Port Stephens Jet Ski Restrictions To Return This Summer

 BY OLI GOELDNER

A restriction on powered vessels along popular Port Stephens swim spots will be put in place this summer after a successful trial run.

From 24 December 2025 to 26 January 2026, three locations at Port Stephens put in restrictions preventing powered vessels, including jet skis, from operating within 30 metres of the shoreline. 

Dutchman's Beach, Fly Point and Shoal Bay were included in the trial, with clear signage installed at the sites and launch points. 

An evaluation report has since been released, showing more than 85 per cent of residents, visitors and powered vessel users were in support of the initiative. 

Throughout the trial, there were no cases of powered vessels observed speeding near the shoreline at the restricted areas. 

Stand-up paddleboards and other non-powered watercraft activity increased substantially in the powered vessel free zones as well. 

Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said the results of the trial speak for themselves. 

"The results from last season are overwhelmingly supportive and positive," she said. 

"What we saw was a reduction in conflicts and a much safer, calmer summer." 

NSW Maritime Executive Director Nicole Watts echoed the MP's statements. 

"Port Stephens is one of our state's most popular waterways and this trial is about keeping everyone safe while enjoying the water," said Ms Watts. 

"With zones in place at the same locations this summer, there are still extensive areas across Port Stephens where powered vessels can operate safely and responsibly." 

Port Stephens MP Kate Washington and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison in Port Stephens. Picture: Ian Crouch

Nelson Bay Road To Receive Massive $275 Million Overhaul

 BY MAXWELL HARVEY

The state government has revealed a $275 million upgrade plan for Nelson Bay Road, aiming to make the route safer and more efficient.

With preliminary works expected to begin next year, the first stage will build a four-lane road in the 2.8 kilometre stretch between Bobs Farm and Salt Ash.

It will support travel to Port Stephens via Richardson Road, which is expected to grow following the completion of the M1 to Raymond Terrace expansion.

The second stage then focuses on duplicating eight kilometres of road from Fern Bay to Williamtown, improving accessibility to Newcastle Airport and the surrounding areas.

Finally, the third stage will deliver additional safety measures across the improved sections of road.

It replaces the former Coalition Government's contentious Bobs Farm-to-Williamtown bypass proposal, which was declared to be unworkable by a Transport NSW review due to engineering and agricultural concerns. 

Roads and Regional Transport Minister Jenny Aitchison said the three-staged plan is a major step forward. 

"What we're giving the community now is a realistic, achievable plan to ensure that this road can be duplicated in a way that provides the safety upgrades that we need, but also improves connectivity, reduces congestion and looks at the sensitive agricultural and other lands around this area," she said.

Nelson Bay Road has a notorious reputation for crashes, with Transport for NSW statistics recording 115 incidents between 2020 and 2024.

Two fatalities have been recorded on the road this year, however the corridor between Anna Bay and Salamander Bay where both crashes occurred is not within the project's scope.

The timeline for the project remains uncertain, with the new plan yet to be submitted for federal government review.

Jenny Aitchison said it aims to right the wrongs of the prior Liberal-Nationals Government, and deliver improvements which serve the community.

"We had a lost decade in Newcastle and the Hunter, where plans were put on ice for over 10 years, not progressed, because they wouldn't engage with local representatives who were democratically elected by their communities," she said.

Roads and Regional Transport Minister Jenny Aitchison discussing plans with Port Stephens MP Kate Washington and Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp. Picture: Ian Crouch

Shoal Bay Residents Voice Anger Over Pathway Consultation

BY APRIL BRACKLEY

A $1.25 million pathway project has sparked community uproar in Port Stephens, due to an alleged lack of consultation. 

Port Stephens Council proposed plans to close two existing Shoal Bay beach access paths and install a three-metre wide, 500-metre long concrete path between Halifax Holiday park and Harwood Avenue.

A funding application for the project was submitted by Council on November 24 2024, with Transport for NSW approving the funding on May 13 2025. 

However, residents said the first known community notifications occurring at the end of April 2026.

Construction on the major project is due to begin in September. 

The Shoal Bay foreshore between the locations currently functions as a place for shared community activity, existing as one of the few areas in Port Stephens left undisturbed by a road or formal pavement. 

The proposed plan has received substantial negative feedback, with concerns over it's intruding nature and a loss of familiar, direct ways of reaching the beach. 

This has led to community action, including a deferral request made in May of this year, in which 45 residents signed a letter formally asking the council to defer construction until March 2027.

There has been no indication of the council's agreement with the deferral. 

"We were very upset with the manner in which many residents' concerns were being dismissed as kind of selfish and self-interested," said Shoal Bay resident Trevor Watling. 

"It's actually about preserving this place for everyone and future generations."

Local community members have also been left in the dark regarding reasons as to why the project has been so aggressively pushed by the council. 

"Why does it have to go ahead so fast," Mr Watling added. 

"Why can't it be deferred and why did they submit this without consultation."  

The community are continuing their efforts to pause the project and have now established their own survey, receiving more than 280 responses.

Port Stephens Council Asset Manager John Maretich has been contacted for comment. 

Proposed pathway. Picture: Port Stephens Council 

Port Stephens Mayor Calls for Protection Against Shoal Bay Erosion

BY CAMERON TARAGEL

Port Stephens mayor Leah Anderson is calling for the state government to step in and provide much-needed assistance for erosion along Shoal Bay Road. 

State legislation only allows sandbags to be in place for up to 90 days, but Cr Anderson believes an extension would be beneficial to allow for long-term solutions to begin. 

Currently, no sand bags are in place along the deteriorating foreshore due to the restrictions, with recent harsh weather removing large chunks of sand. 

Cr Anderson said sand management is only a short-term fix. 

"We're trying to do all the studies that we need to do to actually look at what we need to do," she said.

"We need to do something to stabilize the area until we can work out that long-term solution." 

The mayor recent wrote to the NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe to advocate for a 12 month extension to sand bag limits. 

Additionally, she said with the state government's financial support, a stronger long-term solution can be found.

"We don't have a lot of funding for the works that we need to do," she said.

"We need to apply for state government grants to be able to co-fund long-term solutions." 

Council is seeking the state approval to secure the beachfront as they continue delivering their long-term Coastal Management Program. 

Erosion along Shoal Bay Road in April this year. Picture: Port Stephens Council 

Million Dollar Tomaree Lodge Master Plan Released

BY JOHN HEWITT

After years of sitting idle there's now movement on the State Government's plans for the Tomaree Lodge precinct.

The Government has released its long-awaited Masterplan for Tomaree Lodge, outlining its future vision for the precinct with an emphasis on its history, natural beauty and connection to the community.

The release of the Masterplan follows the completion of a number of initial projects for the site, including walkway repairs, refurbishment of recreational areas, building upgrades and new CCTV cameras.

In the next phase of its development the Masterplan will focus on arts and cultural events, educational opportunities and local tourism initiatives.

President of the Tomaree Lodge Headland Heritage Group, Peter Clough, said the Masterplan was based on extensive feedback, and reflects the hopes and wishes of the local community.

"The initiatives outlined in the Masterplan make a lot of sense," he said.

"We are particularly pleased with the inclusion of educational facilities and a museum as initiatives for consideration."

The State Government is investing $4.6 million in the site to ensure the precinct can continue to meet community needs and expectations for generations to come.

The Government is also looking at commercial opportunities for the site, including the potential development of a cafe and information centre.

The Masterplan is available on the Department of Community and Justice web site - www.dcj.nsw.gov.a

Tomaree Headland. Picture: Tomaree Headland and Heritage Group

Port Stephens Powered Vessel Free Zone Deemed Success

 BY OLI GOELDNER

Officials are deeming the recent trial of Port Stephen's powered vessel free zones a success for the community. 

The trial, held between 24 December and 26 January, saw a series of exclusion zones put in places along popular beaches within the Port Stephens area. 

Any powered vessel, including jet skis, were prohibited from entering the zones in order to protect swimmer safety. 

Transport for NSW (TfNSWM) Maritime Executive Director Mark Hutchings said early feedback indicated a positive response from beach goers. 

"I can happily tell you that in those zones during that trial, everyone was really enjoying the interaction with the water and we were getting few complaints," he said.

"This is opposed to what we saw last year and the year before." 

During the trial, TfNSWM conducted more than 500 consultations with residents, visitors and powered vessel users as part of the independent evaluation process. 

"As we promised, we have independently evaluated this trial so that there can be no bias around the results," he added. 

Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said it was a win for the community. 

"Year on year we had been getting increasing numbers of complaints," she said. 

"But this year I've had none. 

"Instead, I've had a positive response to the zones that we've stood up. 

"So, it's really positive and pleasing to say that on Port Stephens waterways this year it's been calm waters." 

The results of the trial will become available in March. 

Picture: Port Stephens MP Kate Washington and TfNSWM Executive Director Mark Hutchings. 

Domestic Violence Refuge To Open in Port Stephens

 BY OLI GOELDNER

A new safety refuge is set to be opened in Port Stephens, providing support for women and children fleeing domestic and family violence. 

The facility will feature six independent units for women, both single and with children, alongside core areas for counselling, group programs, a children's playroom and separate youth space. 

Construction is currently underway, with the build set to be complete later this year. 

Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services (PSFaNS) Assistant Manager Ann Fletcher said women and children previously didn't have the option of a local refuge in Port Stephens. 

"In the past, if we needed to have a women and/or her children go into a refuge, they would have to leave the area," she said. 

"So, having one locally means women can still stay in their community, the children can still stay in school, and it's not uprooting the entirety of their life." 

The refuge is a partnership between Hume Community Housing and PSFaNS, and is developed under their Core and Cluster model. 

The organisation will open an online donation registry at the end of the month, with the community encouraged to gift whatever they can. 

"The Port Stephens community has always been marvelous at supporting us," said Ms Fletcher. 

"They have always rallied around us and we're very grateful to have such a generous community. 

"So, I know that they will be keen to support us in this activity as well." 

Teenage girl missing from Port Stephens

BY JORDAN REGNIS

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage girl missing from Port Stephens.

Jasmine Anderson, aged 14, was last seen at a bus stop on Gan Gan Road, Anna Bay, about 11:30am Sunday (18 August 2024).

Police hold concerns for her welfare due to her age.

Jasmine is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 165cm tall, of thin build and with brown hair and blue eyes.

She is known to frequent the Newcastle Interchange, Dora Creek and Nowra areas.

Anyone with information into her whereabouts is urged to call Port Stephens Hunter Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Jasmine Anderson

BREAKING! Missing Port Stephens Girls Found Safe And Well At Telarah

 BY IAN CROUCH

Two young girls reported missing from the Port Stephens area earlier this week have been found safe and well overnight.

12-year-old Ellah White was last seen leaving Tomaree High School on Tuesday morning and 13-year-old Sophie Fletcher hadn't been seen since leaving a Nelson Bay home on Monday morning.

Police say they received a call from staff at Telarah Railway Station at about 11 o'clock on Wednesday night reporting both girls were together on the platform.

They were picked up a short time later and safely returned to their families.

Car chase involving two vehicles spans across multiple suburbs

BY OLIVIA GOELDNER

Two separate police pursuits were launched in the Hunter this morning.

A Lexus and a Jeep Patriot were spotted by police during a patrol in the Fern Bay Area around 2:10am.

When the drivers failed to stop Two pursuits were initiated.  

The pursuit of the Jeep was terminated due to safety concerns. 

The Lexus which had been reported stolen reached Waratah before the pursuit was also terminated. 

Anyone with dashcam footage of the incident or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

Image courtesy of Newcastle Herald

BREAKING! Major Search Under Way Around Port Stephens For Missing Helicopter

 BY IAN CROUCH

A major land and sea search is under way around the Port Stephens area for a helicopter which has been reported overdue.

In a statement, police say the helicopter took off from Cessnock at about 8.50am on Thursday bound for Wallis Island, near Kempsey.

The chopper failed to arrive as planned and police were notified.

It's understood a 54-year-old man an a dog were on board at the time.

Water Police are also involved in the search.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

Water Police are involved in the search for a missing helicopter

Port Stephens Man Missing Since Saturday

BY OLIVIA DILLON

 

Police have launched an appeal for assistance to locate a man missing from Port Stephens. 

Andrew Collins, aged 63, hasn't been seen since Saturday evening (5th August 2023), when he left a home on Waropara Road at Medowie.

Andrew is described as being of Caucasian appearance, approximately 175cm tall, of a medium build, with black hair and brown eyes,

Police have reason to believe he's travelling in a white Toyota Tarago with NSW registration BQ2-0PV

If you've seen Andrew or know where he is, please contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

 

 

Changes Announced For Hunter Offshore Wind Zone

BY OLIVIA DILLON

The Federal Climate Change and Energy Minister has announced changes to the offshore wind zone declared for the Hunter's coast.

Chris Bowen is expected to announce a zone 1000 square metres smaller than the one originally proposed, which will run from Port Stephens to Swansea. 

It's also been moved about 9 kilometres further offshore.

The Central Coast section of the zone slated to go 10 kilometres off the shore at Norah Head has been removed from the proposal, after Shadow Minister Ted O'Brien last week heard concerns from the community about its potential to have visual, economic and environmental impacts on the area. 

The height of the turbines will be capped at 260 metres to address aviation concerns.

The changes mean the zone's energy-generating potential has shrunk from 8 gigawatts to 5. 

Mr. Bowen said the offshore wind industry has the potential to create over 3,000 construction jobs in the Hunter and 1,560 ongoing jobs. 

The government estimates the declared zone will generate enough electricity to power 4.2 million homes once fully developed. 

Appeal Launched for Missing Rutherford Teen

BY OLIVIA DILLON 

Port Stephens Police are asking for our help to locate a missing teenager. 

17-year-old Zeke Zielinski was last seen in Rutherford at about 9:30 yesterday morning. 

He was wearing a black hooded jumper, black jeans, and black and white Nike shoes. 

He was also carrying a guitar case.

Police say he's not in trouble but his family are concerned and want to make sure he is safe and well. 

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is being urged to contact Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

Port Stephens Council Rejects Application for Transitional Group Home at Swan Bay Tourist Facility

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Port Stephens Council has rejected an application for a popular rehabilitation centre at Swan Bay to include a transitional group home. 

Connect Global has been operating a community outreach program at the tourist facility known as Fisherman's Village for nearly 10 years. 

In that time it's served clientele including former Channel 7 presenter Andrew O'Keefe.  

An application to change the use of the facility to a transitional group home was rejected by the majority of Council Members at their last meeting, amid concerns antisocial behaviour and unease in the community would disrupt residents and tourists.

 
The decision has prompted an appeal to the NWS Land and Environment Court. 

Image: Daily Telegraph

17th Fingal Bay Drowning Prompts Calls for Increased Safety Measures

BY JORDANN LAVERS

A 71-year old man died at Fingal Bay in Port Stephens on Easter Sunday just after 10:00am on a family beach visit. 

Lifeguards were quick to respond to calls for help, with the man found floating in water near the infamous sand spit.

His young female relative was able to make it to safety.

Emergency services were called to reports a man was unresponsive in the water.

NSW Ambulance paramedics administered CPR however, the man was unable to be revived. 

This incident follows at least 16 other fatalities at the dangerous northern end of Fingal Bay, prompting immediate calls for an increase in basic safety measures. 

President of the Hunter Branch of NSW Surf Life Saving Henry Scruton is hoping additional signage and portable location beacons with a direct radio link to the surf club will be implemented at the popular holiday destination.

Mr Scruton says visitors should be vigilant when using the Bay's waterways.

"It is safe to swim in as long as you have the ability to swim but if you are not a good swimmer don't go over to that island especially when the tides are changing," he said.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is reviewing the incident to identify any further measures which need to be implemented to increase visitor awareness in future. 

A spokesperson said "visitor safety is a priority." 

Image: Marine Rescue Port Stephens

 

 

Calls to Locate Missing Port Stephens Teen

BY OLIVIA DILLON  

Port Stephens Hunter Police are seeking assistance from the public to locate a missing teenager.

15-year-old Bailey was last seen in Corlette at about 3:30 on Saturday afternoon. 

He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 180cm tall, of thin build, with a fair complexion and brown hair.

Bailey is know to frequent the Nelson Bay area.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers. 

 

 

BREAKING! Air And Sea Search Under Way After Flare Sighting Off Port Stephens

 BY IAN CROUCH

A search is under way after reports of a flare being sighted off Port Stephens early Wednesday morning.

Police say a member of the public reported seeing what's now believed to be two high powered spot lights about 40 kilometres offshore from Fishermans's Beach at about 3.40am .

A Marine Rescue crew is searching the area along with a helicopter.

Police say no emergency beacon has been activated in the area.

Hunter Man Charged With Grooming

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Detectives from the State Crime Command's Sex Crimes Squad have charged a man following an investigation into online grooming in the Hunter region. 

Officers have spent the last month connecting online with a 47-year-old man in Port Stephens, posing as a woman and her daughter, aged under ten years. 

The man reportedly engaged in highly-sexualised conversations, sent child abuse material, and arranged to meet the pair for sexual activity. 

He was arrested at a home in Tanilba Bay yesterday at about 7:30am. 

Police also seized several electronic storage devices and other items, which will undergo examination. 

He was formally refused bail, and will appear before Newcastle Local Court next Wednesday. 

Community calling for more time to consider Raymond Terrace development

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Hunter and Central Coast Planning Panel is facing calls to extend the deadline for submissions on the proposed Kings Hill development north of Raymond Terrace.

There's concern, residents have had just a month to respond, especially in the leadup to the Christmas period.

Submissions close on Friday 9 December, but Greens MP Cate Faehrmann has written to the Planning Panel, calling for an extra month to Friday 20 January in the new year.

Environmental groups and locals have raised the alarm, the project could result in the destruction of 152 hectares of koala habitat.

Ms Faehrmann says she's worried the project is "being rushed through the planning system", and the community needs more time to digest and evaluate the development applications.