Hunter CEO Sleepout raises big bucks for homeless service

BY JARROD MELMETH

Over 40 Hunter leaders braved the elements on Thursday night taking part in the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout at Hunter Stadium.

Nationally $8 million was raised, with $160,000 coming from the Hunter.

The money raised by Hunter CEO's will be given to Matthew Talbot Homeless Service in Newcastle who offer support to homeless men and children across the region. Its outreach workers visit parks, streets, services and homes.

The St Vincent De Paul Society says on average around 500 people are experiencing homelessness, either sleeping unsafely outdoors or in cars, couch surfing in overcrowding households, or in budget accommodation such as caravan parks.

Around 3,852 applicants are waiting for social housing throughout the region.

Vinnies North East Regional Director Clare Van Doorn says it was a great learning experience for the CEO's.

"We had some people who we have helped through our work speak to the CEO's and they had a really good chat about what it is like to be homeless and they types of things that they go through.

"It was really good for the CEO's who may not come in contact with these people to really step into their shoes," Ms Van Doorn said.

New CEO for Lake Macquarie Council

BY JARROD MELMETH

Lake Macquarie Council unanimously endorsed the appoint of Morven Cameron as the new CEO at last night's council meeting.

Ms Cameron is councils former Director of Community Development with more than 15 years of experience in local government.

Lake Macquarie Mayor, Kay Fraser said Morven was chosen in a competitive selection process from a high-calibre field of experienced candidates.

“She is a highly impressive talent known for her collaborative leadership style and I know firsthand just how passionate she is about ensuring we build on the solid foundation and momentum that Lake Macquarie has enjoyed in recent years.

“With her leadership and the hard working staff of Council, Lake Macquarie is in very good hands," Cr Fraser said. 

Council was very impressed with Morven’s vision, proven experience and achievements, together with her passion for local government and immeasurable understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing large, dynamic councils serving their local community.

Reflecting on her appointment, Ms Cameron said, “It is an honour to have been selected to lead this progressive organisation and vibrant City. We have a very solid base on which to progress and move forward.

“I’m excited about what the future will bring when we all work together, and I thank the Mayor and Councillors, Council staff and the community for their support," Ms Cameron said.

The role will commence from Monday 28 August.

Councils new CEO Morven Cameron.

Newcastle airport's biggest ever year for passengers

BY JESSICA ROUSE

We're all being urged to Go Smarter and use our local airport after Newcastle Airport released their passenger results for the 2016/17 financial year.

The airport saw more than 1.25 million people use the airport, the best financial year number ever and a 6.6 per cent increase on the last figures.

There's no doubt the airport is a major contributor to the Hunter's growth and economy bringing people and businesses in and out of the area. Airlines are putting on more flights through Newcastle airport making Newcastle an ideal kick-off point for business and holiday travel.

"It is actually the smart choice. If you think about the other option of driving many hours down the M1 and risking traffic jams, it's just a lot smarter to use your own airport, you can park cheaply and close to the door, check in is great and we kind of understand people don't know you can do hubbing to international destinations," said airport CEO Dr Peter Cock.

The Go Smarter campaign launched last week highlights exactly what Dr Peter Cock explained - that the airport is easy, quick, smart and often more affordable for travel for locals for both international and domestic flights. The campaign aims to re-educate people of the Hunter about the flight options they have right in their backyard.

"We understand people don't know you can do hubbing to international destinations or you can fly internationally through at your own airport you just go via Melbourne or Brisbane and in many cases its actually quicker when you consider the whole journey including the travel down the M1, it's actually smarter to go from your local airport," said Dr Peter Cock.

Image newcastleairport.com.au