An investigation is underway following an armed robbery at a service station near Newcastle overnight.
About 1.45am (Friday 22 May 2020), emergency services were called to a service station on Maitland Road, Sandgate, after reports of an armed robbery.
Police have been told two unknown men entered the station and approached the counter, threatening the employee – a 24-year-old man – with a samurai sword and baseball bat, while demanding money.
The men stole cash, before fleeing the scene on foot towards Mangrove Road.
The employee was not physically injured.
Officers from Newcastle City Police District established a crime scene, which was examined by specialist forensic police.
As inquiries continue, anyone who may have dashcam vision or CCTV from the surrounding area, or who may have noticed suspicious activity, are urged to contact detectives at Newcastle Police Station on (02) 4929 0999.
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Man dies in single-vehicle crash – Maitland
A man has died after a single-vehicle crash in the state’s Hunter region today.
About 10.35am (Friday 22 May 2020), emergency services were called to John Renshaw Drive, Buchanan, after an Isuzu utility left the roadway and crashed into a tree.
The driver and sole occupant, a 61-year-old man, was found trapped in the vehicle before being released a short time later.
Emergency services attempted to revive the man, however he died at the scene.
Officers from Hunter Valley Police District are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Man charged – Muswellbrook
A man wanted on five outstanding warrants has been arrested by police following a vehicle stop near Muswellbrook.
An extensive police operation was conducted in the Nundle area yesterday (Wednesday 20 May 2020), involving officers from Hunter Valley Police District, Oxley Police District, and other specialist commands.
Just after 6.30pm, a 34-year-old man was arrested following a vehicle stop on the New England Highway at Muswellbrook.
He was taken to Muswellbrook Police Station before being transferred to Muswellbrook and Maitland Hospitals.
Upon his release from hospital, he was conveyed back to Muswellbrook Police Station.
The man has been charged with five outstanding warrants relating to traffic, property, judicial and revocation of parole offences.
He was also charged with three counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm (DV), two counts of common assault (DV) and one count of intentionally or recklessly destroy/damage property (DV related).
The Muswellbrook man was refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court tomorrow (Friday 22 May 2020).
Inquiries are continuing.
Third man charged following fatal fight at Hamilton South last year
A third man has been charged as part of an ongoing investigation into the death of another man at Newcastle last year.
About 3.30am on Friday 8 March 2019, police were called to Donald Street, Hamilton, following reports of men fighting in the street.
When police arrived, they were told the men had left the area.
A short time later, officers were called to a unit on Coady Street, Hamilton South, where they found the body of a 51-year-old man, and a 23-year-old man unconscious, suffering head injuries.
The injured man was treated at the scene by paramedics before he was taken to John Hunter Hospital in a serious but stable condition.
Officers from Newcastle City Police District commenced inquiries into the incident under Strike Force Delline.
So far during the investigation, two men – aged 25 and 26 – have been charged and remain before the courts.
Following further inquiries, a 32-year-old man was arrested at a unit at Hamilton South about 4.20pm yesterday (Wednesday 20 May 2020).
The man was taken to Newcastle Police Station and charged with take/detain in company with intent to get advantage occasion actual bodily harm.
He was refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court today (Thursday 21 May 2020).
Inquiries under Strike Force Delline are continuing.
$400 Million Funding Boost For Health And Medical Research
The Morrison Government will invest almost $400 million in world-leading health and medical research projects to improve the lives of all Australians.
Our Government will strengthen Australians’ health through research to prevent illness and deliver better health care as we recover and restore our nation in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A total of 237 new projects will receive funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), with a further 30 grants to be funded through the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Priority Round.
Funding will support research in the areas of:
- Cancer – $87.1 million
- Cardiovascular Disease – $46.5 million
- Mental health – $54.0 million
- Indigenous – $19.4 million
- Infectious diseases – $84.7 million
Of the grants funded, a total of $84.7 million will go towards 61 new research projects in infectious diseases – a significant strength of Australia’s research sector.
Whilst applications for this grant round closed in 2019, prior to the outbreak of COVID-19, infectious disease research into influenza and pneumonia may contribute to our understanding of COVID-19 and translate into new treatment strategies and trials.
Professor Allen Cheng from Monash University will receive $1.7 million to optimise vaccine and treatment strategies to prevent illness and death from severe influenza in Australia.
Professor Cheng’s research project will transform the prevention and treatment of influenza and its complications by developing innovative public health and treatment strategies that can be applied globally
Australians will benefit from this vital health and medical research being conducted around the country:
- $186 million in research funding for 124 projects in Victoria, including University of Melbourne research to put 3D printing into the reality of surgery by developing an approach for regenerating joint cartilage within the body using one-step surgery
- $119.8 million in research funding for 83 projects in New South Wales, including University of New South Wales research to explore how novel internet solutions can be used to overcome the burden of depression in youth.
- $48.8 million in research funding for 29 projects in Queensland, including QIMR Berghofer Institute of Medical Research research into the genetic basis of breast cancer risk with the aim of reducing breast cancer incidence and mortality.
- $24.1 million in research funding for 15 projects in South Australia, including University of South Australia research into the monitoring of medical conditions such as preeclampsia, epilepsy, fetal arrhythmias and heart attacks through advanced technologies that can be integrated with point-of-care and wearable diagnostic tools.
- $8.4 million in research funding for nine projects in Western Australia, including University of Western Australia research into novel and effective chemotherapy and immunotherapy drug combinations to reduce deaths from cancer.
- $5.6 million in research funding for five projects in the Northern Territory, including Menzies School of Health Research work towards the elimination of chronic hepatitis B in the Northern Territory.
- $3.8 million in research funding for two projects in the ACT, including Australian National University research to strengthen the detection and prediction of outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases, and the control and elimination of neglected tropical diseases.
While this round was closed for submissions last year, we are currently in the process of awarding $42 million for COVID research through the MRFF.
Medical research is one of the core elements of the Australian Government’s $104 billion Long Term National Health Plan. This vital investment across the broad health spectrum will continue the proud Australian tradition of discovery and translation for the better health for all.
A full list of grant recipients is available on NHMRC’s website: www.nhmrc.gov.au.
Australians urged to stay vigilant as COVID-19 toll climbs to 100
The Australian Government has renewed calls for Australians to stay vigilant as the toll of people who have died as a result of COVID-19 rises to 100.
Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck today urged residents to maintain physical distancing and strict hygiene measures to ensure the nation continues to flatten the curve.
It follows confirmation of the death of a resident at Sydney aged care facility Newmarch House – the centre’s 19th since the COVID-19 outbreak at the facility, with 17 directly attributed to COVID-19 and Australia’s 100th overall.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to all those people who have lost a loved one as a result of this pandemic,” Minister Hunt said.
“This tragic toll reminds us that even as Australian states and territories move toward easing of restrictions, the threat of this virus remains.”
Minister Hunt said it was vital Australians continued to follow the advice of National Cabinet and the AHPPC, which clearly outlines the measures needed to ensure we can navigate through this pandemic.
“We recognise the profound impact of every single death in Australia as a result of COVID-19,” Minister Hunt said. “While this is a tragic toll, it also indicates how strict measures adopted across the nation have served to protect our way of life.
“The Australian Government has outlined a clear pathway to recovery, but Australians everywhere should stay alert, follow physical distancing guidelines and look out for each other. Together, we can do this.”
Minister Colbeck said he was deeply saddened by the latest death at Newmarch House.
“Our thoughts are extended to all those affected by this latest loss,” Minister Colbeck said.
“The deaths at Newmarch House underline the dangers COVID-19 pose for vulnerable and senior Australians.
“Protecting the health and wellbeing of residents remains a focus for both Commonwealth and State.
“We are not out of the woods. Protecting our most vulnerable is everybody’s responsibility.”
Minister Colbeck said the Aged Care Visitor Access Code, released earlier this month, set out a nationally consistent framework to ensure the health and wellbeing of aged care residents remained a priority while ensuring important social connections were retained.
Both Minister Hunt and Minister Colbeck said the COVIDSafe app remained a key to ensuring a stronger, safer future for Australia.
The voluntary opt-in contactp app will help health authorities know who has been in contact with someone who has tested positive for coronavirus.
The CovidSafe app can be found here.
The Aged Care Visitor Access Code can be found here.
Greens: Childcare Must Remain Free
The Greens have backed a community call to retain free childcare in light of the Education Minister’s strongest indications yet that the government would revert back to a fee-paying model, potentially as early as next month.
Senator Mehreen Faruqi, Greens spokesperson for Education, said:
“Free childcare has been a huge step forward for access to childcare for families. It should be made permanent.
“The government may think it will save money by going back to the fee-paying model, but we know the social and economic benefits of free childcare are enormous.
“The economic impacts of COVID-19 are going to be felt for many months and years. People are doing it tough, and a return to fee-paying childcare now will only make things worse.
“The Minister should be looking at how to ensure ongoing access to free childcare, and options for expanded public operation of childcare, not doubling down on a return to fees that will once again prevent families from accessing childcare.
“Free childcare, hand-in-hand with a fair and decent wage for workers in the sector, benefits everyone.
“It’s time to recognise childcare as an essential service available to anyone who needs it, not just those who can afford it,” she said.
Australians urged to stay vigilant as COVID-19 toll climbs to 100
The Australian Government has renewed calls for Australians to stay vigilant as the toll of people who have died as a result of COVID-19 rises to 100.
Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck today urged residents to maintain physical distancing and strict hygiene measures to ensure the nation continues to flatten the curve.
It follows confirmation of the death of a resident at Sydney aged care facility Newmarch House – the centre’s 19th since the COVID-19 outbreak at the facility, with 17 directly attributed to COVID-19 and Australia’s 100th overall.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to all those people who have lost a loved one as a result of this pandemic,” Minister Hunt said.
“This tragic toll reminds us that even as Australian states and territories move toward easing of restrictions, the threat of this virus remains.”
Minister Hunt said it was vital Australians continued to follow the advice of National Cabinet and the AHPPC, which clearly outlines the measures needed to ensure we can navigate through this pandemic.
“We recognise the profound impact of every single death in Australia as a result of COVID-19,” Minister Hunt said. “While this is a tragic toll, it also indicates how strict measures adopted across the nation have served to protect our way of life.
“The Australian Government has outlined a clear pathway to recovery, but Australians everywhere should stay alert, follow physical distancing guidelines and look out for each other. Together, we can do this.”
Minister Colbeck said he was deeply saddened by the latest death at Newmarch House.
“Our thoughts are extended to all those affected by this latest loss,” Minister Colbeck said.
“The deaths at Newmarch House underline the dangers COVID-19 pose for vulnerable and senior Australians.
“Protecting the health and wellbeing of residents remains a focus for both Commonwealth and State.
“We are not out of the woods. Protecting our most vulnerable is everybody’s responsibility.”
Minister Colbeck said the Aged Care Visitor Access Code, released earlier this month, set out a nationally consistent framework to ensure the health and wellbeing of aged care residents remained a priority while ensuring important social connections were retained.
Both Minister Hunt and Minister Colbeck said the COVIDSafe app remained a key to ensuring a stronger, safer future for Australia.
The voluntary opt-in contactp app will help health authorities know who has been in contact with someone who has tested positive for coronavirus.
The CovidSafe app can be found here.
The Aged Care Visitor Access Code can be found here.
Electric vehicle chargers installed portside
City of Newcastle has teamed up with Port of Newcastle to deliver a new electric vehicle charging station on Wharf Road to add to the city’s growing network.
Two new 22-kilowatt chargers in the carpark next to Harry’s Café de Wheels follow three others installed by the City outside No.2 Sportsground and another smaller charging station on Laman St, Cooks Hill, last year.
Thanks to City of Newcastle’s 100 per cent renewable electricity contract, motorists can now power up using renewable energy from four parking bays either side of the two new chargers.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Novocastrians were increasingly embracing sustainable transport and that the new installation had been strategically located.
Newcastle Deputy Lord Mayor with Port of Newcastle’s Simon Byrnes at today’s opening.
“This third charging hub is part of readying Newcastle for a future in which Australians dramatically reduce their transport emissions by driving renewable energy-powered EVs,” Councillor Nelmes said.
“There are now 19 different EV models available in Australia with a typical range of 480km, and we’re seeing more and more on local streets.
“We’ve located this facility close to inner-city businesses and tourist attractions in the hope that, like chargers installed in Wallsend’s town centre, they draw motorists from the M1 Motorway.
“We are delighted to partner with the Port of Newcastle in leading this transition to more sustainable transport, which we outlined in our own 2017 Smart City Strategy.”
The new chargers will initially be free before user-pay fees are later introduced.
Port of Newcastle Chief Commercial Officer Simon Byrnes said partnerships were critical to achieving the Port’s diversification and sustainability goals.
“It is a pleasure to partner with the City of Newcastle to help expand its electric vehicle charging network and promote renewable energy and sustainable transport options in the region,” Mr Byrnes said.
“Today I am excited to unveil the first four electric vehicles in our Port of Newcastle fleet. We expect to complete the transition to an electric fleet by the end of 2021, saving more than 48 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
One of four new Port of Newcastle electric vehicles.
“Port of Newcastle is serious about its commitment to the environment and creating a prosperous future for the communities it supports. Ultimately, we are striving to create a safe, sustainable and socially responsible Port for the future.”
Australian sales of fully electric and plug-in hybrid cars more than tripled in 2019 to 6,718 units, according to the Electric Vehicle Council, as sales of petrol and diesel vehicles fell eight per cent.
NSW is now well covered with around 300 public charging stations, which the City will add to with another site in Cooks Hill’s Queen Street carpark later in 2020.
Last year a 50-kilowatt fast charger and two 22-kilowatt chargers were installed at No.2 Sportsground.
One of the No.2 Sportsground chargers.
The fast charger can charge an average vehicle to around 80 per cent capacity in 30-40 minutes, while the smaller chargers take around two hours.
“Our EV charger network has now recorded 1,000 charging sessions, 800 hours of charging time and 15,000-kilowatt hours of 100 per cent renewable energy,” the Lord Mayor said.
The roll out of EV infrastructure is part of the $13 million Smart Moves Newcastle project, which received $5 million under the Federal Government’s Smart Cities and Suburbs program in 2017.
The City has also begun transitioning its fleet with the purchase of electric vehicles and investigations into electric waste trucks.
HOLIDAY TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS TO BE LIFTED FROM 1 JUNE
NSW residents will be able to take a holiday anywhere in NSW from next month, with intra-state travel restrictions to be lifted from Monday 1 June, 2020.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Deputy Premier John Barilaro said NSW citizens will be able take recreational trips across NSW, as long as they maintain social distancing and good hygiene.
Ms Berejiklian said lifting the holiday travel restriction will give everyone a much needed break and help get small businesses and the tourism industry moving again.
“This is the day we’ve all been looking forward to since the COVID-19 travel restrictions were put in place earlier this year and I would like to thank everyone for their patience during the past few months of being cooped up at home,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“I must stress to everyone that, while we want people to enjoy a well-earned holiday, we must do this responsibly and continue to abide by physical distancing measures, as the last thing we want is further outbreaks that will force us to reintroduce restrictions.”
Mr Barilaro said while regional NSW will welcome visitors with open arms, holidaymakers should call their planned accommodation venues and attractions to ensure they will be open and confirm their bookings before travelling.
“COVID could not have come at a worse time for regional NSW, with towns already doing it tough due to bushfires and drought and so I encourage everyone to make plans to safely and responsibly visit their favourite regional holiday destination, or discover a new one,” Mr Barilaro said.
“I encourage holidaymakers to visit local businesses, enjoy local attractions and feast on the best food regional NSW has to offer, and for those not able to get away in June, to start making plans for later in the year when even more businesses will be open.
I’m very pleased to share that this means we will have a ski season this year, however holidaymakers should be aware that ski resorts will likely need time to put COVID plans into place and you should make contact before visiting.
Venues are also encouraged to review their booking policies to allow travellers to easily cancel their trip if they have any symptoms.
A number of caravan parks and camping grounds will be open from 1 June, but travellers should call ahead and confirm bookings, while travellers planning to visit national parks should check www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au for further information. Travellers need to especially practice strong hygiene around shared facilities.
Travellers from interstate will be able to visit NSW for a holiday from 1 June but will need to comply with the rules of their home state when returning.