Category: Newcastle News

The Hunter region will benefit from more than $2.33 million from the NSW Government to improve road safety in the area.

The funding is part of a $202 million investment to deliver vital safety upgrades to regional roads, as the Minns Labor Government continues work to reduce the New South Wales road toll and reduce the tragic impact of road trauma on communities across the state.

Delivered as part of the New South Wales Government’s $2.8 billion road safety budget, round two of the Towards Zero-Safer Roads Program, will support 72 separate road safety projects across regional, rural and remote parts of the state. 

Despite regional communities only accounting for a third of the state’s population, tragically, deaths on regional roads make up approximately two thirds of all road deaths.

The Towards Zero – Safer Roads Program, is a road safety infrastructure upgrade and speed management program aimed at delivering sustainable and long-term reduction in road trauma across the NSW road network by addressing high risk locations. 

Upgrades to improve safety may include, installing safety barriers and shoulder widening to help reduce the risk of crashes on higher speed country roads.

Roads to benefit from the funding in the Hunter include:

• T C Frith Avenue, Speers Point –  $179,300

• Wangi Road, Toronto –  $311,672

• Pacific Highway, Pampoolah –  $423,522

• Maitland Road, Mayfield –  $670,103

• Kamilaroi Highway, Quipolly Creek –  $383,873

• Kamilaroi Highway, Tall Crown –  $367,538

A full list of regional road safety upgrades to be delivered under this funding can be found here: https://towardszero.nsw.gov.au/safesystem/safe-roads

Yasmin Catley, Minister for the Hunter said:

“Having the best road infrastructure in place can mean the difference between life and death, and our goal is to give road users the best possible chance in the event of an accident.

“We want our roads in the Hunter to be safe for residents who use the roads every day as well as people visiting our beautiful region, and this funding will help make that a reality.

“From improving sign visibility to increasing the space between traffic travelling in opposite directions, even the smallest upgrades can make a difference.”

Jenny Aitchison, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads said:

“With $202 million to target and improve safety on roads in our regional areas, lives will be saved.

“These upgrades will make our roads safer for all road users, locals and visitors, and this investment will go a long way towards achieving the goal of ensuring everyone gets home safely every time to their loved ones.

“The projects under this program vary in size, location and cost, but the really important thing they have in common is that they will all improve the safety of the people driving on them.” 

City of Newcastle has celebrated the NSW Government’s announcement of $252.2 million to employ more apprentices and trainees in the local government sector across the state.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig joined Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen at City of Newcastle’s Works Depot today, meeting apprentices such as Jazmin Webber, who recently won the Young Achiever’s Award at the Minister’s Awards for Women in Local Government.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig joins Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and City of Newcastle staff at the Works Depot.More than 170 hopeful applicants have already put their names forward for City of Newcastle’s 2025 intake, with 12 positions on offer across the organisation in areas including human resources, civil construction, painting, horticulture and greenkeeping.

Three roles have been targeted towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as part of City of Newcastle’s commitment to its Aboriginal Employment Strategy.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said City of Newcastle is committed to providing well trained, skilled staff to meet the workforce challenges of the future.

“We’re focused on making a real difference in our community as a diverse, inclusive and culturally welcoming employer of choice,” Cr Nelmes said.

“Each year our apprentice and trainee program proves incredibly popular as we provide pathways into employment with mentoring from highly skilled professionals across a wide range of roles.

“It’s fantastic to see the positive outcomes of this program, from Jazmin’s well-deserved recognition at the Minister’s awards to the 74 people who have gone through this program and secured full-time employment at the City of Newcastle during the past four years.”

Minister Hoenig said the funding will provide a much-needed boost for councils which are responsible for providing the services and facilities communities use every day.

“It will mean young people can pursue careers within their own communities, which will revitalise local training networks and importantly keep people in our regions,” Minister Hoenig said.

“With the housing crisis the state government’s number one focus, this investment will also make sure councils are well equipped to build the infrastructure and facilities to support growing communities.”

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig with Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and City of Newcastle apprentice Jazmin Webber.Jazmin Webber became City of Newcastle’s first female carpenter after securing an apprenticeship in 2022 and is currently one of 40 apprentices, trainees, graduates and undergraduates completing their on-the-job training.

Ms Webber originally wanted to pursue a career in medicine when she finished high school but has no regrets about her chosen career path.

“The best thing about an apprenticeship with City of Newcastle is the variety and strong mentorship support. I’ve worked on a range of different projects with a rotation of different mentors since starting in 2022,” Ms Webber said.

“I’m in the third year of my carpentry apprenticeship and I’m still learning so much. Every day I get a little bit more comfortable working on my own.

“I love putting in the extra effort to make City of Newcastle a great place to work by attending Workplace Health and Safety meetings and putting forward initiatives regarding mental health.

“I’m determined to finish my apprenticeship and secure a permanent position as a carpenter with City of Newcastle.”

Successful applicants will begin working for City of Newcastle in late January 2025.

For any questions regarding apprenticeships and traineeships contact futurefit@ncc.nsw.gov.au

Raptor Squad officers have charged two Hunter men following an investigation into the alleged sale of multiple firearms.

In August 2024, officers attached to State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad launched an investigation into the sale of multiple firearms by OMCG members.

Following investigations, Raptor North officers arrested a 30-year-old man – an alleged member of the Finks OMCG – at a home on Greville Street, Beresfield, about 8.10am yesterday (Wednesday 28 August 2024) before taking him to Maitland Police Station.

A short time later police executed a search warrant at a home on View Street, East Branxton.

During the search Raptor Squad officers located and seized a Glock firearm, a taser, a baton, knuckle dusters, ecstasy tablets, six vials of steroids and over $2000 cash.

Officers arrested a 19-year-old man at the property – after he allegedly attempted to flee and hide from police in the home – before taking him to Cessnock Police Station.

The 30-year-old man was charged with three counts of supply firearm not inspect prescribed documents, three counts of supply firearm not inspect prescribed documents, three counts of possess prohibited drug, two counts of possess/attempt to, prescribed restricted substance, two counts of supply firearm to person unauthorised to possess it and recklessly deal with proceeds of crime less than $5000.

The 19-year-old man was charged with three counts of possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit, three counts of possess/attempt to, anabolic or androgenic steroidal agent, acquire firearm no licence/permit not pistol/prohibited firearm, possess unauthorised pistol, supply prohibited drug and deal with property proceeds of crime less than $100,000.

The older man was refused bail to appear before Maitland Local Court yesterday, while the younger man was refused bail to appear before Cessnock Local Court today (Thursday 29 August 2024).

Police will allege in court the older man sold multiple firearms including rifles and shotguns and that the younger man purchased one of these firearms recently.

Investigations continue.

A multimillion-dollar upgrade to revitalise the heart of Georgetown has kicked off today, designed to enhance the safety, accessibility and amenity of the neighbourhood shopping precinct.

The first stage of the City of Newcastle project will upgrade speed control devices and introduce additional entry infrastructure to reduce driver speeds and support the existing 40km/hour zone, while work to renew the existing bus stop will improve access to transport for commuters with accessibility needs.

Corrin Dedman and Chelsea Fleming from Koko Hairdressing and Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes with City of Newcastle work crews as construction on the Georgetown Local Centre project kicks off today

The following stages will make it easier to safely navigate the precinct on foot, with new pedestrian refuges to be installed on the busy Georgetown Road. Drainage improvements and underground utility work will also be completed in the coming months to prepare the precinct for the broader rejuvenation of the local centre.

When complete, the upgraded Georgetown local centre will include a new plaza in Moate Street, wider footpaths, around 30 additional street trees and safer cycle access between Asher and Parkview streets. 

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the Georgetown Local Centre improvements will be a win for residents and businesses.

“Georgetown is a historic village with a lovely character that deserves to be celebrated and preserved,” Cr Nelmes said. 

“We are committed to creating an attractive, leafy, thriving village centre through this project. Georgetown will be our ninth precinct upgraded as part of our Local Centres program, which has already seen more than $20 million invested into our community and small business areas.”

Corrin Dedman, from Koko Hairdressing in Georgetown, said the upgrades would allow the neighbourhood to keep pace with its growing popularity.

“We’re excited for the new plaza and upgrades to the streetscape,” Ms Dedman said.

“Georgetown is a growing area and these improvements will be great for locals and our salon visitors.”

Adrian Taricani, from On Point Natural Medicine in Georgetown, said the upgrades would boost the neighbourhood. 

“The upgrade is an exciting time for the Georgetown community and everyone who comes here. We’re especially excited for the added greenery and the improved street appeal,” Mr Taricani said.

A new electric vehicle (EV) kerbside charging station will also be installed in Georgetown to support City of Newcastle’s commitment to sustainability and net zero emissions. The charging ports are being rolled out in 11 locations across Newcastle with support from a $270,000 grant under the NSW Government’s Electric Vehicle Strategy.

Georgetown is being upgraded through City of Newcastle’s Local Centres program, which invests in communities across Newcastle. 

Other local centres completed include Beresford Avenue, Beresfield; Mitchell Street, Stockton; Young Street, Carrington; James Street Plaza, Hamilton; Llewellyn Street, Merewether; Joslin Street, Kotara, Sandgate Road, Shortland and Blackbutt Village, New Lambton.

Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 27 August 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.

Lord Mayoral Minutes  

Empowering Newcastle Event series 

A Lord Mayoral Minute was supported noting the success of City of Newcastle’s Empowering Newcastle event series. City of Newcastle will continue to engage with all levels of government, industry, business, the community and households on climate change action, nature-based solutions and the circular economy to deliver our Newcastle Environment Strategy.

Bringing the World Surf League to Newcastle

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously supported noting that Surfest Newcastle, with support from City of Newcastle, has been in discussions with the WSL to upgrade Surfest to Challenger Series status, which will further elevate its profile on the international stage, attracting top surfers from around the world and enhancing the prestige of Newcastle as a premier surfing destination.

Council term wrap up 

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously supported noting this meeting of 27 August 2024 was the last Ordinary Council Meeting of a shortened term and congratulating dedicated staff and Councillors for their contribution throughout the Council term.

Ordinary business 

Tabling of register of disclosures of interest 

Council noted the tabling of the Register of Disclosures of Interest (for the period 1 May to 31 July 2024) by the Chief Executive Officer.

Endorsement of motions for submission to the 2024 Local Government NSW Conference

Council endorsed the motions for submission to the Local Government New South Wales 2024 Annual Conference.

Electoral Funding Guidelines 

Council noted the NSW Electoral Commission electoral funding guidelines.

Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation Public Domain Transfers 

Council voted unanimously to classify public domain land transferred from Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation as operational land.

505 Minmi Road Fletcher – Update on Planning Proposal 

Council noted that on 8 August 2024 the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure advised City of Newcastle that the proponent for 505 Minmi Road Fletcher intended to lodge a Gateway review. City of Newcastle will receive formal advice once the application is received and will be provided with 21 calendar days to respond. The Independent Planning Commission will consider all information and provide its recommendation to the Department. The Minister (or delegate) will consider the recommendations and determine whether to alter the Gateway Determination.

Executive Monthly Performance Report 

Council received the Executive Monthly Performance Report for July 2024.

Notices of Motion 

Newcastle Indoor Sports Facility and the Broadmeadow Place Strategy

Council supported a notice of motion that City of Newcastle writes to the NSW Government and local Members of Parliament requesting the NSW Government purchase or compulsorily acquire the Jemena site, to enable the relocation of existing infrastructure to allow new housing and development on government owned land within the Broadmeadow precinct.

Lighting and the North Lambton dog park 

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion that City of Newcastle prepare a report for the Infrastructure Advisory Committee regarding the feasibility and indicative cost of installing lighting at North Lambton, Maryland and Islington dog parks, starting with North Lambton.

Getting on with the job – End of term review – Councillor productivity

Council supported a notice of motion that City of Newcastle acknowledges the work done by Councillors ahead of the August 2024 council meeting, which is the last meeting of the current shortened council term.

Recognition of Paralympians and Inclusive Sport in Newcastle

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion that City of Newcastle celebrates the commencement of the Paralympics on 28 August 2024, with 160 Australian para-athletes competing in 17 of the 22 sports and congratulates the contingent of Novocastrian Paralympians on their selection.

Incident activity

• Today, 10:00pm – Tomorrow, 2:30am
• Tomorrow, 10:00pm – Aug 28, 2:30am
• Aug 28, 10:00pm – Aug 29, 2:30am
• Aug 29, 10:00pm – Aug 30, 2:30am

Details

Monday 26 to Thursday 29 August 

• Nightly from 10pm to 2.30am, trains may run to a changed timetable due to trackwork between Strathfield and Central.
  
• Tuesday to Friday, buses replace the 01:47 Central to Newcastle Interchange service from Central to Hornsby.
• Buses leave Central earlier than the normal train timetable.
  
• Replacement buses may be impacted by driver shortages. We are doing all we can to minimise the impact to your journey and provide a safe service, however cancellations or delays may occur.
• Plan your trip before you travel for up-to-date real time information. You can also subscribe to planned trackwork alerts.

Bus route92T9 Central, then Hornsby (Tuesday to Friday in that direction only)

Routes affected

• CCNCentral to Newcastle via Strathfield or Gordon
• CCNNewcastle to Central via Strathfield or Gordon

NSW Police and other emergency services have been alerted to an earthquake in the Hunter Valley today (Saturday 24 August 2024).

The earthquake recorded a magnitude of 4.7 at 4.31pm near Muswellbrook.

Officers from Hunter Valley Police District have not been made aware of injury or damage to infrastructure.

Residents are advised to alert their local relevant authorities of any injury or damage.

In a major boost for the region the Prime Minister today announced the Albanese Labor Government will save the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium “Reef HQ” with an extra $100 million investment after the Liberals left it underfunded and doomed to fail.

The project is expected to create more than one thousand jobs and give an enormous economic boost to Townsville.

Bringing total Albanese Government funding to $180 million, work can now begin on rebuilding Australia’s most cherished living coral reef exhibit to educate visitors about the world’s most iconic reef ecosystem and how to protect it.

The additional investment will enable the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to deliver a new purpose-built facility that will deliver global excellence in tropical reef education and provide immersive experiences attracting domestic and international visitors.

Opened in 1987 by Prime Minister Bob Hawke, the Townsville landmark has welcomed more than 4.5 million visitors, many of which are passionate local advocates, or visitors from neighbouring regions.

The announcement comes a week after the Townsville City Council voted to allocate funding to the aquarium from the Townsville City Deal, a commitment between the Commonwealth Government, Queensland Government and Townsville City Council to create jobs, increase economic growth and revitalise the city.

Anthony Albanese Prime Minister

“Reef HQ is an icon in this region and my Government is proud to continue the legacy established by Prime Minister Bob Hawke in 1987. Like Bob we want to create the Great Barrier Reef on land, making the Reef accessible and affordable while spreading the Reef conservation message and inspiring action to protect this spectacular natural icon.

“This funding announcement is an investment in the future of our precious Great Barrier Reef, as well as an investment in our regional and remote communities – demonstrating our commitment to creating jobs, building opportunities and unlocking growth, ensuring our regions remain great places to live, work and play.”

Tanya Plibersek Minister for the Environment

“Queensland is home to one of the most extraordinary places on earth – the Great Barrier Reef. We’re determined to protect it, so it can continue to be enjoyed by Australians and visitors from around the world, and marine life can continue to thrive.

“That’s why Labor is investing a record $1.2 billion to protect and restore the Reef.

“And it’s why we are building a new globally recognised, marine science and education facility that showcases our commitment to managing and protecting this natural wonder.

“Labor will always protect Australia’s special places and the jobs that rely on them.”

Catherine King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development & Local Government

“All three levels of Government have come together to get right outcome for Townsville with the commitment to deliver a first class Great Barrier Reef Aquarium that generates economic activity, jobs and tourism, while celebrating our exquisite natural environment.

“We look forward to working with Townsville City Council and the Queensland Government to get this investment moving.”

Kristy McBain Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories

“We’re engaging extensively with Townsville City Deal partners to finalise the deal’s unallocated funding, with Townsville City Council confirming last week that redirecting this $100 million towards Reef HQ would have significant benefits for their local community.

“Our additional investment in Reef HQ provides the community with certainty that a new aquarium will be built – supporting local jobs and unlocking a range of economic opportunities into the future – and ensuring that people from around the globe can fully immerse themselves in world’s largest coral reef ecosystem.

“This builds on over $192 million in Australian Government funding that’s already flowed to projects under the $1 billion Townsville City Deal.

“We’ll continue working with the Queensland Government, Townsville City Council on their future infrastructure priorities.”

Senator Nita Green Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef

“Delivering this project is an excellent opportunity for the city. It will create $725.3 million in economic benefit for Townsville over 30 years and 1313 jobs.

“The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium is not just an Aquarium, it is a much-loved tourism attraction and vital source of Reef education, which has welcomed millions of people from around the world for more than three decades and is a pillar of the North Queensland community.

“I want to thank Townsville City Council for recognising the importance of this project to the city.”

The 4.8 magnitude earthquake in the Hunter today raises serious questions about the Liberal National Party’s plans for nuclear reactors in the region, Solutions for Climate Australia said.

The earthquake’s epicentre was very close to the Liddell power station where the Liberal National Party aims to build at least one nuclear reactor. Solutions for Climate Australia Senior Campaigner Elly Baxter said the Liberal Nationals needed to answer serious questions about safety, emergency response, radioactive waste and water availability at the site.

“The Liberal Nationals need to tell local residents how an emergency at a nuclear reactor would be handled and who would handle it,” Baxter said.

“Even without the added risk of a local nuclear reactor, school children had to be evacuated in Muswellbrook today. What would happen with a nuclear reactor nearby?

“Would local firefighting volunteers handle the nuclear material? What training would local firefighting volunteers receive in handling nuclear radiation? Who would train them? Would the army come in to help?

“How would iodine tablets be distributed to locals to try to reduce cancer risk? What would be the fallout zone and where would the local emergency staging area be? Where would nuclear refugees be accommodated?

“Would the Federal Government be responsible for the emergency management given under the Liberal National policy, the Federal Government would own the nuclear reactor?

“What would happen to the radioactive waste and who would be responsible for that? Where would the enormous volume of water come from to deal with the toxic, radioactive emergency?

“These safety issues only compound our concerns that nuclear reactors will take too long to build to protect Australians from the worst impacts of climate change.

“We need to have a mature conversation about the safety and security of nuclear reactors. The risk of a nuclear meltdown due to an earthquake is real and the consequences would be very serious for local families and children.”