"Cover-Ups And Intimidation" Alleged At Waratah's Calvary Mater

 BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK

Whistleblowers have come forth to publicly allege the downplaying of serious risks at Waratah's Calvary Mater Hospital.

As part of a parliamentary inquiry into the Mater's management, it's been reported workers who flagged safety and health risks were threatened or pushed out of their jobs as a result.

The hospital is run under a public-private partnership between Novacare and NSW Health, with Honeywell the company in charge of maintenance. 

In their submission to the inquiry into the hospital's operations, the Health Services Union (HSU) has included staff reports of a "sweep it under the rug" culture from Honeywell and upper management. 

The HSU is using its submission to call for a full review of the contract compliance, as well as greater accountability and transparency among the state's health infrastructure.

Former Mater employee Luke Carroll said he experienced intimidation first-hand after writing various technical reports.

"I personally was pulled into rooms for impromptu meetings after writing various reports or technical positions on the maintenance or serviceability of certain equipment," he said.

"I was screamed at to change my position and essentially coerced into following the narrative Novacare and Honeywell were putting back to the facility."

Mr Carroll went further to add the facility's culture of altering and destroying documents was "common knowledge" amongst staff.

"If you left stuff on your desk, it'd go missing," he said.

"It was common knowledge within the Honeywell Facilities team and various parts of site that the mould testing regime was essentially being falsified.

"For lack of a better term, to produce artificially low results in problem areas."

Mater Hematologist Dr Katherine Rankin echoed Mr Carroll's sentiment in speaking about a general lack of accountability across the parties involved.

"Accountability has been diffused across a labyrinth of entities, Calvary, NovaCare, Honeywell, and the Ministry, leading to a situation where responsibility for safety has been repeatedly shifted due to contractual ambiguity," she said.

"As a consequence of this, there has been an 11-month delay in getting hazardous mould remediation work commenced." 

Parliamentary Inquiry Meeting. Picture: Holly Ogilvie

Missing Telarah Teen Spotted In Hamilton

BY IAN CROUCH

Police are asking for our help to find a teenager who's been missing from Telarah for almost a month.

15-year-old Callum Schonewille was last seen on February 18 but police believe he may have been at a chemist in Beaumont Street, Hamilton at about 8.45am on Monday 9 March.

Police hold concerns for his welfare due to his age.

Callum is described as being of Caucasian appearance, abut 160cm tall with a slim build, light brown hair and a blonde rats tail and mullet.

He was last seen wearing a black t-shirt, shorts, slides, socks and black jumper with a TUPAC logo and carrying a black satchel bag. 

Callum is believed to frequent the Telarah, Maitland, Edgeworth, Charlestown, Windale and Campsie areas. 

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

 

Missing teen Callum Schonewille

 

Hunter Receives Major Boost to Local Defense Industry

BY BRONWYN VERWEY

The federal government has invested more than $175 million into a Morisset manufacturing facility to deliver a new fleet of uncrewed navy ships. 

The investment will go towards technology company Ocius to produce 40 new Bluebottle uncrewed surface vessels to be used by the Royal Australian Navy. 

The new ships will bump the Navy's total operational Bluebottle fleet to 55. 

Hunter MP Dan Repacholi welcomed the investment. 

"We have a world-class Australian company producing cutting edge defence technology technology right here in Morisset, and this investment ensures that capability continues to grow," he said. 

The Bluebottle system was developed in partnership with the Royal Australian Navy and was initially funded through the Defence Innovation Hub. 

Using renewable energy, including solar and wind, the ships will be able to spend extended periods of time out at sea, whilst conducting sub-surface surveillance. 

Mr Repacholi said it's important to ensure Australia is well positioned with adequate equipment and intelligence amidst escalating global tensions. 

"The Hunter has always played an important role in supporting Australia's defence industry, and projects like this show our region will continue to be central to Australia's sovereign capability," he explained. 

"This investment backs local workers, supports Hunter businesses and strengthens Australia's ability to monitor and protect our maritime approaches."

Picture: Ocius

Rail, Tram and Bus Union wants Newcastle Buses back in Public Hands

BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union has welcomed calls for Newcastle's bus network to be back under public ownership.

It follows news the State government is investigating the possibility of returning Newcastle's buses to the public sector, once Keolis Downer's contract ends at the end of 2027.

Under the former Coalition government, Newcastle buses were privatised back in 2017, with a commitment to ensure improved bus services as a whole.

Almost 10 years later, Newcastle's bus network is plagued by a host of customer complaints and safety concerns.

The Union's NSW Tram and Bus Division President, Peter Grech said the community has suffered a range of various impacts, ever since Keolis Downer began operating Newcastle's bus network.

"The community, as a whole has suffered," he said.

"When they took over, they cut services in half, there's communities left isolated, [and] services not showing up that are scheduled to show up.

"There's a lot of inconsistencies in regards to Keolis Downer's operations."

He went further to state the Union is looking forward to helping improve the quality of Newcastle's bus network, should a transition to public ownership occur.

"The community in Newcastle has been left with a 'have-to-use' service rather than a 'want-to-use' service, and we want to turn that around," he said.

"I think it's a really important part for the community.

"It just blossoms everything, when people are using public transport, they're using local shops, [and] using local community services."

The Union will be launching their latest report into the impacts of privatisation on the quality of Newcastle buses tonight at NEX.

Community members are invited to attend.

Picture Supplied.

Appeal to Locate Missing Metford Man

 BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK

Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate a man missing from the Metford area.

31-year-old Beau McDonald was last seen leaving a home on Hakea Way in a 1997 white Holden Jackaroo SUV, at about 6.30pm last night.

Officers attached to the Hunter Valley Police District were notified and have commenced inquiries into his potential whereabouts.

Hunter Valley Police hold concerns for Mr McDonald's Welfare, describing his disappearance as, "out of character."

He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, around 170cm to 180cm tall, of a medium build, with black hair and brown eyes.

It's believed he frequents the Black Hill, Heddon Greta, Kurri Kurri and Maitland areas.

Anyone with information regarding Mr. McDonald's whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

Picture: NSW Police

Local Push for Fare Gates at Hamilton Train Station

 BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK

Newcastle councillor Jenny Barrie will be pushing for fare gates to be installed at Hamilton Train Station. 

In a December council meeting, NSW Police identified a need for Opal gates to help combat rising anti-social behaviour near the station.

It's believed the violent behaviour has surged in the area, as a result of an Opal gates installation at Newcastle Interchange.

With gates now at the Interchange, fare evaders are now targeting Hamilton Train Station, as it's now the last ungated train station before the Newcastle CBD, according to Cr Barrie. 

Cr Barrie alongside fellow councillors Joel Pringle and Paige Johnson have co-signed a motion to be presented at tonight's council meeting asking for the immediate installation of the gates.

Councillors will vote on whether to advocate for the installation, as decisions on Opal gates lie with the State Government.

If the motion is successful, Council will write to the state's Transport and Shadow Transport Ministers, The Hon. John Graham and Natalie Ward MLC.

Cr Barrie said the community is eager to advocate further for more safety measures in the area.

"The Hamilton community and Safety Committee really want to do some more advocacy to the Transport Minister," she said.

"The police feel it's one part of a prevention strategy and of course a disruption mechanism to reduce un-lawful, anti-social behaviour."

She went further to state the gates would serve as a major first step in improving safety across the  Hamilton area. 

"We just want activity to become safer for everybody," she said.

"Everything we wanna do is [rooted in] putting events on and getting the community thriving again, [like] utilising the library space for more events.

"We feel that Opal gates is the starting point."

Picture supplied. 

Residents Reportedly Furious Over Midtown Precinct

 BY OLI GOELDNER

A proposal to establish extend operation hours and loosen noise restrictions on a Newcastle West block has been labelled a "dangerous mistake" by residents. 

Newcastle's Midtown area, bound by Hunter, King and Steel streets, has been put forward as the potential location of a Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP). 

Trialed across various parts of NSW, the new classification allows councils to set trading hours and sound conditions to encourage live performance and support night life. 

However, voluntary community advocate for alcohol harm prevention Tony Brown said the move is a major mistake. 

"The local residents living in the mid part of Newcastle, will be really victimised by council and the state government to deal with more noise, violence and a loss of their rights to the peaceful enjoyment of their properties," he said. 

Mr Brown explained the proposed precinct could have an adverse impact on resident's property value and amenity. 

"Any investment in the night-time economy has got to be responsible, not just about making more profits by having more young people highly intoxicated," he explained. 

"We've seen that before in Newcastle and we'd thought we'd honestly put that behind us." 

He added a similar venture was recently rejected by Byron Bay council. 

"They rejected the demands for the imposition of the SEP because of the very fact of likely more noise, more violence and more disturbances." 

Councillor Declan Clausen stated over the weekend that inner-city Newcastle should not be "going to bed with Big Dog". 

"Venues do operate here, this is a part of a city that we would like to see have a very active nightlife, and that requires new residents to be really open-minded about what they might mean if they're moving in right nearby," he said. 

"There's some in Newcastle that would like to see us all go to bed with Big Dog and not have a vibrant nightlife in the city. 

"I fundamentally disagree with that." 

The motion will be put forward at the next Ordinary Council Meeting. 

Residents To Meet With State MPs Over Landslip

 BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK

Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison and Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin will meet with residents affected by the New Lambton landslip next week. 

It comes after the state government's Reconstruction Authority (RA) announced will provide up to a year's rental assistance to residents displaced in the natural disaster in May last year.

Newcastle council wrote to the RA last month, insisting they responsibility for the incident which left 16 homes uninhabitable. 

Before, tensions between Council and the state were escalating, due to the RA initially relinquishing the remediation responsibilities to the City of Newcastle. 

An authoritative, peer-reviewed geotechnical report changed the department's mind, after it provided definitive evidence the incident was due to natural phenomena.

The announcement of extra rental assistance couldn't have come at a better time for affected residents, as they were only initially given until June for their support payments.

Jodie Harrison said she's happy with the latest development and is hopeful next week's meeting can alleviate any other issues currently suffered by residents.

"I'm really pleased we've been able to provide additional support for residents at a time of uncertainty for them," she said.

"What I want to make sure, as their local MP, is make sure I do everything I possibly can to reduce the uncertainty now and into the future."

Minister Harrison went further to state she's happy affected residents get to directly engage with both herself and Minister Saffin over the matter.

"Minister Saffin is very keen to listen to each of the residents who are affected," she said.

"I'll certainly be taking into account, listening to what they have to say and I'll advocate on their behalf in the future."

Taken from when the landslip was first noticed in May. Credit: NSW Police

Man Arrested Over Fires At Wickham Gym

 BY IAN CROUCH

A man accused of twice setting fire to a gym at Wickham earlier this year has been arrested.

It's alleged the 42-year-old started a fire at the Air Locker Gym in Albert Street on January 20 before returning three days later and starting another fire on the ground floor which caused extensive damage.

A vehicle allegedly involved in the incidents was found burnt out at Salamander Bay on February 4.

Early yesterday (Thursday 5 March, 2026), police went to a home on Keel Street at Salamander Bay and arrested the accused.

He's been charged with three counts of damaging property by fire or explosion and refused bail.

 

Police arrested a 42-year-old man at Salamander Bay

Union Cries Out For More Local Affordable Housing

 BY OLI GOELDNER

The Hunter's hospitality, fast-food and warehouse workers are at the forefront of a new union-backed campaign to deliver more affordable housing for the region. 

The 'A fair go starts with a home' campaign is calling on the state government to increase the percentage of cheaper homes developed across the state, including in the new Broadmeadow precinct. 

The development proposed by council looks to build 20,000 additional dwellings across the suburb. 

However, only five to 10 percent of the proposed accomodation has been classified as affordable, translating to only 160 to 320 homes. 

Housing advocates are arguing the portion should be bumped up to 30 percent to better suit the needs of local residents. 

Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees' Association (SDA) national secretary Jarron Dwyer said retail and fast food workers deserve better. 

"We have situations now where those employees can't afford to live anywhere near where they work," he said. 

"So, not only are they getting smashed with increased rents, their costs in relation to transport and petrol have risen sharply. 

"We've got a crisis on our hands across the country, but specifically here in the Hunter." 

The SDA has called for a meeting with NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookey to find a solution to the lack of affordable housing. 

"The NSW Government has been one of the country's leaders in addressing the housing crisis, but we've just got to follow through and ensure that those commitments to public housing and percentages allocated are met," said Mr Dwyer. 

"It's as simple as that." 

BREAKING! Fire Tears Through Hamilton South Unit

 BY IAN CROUCH

Fire has caused extensive damage to a unit at Hamilton South early this morning.

Newcastle Fire Command says they were initially called to reports of a bin fire in the three level Department of Housing complex in Fowler Street just before 3.00am.

A crew from Merewether arrived to find a ground floor unit on fire.

All residents of the complex were safely evacuated without injury.

Six fire trucks responded to the incident with crews taking about 10 minutes to bring the blaze under control. 

The cause of the fire is not known but police are not treating it as suspicious.

 

Hefty Price Tag for Entertainment Centre Replacement

 BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK

The price tag for a proposed replacement to Newcastle Entertainment Centre has been estimated at around half a billion dollars. 

It's believed the project is going to cost around $498 million to complete, and would be built next door to McDonald Jones Stadium on the corner of Turton and Griffiths road.

In wake of the looming 2027 state election, the Newcastle council has called for a $15 million promise to kickstart the project, in collaboration with Venues NSW.

The proposed Newcastle Entertainment and Conference Centre has been identified as a priority project for the Broadmeadow Place Strategy and a main catalyst for the development of the Hunter Park Precinct.

Hunter Park would transform the area into a modern sporting and entertainment precinct, capable of catering to more than 30,000 people.

Council's Government Relations Adviser Nikki-Lee Taylor says Newcastle has already proven an appetite for international touring acts.

"You only have to look at the response we've had to Sir Paul McCartney, Pink, Elton John, and now the Foo Fighters," she said.

"A repeatedly sold out stadium in itself represents a fairly strong business case

"To have a venue that is not weather dependent and specifically designed for those types of artists, only strengthens the appeal to promoters when it comes to making Newcastle a regular touring destination for big acts."

Ms Taylor went further to state the proposed Centre would serve as a major next step in Newcastle's growth as a cultural hotspot.

"We have an international airport, we have a growing visitor economy and we have a great tourism economy that grows exponentially year-by-year," she said.

"Newcastle is a great city, it has culture, it has vibrancy and that's only continuing to grow and change.

"I don't think this would necessarily put us on the map, but I think it would be part of an organic growth Newcastle is experiencing anyway."

Picture: Newcastle Entertainment Centre. 

Police Probe House Fire At Raymond Terrace

 BY IAN CROUCH

An investigation is under way into an early-morning house fire at Raymond Terrace.

Fire crews and five trucks were called to Kangaroo Street just after 3.00am today (Wednesday 4 March 2026) to find smoke issuing from the single level weatherboard home.

Newcastle Fire Command says they managed to contain the flames to the back right hand corner of the home, taking around 45 minutes to bring the blaze under control.

It's understood the resident was not home when the fire broke out.

Police are treating the fire as suspicious - crews attended a fire call at the home at week ago. 

Fire crews at the scene of the house fire in Kangaroo Street. Picture: Raymond Terrace RFS

 

Search Under Way For Man Missing From Waratah

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police are asking members of the public not to approach a man reported missing from Waratah.

46-year-old Marak Pyrda was last seen at a medical facility in Platt Street at about 10.30am yesterday and there are concerns for his welfare as he lives with a medical condition.

Marak's described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 190cm tall with a solid build and shaved head.

He was last seen wearing a black t-shirt with a white 'Under Armour' logo on the front, blue shorts, white ankle-length sox and black shoes and was also carrying a back pack.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Waratah Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.  

Missing man Marak Pyrda

 

Dartbrook Mine Extension Creates Mixed Political Response

BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK

The state Government has granted a six-year extension to the controversial Dartbrook coal mine in Muswellbrook, sparking debate amongst local political figures. 

It comes just a month after a it was revealed potential conflicts of interest took place within the site's financial operations. 

The facility has been running with a skeleton staff since it collapsed into insolvency last year, after it defaulted on a $202 million loan. 

Another $5 million is still owed to unsecured creditors, including local operators who have reported to be at  risk of bankruptcy if the lost funds are not re-couped.

Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell has labelled the decision a lost opportunity, arguing the extension should have been used as a bargaining chip to ensure that missing funds were repaid.

He said while he does welcome any extension, Dartbrook's future operators are on thin ice.

"I think what the whole region is hoping is that the mine does continue, but that it continues under new ownership," he said.

"At the moment it's under administration.

"We're really hoping that a reputable company comes in, buys the mine, the mining licence, takes over the mine and runs it properly." 

Meanwhile, Muswellbrook mayor Jeff Drayton is hopeful the facility's extension will benefit the local community.

"It may not have been approached as well as we might have wanted it to be, but hopefully someone who steps in is a miner," he said.

"When I say a miner, I mean someone who has been the industry a while and knows what they're doing.

"I think if that happens, it'll be a successful mine, and if it's a successful mine, we have local jobs and local procurement, which is certainly a win for the community." 

Over the course of this six-year extension, it's believed the mine will be able to extract an additional 36 million tonnes of coal.

Picture: Mining and Energy Union

CRIKEY! Crocodile Captured In Wallsend Creek

 BY OLI GOLEDNER

A juvenile crocodile has been captured in a Wallsend creek, believed to possibly be an escaped pet. 

The animal was spotted at about 4.30pm on Saturday 28 February at a creek running behind Federal Park. 

Police and Australian Reptile Park handlers formed a perimeter around the pond to prevent the reptile from escaping and keep onlookers safe. 

The park's manager Billy Collett said they had a difficult time catching the croc initially. 

"I got a few of the lads together and we went up and spent a few hours in daylight searching," he said. 

"We couldn't see it, so on Saturday night when the sun set, we managed to eyeshine him from the bank. 

"Then SES provided us with a rescue craft, but we just couldn't get close enough to him to be able to catch him." 

Eventually, on Sunday night Mr Collett and his crew returned. 

At about 8.30pm they successfully captured the croc and brought it back to the park for specialist assessment. 

The croc was found to be a male sub-adult freshwater crocodile, measuring it at just under a metre in length and only weighing a few kilograms. 

Mr Collett explained they're still unsure as to how it found it's way into the pond. 

"We think it's either an escaped pet or it's been let go," he explained. 

"We're not too sure, but that's what we would think."

He confirmed no other crocodiles were spotted in the creek during their search. 

"I scouted that area heavily for two nights and only located one crocodile," he added. 

"So, to my knowledge there's only the one in there." 

Picture supplied. 

Teenage Girl Missing From New Lambton Hospital

 BY OLI GOELDNER

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage girl missing from the Newcastle area.

Kaylani Thompson, aged 16, was last seen at a hospital on Lookout Road, New Lambton, about 2pm yesterday. 

Unable to be located or contacted since, officers attached to Newcastle City Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.

Family and police hold concerns for Kaylani’s welfare as she requires regular medication.

Kaylani’s described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 150-160cm tall, of slim build, with pink/red coloured hair.

She was last seen wearing black tracksuit pants, a white singlet with white and a navy striped cardigan.

Kaylani is believed to frequents the Raymond Terrace and Gosford areas.

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

Lights In Sky Over Coalfields Spark Alien Fears

 BY IAN CROUCH

Hundreds of coalfields residents have reported strange lights in the sky overnight, sparking a host of conspiracy theories that the area was being invaded by aliens.

Hunter MP Dan Repacholi has taken to social media in a bid to allay residents fears, also posting a photo showing 5 balls of light in the air over Cessnock.

He says what people are seeing are military illumination flares being used for night-time training exercises at the Singleton Army Base.

Apparently they're dropped from aircraft with a small parachute attached and burn brightly for a few minutes before slowly drifting down to the ground.

 
 

Lights in the sky over Cessnock Photo: Hunter Mp Dan Repacholi

Crocodile Captured At Wallsend

 BY IAN CROUCH 

A crocodile on the loose at Wallsend is now in the care of reptile experts after being captured overnight.

Police were called to Federal Park on Saturday afternoon following reports a juvenile crocodile was found in a nearby pond.

They formed a perimeter around the pond to prevent the croc from escaping and protect onlookers.

Animal handling specialists and the SES were called but were unable to retrieve the animal on Saturday.

They returned yesterday (Sunday 1 March 2026) and were able to safely capture the animal.

It's still not clear how the crocodile came to be in the pond - police say no further crocs have been found in the area.

The juvenile crocodile was found in a pond near Federal Park

 

 

Union Calls For Action After Violent Bus Attack

BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK

Local unions members are calling for better safety protections on Newcastle buses, after a driver was violently attacked by a passenger earlier this week. 

At around 11pm on Wednesday night, police were called to the Pacific Highway at Charlestown following reports a bus passenger allegedly punched and stabbed a driver in the hand. 

The man was taken to Belmont Police Station and charged with numerous offences. 

However, the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) has said the attack has worsened fears around the current safety measures present on Newcastle buses. 

The incident comes alongside more than 12 months of enterprise bargaining between the RTBU and private transport operator Keolis Downer, over safety measures, pay and working conditions. 

Tram and Bus Division President Peter Gresch said the attack highlights the ongoing safety risks drivers are currently facing within the region. 

"This is a horrific attack on a worker who was simply doing his job," Mr. Grech said.

"We've seen a string of violent incidents on Newcastle buses in recent months. 

"Drivers have been spat on, bashed, assaulted - and now even stabbed. 

"This cannot continue."

Mr Gresch added the incident should not be overlooked by Keolis Downer. 

"It should be a strong wake-up call for not only Keolis Downer, but for the NSW Government and Transport NSW as well," Mr Gresch said. 

"They need to act and react to what's happened. 

"We've been calling for these changes for many, many years and everyone keeps sitting on their hands."

The RTBU is calling for immediate discussions to ensure stronger protections are put in place to keep both drivers and passengers safe.

Picture: RTBU

Nationals Concerned Over Future of High Speed Rail

 BY OLI GOELDNER

Hunter-based Nationals senator Ross Cadell is unsure whether a Coalition government would continue on the High Speed Rail project if elected. 

Earlier this week, the project's business case was released to the public, disclosing the current plans to its development. 

The High Speed Rail Authority has set the estimated cost of the Newcastle to Sydney line at nearly $90 billion, with the next two years to be spent on developing the final route plans.  

It was also announced the federal government would be investing an additional $230 million into the project, putting the current expenditure at $660 million overall. 

However, Senator Cadell is concerned the project may never come to fruition. 

"We're spending hundreds of millions of dollars on feasibility studies for a project that will cost $100 billion in today's dollars," he said. 

"We all know these budgets flow out and there is no allocation in the future.

"I don't think we'll see the start of this in two years, I don't think we'll see the finish of this in 50 years." 

Ahead of next year's state election, Senator Cadell said if the vote goes to the Coalition, it's uncertain whether the project will be continued. 

"I can't speak for everyone, but clearly I've got some concerns and I'll be voicing those concerns" he said. 

"If our party room and shadow cabinet allay those concerns that will be supportive.

"But, I have not seen anything at the moment that shows a funding source where we can come up with $100 billion - that the government doesn't have - to fund it." 

Picture: Nationals Senator Ross Cadell. 

Man Goes Missing From John Hunter Hospital

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police are asking for our help to find a man who's gone missing in the Newcastle area.

37-year-old Timothy Trippier was last seen at the John Hunter Hospital last Saturday (21 February, 2026) and police hold concerns for his welfare.

Timothy's described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175 to 185cm tall with a medium build and light brown hair and is believed to frequent the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie areas.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. 

Missing man Timothy Trippier

 

Details Revealed On High Speed Rail Project

BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK 

The business case for the High Speed Rail project has been released to the public today. 

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Catherine King visited Newcastle early this morning to announce the next phase of the major project. 

She said the federal government would be injecting an extra $229.6 million into the development phase, increasing its total investment to $659.6 million overall.

The High Speed Rail Authority will use the next two years to lock in the design, approval processes, scope and costs. 

Estimated to cost up to $90 billion, it's likely to be one of the most expensive pieces of infrastructure funded by the federal government so far. 

It comes as a major step forward in the development, set to revolutionise travel between Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, the Central Coast and Sydney. 

Minister King said the project will provide a range of benefits to local communities. 

"High-speed rail between Newcastle and Sydney will change the way people live, work and travel in our country's most populous region," she explained. 

"It will connect the Newcastle and Central Coast communities to Sydney in a way that has never been done before." 

The Newcastle to Central Coast stretch is slated to be completed by 2037, followed by an extension to Sydney Central by 2039 and Western Sydney International Airport by 2042.

The project would include stations at Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Central Coast, Sydney Central, Parramatta and Western Sydney International Airport. 

Council Demands Answers on Newcastle Post Office

 BY OLI GOELDNER

Council has called for an urgent meeting with Newcastle Post Office owner Dr Jerry Schwartz on the progress of the historic site's restoration.

Dr Schwartz bought the building in 2018 for $3.5 million, and has received a $1 million heritage grant for its refurbishment. 

However, the long-awaited restoration must begin before April 8, before the current five-year development consent lapses. 

Councillor Clausen says if the consent lapses, they'll be back at square one. 

"Dr Schwartz needs to progress and secure a construction certificate for the site in order to enable physical works to commence," he explained. 

"If that process hasn't already commenced, that is an enormous ask and I'm very concerned that it's not going to be achievable within the timeframe. 

"Consent dates are hard and fast, they can't be moved by Council.

"If nothing happens, it will lead to unfortunately years of further decline and no clear path for the restoration and upgrade of that building.

"I think it's incumbent on him to demonstrate to the community how he intends to do that and to show that it is not just sitting there as some form of speculative land banking." 

Councillor Clausen, along with Paige Johnson, Peta Winney-Baartz, Elizabeth Adamczyk, and Deahnna Richardson will put forward a notice of motion at Tuesday night's Council meeting, noting the strong community connection to the building. 

Picture: Newcastle Post Office

UPDATE! Land and Sea Search Launch For Man Missing From Catherine Hill Bay

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police have advised the search for Paul Ellis concluded on Monday afternoon when he was found at Flowers Drive in Catherine Hill Bay. 

The 48-year-old was taken to the John Hunter Hospital for assessment.

Police have thanked the community for sharing the appeal.

EARLIER:  

 A search is under way for a man reported missing from Lake Macquarie.

48-year-old Paul Ellis was last seen on the beach at Catherine Hill Bay at about 2.30pm yesterday (Sunday 22 February 2026).

Police and family hold concerns for his welfare as he lives with a number of health issues.

PolAir and Marine Rescue were involved in the search during daylight hours with local police supported by Police Rescue and the SES in a land search overnight.

Paul is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 195cm tall with a thin build, short blonde hair and a goatee beard.

He was last seen wearing a grey t-shirt and blue shorts.

Anyone with information as to his whereabouts is urged to contact Belmont Police Station of Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
 

 

Missing man Paul Ellis

Police Appeal For Help To Find Missing Metford Teen

 BY IAN CROUCH

Fears are growing for the welfare of a teenage boy who's gone missing from Metford.

14-year-old Jack Taylor was last seen on Schank Drive at about 8.25am yesterday (Thursday 19 February 2026) and the alarm was raised when he failed to return home and couldn't be contacted.

He lives with a number of medical conditions which require regular medication.

Jack's described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 165cm tall with a slim build and short dark hair.

He was last seen wearing a school uniform consisting of black shorts, white shirt and black shoes.

Jack was last seen heading towards Metford Railway Station and is known to frequent the Thornton shopping centre.

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

 

Missing teen Jack Taylor

  

Councilor Condemns Proposed Cooks Hill High-Rise

BY LOUISE LIMBERS

Newcastle councillor Declan Clausen has voiced his strong disapproval of high-rise apartment blocks proposed for Cooks Hill. 

He, alongside many residents, have sent in submissions slamming the proposal, claiming they will cause parking issues, as well as overshadow the surrounding heritage infrastructure. 

Sydney company Vivacity applied to the NSW Housing Delivery Authority for development approval to build two apartment blocks, one 13 storeys and the other eight, creating 113 dwellings. 

Located in between Civic Park and the Newcastle Art Gallery, the proposed 45-metre tall build is more than triple the current permitted height limit of 14 metres. 

Cr Declan Clausen said he believes the build will significantly impact the area. 

"Putting a 45 metre residential tower in the middle of a residential conservation area where there are clear zoning rules," he said. 

"I think would be an enormous mistake." 

Set to cost more than $133 million dollars, the development will exceed the threshold of state significant development of  $30 million and 40 dwellings for a proposal in regional NSW. 

"We are a council that absolutely welcomes additional growth and new housing but it's got to be in the right locations," said Cr Clausen. 

He lodged a formal objection to the project on Tuesday. 

"I hope that they take seriously, the submissions that I've made, and the submissions that have been made by hundreds of Novocastrians, who just expect a fair outcome where the planning rules are respected for our city," he added. 

Man Arrested Following Fatal Kooragang Crash

 BY OLI GOELDNER

A third driver has come forward following a fatal two-vehicle crash at Kooragang this morning. 

At about 9.25am, emergency services were called to Cormorant Road, following reports of a crash.

At the scene, police were told a sedan and van had collided head-on in the northbound lanes. 

NSW Ambulance paramedics assisted the two occupants of the sedan; however, they died at the scene. 

They are yet to be formally identified. 

The driver of the van was treated at the scene for minor injuries, and taken to John Hunter Hospital for assessment and mandatory testing. 

Following the crash, at 9.45am, a 42-year-old man attended Waratah Police Station allegedly reporting he was involved in the crash. 

The man was arrested and taken to John Hunter Hospital for mandatory testing. 

He stated he was not in either of the vehicles, with his involvement in the crash still being investigated by Newcastle City Police with assistance by the Crash Investigation Unit. 

As inquiries continue, police urge anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

CCTV Footage Released of Thornton Business Fire

BY OLI GOELDNER

Detectives are appealing for information after a suspicious fire at a Thornton business last week. 

At about 1.05am on Tuesday 10 February, emergency services were called to the business on the New England Highway, following reports of a fire. 

Fire and Rescue NSW crews brought the fire under control and extinguished the blaze.  

The building sustained minimal structural damage; however, large amounts of stock were destroyed, and a cash register was stolen.

Police attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District established a crime scene and commenced inquiries into the fire.

The men are depicted in the CCTV wearing dark clothing and balaclavas, and are believed to have left the area in a light-coloured hatchback.

One of the men is seen leaving the area with the lower half of his body engulfed in flames.

Police believe the man might have suffered burns following the incident.

As inquiries into the incident continue, anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Man Charged With Threatening Shoppers At Waratah Village

 BY IAN CROUCH

A man is due to front court today (Tuesday 17 February 2026) accused of threatening to assault shoppers at the Waratah Shopping Village.

Police were called just to the Turton Road shopping precinct just before 7.30pm on Monday 16 February 2026  to reports a man was randomly harassing shoppers at the K Mart store and allegedly threatened to assault a female.

Other shoppers intervened and performed a citizen's arrest until police arrived a short time later.

The 32-year-old from Sydney was arrested and taken to Waratah Police Station.

He's been refused bail to face Newcastle Local Court today charged with affray.

 

State Government Steps In On Calvary Mater Repairs

BY EVIE JONES 

Cladding remediation works will soon begin at Waratah's Calvary Mater hospital, with a state government intervention. 

The hospital's private manager NovaCare has been issued multiple notices of breach, after it was found cladding on the facility's facade was not up to code. 

It's believed the unsatisfactory exterior has caused water to leak into the hospital and create significant mould infestations, which have led to several wards closing in the past month. 

Progress for the works has been repeatedly delayed due to ongoing commercial discussions between NovaCare and NSW Health, leading the state government to step in. 

Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery said they had no other choice. 

"We had to intervene to make sure that work was done on time," she said. 

"Unfortunately, the private provider hasn't stepped in as quickly as they should have, and that's why the state government has stepped in."

A contractor has been employed by the state government to begin the works in March, which are set to be completed by mid next year. 

The intervention comes as staff and concerned civilians rallied outside the facility last month protesting unsanitary and unsafe conditions. 

Sonia Hornery said she agrees with staff, labelling the mold as an unacceptable safety concern. 

"It's important for us to expedite this work because it's a continuing safety problem, particularly for people who are very ill," she said.

"We know that the Mater is a leader in treating cancer patients.

"We can't afford to have very ill people getting sick because the building isn't clean and safe and sanitary.

"It also provides problems for people with pneumonia and other chest and lung infections. "We really do need to urgently get rid of it."

NSW Health indicated it will work closely with the Calvary Mater team to coordinate remediation works while minimizing disruption to patients, staff and visitors. 

The state government also showed its support for the Calvary Mater, claiming it will take all necessary steps to support remediation and ensure the continued safety, functionality and reliability of the hospital. 

Teen Killed In Tragic Crash Near Maitland

 BY IAN CROUCH

A teenage boy has been tragically killed in a crash at Bishops Bridge overnight.

Emergency services were called to Wollombi Road about 10km west of Maitland at about 8.30pm on Sunday 15 February 2026 to reports of a crash between a car and a push bike.

They arrived to find a 15-year-old boy with serious injuries.

Despite the efforts of paramedics he died at the scene.

Police established a crime scene and are urging anyone with information,  CCTV or dashcam footage to contact Maitland Police or Crime Stoppers.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

 

Gavin Morris To Run For Newcastle Lord Mayor

 BY OLI GOELDNER

Former NBN weatherman Gavin Morris has announced he will be running for Lord Mayor in the upcoming by-election. 

He announced his candidacy on Friday morning, with the endorsement of former Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge. 

Mr Morris said he plans to run as an Independent. 

"There is a lot to do from here on in," he said.

"I have to build a campaign, I need volunteers, I need to build funding, I need to engage with the community, and that is my focus right now.

"If I were elected Lord Mayor, I would take what I learn over the next week and help it guide with the decisions that need to be made for the betterment of our city in the future."

It follows Cr Ross Kerridge resigning from the position on Monday due to his ongoing battle with cancer. 

Mr Morris said he believes his skills in the media will be beneficial if he is to be elected. 

"I've been a member of the media for more than 40 years and I have a unique skill set and I think a lot of those skills from my days in media and engaging with the community carry over beautifully into the position of Lord Mayor," he explained.

"And I feel it's really important to come in completely afresh.

"I am not connected and I am not influenced by any past goings-on in the council and I think that is really important, not just for me but for the future Lord Mayor.

"I think it's really important that that future Lord Mayor is completely and truly independent.

"I think that's more important than just about anything else."

The upcoming by-election for the position is expected to be held in mid-April.