Fears Mounting For Man Missing From Mannering Park

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police hope to speak to work colleagues today of a man reported missing from southern Lake Macquarie.

48-year-old Craig Wheatley from Mannering Park was last seen at a licensed venue in Doyalson at about 3 o'clock on Friday morning.

Police and family hold serious concerns for his welfare as his disappearance is out of character.

He is known to frequent the Watagan Forest and may be driving a white Toyota Hilux Workmate with the NSW registration EWG 54C

Craig is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 190cm tall with grey hair and a grey beard.

He was last seen wearing a black shirt and black shorts.

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

Missing Man Craig Wheatley

 

Man Jumps Into Lake Macquarie To Escape Police

 BY IAN CROUCH

A man wanted on outstanding warrants has tried to flee police by jumping into the water at Mannering Park.

Officers went to a home on Mariam Street yesterday morning to arrest the man, but he allegedly ran from the house and jumped over a back fence.

With police chasing him on foot he jumped into the water from a nearby jetty, with Polair assisting officers to arrest him as he returned to shore.

A search allegedly uncovered $1100 cash, and a quantity of methyamphetamine.

The 33-year-old has been refused bail to face Wyong Court today (Thursday 1 July,2021) charged with destroy/damage property with intent to endanger life, possess prohibited drug, aggravated robbery and inflict actual bodily harm and two outstanding warrants.

 

 

House Up In Flames At Mannering Park

BY IAN CROUCH

Fire has engulfed a home at Mannering Park this morning.

NSW Fire & Rescue and RFS crews were called to the single story fibro home on Barclay Avenue just after 3.00am to find the house well alight.

Newcastle Fire Command says all occupants have been accounted for.

Firefighters have been hampered by the presence of asbestos, while part of the roof has collapsed.

The cause of the fire is not known at this stage, but it's not thought to be suspicious.