Union Backs Reintroduction Of Cessnock Passenger Trains

BY LIAM COLLINS

The Rail Tram and Bus Union is calling on the Minns Government to reinstate passenger train lines between Maitland and Cessnock.

Current and expected population growth in both regions have spurred the union to advocate for the lines to be reopened, hoping to put forward a motion at the NSW Labor Party State Conference this July.

Currently, residents travelling between Newcastle and Cessnock don't have any direct public transport options, with the Train to Cessnock Campaign having voiced concerns since 2023.

The Maitland-Cessnock passenger line has been closed since the 1970s after patronage declined.

The union's Loco Division secretary Farren Campbell said reinstating passenger trains is a common sense position.

"Good, cheap, reliable, efficient public transport is so important for communities everywhere, and that's particularly the case in the Hunter," he said.

"We've seen regional communities really struggle with public transport - we think this is a no-brainer.

"It's good for working families and good for the Hunter."

Mr Campbell further stated the opportunity the union had to advocate for the line reopening would be beneficial.

"We're proud to be spearheading this at the upcoming Labor conference," he said. 

"It's something that we absolutely support, and we commend anyone who's willing to get behind it."

The NSW Labor Party State Conference will be held at the Sydney Town Hall on the 4th and 5th of July.

BREAKING! Police Investigate Armed Robbery At Gateshead Tavern

 BY IAN CROUCH

Lake Macquarie police are searching for three people involved in an armed robbery at Gateshead overnight.

Police say three young males entered the Gateshead Tavern on the Pacific Highway at about 5.30pm on Thursday 9 April, 2026 and stole alcohol from the bottle shop before threatening a 25-year-old male employee with a knife.

The group then fled - police say there were no reports of injuries.

They've set up a crime scene and are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

 

Garbage Truck Driver Killed In Tragic Crash Near Singleton

 BY IAN CROUCH

Hunter Valley police are trying to piece together the circumstances leading up to fatal crash near Singleton.

Police say just before 9.00am yesterday (Thursday 9 April 2026), emergency services were called to Mirannie Road at Mirannie to reports of a crash.

They found a garbage truck had veered off the road and hit a tree before rolling down a steep embankment.

The male driver, believed to be in his 40's, died at the scene - he's yet to be formally identified.

A crime scene has been established as investigations continue and a report is being prepared for the Coroner. 

 

Police Investigate Suspicious Unit Fire At Bar Beach

 BY IAN CROUCH

Fire has caused extensive damage to a unit at Bar Beach overnight.

Eight fire trucks were called to a multi-unit complex on Light Street at 7.20pm on Thursday 9 April 2026 to find a top floor unit on fire.

Newcastle Fire Command says the occupants of the unit were accounted for and all residents of the complex were safely evacuated.

It took crews about an hour to douse the flames.

Police are treating the fire as suspicious.

Forensic officers and fire investigators are looking into the cause of the fire.

 

Case of Measles Confirmed In Newcastle

BY JACK HODGINS

Hunter residents are warned to remain cautious, with a case of measles detected at John Hunter Hospital. 

Earlier this month, an unvaccinated child recently returned from a holiday in Asia attended the hospital's emergency department, unknowingly infected with measles. 

The child was presented on two occasions, the first on April 1 from 6.30pm to 1am the next morning, and the second on April 6 from 1.30pm to 3pm. 

Anybody in the emergency department during these times is being urged to monitor themselves for symptoms of measles. 

Symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore eyes and a cough usually followed three or four by a red, blotchy rash which spreads from the head to the rest of the body. 

Public Health Physician with the Hunter New England Local Health District Dr David Durrheim said vaccinations are crucial to quash the disease. 

"We're seeing around the world, unfortunately multiple outbreaks of measles which is a real great pity," he said. 

"Anybody who's travelling overseas should make sure that they're protected against measles and they've had two doses of measles-containing vaccine.

"If they're unsure whether it's safe to get an extra dose, it's much better to be protected than to be exposed to measles." 

A full list of case locations is available on the NSW Health website here. 

Picture: John Hunter Hospital

M1 Motorway Extension A Year Ahead Of Schedule

 BY OLI GOELDNER

Progress on the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace is expect to be open later this year, more than a year ahead of schedule. 

The accelerated timeline comes following the completion of the new five kilometre motorway forming the Heatherbrae Bypass. 

As part of the northern section, the Raymond Terrace interchange, the Masonite Road overpass and a major bridge crossing at Windeyers Creek have also been completed.

The M1 extension will be open as soon as work on the 10-kilometre southern section from Black Hill to Tomago is complete, later this year. 

Roads Minister and Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison said it's a major step forward. 

"It's been a massive effort to get this essentially more than a year ahead of schedule," she said. 

"This project has created so many jobs in our region, with 2,700 people having worked on this project.

"It's something that generations of people across the Hunter can be very proud of the work that is here." 

Following opening, contractors will remain on site to monitor how the new road adjusts to carrying highway traffic, undertake landscaping establishment and targeted maintenance as required.

The monitoring will be carried out for up to two years on the southern section and one year on the northern section. 

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said it marks a big day for the Hunter. 

"The school holiday traffic we're seeing on the existing highway right now is a great reminder as to why this project is vital," she said. 

"Nearly 25,000 vehicles use this road on a normal day, with that number swelling during the holiday breaks."

Picture: Ian Crouch

Concerns Held For Teenage Girl Missing From Port Stephens

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police are asking for our help to find a teenage girl who's been missing from the Port Stephens area for a week.

14-year-old Aubree Way was last seen at Soldiers Point at about 9.00am on Thursday 26 March 2026 and Police and family hold concerns for her welfare due to her age.

Aubree's described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 150cm tall with a thin build and brown hair.

She's known to frequent the Soldiers Point, Liverpool, Casula and Cabramatta areas.

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

Missing teen Aubree Way

 

Fernleigh Track Signs To Combat Anti-Social Behaviour

 BY OLI GOELDNER 

New signage has been installed along the Fernleigh Track to address anti-social behaviour on the popular pathway. 

A total of 14 signs have been put in at all access points on the track, encouraging users to report incidents to police. 

Lake Macquarie Council Community Partnerships manager Matt Holloway said the signage will play an important role in combatting dangerous behaviour. 

"We're really encouraging people to report any incidents or unsafe behaviour they see or experience along the track," he said. 

"This can be done either through the triple zero emergency number, Crime Stoppers, the police assistance line or the online portal." 

Over the past 12 months, police have conducted regular bike and foot patrols of the popular walking track. 

NSW Police District Inspector Anita Kruse reported they've had hundreds of interactions with users of the path discussing their concerns and providing education in relation to e-bikes. 

During that time, ten infringement notices have been issued, and 24 offences have been dealt with under the Young Offenders Act. 

However, Mr Holloway said users should be more vigilant with reports. 

"We're really hoping to see an increase in reporting," he explained.

"The reporting at the moment is quite static over the last six months, I don't believe the numbers have increased or decreased. 

"And, what we're hoping to see out of this is if these incidents are occurring, we see them being reported through these channels rather than through social media or other means." 

The signage is the first of many safety measures to be enacted by a dedicated subcommittee, formed during a Fernleigh Track roundtable meeting with key representatives in late 2025. 

"What we're looking to do is identify these signs and look for other safety-related signage," Mr Holloway said. 

'We also want a big focus back on etiquette ad acceptable behaviour. 

"Also, focusing not particularly on e-bikes, but the illegal e-bikes and anti-social behaviour along the track." 

Picture: Lake Macquarie City Council

Hunter Gamblers Lose $660 Million On Pokies

 BY OLI GOELDNER

Recent data from the state's Office of Liquor and Gaming revealed Hunter residents lost more than $660 million to poker machines last year. 

The figure comes following the release of the Office's final quarter summary for 2025. 

Newcastle and Lake Macquarie were found to be the biggest spenders, with Newcastle gamblers putting in $55 million into poker machines from August to September alone. 

Wests New Lambton raked in the most gambling profits in the Hunter throughout the year, ranking 20th in the state. 

The venue currently has 533 gambling machines. 

However, Muswellbrook and District Workers Club made the most profits per machine locally, ranking in at number 27 in the state, despite only having 61 gaming machines. 

Across NSW, gamblers lost more than $9.2 billion to poker machines, breaking records for the most in a single year. 

Greens MP and gambling harm minimisation spokesperson Cate Faerhmann said the figures are concerning. 

"It's clear that the Minn's Government's program of what they call gambling harm reduction isn't working," she said. 

"People in the Hunter are losing record amounts to the pokies and that's just extraordinary when you hear how tough people are doing it too. 

"We know that pokies are designed to be addictive and there's a lot of people out there who just can't help themselves when it comes to putting their money into poker machines.

"So something has to be done, we can't keep seeing record losses every single year, but that's the fact that we're seeing in NSW." 

Currently, Newcastle hosts 2,705 gaming machines across both clubs and hotels, with Lake Macquarie following closely behind at 2,472. 

"I think local communities should speak up about this because we're losing a million dollars an hour in NSW to poker machines," Ms Faerhmann added. 

"And, $660 million in the Hunter is dissapointing. 

"That's $660 million that isn't going into local businesses, families. 

"It's going to big clubs and it's a real crisis." 

Mangoola Coal Mine Workers Fighting New Pay Agreements

BY LOUISE LIMBERS 

Concerns are being raised surrounding a proposed enterprise agreement at Glencore's Mangoola coal mine in the Hunter. 

According to the Mining and Energy Union (MEU), the agreement is said to introduce tiered pay structures, cut contractor earnings and embed a cheaper workforce, with contractor earnings estimated to fall by around $36000 as a result. 

The MEU's Northern Mining and NSW District president Robin Williams said the agreement is concerning for local workers.  

"In effect, they're putting in place an agreement that will reduce the rate of contractors by 10 or 20 percent," he said.

"It's really an introduction of a tiered wage system to reduce the current rate, and then they can use that rate as a comparative for contractors."

It follows a Fair Work Commission order given to the mine's labour-hire workers which lifted their pay to replicate that of permanent workers. 

Now, Mr Williams said the mine is taking a step backwards. 

"They can't just move to different industries," he said. 

"Those employees would have to accept those lower rates and continue to work for these contractors." 

Workers at the Mangoola coal mine are set to vote on the agreement from 31 March to 1 April.

However, despite being the main subject to the changes, contract workers won't have the ability to vote. 

Picture: Mangoola Open Cut Coal Mine

Senator Says Hunter Businesses Will Pay Following EU Deal

 BY OLI GOELDNER

Hunter-based senator Ross Cadell said Hunter businesses will face unprecedented costs with the new Australia-European Union Free Trade Agreement. 

Signed yesterday, the deal will see European goods, including food, wine and cars, become cheaper for Australian buyers. 

Under the agreement, the federal government will remove the five percent tariff places on European goods. 

Additionally, EU tariffs will be taken off Australian imports, including critical minerals, manufactured items and many dairy products. 

However, the deal poses infringements on the classification of multiple Australian produced food and wine products. 

It's reported Australian producers will be allowed to keep using the term "prosecco" for domestic sales, but they will have to be phase out the term over the next decade for exports. 

Domestic manufacturers will also keep the rights to describe their wares as parmesan and kransky, but other cheese names such as feta, romano and gruyere will eventually be phased out as well. 

Ross Cadell said it could have serious implications for several Hunter Valley businesses, including vineyards, abattoirs and dairy producers. 

"What they'll do is they'll have to shrink their markets again," he explained. 

"They'll have to find new markets by going out and spend their own money to try and find different places to sell things. 

"They'll have to look at repackaging things and renaming things, there's costs involved with that." 

He said he fears it may be the beginning of a hoard of new legislation adopted from European nations. 

"If the EU legislation on deforestation on these things comes in, are we going to lose our grazing land," he said. 

"Are we going to lose our farming land up in the valley?

"It's a real problem for us. 

"I just want our farmers to be able to farm, vineyards to be able to make wine, miners to be able to mine and make Australia stronger." 

Hunter-based Nationals senator Ross Cadell. Picture: NSW Nationals

Missing Sydney Girl Could Be In The Hunter Valley

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police believe a missing Sydney teenager could be in the Hunter Valley.

14-year-old Jade Baxter from Rossmore in Sydney's south-west was last seen on Macquarie Street, Singleton at about 9.00am on Friday March 13.

Police hold concerns for her welfare due to her age.

She's described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 140cm tall with blonde hair and green/blue eyes.

Police believe Jade could be in the Singleton, Cydesdale or Bellambi areas.

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

 

Missing teen Jade Baxter

 

 

 

E Bikes Banned At Local High School

 BY OLI GOELDNER

A Newcastle high school has made the call to ban all e-bikes on school grounds following a string of accidents. 

Parents of Kotara High School students received a letter last week stating the vehicles would be banned from the first day of Term 2, Wednesday April 22. 

Traffic around the school, which backs onto Lexington Parade, is known to be extremely busy during peak hours, with several incidents reported between e-bikes and vehicles in 2025 and 2026. 

Principal Mark Snedden said they've seen a rapid increase in students using the bikes. 

"We're in a very congested area of Newcastle here in the morning at drop off and pick up time with all the buses," he said. 

"There have been concerns raised by community members, as well as staff and parents, around the use of e-bikes and the safety of them with regard to other road users." 

He noted while the bikes are a useful form of transport for students, the safety risks are too large to ignore. 

"Under the Department of Education policy around to and from school, it's still a parent's priority to make a decision on how a student does get to and from school," he explained. 

"But, what I am able to do within the policy is make a decision on what things can be brought into school grounds.

"So the decision has been made to no longer house e-bikes on school." 

Principal Snedden also argued they don't have the proper storage facilities for the e-bikes as they are much larger than ordinary push bikes, whilst also featuring lithium batteries which can pose a fire risk. 

The ban comes alongside new state-wide laws giving NSW Police and Transport for NSW the power to seize and crush illegal e-bikes. 

The new legislation targets the growing number of throttle-only, high-powered e-bikes, which are said to fuel anti-social behaviour, community frustration and serious injuries. 

Picture: Department of Education

Calls For New Nature Reserves As Part Of Hunter Transmission Project

BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK

The Nature Conservation Council of NSW is calling on the state government to re-think the Hunter Transmission Project.

The major initiative is set to incur a sweep of deforestation across a large portion of the Hunter's bushland, with the Conservation Council asking for additional nature reserves to offset it's predicted impact. 

It follows submissions from fellow environmental groups slamming the planned deforestation which will take place during to the project's construction, including at Olney, Watagan and Pokolbin state forests. 

In an effort to combat the impacts, the Conservation Council has released a report identifying 11 new strategic reserves to be added in conjunction with the major project, set to strengthen ecological connectivity across the region.

The listed reserves include 700 hectares of former BHP land at West Wallsend, 580 hectares adjacent to Newcastle Link Road, and about 3,000 hectares of land in the Hunter Economic Zone at Tomalpin. 

The Conservation Council's Policy and Advocacy Director Brad Smith said their main goal is to stop the decline in some of the State's most critically endangered species.

"The [Hunter Transmission] Project itself is about 100 kilometres long and the area it will disturb is about 1,000 hectares," he said.

"Of the 1,000 hectares, around 200 is endangered bushland.

"We're saying to just give those State forests back to National Parks.

"At the moment, they're being logged, and by removing the logging threat from those State forests, it would have a great impact for nature in the region."

Mr Smith went further to call on Newcastle Council to back them in their push for renewed ecological health in the region.

"We hope everyone would be on our side, because this is a good outcome for nature," he said.

"We know we need to get ahead with this transmission line and bring the solar, wind power to the businesses and home who need it, but we don't want to see nature sidelined in the process.

"This is really a once-in-a-generation opportunity to really take hold of some of these beautiful natural areas in the Hunter and protect them for everyone into the future."

Currently, project refinements are continuing to be made following field surveys, agency consultation and community feedback.

Picture: NSW Government. 

Police Seek Help To Find Morriset Man

 BY IAN CROUCH

A search continues for a man who's been missing from the Morisset area for more than a week.

32-year-old Codie Sams last seen at about 4.00pm on Friday 13 March 2026.

Police and family hold concerns for his welfare as he requires regular medication.

Codie's described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175cm tall with a medium build, short blonde/brown hair with a similar coloured beard and moustache

He also has a tattoo on his right hand.

Codie was last seen wearing a green hoodie, green pants and black shoes.

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

 

Missing man Codie Sams

Man In Custody Accused Of Stabbing Muso At Merewether Club

 BY IAN CROUCH

A man is assisting police with their inquiries over an alleged stabbing in Merewether overnight.

Emergency services were called to the Merewether Bowling Club on Caldwell Street just after 7.30pm on Sunday 22 Mar 2026 to reports of an assault.

Police were told a man who was working as a musician at the club had been stabbed several times near the entrance to the club by another man.

The 69-year-old was taken to hospital in a serious but stable condition with stab wounds to his chest and back.

Just after 1.30am today (Monday 23 March 2026) detectives arrested a 53-year-old man at a Stockton home.

He was taken to Newcastle Police Station where investigations are ongoing.

 

Train Manufacturing Returns To The Hunter

 BY OLI GOELDNER

Nearly 40 years since the Tangara trains were built in Newcastle, the fleet will return to the region for much-needed maintenance. 

A $447 million injection from the state government will see two new production lines established at Cardiff's rail facility. 

The program will extend the life of 55 eight-carriage trains by over a decade through a variety of maintenance works. 

Works include the replacement of internal cladding, computer software, the installation of additional accessible emergency help points, emergency door release, passenger visual displays, upgrades to the passenger address system and CCTV. 

Regional Transport Minister and Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison said it's a positive step forward. 

"This allows us to ensure that we have that reliability of the Tangaras that people have come to rely on over so many decades," she said. 

"This is really a vote of confidence in the Hunter and a way of building our capacity to ensure that we can deliver the trains for the future right here in the Hunter. 

"We know that the Hunter has a proud history of building trains. 

"This refurbishment work will help to redevelop and extend the skills of that workforce." 

Around 100 new jobs and 20 apprenticeships are expected to be created locally through the program. 

The passenger train manufacturing workforce has not been in operation in the Hunter since 2013, with a national focus put on locomotives built offshore. 

The two new production lines in the Hunter, in addition to the existing three lines at Auburn and Flemington, will increase the pace of train upgrades from 12 per year to 20. 

A new Tanagra fleet is planned to be built through the program, set to begin procurement by 2027. 

To date, four Tanagra trains are undergoing upgrades with the first train now in the network undergoing dynamic testing activities before it re-enters service. 

"This is what rebuilding public transport capability in NSW looks like," Minister Aitchison added. 

"More skilled jobs in the Hunter, more apprentices and more work being done here in Australia, instead of offshore."

Picture supplied. 

Police Investigate Fatal Crash At Maitland

 BY IAN CROUCH

An investigation is underway after a man was killed in a crash at Maitland.

Emergency services were called to Flat Road at Largs just before 12.30pm on Thursday (19 March 2026) to reports a man had been hit by a vehicle.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, he was unable to be revived and died at the scene and is yet to be formally identified.

A 32-year-old woman who was driving the vehicle was taken to hospital for mandatory drug and alcohol testing.

As investigations continue, police are urging anyone with dashcam footage or information to contact Crime Stoppers.

 

Hunter Region Feeling Pinch Of Additional Interest Rate Increase

 BY REUBEN AGYEI DANSO

Hunter residents are increasingly calling for financial assistance, following additional interest rate increases. 

Due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the Reserve Bank of Australia has added another increase to national interest rates, bumping up the total to 4.1 percent. 

Following the initial spike, the National Debt Helpline has recorded it's highest number of calls recorded for the month of February since 2020. 

Last month, the service handled more than 15,800 calls and online chats about mortgage stress, credit card and ATO debts, growing energy bills and personal loans, a nine percent jump on the same time last year.

Helpline coordinator Vicki Staff said the increase is bad news for people who are already struggling. 

"The kind of decisions that people are now having to make; do I pay for rent or do I pay for my medicine?" she said. 

"So, the more interest rates go up, the more pressure it puts on people". 

Ms Staff explained it comes at a time where additional financial pressures are already rampant. 

"We already know that the reason behind this rate hike is related to what's going on globally," she said. 

"Some people are struggling to put petrol in their cars at the same time. 

"So, it's just coming down to those really tough decisions that people are having to make everyday." 

Yesterday's increase is expected to add about $100 a month to the repayments on a $600,000 loan. 

It comes as inflation sits at 3.8 percent, which is outside the Reserve Bank's target range of between two and three percent. 

Financial Counselling Australia CEO Dr Domenique Meyrick said people who are struggling need to know they are not alone. 

"They should contact their bank or lender as soon as possible," she said. 

"It's critical that banks and lenders respond constructively when customers ask for help." 

However, Ms Staff said there is still reason for optimism. 

"I think that certainly there is hope that things will ease globally and will provide a pressure release back here in Australia," she added. 

Picture: Pexels 

Work To Begin On Hillsborough Road Upgrade

BY OLIVIA HADWEN

The long-awaited Hillsborough Road upgrade is set to begin in April.

The project's first stage involves the upgrade of Crockett Street intersection. 

New traffic lights will be installed and 700 metres of the road along Hillsborough Road will be duplicated. 

Early site establishment activities will begin in April, with major construction expected to start in May and take around 18 months to complete, depending on staging arrangements. 

The state government is investing $35 million to complete initial stage, set to be undertaken by Daracon Contractors Pty Ltd. 

The entire project will ultimately upgrade the 1.8 kilometer stretch of road running from the Newcastle Inner City Bypass roundabout to the existing duplication of west Crockett Street. 

Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said the project will assist the thousands of motorists using the road everyday. 

"After years of congestion and frustration for local drivers, we're getting on with the job of delivering real upgrades that make a difference," she said. 

"It's harder to do this work without causing some disruption, but motorists will be pleased when they're seeing there is going to be significant improvements to their daily commute.

"We ask motorists to take care around construction areas and to follow all road signs."

The project was shaped through community feedback, with Transport for NSW consulting on the concept design and environmental assessment in 2022 and publishing the submissions report in August 2023. 

Picture: Transport for NSW

Multi-Million Dollar Boost For Flood-Damaged Mandalong Road

 BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK

An $8.7 million redevelopment began at Mandalong's Deaves Road today, following extensive damages from an April 2022 storm. 

It's a main arterial road located in one of the Hunter's biggest future growth corridors and provides an alternative route for the M1 Motorway and Freemans Drive.

Through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, both the state and federal governments have been able to provide funding for the project to go ahead.

While Mandalong doesn't currently have a big population, the western Lake Macquarie-based suburb is earmarked for potential growth in the coming years.

Hunter MP Dan Repacholi said the re-development aims to improve the road's stability, given it's in an area with a history of flooding and natural disasters.

"We'll be doing a major upgrade to the culverts to improve the drainage," he said.

"There'll also be specialist work, including pavement treatment that doesn't deteriorate over time."

While no set time for project completion was given, Mr Repacholi spoke on the importance of the project, in regards to flood-proof infrastructure in rural areas.

"Investing in flood-proof infrastructure is so important in the Hunter because we've been through natural disasters," he said.

"Since coming into the seat in 2022, we've experienced some horrendous rain events, some fires, and we need to make sure we are able to get people and families to and from areas."

Picture: Google Maps

"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