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Library of the future planned for Newcastle West

Dedicated podcasting and virtual reality equipment, 3D holograms of planned developments and interactive wall-mounted screens featuring key City attractions will feature among a suite of new offerings within the ground floor of the City’s future Central Administration Centre (CAC).
The digital library concept, which will be co-located with the customer service centre and Council Chamber in the City’s new CAC, will be the region’s first ‘library of the future’.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the space would be one of the stand-out features of the 12 Stewart Avenue building, which is just months away from occupation.
“When complete, this concept will put the City at the forefront of bridging the digital divide and deliver an advanced digital library focussed on digital literacy and inclusive access for our community,” the Lord Mayor said.
“It will redefine the library experience for people of all ages and create opportunities to experience emerging technologies and spark future innovation across our services.
“As part of the City’s 2019-2029 Library Strategy, which promotes new ways of thinking when it comes to library and customer services, it will help meet Smart City and sustainability commitments to foster digital inclusion and education equality, and inform the roll-out of future technology across other branches.”

As part of the plans, the Digital Library will offer coding classes to tech-minded students, novices or industry professionals eager to upskill their digital knowledge.
A multipurpose meeting room will also be available to the community. The space will also double as a podcasting studio, with library staff conducting regular classes demonstrating how to podcast.
The Digital Library will feature elements of a more traditional library including books, magazines and newspapers, which can be borrowed or read on comfortable lounge chairs. eBook download kiosks and a digital PressReader newspaper and magazine table will also feature in the new library.
Other features of the digital library concept include:

A digital ‘Magic Box’ that replicates pages from the City’s Rare Book collection. These can be read and navigated using the swipe of a finger from the outside of the glass;
Programming activities for all ages focussed on science and technology, such as coding activities for a robot, which can improve digital literacy skills
A focus on intergenerational digital inclusion activities to make it easier to access online information and services such as eGov services;
Interactive story walls that tell stories of our heritage and display vision from key city attractions such as Blackbutt Reserve and the Bathers Way Coastal Walk;
A cashless payment system which allows members to pay for printing, copying, fines and services online or in branches by using credit on their library cards.

While the library will initially operate within regular business hours, it is envisaged that in time an area on the ground floor complex will be configured to allow 24-hour opening hours for borrowing and computer access.
Libraries Manager Suzie Gately said the digital library project would take the best of traditional libraries and enhance the experience with modern technology.
“Libraries have, through history, been places for people to learn, relax and collaborate, and this project will take that experience to the next level by blending traditional book lending with curated digital content and a strong customer service focus,” she said.

NEWCASTLE GAS TERMINAL GIVEN CRITICAL STATUS

A Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) import terminal at Newcastle that could supply up to 80 per cent of NSW’s gas needs will today be declared Critical State Significant Infrastructure.
Acting Premier John Barilaro said the proposal for the new $589 million gas import terminal at Kooragang Island in the Port of Newcastle would include a connecting pipeline to the existing NSW gas supply network.
“The terminal could be operational by 2022-23 and provide supply for gas-fired power stations, helping to manage energy security during the period in which the Liddell power station is scheduled to close,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This LNG terminal would significantly address this risk and help secure a reliable and affordable future for NSW’s gas supply.”
The project will be declared critical by Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes who said the terminal, if approved, would significantly increase local gas supply, promote competition between suppliers and put downward pressure on the State’s gas prices.
“NSW currently relies on interstate sources for 95 per cent of our gas supply and experts predict a shortfall in supply from existing sources in the coming years,” Mr Stokes said.
The import terminal would expand the locally available gas supply in NSW by 110 petajoules.
Despite being declared ‘critical’, the terminal will still be subject to detailed community consultation and a full and thorough environmental assessment.
The proponent, Newcastle GasDock Company (NGDC), will now need to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for the project, which will go on public exhibition for community feedback.
The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment will then assess the merits of the project, before making a recommendation to Minister Stokes for a final decision.

GLOBAL DEFENCE POWERHOUSE LOOKS TO WESTERN SYDNEY FOR FUTURE TECH

Global defence powerhouse BAE Systems will help deliver a new cutting edge space research and development facility as part of a university and advanced manufacturing precinct being delivered at the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian was at BAE Systems headquarters in London to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the company, which will ensure NSW leads the nation in developing tomorrow’s scientists, engineers and mathematicians.
“The Aerotropolis we are building around the Western Sydney Airport is a great opportunity for firms around the world to invest in NSW,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“BAE Systems Australia’s interest in NSW as a destination for this research facility is a huge vote of confidence in our economy and our plans for the new airport city.
“This partnership will allow us to create the high tech jobs we need to keep NSW as the number one jobs market in the nation.”
BAE Systems Australia’s Chief Executive Officer Gabby Costigan said the MOU will allow the company to explore the advantages of becoming a part of the innovation precinct at the new airport city.
“Australia has a long history of innovation in the defence industry, and the Aerotropolis in Western Sydney presents a great opportunity to build on that history,” Ms Costigan said.
BAE Systems has a long track record of supporting the Australian Defence Force to maintain a capability edge and the Western Sydney Aerotropolis will be the home of Australia’s future aerospace industry.
Today’s announcement forms part of the NSW Government’s commitment to creating 200,000 jobs in and around the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.
The Aerotropolis will be adjacent to the new 24-hour international (Nancy-Bird Walton) airport at Badgerys Creek. The new R&D facility will be located within a university being developed through a partnership between the University of Newcastle, University of NSW and University of Wollongong (the NUW Alliance), Western Sydney University and the NSW Government.
The Premier and the Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres are on a trade mission to the UK and Germany from August 11 to 16.

Child dies in single-vehicle crash – New Lambton

A child has died following a single-vehicle crash in Newcastle this afternoon.
Shortly before 1pm, emergency services were called to McCaffrey Drive, New Lambton Heights, following reports a Holden statesman had lost control and collided with a power pole.
A girl was treated on the scene by an off-duty nurse and NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to John Hunter Children’s Hospital, where she died a short time later.
A woman was trapped in the vehicle before being freed and taken to John Hunter Hospital; her condition is unknown.
The male driver has been taken to the Mater Hospital for mandatory testing.
An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash has been launched.

Recent developments in Kashmir are deeply concerning: Australian Greens

In the last few days, the Indian Government has shut down phone and internet connections, arbitrarily detained political leaders, evacuated tourists and restricted freedom of movement. It is disturbing to think of the human rights abuses that could be occurring under the cover of this communications blackout, particularly with an influx of tens of thousands of additional troops.
The Indian Government’s decision to revoke Kashmir’s special status and its relative autonomy under India’s constitution will further erode Kashmiris’ right to self-determination. It risks a dangerous escalation of violence in the world’s most militarised region.
The Greens urge the Australian Government to speak out and call on the Indian Government to respect the human rights of the people in Kashmir and their right to self-determination.

Bumper investment delivers capital results

Preliminary figures show $91.6 million was invested into Newcastle’s network of roads, community buildings, parks and reserves, making 2018/19 a record year for City of Newcastle capital works.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the City is continuing to deliver major infrastructure upgrades and key projects across the Local Government Area as Newcastle’s population continues to grow.
The capital works expenditure has increased by more than 40 per cent during the past four years, reflecting the City’s commitment to enhancing the liveability of Newcastle for current and future generations.
“Our investment in capital works has been growing over the past four years as we continue to balance infrastructure renewal with revitalisation projects to meet the higher community expectations that come with sustained growth,” the Lord Mayor said.
“On the back of community consultation, we have invested millions to add new playgrounds for families, upgrade aged community facilities and continued our renewal of local business centres to create vibrant and active public spaces.”
Among the projects completed in 2018/19 were the highly popular playground at Blackbutt’s Richley Reserve, the South Stockton Active Hub, a new glass pavilion and gym in the Clarke Grandstand at Merewether’s Mitchell Park, removal of Queens Wharf Tower and the upgrade of Carrington Local Centre.

Other projects completed include the refurbishment of Beresfield Library, road and drainage rehabilitation at various locations including Merewether, The Junction, Carrington, Newcastle CBD, New Lambton and Lambton, pedestrian crossing upgrades in Mayfield, Adamstown, Elermore Vale, Kotara, Rankin Park, Tighes Hill and Waratah, road widening at Minmi Road Wallsend and resurfacing projects across the LGA.
“This achievement is testament to our employees who have put in a mammoth effort to deliver a record amount of work in improving the city,” the Lord Mayor added.
“Major projects, such as the restoration of City Hall, renewal of the Beresfield Local Centre, and expansion of the Summerhill Waste Recovery Centre, have rolled on into the new financial year.
“In addition, work will start on replacing the Tyrrell Street bridge in Wallsend, undertaking the next stage of rehabilitation of Ironbark Creek, as well as continuing to upgrade and renew essential infrastructure such as drainage, roads, footpaths and cycleways.”
The 2019/20 Capital Works program includes $14 million on roads and footpaths; $14.2 million on buildings, structures and places; $5.4 million on stormwater drains; $36 million on the environment; $2 million implementing our Smart City Strategy; and $9.7 million on IT, fleet replacement, minor capital and strategic projects included in our annual budget.

HIGH TECH APP TO HELP HOUSING TENANTS

A new social housing app will save time, drastically reduce paperwork and improve customer service for thousands of tenants in NSW.
Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said the new mobile phone app would revolutionise customer service in the housing space.
“Having to queue up in an office or wait on the phone is frustrating and time consuming,” Mr Ward said.
“Thanks to this new technology, our customers will be able to easily access services at the touch of a button.
“This means time savings for them and more time for our staff to focus on helping people with the greatest needs.”
The MyHousing app provides tenants with a simple way to manage and view accounts including rent and water, as well as to make payments, lodge maintenance requests and connect to a range of support services.
The Department of Communities and Justice manages 100,000 tenancies and 60,000 applications for social housing assistance. A survey of 14,000 clients, conducted last year, revealed 98 per cent of them owned a smart phone.
Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the app is an example of how the NSW Government is putting the customer at the centre of its service delivery.
“Customer service is about putting more time in your day and this one-stop shop app will make life easier for customers by giving them access to necessary services at their fingertips,” Mr Dominello said.
“It is important that face-to-face services still exist, but having a smart phone app will allow tenants to engage with services anywhere, anytime.”
The app has been trialed extensively with a customer satisfaction rating of 94 per cent. You can download the free app from the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android).

FINAL STAGE OF THE NORTHERN ROAD UPGRADE RAMPS UP

Shovels are in the ground for the sixth and final stage of The Northern Road Upgrade at Luddenham, Eaton Road and Littlefields Road.
Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said the new and improved road would support integrated transport in the region and improve access, safety and travel times for road freight in Sydney’s west and southwest.
“The Australian Government has committed $1.2 billion towards The Northern Road Upgrade and we are getting on with the job of delivering new and improved transport for the residents and motorists of Western Sydney,” Mr Tudge said.
New South Wales Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the works at Luddenham were Stage 6 of the broader upgrade of The Northern Road.
“Once complete, the entire 35-kilometre upgrade of The Northern Road between Narellan and South Penrith will provide a high-quality connection with the M7 and M12 motorways and support Western Sydney’s growing population,” Mr Constance said.
Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor said all the upgrades were part of the Australian and NSW governments’ $3.6 billion Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan to improve safety, reduce travel times and bust congestion.
“This is just another piece of the massive Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan, which will support future growth and benefit local communities in southwest Sydney for years to come,” Mr Taylor said.
Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh said once Stage 6 was complete, motorists would be able to travel on a four-lane divided road, improving their journeys to and from the new Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport at Badgerys Creek.
“More than 15,000 vehicles use these sections of The Northern Road each day and this number is expected to significantly increase once the new airport opens in 2026, so it is important to get on with the job now,” Mrs McIntosh said.
Work will also be carried out to install new traffic lights and build a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists.
The 35-kilometre upgrade of The Northern Road between The Old Northern Road and Jamison Road is expected to be completed in 2022, weather permitting.
The Australian Government has committed $1.2 billion towards the $1.6 billion The Northern Road Upgrade project, with the NSW Government committing the remainder.

SECURING SYDNEY’S FUTURE WATER NEEDS

The NSW Government has commenced further work to secure water for Greater Sydney with preliminary planning for the expansion of the Sydney Desalination Plant (SDP) commencing as Greater Sydney dam levels continue to drop at record pace.
Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said all of NSW is experiencing the worst drought on record and Sydney’s Desalination Plant is playing a significant role in maintaining Sydney’s water supply.
“We are experiencing one of the worst droughts in living memory. Our State is under pressure, city and country,” Mrs Pavey said.
“Sydney storages have dropped from around 90 per cent to 50 per cent capacity in approximately two years, with Sydney’s dam levels currently at 50.3 per cent.
“The SDP reached full production at the end of July – two months ahead of schedule.
“The Plant is now producing an average of 250 million litres a day – approximately 15 per cent of Sydney’s supply.”
Mrs Pavey said since the Plant was turned on, the current dam depletion rates have improved by around 0.2 per cent per week.
“By undertaking this Planning work, should the drought worsen and water levels continue to drop, we will be ready to act immediately to increasing water supply,” Mrs Pavey said.
“This is on top of the work already underway to preserve Sydney’s water supply, including the Sydney Water ‘Love Water’ campaign, leakage reduction and increasing the beneficial uses of treated wastewater.
“This government has worked hard to ensure that Sydney residents pay the lowest rates in the country, however as Sydney grows, it is critical that we continue to ensure that our water security continues to grow as well.”

$150,00 GRANTS POOL FOR NEWCASTLE COMMUNITY GROUPS NOW OPEN

Sharon Claydon MP has encouraged Newcastle community groups to consider putting in an Expression of Interest for a chance of securing up to $20,000 in funding for small capital projects.
Ms Claydon said there was a total funding pool of $150,000 would be available through the 2019 Newcastle Stronger Communities Grants program.
“The program will provide matched funding for cash or in-kind contributions for projects which will improve local community participation,” Ms Claydon said.
“Community-based not-for-profit organisations and local governing bodies are eligible to apply for grants of between $2,500 and $20,000.
“Resource-stretched community organisations often struggle to raise the funds for capital works and new equipment but these grants are a great way to secure much-needed upgrades.
“Whether it’s an upgrade to current facilities, new sports equipment, improvements for disability access or a fit-out of a community centre, there’s a wide range of projects that could be eligible under this program. I encourage all eligible groups to lodge applications for projects that will help build a strong and healthy community.”
In the 2018 round:

Hunter Multicultural Communities received $15,000 to construct a café
ACON received $19,000 to refurbish its community health facility
Dress for Success received $10,000 for an office fitout
Nobby’s Surf Life Saving Club received $10,500 towards equipment including an all-terrain vehicle (pictured and attached)
Islamic Centre of Newcastle received $19,000 to upgrade kitchen facilities
Tantrum Theatre received $19,000 to fit out a multipurpose space.

Expressions of Interest close on Sunday 15 September. Applications will be assessed by a panel with strong links to the community.
More information including eligibility details and timelines for applying is available at http://www.sharonclaydon.com/stronger_communities_program