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

CCTV Footage Released Of Clarence Town Armed Robbers

 BY OLI GOELDNER

Police are appealing for information after a man suffered serious head injuries during an armed robbery at a Clarence Town pub. 

About 6am on Thursday June 4, emergency services were called to the Erringhi Hotel on Grey Street, where a 52-year-old man had ben assaulted by two men armed with a baseball bat and a firearm. 

The two me left the scene in the man's vehicle with stolen cash, which was later found abandoned on the nearby Rifle Street and is currently undergoing forensic examination. 

The 52-year-old man was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to the John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition. 

A crime scene was established and an investigation was commenced by Port Stephens-Hunter Police District detectives. 

Detective Inspector Ranald Urquhart said it came as a shock to the community. 

"It's not the sort of thing that anyone expects to happen in Clarence Town," he said. 

He was unable to provide any further details on the investigation at the time. 

As the investigation continues, detectives have now released CCTV footage of two men who might be able to assist detectives with their inquiries. 

The first man is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 190cm tall, of skinny build with an Australian accent. 

He was last seen wearing blue trackpants, a dark coloured zip-up jacket, black and yellow gloves, and a dark balaclava. 

The second man is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 178cm tall, of solid build, with an Australian accent. 

He was last seen wearing dark pants, a dark coloured hoodie, black and white gloves and a dark balaclava. 

Anyone able to identify the men, or with information about the incident, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

Detective Inspector Ranald Urquhart. Picture: Ian Crouch

Pressure Mounts On Peabody Over Wambo Washery Lockout

BY OLIVIA HADWEN

The Australian Council of Trade Unions are increasing the pressure on Peabody Energy to end its lockout on workers at the United Wambo Washery in the Hunter Valley.

19 remain without pay after the company imposed a two week lockout after negotiations broke down over a new enterprise agreement. 

In a statement, Peabody said it's undertaken 15 formal bargaining meetings with the mining union and believes its 13 per cent wage increase offer over four years is fair and competitive, making it's workforce the highest paid in the region. 

Peabody's offered a 2.5 per cent annual wage increase and cuts to bonus agreements, which workers have been disputing since early May.

However, miners at Wambo Washery argue the offer falls marginally behind industry standards. 

After meeting with affected workers on June 22, Australian Council of Trade Unions president Michelle O'Neil is calling on Peabody to return to the negotiating table. 

"Locking workers out of their jobs and cutting off their income is an unfair and unreasonable escalation that will just prolong the dispute," she said.

"Peabody Energy is placing unnecessary financial strain on its workers, which will ripple through families across the Hunter Valley." 

She has consequently also called for changes to Australia's industrial relations laws. 

Peabody Energy is currently standing firm with both their enterprise agreement offer and lockout action.

"We remain committed to constructive engagement and will continue our negotiations during the industrial action and lockout period with the bargaining representatives," said a Peabody spokesperson. 

Peabody locks out Wambo Washery workers. Picture: Mining and Energy Union. 

 

Brain-Eating Amoebas Stalling Push to Re-Open Lake Liddell

 BY CHARLIE PROUDLOCK

AGL is continuing to refuse pushes to reopen Lake Liddell, with deadly brain-eating amoebas still believed to be inhabiting the waterway.

The man-made lake was created back in the late 1960s, as an extension of the now-partially destroyed Liddell Power Station.

It was shut in 2016, after an initial discovery of the rare Naegleria Fowleri amoeba.

The organism is commonly found in warm freshwater bodies and can cause a severe brain infection if water containing it enters the nose while swimming.

Despite the risk, many boaters and fishers are pushing for the Lake to be reopened to the public for recreational use.

Among those backing the push is Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell who said AGL needs to work quickly to re open the once popular public waterway.

"It's about continuing the conversation with AGL and making sure they are aware the community is still agitating to get the lake back," he said.

"Right now, there's a certain amount of trust between the community and AGL that they're doing the right thing and they're doing the right measures to make sure it can be used in the future.

"It's about trust and it's about working together."

AGL is continuing to monitor Lake Liddell for the amoebas, with the energy giant stating several seasons of water sampling are required to better understand it's condition.

Both the lake and nearby site of the power station remain under a contamination audit, as part of a state application to demolish and rehabilitate the location. 

As a result, further testing is required before any motion to publicly re-open the lake can commence.

Lake Liddell. Picture: Wikipedia

Newcastle Inner City Bypass On Track For End Of Year Completion

 BY JOHN HEWITT

The much-awaited Newcastle Inner City bypass is a step closer with the completion of the section between Rankin Park and Jesmond, ahead of the project's planned opening later this year.

With all major bridges on the route now connected, crews are working on completing earthworks, road surfacing, safety barriers, noise walls and landscaping.

Once complete, the bypass is expected to remove up to 30,000 vehicles a day from Newcastle Road, improving road safety, easing congestion and providing a more reliable journey for motorists.

The bypass project, which is jointly funded by the Federal and State governments, is expected to significantly reduce peak-period travel times and strengthen connections to key destinations, including John Hunter hospital, the University of Newcastle and key shopping centres.

Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said it will make every-day travel simpler and faster for thousands of Newcastle motorists.

"I want to thank Newcastle motorists for their patience as we complete the bypass program, and we're confident it will be worth the wait,' she said. 

"The project will mean the bypassing of 11 sets of traffic lights, halving peak-period travel times and improving safety for Newcastle motorists.  

"With the completion of this latest stage we're looking forward to opening of the bypass later this year, weather permitting."

Picture: Transport for NSW

  

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

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. 

Cessnock Council set to clear buildings for community space

BY DARCY MCGAVIN

Cessnock Council is planning for two buildings on the northern edge of Civic Park to be demolished as part of readiness plans made in September.

The plans have been made to keep the space open for future considerations on how the space can be better used by the community. 

While one of the buildings currently has a tenant on a short term lease, the other is a former community centre that has been vacant for several years.

Council will consult the community on how the space should be used.

Singleton named most sustainable community in NSW for 2021

BY CHARLOTTE LLOYD 

The Tidy Town awards held on Saturday the 5th of March, saw Singleton as the overall winner, becoming the state's most Sustainable Community for 2021. 

This follows on from Singleton's efforts in a range of projects and initiatives which includes the recently opened Arts and Cultural Centre as well as the $1 million solar energy project. 

The projects taken out by Singleton council have also helped in cutting energy usage and emissions which made sustainability a key focus in the region. 

Singleton Mayor Sue Moore says this is a amazing achievement for the town as well as the massive efforts put in from the members of the Tidy Towns Committee. 

Cr Moore says it's a great accolade to have to show Singleton is more than just a 'coal' town.

Singleton will be assessed for the National awards later in the year as well as hosting the NSW awards on the 5th of November 2022. 

Photo Credit: Singleton Council

All About Women festival to be screened in Newcastle this Sunday

BY CHARLOTTE LLOYD 

The All About Women Festival commonly held at the Sydney Opera House is set to be held as a satellite event at the Newcastle Council Chambers. 

The all-day festival on the 13th of March includes a panel of speakers from 11am-9pm and is held during International Women's Week. 

The in-person festival will run over two days from the 12th to the 13th of March whereas the Newcastle satellite livestream will hold a number of talks throughout the second day of the event. 

This year's line-up asks questions and stimulates debate surrounding equity, gender and justice. 

Touching on trauma, transformation, First Nation communities, art, performance, friendship, cross-generational conversations and collective responsibility.

Some of the talks accessible as part of the Newcastle satellite event include; Clementine Ford's 'Love Sermon,' Protecting the Outspoken, First Nations Women Look to the Future, Queerstories, After Consent and many more. 

Photo Credit: Sydney Opera House

Senate Inquiry Shows Hunter Health System Failing to Support Children With Intellectual Disabilities

BY ISABEL EVERETT

New evidence in a Senate Inquiry reveals 'critical under funding and insufficient resources' in the Hunter's health system to deal with children suffering with intellectual disabilities like FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder).

Members of Newcastle's Local Drug Action Team (LDAT), including a senior Pediatrician, and Magistrate in Broadmeadow's Children's Court, Nell Skinner, gave evidence in a Senate Inquiry about the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of FASD.

There is only one outpatient paediatric developmental clinic for children aged 2-12 years with multiple and complex developmental disorders in the Hunter at Wallsend.

This clinic receives around 350 referrals each year, and has the equivalent of 1.6 full time paediatricians and two paediatric trainees in addition to psychologists, a speech pathologist, occupational therapist and social workers.

There is a currently a wait of over 12 months for multidisciplinary assessment. 

"What the evidence put before the Senate Inquiry has shown is in Newcastle we have a particular problem with a lack of sufficient resources to carry out diagnosis of children at risk in the juvenile system," says Tony Brown, LDAT member.

Mr Brown stressed it was not a lack of commitment or care, but a lack of funding causing the children to fall through the cracks. 

"We have a great team of dedicated pediatricians and allied health workers in the Hunter New England area, and we cant commend their work enough, but the greatest area of need is an injection of significant resources."

"What the LDAT has advocated for is a greater funding boost into Newcastle and the Hunter to ensure our most vulnerable kids can receive quick diagnosis of FASD because this can mean the difference between being locked up or alternatively diverted to an area where they can receive the treatment they need."

Magistrate Nell Skinner says symptoms of FASD may lead to a young person being more likely to interact with the criminal justice system, as FASD sufferers often have impaired judgment and lack critical thinking skills.

"Young persons are not screened for FASD or other impairments during their interaction with the criminal justice system. Health resources are unable to meet the current demand for assessments," says Magistrate Skinner.

"Accordingly, there are no statistics about the prevalence of FASD or cognitive impairments and there is concern that FASD sufferers are not diagnosed."

Australian Government Department of Health

Police Officer Arrested in Lake Macquarie Over Alleged Domestic Violence Incident

 BY ISABEL EVERETT

A police officer has been charged over an alleged domestic-related incident earlier this year.

Following an investigation, the 48-year-old woman, a senior constable attached to a command in the Northern Region, was arrested at Belmont Police Station about 11.30am on Tuesday.

She was charged with wound person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and reckless wounding (DV).

The charges relate to an alleged domestic-related incident involving a 45-year-old man at a Newcastle home on July 27. 

She was granted conditional bail and is due to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Thursday 24 September. 

The officer is currently on long term leave.

University of Newcastle Awarding Adjustments Points to HSC Students

BY ISABEL EVERETT

In a first for the University sector, The University of Newcastle is offering five adjustment points to school leaver students this year.

The points will be applied automatically via UAC (Universities Admission Centre) to students who preference the University of Newcastle, in recognition of the extraordinary challenges faced during the COVID-19 disrupted HSC year.

“What we’ve heard from schools is that Year 12 students are absolutely feeling the pressure and have found this year exceedingly challenging," said University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinksy.

"We want to reassure young people and their families that they will be okay.”

In addition to COVID-19 adjustment points, the University of Newcastle has offered support for Year 12 Students in a range of creative ways, including a sector-first tutoring initiative, which saw its Masters of Teaching students deliver one-on-one tutoring support for more than 300 HSC students.

Professor Zelinksy said the University of Newcastle would continue to focus on ensuring Year 12 Students did not fall through the cracks.

“We’ll continue to work with schools to understand ways we can help to ensure COVID-19 does not become a complication that results in young people giving up on their university aspirations,” said Professor Zelinsky.

'Bust the Dust' Campaign Hits Hunter Mines

BY ISABEL EVERETT

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is again targeting mines causing excessive dust in the Hunter with the second year of the ‘Bust the Dust’ spring campaign starting this week.

EPA Director Regulatory Operations Adam Gilligan said “Bust the Dust” last year had been a success with most mines adjusting their operational activities on high risk, windy days and further improvement was expected this year.

“EPA officers will be using the latest technology, including drones, to monitor mines and to ensure dust is minimised,” Mr Gilligan said.

“Dust from mining activity in the Hunter Valley is a key concern for the community. The EPA expects all coal mines to be vigilant, to take extra precautions and to have systems in place to control dust from their operations, to ensure better air quality for the community.”

Mr Gilligan said EPA officers determine the risk of dust every day and will be frequently checking mining operations with the expectation that best practice dust controls are implemented, including shut down of operations if necessary.

“Mines are on notice, the EPA and community expect mine operators to reduce dust and any mines that don’t will face significant penalties,” Mr Gilligan said.

Community members can report concerns regarding dust risk directly to the mine or to EPA on 131 555.

Image Credit: Lock the Gate Alliance

EPA Inspect Tomago Waste Management Centre

BY ISABEL EVERETT

NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) officers have inspected a waste site in Tomago, and 11 other sites across NSW, as part of a proactive compliance and inspection campaign.

The unannounced coordinated checks were carried out on August 28, to ensure the facilities are complying with environmental protection licences, to protect the environment and human health.

EPA officers inspected the Tomago facility, along with one in the Illawarra and 10 Sydney facilities, all part of the Bingo Group of waste and recycling companies.

Each site was assessed for compliance with waste management practices, pollution controls, stormwater runoff, dust emissions, emergency response plans and chemical storage. 

EPA Director Major Compliance and Investigations Greg Sheehy said the EPA was committed to ensuring all licenced premises were vigilant about protecting the environment.

“We expect all facilities to be run properly and have care for the environment and the community at the heart of every action.”

The EPA is now reviewing the outcomes of the inspections, the process is expected to take several weeks.

Image Credit: Bingo Industries

Local Contractors to Benefit from $42 Million Upgrades at Singleton Army Base

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Local businesses are set to be the big winners when a major upgrade starts next week on the Singleton Army Base.

The 42-million dollars project will see the dated kitchen and dining hall facilities brought up to the 21st century along with the construction of a new workshop. 

In a move that will aid the Hunter economy’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Singleton mid-term facility ‘refresh’ will improve amenities for more than 1,000 defence and civilian personnel at the base.

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the project to build a new transport workshop and upgrade existing infrastructure would maximise local industry involvement in the Hunter Region.

“Lead contractor, Watpac’s Local Industry Capability Plan will ensure there will be opportunities for local businesses in the Hunter Region to get involved in the project.

“It’s estimated the project will engage more than 650 workers over the two-year construction period, with a daily peak workforce of up to 100.”

Patron Senator for the Hunter and Senator for NSW Hollie Hughes attended a project briefing today.

“It’s going to mean work for a host of local contractors including carpenters, landscapers, glaziers, tilers, concreters, structural steelworkers, joiners, roofers, electricians, plumbers, bricklayers and even, demolition experts.

Senator Hughes said the Government supported Watpac’s plan to target 82 per cent of its subcontract packages to Hunter businesses.

Construction is expected to be completed by early 2022.

Image Credit: Asia Pacific Defense Reporter

Eastern Quolls Return to Barrington Tops For First Time in 60 Years

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Twenty-eight eastern quolls have been released into the Barrington Tops Wildlife Sanctuary, marking their first return to the area in over 60 years, as part of conservation efforts by organisation Aussie Ark. 

Through a breeding program Aussie Ark has successfully bred the vulnerable species to almost 90 individuals, a number that grows with every season.

“Our ultimate goal is to bolster the Eastern quoll species’ population and rewild the Barrington Tops. The release of these 28 individuals is a massive step in the right direction, ”Aussie Ark’s President Tim Faulkner says. 

Eastern quolls have been largely extinct on mainland Australia and from the Barrington Tops, since the 1960s due to habitat fragmentation and predation from feral foxes, cats and domestic dogs, and for many years were only widespread in Tasmania. 

Over the years they have been re-introduced into fenced wild sanctuaries, like Aussie Ark’s, which provides refuge and a healthy habitat, removed of feral predators.

These ideal conditions allow the species to thrive and therefore breed effectively. 

Last year, the organisation’s breeding record was broken with the birth of 51 quoll joeys. 

Diesel Spill Causing Traffic Delays on Pacific Highway

BY ISABEL EVERETT

A truck leaking fuel is causing delays on the Pacific Highway, adjacent to Grahamstown Dam at Kings Hill on the Pacific Highway. 

Just after 12pm on Monday, crews from Raymond Terrace Fire Station arrived on scene, the driver had attempted to stem the flow of fuel but was unsuccessful.

Firefighters are currently working to clean up the fuel which is on approximately 300m of roadway, and render the area safe.

No diesel has leaked into any drains or waterways.

The Rural Fire Brigade and NSW Police are also in attendance to assist and divert traffic, and are advising  motorists to exercise caution if you are driving through the area.

Police Release CCTV of Merewether Assault and Car Theft

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Police have released CCTV images and are appealing for public assistance, after a man was assaulted and his car stolen in Merewether over the weekend. 

About 3pm on Saturday, a 45-year-old man parked a blue BMW M2 coupe on Lloyd Street, Merewether, and sat down on a nearby bench.

A short time later, three unknown men arrived in a Toyota Kluger 4WD – believed to have been stolen from an Islington address on Friday – when they approached the man and punched him before taking his keys, wallet and phone.

All three men drove away in the BMW and were last seen heading west towards Scenic Drive.

Police have released CCTV images of three men they wish to speak to who may be able to assist with their inquiries.

They are all described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance and aged in their mid-20s.

One man is also described as being of a solid build, with mohawk-style hair and a ponytail. He was last seen wearing a grey hoodie.

A second man is described as being of slim build, wearing a black t-shirt and jeans.

Police are also appealing for anyone who may have seen a blue BMW M2 coupe with NSW registration DSS 71W, or with information about the incident to contact police or Crime Stoppers.

Police Dog, Vegas, Catches Fletcher Vehicle Thieves

BY ISABEL EVERETT Two offenders wanted on warrants and in possession of a stolen vehicle have been tracked down in Fletcher, thanks to the work of the Police dog unit. On Saturday night the offenders were traced to the suburb, with Police dog, Vegas, tracking both offenders who were swiftly arrested by Police from the Dog Unit and Newcastle City. They were taken to Waratah Police Station and charged with the Warrants and other offences.

Police Dog, Vegas