Former Charlestown MP Richard Face Dies, Age 80

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Former Hunter Labor MP and State Government Minister Richard Face has died at the age of 80. 

The Former Charlestown MP reportedly passed away last night after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. 

He held the seat of Charlestown for 30 years, which is believed to be a record for any state or Federal MP in the region. 

Mr. Face also served as the Minister Assisting the Premier on Hunter Development, which is now known as the Minster for the Hunter. 

He was instrumental in the establishment of the Glenrock State Recreational Reserve, and was a staunch advocate for the construction of the West Charlestown bypass, and the redevelopment of McDonald Jones Stadium. 

Female and Hunter MPs Aplenty in New State Cabinet

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Five of the Hunter's seven Labor MP's have been given positions in Chris Minns' new state government. 

Swansea MP, Yasmin Catley is one of the big winners in the new ministry, being elevated to the Police and Counter-terrorism portfolio.

Charlestown MP, Jodi Harrison becomes the new Minister for Women, Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, and Seniors.

Port Stephens MP, Kate Washington moves into the Families and Communities and Disability Inclusion portfolios.

Maitland's Jenny Aitchison is now the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads.

The Hunter locals are among a host of others elevated to new positions in an historic 50% female-led ministry. 

Meanwhile, Member for Newcastle, Tim Crakanthorp becomes Minister for the Hunter and retains his shadow role in Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education.

The Premier has also thrown his support behind Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper as the new speaker for the Lower House.  

He says, he looks forward to seeing an Independent in the seat. 

"It's very difficult for a speaker who is drawn from the ruling party to give that sense of independence that we expect of someone in that position, but when the person who in in the speaker's role comes as an Independent, it will truly be an independent role," Mr Piper said. 

Mr Piper noted whilst he's proud to be endorsed for the role, he won't let it distract him from getting things done in his electorate. 

Image: Premier's Office

Shortland MP Pat Conroy snags spot in Albanese Ministry

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter has scored a seat at the table in Anthony Albanese's new ministry.

Shortland MP Pat Conroy has been appointed Minister for Defence Industry, as well as Minister for International Development and the Pacific.

He's holding on to the latter portfolio from the Shadow Ministry, where he also served as a Minister Assisting for Defence and Climate Change.

Mr Conroy says it's a real privilege for himself, and a great move for the region.

"Defence has got a huge potential to be a real boon in terms of jobs in our region," he said.

"We've got great expertise, not just at Williamtown. Obviously Forgacs at Tomago helped build modules for the Air Warfare Destroyer. We built the minesweepers and so forth.

"We've got a real opportunity to build on that excellence."

Image credit: Pat Conroy.