Firefighters Save Home From Going Up In Flames At Morpeth

 BY IAN CROUCH

Quick work by firefighters has prevented a house from going up in flames at Morpeth overnight.

Crews from Morpeth and East Maitland were called to Close Street just before 1.00am on Friday to find a car under a car port well alight.

They took more than two hours to fully extinguish the fire and managed to stop the flames from spreading to the adjacent home.

Newcastle Fire Command says no-one was injured and police are investigating the cause of the blaze.

Police Appeal For Help To Find Missing Maitland Teen

 BY IAN CROUCH

Fears are growing for the welfare of a 16-year-old boy who's been missing from the Maitland area for almost a week.

Bodhi Nancarrow was last seen at Maitland Railway Station at about 8.00pm last Sunday (24 September, 2023) and Police and his family hold concerns for him due to his age.

Bodhi's described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm tall with a medium build, short black hair and a left nose piercing.

He was last seen wearing a brown jumper with 'Make Memories' writing, black shorts with 'MM' writing, black and white sneakers, and was carrying a black back pack.

Anyone who's seen Bodhi or knows his whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Missing teen Bodhi Nancarrow

Charity Runner To Stop In Newcastle As Part Of His Campaign To Build A New Children's Hospice In NSW

BY JACQUELYN RICHARDS

There are only three children's hospices in Australia to cater for the thousands of kids with a terminal or life-limiting illness and their families, but Rio's Legacy Mission hopes to change that. 

15-month-old Rio was initially believed to have gastro when he spent 40 nights in intensive care, but it turned out to be a serious heart condition. 

"Long story short we went to hospital and then never went home," Rio's father Ryan Fowler said. 

 
Ryan said the doctors at Randwick Hospital who were treating their son were amazing, but eventually they were told he had a life limiting condition. 

"They said we can't save him," 

"That's where they introduced us to a place called Bear Cottage...which is the only hospice in New South Wales that supports families who have a child with a life-limiting condition,

"Rio's journey there was up and down as you can imagine, but they allowed us to be a family again."

Now Ryan's jogging from Humming Bird House in Brisbane Queensland all the way down the east coast of New South Wales to Oran Park in Western Sydney. 

"That's where we're hoping to build a hospice to support families when they're going through the toughest thing."

Once built it will be the second children's hospice in New South Wales and fourth in the country. 

"Our challenge and our charity is trying to build more of them there's only three of those hospices in the courty...in the UK there's over 55 and we should have at least 16 here," Ryan says.

Families in the Hunter with a child suffering from a terminal illness, are currently forced to travel to Manly to access treatment and palliative care. 

Ryan is receiving immense support from both his family and the public as he takes part in the fundraising trek. 

"I'm just trying to help these kids because they can't do it, they can't physically get out there an do it, but even me a type one diabetic I can get out there and do it; I can champion them because they're amazing and these places are amazing and they need our support," he says.

Running through Newcastle this Saturday, September 30, Ryan is asking the Newcastle and Hunter community to get behind his cause and help raise money for a hugely under-funded service.

"We're looking to raise $4 million, it's a big target but if we can get up around $100 thousand that'd be great."

The money will go towards building the hospice and providing a mobile service that can support families in their homes, while also assisting staff at the John Hunter Children's Hospital. 

Donations to Rio's Legacy can be made at https://rioslegacy.org.au/ and you can follow Ryan's journey and stay up to date on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok. 

Image: Palliative Care Australia's Facebook

Funding Announced for Hunter Hydrogen Hub

BY HOLLY FISHLOCK

The State Government has announced a $45 million funding agreement to build the Hunter Valley Green Hydrogen Hub on Kooragang Island.

The project intends to reduce existing emission-intensive businesses' reliance on fossil fuels.

NSW Energy Minister Penny Sharpe says the funding will scale up the industry, and will play a key role in transitioning NSW to support clean energy.

"The whole world is currently really in a race to find how to make hydrogen technology work, so things like the hydrogen hub are really going to make that work well. NSW is very committed to this," she said.

The Hunter is one of the leading industrial regions in NSW, contributing $50 billion to NSW's gross state product. 

Ms. Sharpe says the project will boost NSW's position as a major regional and international hydrogen supply chain.

"We want to be not just the first in NSW, we want to be world leaders. We want to set NSW up for the future to be leaders in relation to hydrogen technology. The hydrogen hub is really going to help us with that." 

The project is estimated to generate over 200 jobs in construction.

Statewide Firearm Blitz Sees Two Men Arrested In The Hunter

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police have raided several properties across the Hunter, seizing 80 firearms and 30,000 rounds of ammunition as part of a coordinated operation across the state.

Operation Pendula involving the Raptor squad, focused on people with links to organised crime or outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Officers swooped on properties at West Wallsend, Mount Hutton and Greta as part of the statewide crackdown, revoking nine firearm licences and suspending five others.

A 50-year-old man from Greta has been charged after police allegedly located a firearm with a silencer attached to it - he's due to face Belmont Court on November 8.

A 34-year-old Mount Hutton man will face Cessnock court on November 8 after police say a slingshot was found on his property - he's also been charged with not keeping a firearm safely.

Some of the haul of firearms and ammunition seized during raids across NSW

Three Teenagers Charged Over Alleged Armed Robbery and Pursuit From Blandford to Newcastle

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Three teenagers have been arrested following an alleged armed robbery and pursuit across the Hunter Valley overnight.

At about 1:00am, police were called to the New England Highway at Blandford, and were told a 73-year-old man had stopped his vehicle to assist three unknown people who flagged him down.

As the man exited his car, the trio allegedly took his keys and threatened him with a knife, before fleeing in his white Ford Ranger utility.

A short time later, police were conducting patrols of the Singleton area when they attempted to stop the vehicle on the New England Highway.

When it failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated, continuing on towards Newcastle.

The pursuit came to an end in North Lambton following the successful deployment of tyre spikes.

Three boys, aged 16 and 17, and one 16-year-old girl were arrested at the scene before being taken to Newcastle Police Station, where they were charged with multiple robbery offences.

They were all refused bail to appear before a Children's Court today (Wednesday the 27th of September, 2023). 

Two Men Charged Over Alleged Carjacking In Maitland

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Two men have been charged following an alleged carjacking at Maitland.

Just before 1:00pm on Tuesday the 12th of September, 2023, police were called to an aquatic centre on Les Darcy Drive at Maitland, following reports a car had been stolen.

Police were told two men approached two women in their 60s, before they allegedly fled in a vehicle belonging to the women.

Officers say the vehicle was destroyed by fire near Singleton later the same night.

Following inquiries, a 25-year-old man from Raymond Terrace was arrested at a home on Barton Avenue in Singleton on Wednesday the 13th of September.

He's been charged with multiple offences and was refused bail, to appear before Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday the 8th of November.

Following further inquiries, another 47-year-old Rutherford man was arrested at Maitland Police Station at about 3:00pm yesterday (Tuesday the 26th of September, 2023). 

He was also refused bail to appear before Maitland Local Court today. 

Lovedale Bushfire Threatens Homes

BY OLIVIA DILLON

More than 70 firefighters and 27 trucks worked to contain a bushfire which broke out at Lovedale yesterday.

The blaze on Talga Road was updated to "Watch and Act" at about 2:10pm when it began threatening nearby properties.

A spokesperson from the NSW Rural Fire Service has told The Newcastle Herald, at its peak, there was a truck positioned at every neighboring home around the then 21-hectare fire. 

It's since been upgraded to a 48-hectare blaze.

It was one of six fires which burned across the Hunter yesterday (Tuesday the 26th of September, 2023) and was brought back to "Alert" level just before 4:00pm. 

31-Year-Old Man Arrested Over Alleged Gateshead Double Shooting

BY OLIVIA DILLON

 

A police operation in Wallsend has resulted in a man being arrested over an alleged shooting in Lake Macquarie last week.

It comes after an investigation was launched last Thursday (the 21st of September, 2023), when a 42-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman were discovered with gunshot wounds on Cassia Crescent at Gateshead.

Following inquiries, heavily armed officers and Robbery and Serious Crime Squad Detectives attended a unit block on Bousfield Street in Wallsend yesterday afternoon (Monday the 25th of September, 2023).  

 

It was there they arrested a 31-year-old man in relation to the double shooting.

During a search of the property, police located two firearms which were seized for further forensic examination.

The man's been charged with multiple offenses, including shoot with intent to murder, and was refused bail.

He's due to face Newcastle Local Court today (Tuesday the 26th of September, 2023). 

Image: NSW Police

Image: NSW Police

21-Year-Old Woman Missing From Dora Creek

BY OLIVIA DILLON

 

Lake Macquarie Police are asking locals to be on the lookout for 21-year-old Courtney Ravesi. 

Courtney was last seen on Sunday the 24th of September, 2023 at Dora Creek. 

 

She is described as Caucasian in appearance, 145cm tall, of a medium build, with dark hair, and blue eyes.

Police say it's likely she's with her vehicle, a black Ford Falcon with registration AR8-0DZ. 

 

Anyone who sees Courtney or her vehicle is urged to contact police. 

Two Wounded In Gateshead Shooting

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Two people are in hospital with gunshot wounds following an alleged shooting in Lake Macquarie.

Just after 2:00am on Thursday the 21st of September, 2023, emergency services were called to Cassia Crescent at Gateshead, following reports of a shooting.

Police arrived to find a 42-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his arm and a 32-year-old woman who'd been shot in the leg.

They were both treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to the John Hunter Hospital in stable conditions.

Police have established a crime scene and have commenced an investigation into the incident, which marks the second shooting in the suburb in recent months.

Back in May, a 41-year-old man was struck in the leg after shots were fired into his home on Flame Street. 

As inquiries continue, police are urging anyone with CCTV or information about the incident to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Singleton Mayor Hits Back At Resources For Regions Cutback

BY HOLLY FISHLOCK

The NSW government has announced it will cut the Resources for Regions grant program, a move which has been heavily criticized by Singleton Mayor Sue Moore.

It comes after Singleton Council recently worked closely with the government to deliver positive changes to the program. 

Singleton and Muswellbrook account for a total of 43% of NSW's coal mining output, which amounted to over $18 billion in 2021. Because of this, more than $25 million has been given back to the Singleton local government area.

Cr Moore says Resources for Regions has delivered a fair return to the Singleton community for the unavoidable impacts of mining.

"The changed Resources for Regions program, changed three years ago, was hugely beneficial to Singleton residents and the local government area. We were able to support projects and programs, not just council projects," she said.

Cr Moore said she will continue to advocate for the program to continue, and is devastated to see it cut from Tuesday's budget.

"Projects that we've been able to support for the last three years will no longer be able to receive support... so I'm really concerned for what it's going to mean for those community programs that have no way of getting funding," she said.

However, Cr Moore says she is hopeful the introduction of the new $350 million Regional Development Trust Fund will continue to support communities in rural and regional NSW.

250 Hunter Steel Workers Made Redundant

BY OLIVIA DILLON

250 workers at a Newcastle-based mining consumables company will lose their jobs as a result of an operations change.

Molycop has announced it will cease steel-making operations at Waratah, meaning hundreds of roles will be made redundant.

A spokesperson says it was a difficult decision, but it's poised to put the company in the best financial position possible.

It's reportedly started consulting with the affected employees about the move.

President of the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union Brad Pidgeon, says there was no consultation with workers prior to the announcement this morning. 

The union will continue to advocate for members to be redeployed to other businesses in the region. 

 

Image: Molycop

Have You Seen 14-Year-Old Tahlia?

BY OLIVIA DILLON

 

Port Stephens Hunter Police are asking residents to be on the lookout for a missing teenager.

14-year-old Tahlia has been reported missing by her family in East Maitland.

She was last seen in Maitland at 6:20pm on Monday the 11th of September, 2023.

Tahlia is described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 160-170cm tall, and 50-60kg in weight, of a thin build, with brown hair, and brown eyes.   

She's not in trouble but police and her family would like to know she is safe.

If you've seen her or know where she is, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

 

 

Newcastle Man Charged Over Dubbo Murder

BY OLIVIA DILLON 

 

A man from Newcastle has been charged with murder following an investigation into the death of a man in the state’s Central West.

Just after midnight on Wednesday the 16th of August, 2023, emergency services were called to a home on Margaret Crescent in Dubbo, following reports of a stabbing.

Upon arrival, officers found a 39-year-old man suffering multiple stab wounds to his chest.

He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics, however he died at the scene.

A crime scene was established, and an investigation was launched into the incident. 

 

Following inquiries, at about 10:30am yesterday (Tuesday the 19th of September, 2023), detectives attended a correctional facility in Grafton and arrested a 39-year-old man from Newcastle.

He's since been charged with murder and refused bail.  

He'll face Dubbo Local Court today. 

NSW Budget Delivers For Public Servants, Omits Hunter Park Proposal

BY OLIVIA DILLON

There's concerns the Hunter is not reaping the rewards of it's major representation in NSW Cabinet, following the release of the state government's budget today.

The Newcastle Herald reports Sydney is mentioned 22 times in the overview of Labor's first budget in 13 years, but Newcastle and the Hunter are not mentioned once.

It's also understood no major funding has been committed for the major redevelopment being planned for Broadmeadow.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said during a media conference in Sydney today, planning for the Hunter Park project is ongoing, and confirmed the scandal surrounding former Minister for the Hunter Tim Crakanthorp, has not affected the government's commitment to it. 

Meantime, it seems public servants in the Hunter are the big winners of the budget, with funding confirmed for their wage increases.

The Minns government has set aside $3.6 billion to fund pay rises for nurses, paramedics, teachers, prison officers, police, and childcare workers, and will spend $572 million on making more than 1,000 pandemic nurses and midwives permanent.

It's expected the budget will spark backlash from the Opposition, with a number of Coalition-led initiatives being either scrapped or cut back, including the Active and Creative Kids Vouchers, which will be lowered, and the Regional Senior's Travel Card, which will be dumped. 

 

Image: NSW Government

 

NSW Police To Suspend The Use Of Beanbag Rounds Following The Death Of Krista Kach From Stockton

BY OLIVIA DILLON

The death of a women in Stockton has resulted in the use of beanbag rounds being suspended by all NSW Police.

Krista Kach was shot with a beanbag round then tasered during a stand-off on Mitchell Street on Thursday the 14th of September.

She later died in hospital.

An autopsy has confirmed she was hit in the chest and pellets entered her heart.

A review will now be held into the safety of beanbag rounds. 

Five Teenagers Arrested Over Alleged Violent Home Invasion In Merewether

BY OLIVIA DILLON

A man's been stabbed in the stomach during an alleged home invasion in Merewether overnight.

Just before 3:00am on Tuesday the 19th of September, police were called to a home on Coane Street, following reports of a home invasion.

They were told four people forced their way into the home before two occupants confronted them.

During a resulting altercation, a 49-year-old male occupant was stabbed in the abdomen, and a 75-year old woman suffered minor injuries.

The alleged attackers fled the scene.

They were both taken to the John Hunter Hospital for treatment and it's understood the man is in a critical condition.

Officers attached to the Newcastle City Police District established a crime scene and arrested five teenagers, two boys and three girls, a short time later.

They were taken to Newcastle Police Station to assist police with their inquiries. 

Stockton Woman Dies After Police Operation

BY OLIVIA DILLON

A critical incident investigation is underway after a Stockton woman died overnight.

 

Just after 12:30pm yesterday (Thursday the 14th of September, 2023), police were called to a unit complex in Mitchell Street at Stockton, following reports a woman was threatening people with an axe.

 

When they arrived, the 47-year-old woman allegedly threatened officers with the weapon before barricading herself inside a unit.

 

A police operation involving specialist tactical officers and negotiators then commenced, with officers finally gaining entry to the property at about 9:45pm.

 

Police reportedly used a taser to assist in taking the woman into custody.

She was then escorted from the scene in an ambulance, however, her condition deteriorated a short time later, and she was taken to the John Hunter Hospital, where she later died.

A crime scene was established and a critical incident team from the Homicide Squad will now investigate the incident.

The investigation will be subject to an independent review and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.

 

Teenage Siblings Missing From Rutherford

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Port Stephens Hunter Police are asking local residents to be on the lookout for two missing teenagers from Rutherford.

14-year-old Kelsey and 13-year-old Bryson are siblings and have not been since about 5:00pm on Sunday the 10th of September, 2023.

They are not in trouble, but police need to make sure they are safe.

If you've seen them or know where they are, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1300 333 000. 

Kelsey

 

Bryson

Salt Ash Residents Call for Public School To Be Closed Amid Another PFAS Contamination

BY OLIVIA DILLON

 

Community members are calling for Salt Ash Public School to be closed, after elevated PFAS levels were detected on the playground.

The contamination caused by firefighting foam leaking from the nearby RAAF base previously resulted in the school having to switch from its own water bore to town water back in 2018.

In a notification sent to parents, the Department of Education said it would implement some minor additional measures to reduce the risk to students, staff and visitors, including covering the sandpit on the playground and installing synthetic turf on the premises.

However, residents say it's not enough, arguing the school should be closed, and community blood testing should be introduced to help monitor student exposure. 

 

Image: Salt Ash Public School Facebook Page

Teenage Motorcycle Rider Caught Travelling 100km Over The Speed Limit In Muswellbrook

BY OLIVIA DILLON

A young man from Muswellbrook has been caught travelling more than 100km over the speed limit at the weekend.

A number of community members reported seeing two sports-style motorcycle riders driving recklessly in the Muswellbrook area last Friday night (the 8th of September, 2023). 

Officers soon located one of the young males on Maitland Road, and while they interacted with him, were approached by the second rider on a modified 2007 Yamaha R6.

It's estimated the driver passed police, travelling at around 160km/h in a 50 zone.

Due to the high speed and wet weather conditions, police did not initiate a pursuit.

Just after 1:00am on Saturday morning, officers located the 18-year-old rider off the New England Highway at Muswellbrook, and it was revealed he held a learners license.

He was arrested and his license was suspended and confiscated.

He's due to face local court on the 19th of September, 2023.

 

Image: NSW Police

 

 

 

Public Memorial Service To Be Held In Honour Of Greta Bus Crash Victims

BY OLIVIA DILLON

The state government, in partnership with the Cessnock and Singleton Councils, will hold a public memorial service next month to honour those who lost their lives in the Hunter Valley bus tragedy. 

10 people were killed in the June 11 crash and another 25 were injured.

The memorial will be held at the Singleton Showground on Saturday the 21st of October, from 11:00am.  

A ticket is not required to attend, and the event will be live streamed on the NSW Government website. 

All Hunter residents are invited to attend the service, which is expected to be an important part of a long healing process. 

The government also announced today, the official fundraiser set up by Rotary to support the families of those killed in the crash was closed yesterday, and raised almost $1.5 million.  

Image: Newcastle Herald

Teen Taken To Hospital After Crash At Rutherford

 BY IAN CROUCH

A teenager has been taken to hospital after an early morning crash at Rutherford.

Police say a 17-year-old girl was driving a Mazda 2 on the New England Highway at about 2.45am on Tuesday, when she lost control and the car crashed into traffic lights at the intersection of Wollombi Road.

NSW Ambulance says the girl was taken to the John Hunter Hospital in a stable condition with a leg injury.

A male passenger in his late teens was treated at the scene by paramedics for a minor neck injury.

Police are investigating whether speed was a factor in the crash.

Investigation Launched Into House Fire At Belmont

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police have set up a crime scene at a house severely damaged by fire at Belmont overnight.

Newcastle Fire Command says they received several Triple Zero calls to the single level fibro and tile cottage in Ernest Street at about 6.15pm on Monday.

Crews from Belmont, Charlestown and Tingira Heights arrived to find the home fully involved in fire.

They took about an hour to douse flames.

Police say the house was abandoned and no-one was injured.

Forensic officers will commence an investigation into the cause of the fire on Tuesday morning.

Two Charged Over Alleged Car Break-Ins at Wallsend

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Two men have been charged following several alleged car break-ins at Wallsend. 

Just before 3:00am on Saturday (the 9th of September, 2023), Newcastle City Police were patrolling the Wallsend area when they were flagged down by members of the public who said two men had allegedly broken into several cars nearby.

A short time later, the officers stopped two men, aged 22 and 39, on Minmi Road at Wallsend and seized a number of items of interest, including tools, six mobile phones, keys, medication, syringes, a box of ammunition, ID documents, letters, and two knives.

Police believe the items had been taken during the car break-ins.

The two men were taken to Waratah Police Station and they were both charged with multiple theft, break and enter charges. 

They were refused bail to appear before Newcastle Local Court today (Monday the 11th of September). 

Young Unlicensed Motorcyclist Fined Thousands Of Dollars At Lake Munmorah

 BY IAN CROUCH

A young motorcyclist has been heavily fined after being caught riding an unregistered motorbike at Lake Munmorah.

A Highway Patrol crew spotted a blue Yamaha GSX motorbike on the Pacific Highway at about 9.00am on Saturday.

It's alleged the 19-year-old rider was not wearing a helmet of any kind.

Police say the young man produced a NSW heavy vehicle licence but wasn't licensed to ride a motorcycle.

It's also  alleged the motorbike was uninsured and had not been registered since December 2021.

The teen was issued fines totaling $3134.

Police say the young motorcyclist was unlicensed and riding and unregistered and uninsured motorbike. Picture: NSW Police

Multiple Fire Crews Called To Shed Fire At Vacy

 BY IAN CROUCH

Fire has caused severe damage to a large shed at Vacy overnight.

Several RFS and Fire and Rescue crews were called to a property on Gundaroo Road just before 6.30pm on Sunday to find the 15 X 20 metre corrugated iron shed and garage well alight.

It's taken about 90 minutes to extinguish and mop up the fire.

Newcastle Fire Command says no-one was injured in the blaze.

 

The fire caused extensive damage to the shed at Vacy Picture: Vacy RFS

Regal Cinema At Birmingham Gardens Set To Re-Open

 BY IAN CROUCH

After more than 3 years of COVID hiatus, the iconic Regal Cinema at Birmingham Gardens is set to re-open later this month.

The popular independent cinema was forced to close in March 2020, coinciding with the first Covid lockdown.

With the help of a successful Commonwealth Grant application, the cinema will stage the Newcastle International Film Festival running over the long weekend from Friday September 29.

The cinema will screen 9 films and hold a series of free screen industry workshops across the weekend.

Manager, George Merryman says the cinema is re-opening on a trial basis and further screenings will be held subject to the success of the festival.

The Regal Cinema to re-open on September 29

Motorcyclist Charged With Reckless Driving At Muswellbrook

 BY IAN CROUCH

A young motorcyclist is due to front Newcastle Local Court after police allegedly caught him speeding at Muswellbrook overnight.

Highway Patrol officers were in Bridge Street at about 1.00am on Saturday when they noticed a motorcycle allegedly being ridden in a dangerous manner.

It's alleged the motorbike was travelling in excess of 45km/hr above the 60km/hr zone.

The rider, an 18-year-old man from Muswellbrook was arrested.

He's been refused bail charged with reckless driving ahead of his court appearance on Saturday morning. 

Appeal Launched To Find Missing Port Stephens Teen

 BY IAN CROUCH

Port Stephens Police are appealing for public help to find a teenage boy who's been missing from Raymond Terrace for more than a week.

14-year-old Jerome Wotherspoon was last seen at 8.30am on Thursday the 31st of August.

He was wearing a dark hooded jumper, grey track pants, white cap and black gloves.

Jerome is known to frequent the Raymond Terrace, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie areas.

Police say he's not in trouble - they just want to know he's okay.

Anyone with information is urged to call Raymond Terrace Police or Crime Stoppers.

 

Missing Teen Jerome Wotherspoon

BREAKING! Woman Killed In House Fire At Lake Munmorah

 BY IAN CROUCH

A woman has died in a house fire at Lake Munmorah on Friday morning.

Emergency services were called to a single story brick and colorbond roof home just before 10.30am, arriving to find large volumes of smoke coming from the rear of the property.

Firefighters brought the fire under control, with search and rescue crews finding the body of a woman in the rear of the home just before 11 o'clock.

She has not been formally identified but is believed to be aged in her 80s.

It's not known at this stage what sparked the blaze.

 

Singleton Celebrates Permanent Train Services

BY JACK LEWIS

Residents in Singleton now have more options for their daily commute thanks to the permanent addition of passenger train services. 

They'll now have access to two daily return train services to Newcastle, seven days a week, bringing better timetable flexibility and improved access to other parts of the Hunter and Sydney. 

It comes after more than a decade of campaigning by council and the "Two More Trains for Singleton" group, as well as a three-and-a-half year trial of the services.

Both the advocacy group and council are pleased with the move, but say they will continue to advocate for even greater public transport connectivity in the area. 

Upper Hunter MP Hits Back At Coal Royalty Hike

BY HOLLY FISHLOCK

From July 1 next year, Hunter coal mines will be paying more royalties under a new scheme announced by the state government.

Royalties will increase by 2.6%, a move which has been slammed by Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell. 

While the NSW Government says the 2.6 percent increase will ensure the state receives a fair return for its resources, Mr. Layzell calls the increase an "outrageous lazy effort" to fund future budgets.

Mr. Layzell says the people of Singleton and Muswellbrook have been overlooked, despite providing over 50 percent of the state's annual coal royalty revenue.

"This is the time when we need the best infrastructure in NSW. In many regards, we don't have it up to normal standard. It's about making sure that royalties benefit those areas that earn them," Mr. Layzell said.

Mr. Layzell also reflected on the current scheme, saying it needs to be reworked to benefit areas bringing in significant amounts of revenue.

"The royalty system has been the same for a long time. It certainly needs to be looked at about how that system works for those areas that are actually earning the money," he said.

Two Arrested, Drugs and Firearms Seized During Property Search In Maitland

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Two men have been charged and guns and weapons have been seized, following a search warrant being carried out at a property near Maitland.

Earlier this month, police launched an investigation relating to firearms and the supply of drugs in the Maitland area.

Following inquiries, police executed a search warrant at a property on Champion Crescent at Gillieston Heights at about 8:30am yesterday (Wednesday the 6th of September). 

A search of the property allegedly revealed several items of interest including two firearms, an extendible baton, electronic devices, and various drugs, including methamphetamine. 

The two male occupants, aged 35 and 37, were arrested before being taken to Maitland Police Station.

The younger man was charged with 10 drug and firearm offences. 

The older man was charged with resisting police. 

Both were refused bail to appear before Maitland Local Court today (Thursday the 7th of September). 

Lake Macquarie Man Charged With Murder Over Alleged 40 Year Old Cold Case

 BY IAN CROUCH

A Lake Macquarie man has been charged over an alleged cold case murder.

Back in April this year, police searched a home in Leanda Place Cardiff South and questioned a 65-year-old man over the disappearance of 21-year-old Debra Campbell in Victoria in February 1984.

Yesterday, police arrested the 65-year-old at Cardiff South and charged him with murder.

He faced Belmont Local Court and is due to face court again on Friday where Victorian Police are expected to apply for his extradition.

Miss Campbell was a member of the RAAF and was reported missing when she failed to show up for her shift.

Debra Campbell

Tragic End For Beresfield's Raymond Peterson

 BY IAN CROUCH

The family of Beresfield man, Raymond Peterson have thanked the community for their help and support after a body, believed to be that of the 85-year-old was found at Beresfield Golf Course on Wednesday.

Mr Peterson, who lived with Azheimer's disease, was last seen at about 2pm on Monday before taking his dog Jackie for a walk.

His disappearance sparked a massive multi-agency search, supported by hundreds of local residents.

Police say the body of a man was found near Andersen Drive at about 12.30pm on Wednesday, and while it is yet to be formally identified, it's believed to be that of the 85-year-old.

A report is being prepared for the Coroner.

Raymond Peterson

Pay Rise In Store For Hunter Teachers

BY OLIVIA DILLON 

Hunter teachers are set to receive a pay rise, after the Teachers Federation finally reached an in-principle Heads of Agreement with the state government after months of wage negotiations. 

As part of the agreement, the government has withdrawn its previous four-year proposal, which included a 2.5% pay increase in years two, three, and four. 

If the agreement is endorsed, it's expected the starting salary for local teachers will increase from $75,791 to $85,000.

The pay packet for a top of the scale teacher will increase from $113,042 to $122,100. 

Both school counsellors and casual teachers will also be paid according to new adjusted salary scales. 

Members of the Teachers Federation say the historic deal will be a major step forward in the push to attract and keep more teachers in the classroom. 

Hunter teens have $200,000 in unpaid fines, according to new report

BY SHY-ANN ARKINSTALL

According to data from Revenue NSW, Hunter residents under the age of 18 owe more than $200,000 in unpaid fines.

Researchers out of the University of Newcastle have been studying the trend, and say many young people are showing signs of financial stress including skipping meals and making late payments on bills.

Research has also found, many are turning to credit options to pay fines and bills leading to interest costs and further financial stress.

Senior Sociology Lecturer at the University of Newcastle, Dr. Julia Cook says most fines owed by those under 18 are transport fines for travelling without a valid ticket and believes most are likely not paying because they can't afford it.

"They may get a fine but also through that process they may become known to the transport officers and that means they may be likely to get picked up on that again and that can be a bit of a cycle," Dr. Cook said.

Dr. Cook also pointed out there is an assumption, parents will be able to pay fines if children cannot afford it, but said this is not always a case, especially amid the current cost of living crisis.

"Young people can have issues getting their L plates and their P plates; if they have outstanding fines that can be a roadblock to getting those sorts of things that young people are not always aware of. Particularly for young people who live in areas that may not have great public transport or if they have started a trade and they really need to be able to drive or just to have employment, it can be a real roadblock to their goals," Dr. Cook said.

Dr. Cook also said there are alternative methods of payments for fines which should utilised by young people struggling to pay fines, such as requesting a Work and Development Order where, through work, study, or financial counselling, you can get your fines reduced.

Work and Development Orders can be carried out at places such as PCYC and the University of Newcastle, among others.

"I think we need to look at why these people are accruing fines. If people are taking public transport and aren't paying their fare I don't think they should necessarily be receiving a fine for that. I think there needs to be some kind of further examination because even when people are on a low income they still need to be able to access essential services," Dr. Cook said.

BREAKING! Man Bashed And Robbed During Home Invasion At Thornton

 BY IAN CROUCH

An 18-year-old man has suffered multiple injuries during a violent home invasion at Thornton overnight.

Police say at about 10.25pm on Monday, a group of six males armed with weapons forced entry into the man's Railway Avenue home and assaulted him.

He's been conveyed to Maitland hospital suffering a broken nose, fractured eye socket and a severe laceration to his head, where he remains in a stable condition undergoing tests.

The group stole items of property before running off.

Police say the alleged victim and the offenders were not known to each other and no-one else was in the home when the attack took place.

Police Appeal For Help To Find Elderly Man Missing From Beresfield

 BY IAN CROUCH

Fears are growing for the welfare of an elderly man who's gone missing from Beresfield.

85-year-old Raymond Peterson was last seen at his home in Yarrum Avenue about 2.00pm on Monday.

Police hold serious concerns for Raymond as he lives with dementia.

He's described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175cm tall, bald with a medium build and a grey moustache and goatee.

Raymond was last seen wearing a navy long sleeve shirt, dark grey jeans, a cap, and prescription glasses.

His family has told Police Raymond took their dog out for a walk and failed to return.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

Missing Man Raymond Peterson

Concerns Held For Missing Newcastle Woman

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police are asking for our help to find a woman reported missing in the Newcastle area.

28-year-old Bree Gray was last seen leaving the Calvary Mater Hospital at Waratah on Friday afternoon and a search commenced on Sunday when she could not be located.

Police hold concerns for her welfare due to medical conditions.

Bree is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175cm tall with a medium build, brown hair and brown eyes.

She is known to frequent the Waratah, Lambton, Raymond Terrace and Newcastle areas.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers.

Missing woman: Bree Gray

Police officer stabbed in the face in Anna Bay arrest

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A man has been charged after allegedly assaulting a police officer at Anna Bay on Friday morning.

About 8.25am, police were called to a property on Morna Point Road, following a concern for welfare report.

On arrival, officers located a man and woman inside the property.

After making further inquiries at the scene, a male constable was allegedly stabbed by the man with a narrow metal instrument.

The 42-year-old man was arrested and taken to the Mater Hospital for assessment.

The 31-year-old constable was taken to the John Hunter Hospital for the treatment of non-life-threatening facial injuries.

Upon his release from hospital, the 42-year-old man was taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station where he was charged with seven offences regarding assault and drug possession.

He was refused bail to appear before Newcastle Local Court on Saturday.