Update: Three People Injured In Head-On Smash Near Gloucester

BY IAN CROUCH

The Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter has been called to a serious crash at Bakers Creek east of Gloucester.

Two cars collided head-on on Bakers Creek Road near The Buckets Way at about 7.30am.

Four ambulances were sent to the scene along with the Westpac rescue helicopters from Tamworth and Newcastle.

A 19-year-old woman in one of the cars suffered a head injury in the smash - she's been flown to Newcastle's John Hunter Hospital. A NSW Ambulance spokesperson says another female in the car, believed to be about 18 years old, suffered a suspected broken collar bone. It's understood she's also been airlifted to the John Hunter.

An 80-year-old woman in the other car was transported to hospital with hip and chest pain.

'Bout time for Bucketts

BY RACHEL STORER

The Bucketts Way, the major thoroughfare from Newcastle to Gloucester, is set to receive $8 million in funding as part of the government's Fixing Country Roads program.

NSW Roads Minister Melinda Pavey made the announcement last night, and also earmarked $5.5 million for the replacement of the Clarence Town Bridge in Dungog, allowing for heavy freight to use the crossing.

The notorious Bucketts Way is riddled with blackspots and has been labelled as "deplorable" by Port Stephens Mayor, Bruce MacKenzie.

The money will be split between the Mid-Coast and Port Stephens councils for the road upgrades and work is expected to be completed by 2019.

Section of The Bucketts Way near Stroud. Image: ozroads.com.au