at this stage but Police have confirmed they are investigating a home invasion just before 3 o'clock on Friday morning at a house in Myall Street.

It's understood no-one was injured during the incident.

Detectives are at the scene speaking to the residents of the home.

Truck Crash Closes Pacific Highway Near Kempsey

 BY IAN CROUCH

Hunter motorists heading to the Mid North Coast on the Pacific Highway are being advised to expect delays following a fiery truck crash just north of Kempsey.

Two D-Doubles collided nose-to-tail in the northbound lanes at the Kempsey Bypass just past Old Station Road at about 4.30am on Friday.

Both trucks are on fire, but thankfully the drivers managed to escape unharmed.

It's understood a third truck suffered impact damage in the crash but did not catch fire.

Multiple Fire and Rescue and RFS units are at the scene along with Police, Ambulance and SES crews.

The highway is closed in both directions and diversions are expected to continue for several hours.

UPDATE! Police Lodge Fresh Appeal for More Information on Missing Laguna Man

BY IAN CROUCH/SHY-ANN ARKINSTALL

Detective Inspector Matt Zimmer addressed the media today as the search for missing Laguna man John Simpson continues.

The 42-year-old was last sighted in his car on Great North Road just after 2:00pm on April 13th, and it is believed his white Toyota Hilux utility broke down on his way home from work.

The car was later discovered at his premises.

Detective Zimmer has today issued a fresh call to Hunter residents with any information on Mr. Simpson's whereabouts to come forward. 

"Anyone who has driven past that location and saw Mr. Simpson, I'd urge them to contact police or Crime Stoppers," he said.

Police have said Mr. Simpson is known to go weeks without contacting friends or family but the length of time since his last sighting is a cause for concern. 

"The timing of the last sighting of Mr. Simpson on the 23th of April coincides with a time period that he was vacating his current premises in Laguna. There is every possibility that he has relocated to another area and not informed anyone. There's also a possibility that he could have relocated interstate. We are asking anyone who knows the current whereabouts of Mr. Simpson to make contact with Cessnock Police or Crime Stoppers," Detective Zimmer said.

Police will spend the afternoon searching the vicinity around Great North Road, Watagan Creek Road and Milsons Arm Road as he has been known to walk or pushbike in the area. 

If he cannot be found they will make a further assessment later this afternoon. 

Rescue services from as far away as Merriwa and Taree have joined in on the search effort.

Detective Inspector Matt Zimmer

EARLIER:

Police will address the media today as the search for missing Laguna man, John Simpson ramps up.

The 42-year-old was last seen driving on Great North Road on Thursday April 13 after it's believed his vehicle broke down on his way home.

His family has told police his disappearance is out of character.

Hunter Valley Police searched a Laguna property last week and today, the search will continue in the Laguna area, along Great North, Watagan Creek and Milsons Arm Roads.

EARLIER:

Police are asking for our help to find a man who's been missing from the Coalfields area for a month.

42-year-old John Simpson was seen at an address on Great North Road at Laguna on Wednesday April 12.

Police and his family say his disappearance is out of character.

John is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 180cm tall with a medium build, brown hair and a grey beard.

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers.

Missing Man John Simpson

UPDATE! Police Investigate Theft Of Motorbikes From Morisset

 BY IAN CROUCH

 A 50-year-old man is due to front court in July accused of a string of break and enters including the alleged theft of five motorcycles and riding equipment from a Morisset dealership valued at $50,000.

Officers arrested a 40-year-old man at a home in Berner Street Merewether on unrelated offences.

A search of the home recovered 3 motorbikes, riding equipment and clothing allegedly stolen from the Morisset business.

Inquiries led police to a Gateshead storage shed linked to a 50-year-old man from the Berner Street address where further items were seized along with a large number of allegedly stolen tools.

He was arrested near his Merewether home after foot pursuit and scuffle with police.

EARLIER:
 

Lake Macquarie Police are on the hunt for two men wanted over the theft of several motorbikes earlier this week at Morisset.

Police say between 1.30am and 6.00am on Monday, the pair forced their way into a motorcycle dealership on Alliance Avenue through a wall.

They took five Yamaha motorbikes and riding equipment including helmets, gloves, goggles and kitbags, before leaving in a grey ute believed to be driven by third person.

Police have released CCTV images of two people and a grey ute seen in the area and are asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers. 

A CCTV image of one of the men allegedly involved in the heist

BREAKING! Home Destroyed By Fire At Metford

 BY IAN CROUCH

Fire has destroyed a home at Metford overnight.

Fire crews from six stations were called to the single level brick and tile home on Chelmsford Drive just before 11.00pm on Wednesday to find a fire in the attached garage had quickly spread to the rest of the house.

Newcastle Fire Command says they received 5 triple zero calls and all residents of the home were accounted for.

The intensity of the blaze forced firefighters to battle the flames in defensive mode from outside the property.

It took them two hours to extinguish the fire, with a crew from East Maitland called back to the home just before 5.00am on Thursday to put out a small re-ignition.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

2023 Budget Wrap-up

 BY EMILY WILLIAMS

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has announced the Federal budget for the year ahead, with energy and Medicare coming out on top.

Leading into Tuesday night's announcement, Hunter residents were most concerned about energy, housing and the cost-of-living crisis.

 Image: Facebook

These are some of the highlights from the 2023 budget:

CLEAN ENERGY

As the country continues its transition away from fossil fuels, the new budget includes a significant investment in clean energy.

A $2 billion Hydrogen Headstart Fund will be established to produce renewable hydrogen as part of the Government's bid to become a "renewable energy superpower".

ENERGY BILL RELIEF

5 million Australians will have a $500 reduction to their energy bills next year.

Those eligible will include pensioners, veterans, seniors and other concession card holders.

Recipients of Carer Allowance and Family Tax Benefits will also benefit from the scheme.

MEDICARE

A $5.7 billion investment in Medicare was announced, including a $3.5 billion incentive to triple bulk-billing for low income families.

The incentive will increase from $6.60 to $19.80.

This coming after the latest Clean Bill report revealed the Hunter had some of the lowest bulk-billing rates in New South Wales.

Vice-President of the Doctors Reform Society Dr Robert Marr praises the move.

"It's really important that people have access to GPs and it's important that Medicare bulk-billing be saved, and that's what the budget has done," he said.

RENTAL CRISIS

As the rental crisis continues to plague the Hunter, more than a million low-income earners will be eligible for rental assistance.

The Commonwealth Rent Assistance package will increase by $31 a fortnight for some recipients.

However, the changes have been criticised by Everybody's Home spokesperson Maiy Azize.

"Those who do get a small increase will find that it has been swallowed by surging rents," she said.

SINGLETON AND MUSWELLBROOK BYPASS

Although not mentioned in the budget, the Singleton and Muswellbrook bypasses will go ahead, Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi has confirmed.

"Which is great news for the residents of the Hunter," he said.

These projects have expected completion dates of 2026 and 2027; however, this is weather dependent.

Government Saves Medicare Bulk Billing

BY DANEIE GEDDES

In last nights budget, the Federal Government finally delivered long-awaited Medicare funding to maintain and improve access to bulk billing.

The Government tripled the Medicare Bulk Billing incentive from $6.60 to $19.80.

Last year, GPs across the Hunter began ceasing bulk billing due to the under funding of Medicare. 

Healthcare providers in the Hunter have been calling for an increase after the latest Clean Bill report revealed the Hunter had some of the worst bulk billing rates in NSW.

Vice President of the Doctors Reform Society Dr Robert Marr said the move has saved affordable access to healthcare in the Hunter. 

"The saving of Medicare bulk billing will reduce unnecessary suffering and even deaths that would have occurred if patients could not afford to go to the doctor," Dr Marr said.  

"So many patients will be relieved at the change, as for months they have been chasing a bulk billing clinic they can afford, where they can get consistent care from a doctor they have known for years," he said. 

Last month in Newcastle, of the 45 GP clinics across the city, none offered bulk billing.

The increase is a major advance for healthcare in the Hunter and will support free and consistent GP visits, reducing financial stress for Hunter residents. 

"The long term changes will take years to have benefits but there is pleasingly a lot of good ideas the Government is working through with a clear reformist agenda," Dr Marr said. 

The Doctors Reform Society is welcoming the Government's efforts to provide more funding to improve access to affordable GP visits across the Hunter. 

Missing Hunter Teen Could be in Muswellbrook or Sydney

OLIVIA DILLON 

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage boy missing from Muswellbrook.

16-year-old Thomas Beckingham was last seen leaving a home on Forbes Street at Muswellbrook, at 11:30 yesterday morning. 

Police and his family hold concern for his welfare due to his age. 

Thomas is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm tall, of a slim build, with brown hair, a moustache and brown eyes.

It's believed he's either in the Sydney or Muswellbook area. 

Anyone with information on his whereabout is urged to contact Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000. 

Thomas Beckingham

Hunter Housing Providers Call for More Investment into Rent Assistance and Dwellings Ahead of Federal Budget Release

BY OLIVIA DILLON

A Hunter-based community housing provider is calling on the Federal Government to make a serious commitment to end the housing crisis felt across the Hunter and Australia when it delivers it's budget tonight. 

Recent data out of Communities and Justice NSW indicates the expected wait time for a one bedroom studio in Newcastle is between two and five years. 

Two, three, and four bedroom properties have a wait list between five and ten years. 

As of June last year, there were more than 1,700 applicants on the waitlist for social housing in Newcastle, with 111 in high need of a home. 

Home in Place Executive Manager of Business and Public Affairs, Martin Kennedy, said they're hoping to see a commitment made to increase rent assistance, in a bid to ease pressure on the private rental market, and in turn, the social housing sector. 

"You can't allow something as fundamental as secure housing to be something that only well-off people can afford. Having that sort of arrangement is completely corrosive to society and to the economy, and that's the direction we're headed in," he said. 

"It's incredibly important that we put this right." 

The organisation is also hoping the budget will include a boost to the Housing Australia Future Fund. 

Mr Kennedy said it's obvious more houses need to be built in order to cater for a growing number of struggling Hunter residents. 

"The current level of 30,000 dwellings is better than nothing, but it would be good to see it increased." 

Motorcyclist In Serious Condition After Crash At East Maitland

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police are looking into the circumstances surrounding a crash involving a motorcycle and a car which shut the New England Highway at East Maitland for several hours late yesterday,

Emergency services were called to the highway at about 5.30 to reports a motorcyclist travelling east had collided with a hatchback turning right onto Banks Street.

The motorbike rider, a 26-year-old man, was flown to the John Hunter Hospital in a serious but stable condition.

A 63-year-old man who was driving the hatchback was taken to Maitland Hospital with minor injuries.

 

The crash at East Maitland caused delays for several hours Picture: Jessica Rouse/NEW-FM

 

 

 

Police Believe Missing Sydney Girl Could Be In Newcastle

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police believe a teenage girl missing from Sydney may have travelled to the Newcastle area.

14-year-old Kimberly Williams was last seen leaving a home at Annandale last Friday morning.

Police and her family hold concerns for her welfare due to her age.

Kimberly's described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm tall, with distinctive coloured hair - with half coloured bright pink, and the other half coloured green.

She was last seen wearing a school uniform, a blue jacket and light blue polo top.

Missing girl Kimberly Williams

NSW Government to Rule-Out the Privatisation of Hunter Water

BY OLIVIA DILLON

The NSW Government will this week introduce legislation to Parliament to protect Hunter Water from privatisation. 

The first piece of legislation out of the new Minns government, aims to amend the Constitution Act 1902, and will require both Hunter and Sydney water to remain under public ownership. 

The change will mean the companies cannot be sold-off or disposed of. 

Both the Premier and The Minister for the Hunter said they don't want to see Hunter Water suffer the same fate as the state's electricity network and toll roads. 

"We've seen the cost of electricity go up with privatisation, we've seen toll roads and their prices go up under privatisation, and the last thing we want is for water prices to go up," Tim Crakanthorp said.  

Mr Crakanthorp said the Bill represents Labor's commitment to stop selling-off public assets. 

"Hunter Water has served our community for over 130 years; it's provided critical drinking water, crucial infrasturue and profit directed back into the state government," he said.  

"The former government would sell everything but the kitchen sink if they had the chance." 

"We've ruled-out privatisation." 

Environmental Vandalism At Aberglasslyn Costs Ratepayers $10,000

 BY IAN CROUCH

Maitland Council has taken action to restore and clean up a bushland area at Aberglasslyn which has been the subject of vandalism.

Council officers discovered a number of felled trees and ringbarked trees as well as constructed trails, jumps, structures and rubbish on land adjacent to Weblands Street.

Council says the broken stumps, loose sheet metal structures and constructed obstacles posed a significant danger to the community, while clearing of the rare Lower Hunter Spotted Gum Ironbark Forest puts the trees at risk of extinction.

Council says the estimated cost to ratepayers of the clean-up was $10,000.

 

Maitland Council acts of vandalism at Aberglasslyn. Picture: Maitland City Coucnil