WINDING DOWN HUNTER VALLEY FOOD WASTE

Hunter Valley wineries and hospitality businesses are winding down their food and organics waste pioneering sustainability in the region, thanks to funding from the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

Winding Down Wineries Food Waste’, delivered by Go Circular, is an innovative initiative aiming to reduce food and organics waste, creating a model for wine regions across Australia.

NSW EPA Acting Director Circular Economy Programs, Sam Lewis said empowering local businesses and communities to design circular solutions will drive lasting change for NSW.

“Go Circular’s project is paving the way for a more sustainable future, with benefits extending far beyond the vineyard,” said Mr Lewis.

“NSW generates 1.7 million tonnes of food waste per year. To help tackle the landfill crisis, we need to seriously combat food waste and invest in local solutions.

“That’s why the NSW Government has introduced new laws where from 1 July next year certain businesses must separate food waste from their general waste.

“The project champions new and practical strategies to better manage food waste like using in-season locally grown produce, turning vegetable off cuts into hearty stocks and recycling food waste into nutrient rich soil for vineyards.

“By co-designing innovative solutions with industry, local government and businesses, this project fosters greater collaboration, knowledge-sharing and builds a blueprint for other wine regions across Australia.”

Go Circular CEO, Annie Jiang said the Hunter Valley, with its 200-year history as one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, is now showing its leadership in sustainable hospitality and tourism.

“This project highlights the power of community-led innovation. From farm to kitchen, Hunter Valley hospitality businesses are demonstrating how sustainability can be embedded into everyday practice – protecting both our environment and the future of this iconic region,” said Ms Jiang.

Margan Winery and Restaurant owner, Ollie Margan said their strong focus on reducing food waste has helped shape a menu that is both sustainable and reflective of the region.

“By sourcing 90% of our non-meat ingredients directly from our own garden, we harvest only what we need, when we need it. This helps us minimise food waste from the start, while delivering fresher and unique dishes,” said Mr Margan.

The EPA provided $165,600 in funding under the Business Food Waste Partnership Grant program.

To learn more about the Winding Down Wineries Waste project visit https://www.gocircular.org.au/winding-down-wineries-waste/

To learn more about the program and other successful recipients visit https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/Working-together/Grants/organics-infrastructure-fund/Business-food-waste-partnership-grants

Go Circular is a purpose-driven organisation based in Newcastle and the Hunter region, supporting organisations to implement circular economy principles through practical solutions that strengthen environmental, economic, and social resilience.

Second man charged with murder over fatal shooting – Newcastle

A second man has been charged following the fatal shooting of a man in Newcastle earlier this year.

Emergency services were called to the Bar Beach carpark on Memorial Drive about 11.40pm on Wednesday 23 April 2025 and found a man with a gunshot wound.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the 18-year-old man, but he died at the scene.

A crime scene was established by officers attached to Newcastle City Police District.

Police will allege a group of people were fighting in the car park when a white SUV drove up and a man armed with a firearm got out, fired, and left in the vehicle.

An investigation commenced involving detectives from Newcastle, assisted by the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad.

On Friday 25 April 2025, a 22-year-old was arrested and charged with murder. He remains before the courts.

Following inquiries, on Wednesday 7 May 2025, police executed a search warrant at a unit on Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle, where a firearm and ammunition were seized for forensic examination.

A 25-year-old man was arrested nearby and was taken to Newcastle Police Station.

He was charged with acquire etc firearm – subject to prohibition order, acquire etc ammunition subject to prohibition order, possess ammunition without holding licence/permit/authority, use, supply, acquire, possess stolen firearm or part, firearm etc found at premises-subject to prohibition order and breach of bail.

Following further inquiries, the 25-year-old man was arrested at a correctional facility in Kempsey today (Thursday 10 July 2025).

He was charged with murder and possess unauthorised prohibited firearm.

He was refused bail to appear before Bail Division Court 1.

Investigations under Strike Force Bolwarra continue.

Hunter Valley Police seize an estimated $10,000 worth of cannabis growing in a house

Hunter Valley Police have seized over 1kg of cannabis leaf and mature cannabis plants with an estimated street value of $10,000, following a search warrant at a house in the state’s Hunter region.

In June 2025, officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District commenced an investigation into the cultivation and supply of cannabis in the Hunter Valley area.

Following extensive investigations, police executed a search warrant at a property on Bylong Valley Way, Baerami, about 9:00am yesterday (Wednesday 9 July 2025).

During the search, police located and seized 44 cannabis plants, a large quantity of loose cannabis leaf and cannabis buds. Police also located equipment used in the enhanced cultivation of cannabis.

The estimated street value of the cannabis seized is $10,000.

No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.

Hunter Valley Police seize over $40,000 worth of cannabis growing from shed roof

Hunter Valley Police have seized over $40,000 worth of cannabis and other illicit substances growing from a shed roof in the state’s Hunter region.

In June 2025, officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District commenced an investigation into the cultivation and supply of cannabis in the Hunter Valley area.

Following extensive investigations, police executed a search warrant at a property on Aberdare Road, Aberdare, about 8.30am yesterday (Tuesday 8 July 2025).

During the search, police located and seized over 8kg of cannabis found growing from inside a shed ceiling, 48g of methylamphetamine, 1.2g of heroin and a taser.

The estimated street value of the cannabis seized is $45,000.

Following the search police arrested a 44-year-old man before taking him to Cessnock Police Station.

He was charged with possess prohibited drug (3), possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit (3), supply prohibited drug (2), possess prohibited plant and cultivate prohibited plant.

The man was refused bail to appear before Local Bail Division Court 2 today (9 July 2025).

ALBANESE GOVERNMENT BACKS RENEWABLE BOOST TO HUNTER VALLEY

ALBANESE GOVERNMENT BACKS RENEWABLE BOOST TO HUNTER VALLEY Main Image

The Albanese Government is securing Australia’s energy future with a Hydrogen Headstart investment in Orica’s Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub.

The project will secure the future of ammonia and explosives manufacturing at Kooragang Island by reducing its reliance on gas. This keeps local manufacturing competitive and sustainable, supporting jobs and the long-term future of the industry in the Hunter.

Located on Kooragang Island in the heart of the Hunter Region, the project will deploy a 50 MW electrolyser powered by renewable energy, producing around 4,200 tonnes of green hydrogen each year.

By switching from gas to green hydrogen, the project will also significantly cut emissions from Orica’s ammonia production facility and help produce green ammonia for domestic use across mining, agriculture and manufacturing sectors.

It will also help open Australia to exporting clean renewable hydrogen overseas, and the jobs and economic benefits that will come with it as the world looks to decarbonise.

Delivered through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), the funding willbring down costs and accelerate the uptake of renewable hydrogen in heavy industry.

Hydrogen Headstart supports large-scale renewable hydrogen projects such as Orica’s by bridging the commercial gap between the cost of producing renewable hydrogen and the current market price.

Before funding is released, Orica will work closely with ARENA to meet a number of conditions and demonstrate progress toward key milestones.

This $432 million announcement follows the $814 million awarded to Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners’ Murchison Green Hydrogen Project in Western Australia earlier this year. Together, these two landmark investments mark the conclusion of Hydrogen Headstart Round 1.

Building on this success, Round 2 is now open for consultation here (hyperlink). This is an opportunity for industry to help refine implementation of the program and take on lessons for the first round.

Consultation will run for [4 weeks] with a view to opening the next round of the program in the coming months.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen:

“The Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub is securing long-term, high-quality jobs for the region, while decarbonising industries that are vital to our economy.

“This investment shows we can secure existing industries such as ammonia and fertiliser production by transforming how they’re powered – creating new clean-tech jobs and future-proofing the Hunter’s economic base.

“Regional communities like the Hunter will lead the way in Australia’s transformation into a renewable energy superpower – and this project is a great example of what that looks like in practice.”

Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon MP:

“This landmark investment puts our region right at the forefront of Australia’s clean energy future.

“The $432 million investment will create good local jobs, drive innovation, reduce emissions, and help position Newcastle and the Hunter as a national leader in renewable energy production.

“This builds on the Albanese Labor Government’s significant investments in new energy infrastructure at the Port of Newcastle, in clean energy training at TAFE, and in research and development at the University of Newcastle.

“Newcastle and the Hunter has powered Australia for generations, and with this investment, will continue to do so, but in a way that is sustainable and future focused.”

DESIGNS UNVEILED FOR NEWCASTLE GREEN ENERGY PRECINCT

The final concept designs have been unveiled for the Port of Newcastle’s Clean Energy Precinct, which will establish the Hunter region as an industry leader in Australia’s transformation to net-zero.    

Community members, prospective commercial partners and international investors attended a virtual-reality walk-through of the site today, where the future design of the precinct was brought to life.The Clean Energy Precinct will be located on a disused 220-hectare site on Kooragang Island, just north of Newcastle’s CBD and straddling the south channel of the Hunter River.

With a $100 million investment from the Australian Government, the Port of Newcastle site will be transformed into a burgeoning industrial hub enabling the production, storage, distribution and export of clean energy products, including green hydrogen and ammonia. The precinct will integrate clean energy production and storage with the Hunter’s Hydrogen Hub gateway projects, the New South Wales Renewable Energy Zones, and offshore wind developments – making it a vital cog in our net zero future.

The Port of Newcastle has been progressing Front-End Engineering and Design and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) studies, backed by community consultation and industry engagement, and today’s release of designs allow the public and potential commercial partners to visualise the planned layout of the precinct infrastructure.

The precinct infrastructure includes electrical and water services, production facilities, storage, vehicle access, and pipelines for distribution and export.

The EIS will be released publicly later this year, and construction of the precinct is expected to break ground in 2027.

For progress updates on the Clean Energy Precinct, visit the Port of Newcastle’s website.

Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“Australia’s largest coal port is diversifying its offering and preparing to accommodate new and growing industries on the shores of the Hunter River.

“Newcastle has always been one of the most productive industrial centres in Australia, and we’re ensuring its legacy continues with the Clean Energy Precinct.

“It’s crucial that we develop the infrastructure now to be prepared for Australia’s energy future, and that’s exactly what we’re doing here on Kooragang Island.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen:

“The Hunter has been an industrial and economic powerhouse for decades, making the Port of Newcastle an ideal location for a Clean Energy Precinct that can support decarbonisation of heavy industry and connect Australia’s renewable resources to the world.

“The Albanese Labor Government is supporting industrial regions like the Hunter to take advantage of the economic and job opportunities that come with reliable renewable energy.”

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“This is a defining moment for Newcastle – a city that has helped power the nation for generations is preparing to the future with clean energy.

“It’s hard to imagine a more powerful symbol of our region’s transformation – land once earmarked for a coal terminal will now be at the forefront of the global clean energy transition.

“This masterplan lays the groundwork for thousands of jobs in renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy exports.

“From coal to clean energy, this is what a transition looks like. Thoughtful, strategic, and grounded in the strengths of our region and our people.”

UPGRADES UNDERWAY AT WALLSEND PARK THANKS TO SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT FROM LABOR

Local sporting clubs are set to benefit from much-needed upgrades at Wallsend Park, with work now underway on a new in-ground irrigation system.

The project backed by a $285,000 investment from the Albanese Labor Government, will give some of the region’s biggest sporting clubs more certainty and deliver modern, accessible playing fields that meet the future demand of the community.

Wallsend Park is home to the Wallsend Cricket Club, Wallsend Football Club, and the Wallsend RSL Junior Cricket Club.

These upgrades are in addition to the recent election commitment from the Albanese Labor Government of $3 million to install drainage and irrigation at the neighbouring Upper Reserve in Wallsend.

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“It’s great to see this work now underway.

“Wallsend Park is a hub for local sport, and these upgrades will make a real difference for the people who use it week in, week out.

“These clubs are at the heart of our community – they bring people together, support our kids, and promote healthy, active lifestyles.

“The Albanese Labor Government is proud to be investing in the future of community sport right here in Wallsend.”

Wallsend Cricket Club President Peter Hanna:

“The irrigation project is significant for the Club in that it future proofs our ability to provide high class sporting facilities in our local Wallsend community.

“It will also significantly reduce the level of effort and time in the weekly preparation of practice and playing wickets for both our junior and senior teams, reducing manual watering and associated workload for out volunteer curation team. That assistance is something that is really appreciated today where it is increasingly difficult to attract and retain volunteers.”

DELIVERING NEW SOCIAL HOUSING FOR WALLSEND

The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are building more homes in Newcastle with nine new social housing units nearing completion in Wallsend thanks to joint funding from the Commonwealth’s Social Housing Accelerator Fund (SHAF) and local government.

The new nine-unit development at Curry Street is being delivered thanks to a partnership between Homes NSW and the City of Newcastle, who each agreed to jointly fund the construction of more dedicated social housing for the Wallsend community.

Work commenced in mid-2024 on the new two-storey block which has been built at a cost of $4.42 million, creating 19 jobs throughout the lifetime of its construction.

The new complex, located on the traditional lands of the Awabakal people, will feature four 1-bedroom and five 2-bedroom homes, replacing ageing homes at the site.

Close to schools, public transport, and local shops, the new units are expected to be finished by mid-May and will soon provide safe and modern homes for up to 16 new residents.

Homes NSW allocated funding for the build from the Commonwealth SHAF’s vacant accelerator stream which has already restored and renovated more than 300 previously uninhabitable vacant homes.

The new homes demonstrate what’s possible under the $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program, which will build 8400 new homes for public housing, deliver 21,000 new affordable and market homes and upgrade 30,000 social housing properties.


Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said:

“It is fantastic to see the Albanese Labor Government’s Social Housing Accelerator Fund being put to such good use here in Wallsend.

“We know we need to supercharge social housing delivering and this new development is being turned around in under a year, with new homes to help reduce Newcastle’s social housing waitlist.

“These new units, which have replaced ageing and not fit-for-purpose homes, are built to a high standard, and are close to local amenities such as shopping, services, and transportation.”


NSW Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“We will continue to work tirelessly to expand the number of new social housing developments across the state, including finding well-located sites with vacant homes where we can deliver better for the most vulnerable people in our community.

“This successful partnership between the NSW Government and the City of Newcastle should be a signal to the sector and all levels of government that we are ready and willing to work together to confront the housing crisis.

“We will continue to deliver more and better housing across the state thanks to the Minns Labor Government’s record investment in social housing and this collaborative approach.”

Teenagers take centre stage at the Playhouse this school holidays

A musical comedy about the anxiety of high school, performed by young Novocastrians, is just one of the offerings being presented by City of Newcastle during the July school holidays.

From free exhibitions and workshops at our libraries and Newcastle Museum to an exciting range of outdoor facilities, there are plenty of ways to keep the kids entertained.

CIVIC THEATRE AND PLAYHOUSE

Calvin Berger is the second show in City of Newcastle’s Upstage at the Playhouse 2025 program, an exciting initiative that introduces fresh, new and adapted works to be presented and performed by the local artists.

It tells the story of a boy who feels awkward about his appearance and so arranges for another boy to chase the girl of his dreams.

Making its Newcastle premiere at the Civic Theatre Playhouse tonight, the production is presented by Hyde Entertainment, a Newcastle-based theatrical and entertainment company helmed by 18-year-old Seb Smee.

The show is recommended for people over the age of 12, with discount tickets available for full time students.

There are also family friendly shows on offer at the Civic Theatre in the holidays including The Gruffalo’s ChildMadagascar The Musical and Disney’s Frozen Junior, presented by Hunter Drama.

NEWCASTLE MUSEUM

There’s something for kids of all ages at Newcastle Museum during the school holidays, starting with Caring for our Coast, a mini museum experience from the Australian Museum, where visitors can get up close and curious with objects such as a Port Jackson shark jaw, an Abalone shell, a cross-section of a midden and more.

The Maths Magic Science Show is ideal for children preparing to go to high school, while Bricks 4 Kidz workshops will see children rotate through three exciting stations building with LEGO®.

For a taste of Australia, health practitioner and proud Darkinjung woman, Sarah Corrigan is offering the chance to try some bush tucker, including syrups and finger limes.

Bookings are essential for the Bricks 4 Kidz workshop which costs $20 per child, but all other events are free, with no booking required.

For more information visit Newcastle Museum online.

SKATE PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS

With more than 115 playgrounds to choose from, there are plenty of reasons to brave the cold during the holidays to help the kids burn off some energy.

City of Newcastle has invested more than $14 million into playground projects across Newcastle during the past seven years to upgrade and replace facilities.

There are also nine skate parks provided by City of Newcastle, with a variety of features to test skaters, riders and scooters of all levels.

South Newcastle Beach Skate Park includes the Hunter’s first wheelchair-accessible skate bowl and facilities for all level skaters; while the Stockton Active Hub features the first street style skate plaza in the Hunter and Mayfield Skate Park has a variety of concrete blocks, quarter pipes, hips and banks.

For a full list of skate parks visit City of Newcastle’s website

BLACKBUTT RESERVE 

Enjoy the sights and sounds of Blackbutt Reserve with the added bonus of the new Blackbutt Café by Durks in the Carnley Avenue recreation area. Featuring an undercover dining and seating area, it offers coffee, breakfast and lunch dining options, as well as picnic boxes and catering.

Wildlife exhibits are open from 10am to 4.30pm daily, with free entry. Blackbutt Reserve picnic facilities are open from 7am until 7pm. Shelters, barbecues and nature walks are available between these hours.

For more information on booking a shelter or animal feeding times visit the Blackbutt Reserve page on our website.

LIBRARIES

At our City and Wallsend libraries aspiring programmers can learn the basics of computational thinking and sequencing or join an introductory Dungeons & Dragons program for beginners and get to know the famous role-playing game, with the guidance of an experienced Game Master.

The younger kids can enjoy craft-based play including a Playdough Party, or join Uncle Amos Simon, proud Worimi, Birpai and Wiradjuri man, to learn how to make an artwork using natural materials and how to make rope from stringybark, all while enjoying a mini silent disco.

For gaming enthusiasts, there’s a Nintendo Switch gaming event playing Super Smash Bros where kids can enjoy some friendly competition.

For more information visit City of Newcastle Libraries online.

FORT SCRATCHLEY

The Historic Fort Scratchley will be welcoming visitors during the school holidays.

Guided tours, led by passionate Historical Society volunteers with a wealth of knowledge about the site, are offered at regular intervals each day (except Tuesdays).

The historic gun is fired daily at 1pm, weather permitting.

For details or to book a tour visit Fort Scratchley online.

Building a better Lake Macquarie: Speers Point traffic solution to open for consultation

The Minns Labor Government has unveiled its solution to fix the notorious Speers Point roundabout that has frustrated Lake Macquarie motorists for years.

The concept design for the $16 million project is now on public display and open for feedback.

Once complete, the upgrades will deliver new dedicated turning lanes, roundabout metering with traffic lights during peak times, and improved safety for all road users including cyclists and pedestrians.

Traffic modelling shows the improvements will slash travel times by more than 50 per cent during morning and evening peaks, and 25 per cent during Saturday peak periods at the intersection of Five Islands Road, T C Frith Avenue and The Esplanade.

North West Lake Macquarie is expected to grow by 12,000 new residents and 6,000 jobs over the next 20 years, making these upgrades critical for the region’s future.

The concept design incorporates extensive community feedback from consultations undertaken in 2024, with refinements including roundabout metering and extended turning lanes based on 59 submissions and 531 community pins on an interactive map.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to building the infrastructure that regional NSW needs.

Community consultation runs until 11:59pm Monday, 28 July 2025.

Have your say:

Online: www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/speers-point
Email: SpeersPoint@transport.nsw.gov.au
Mail: Speers Point transport improvements Project Team, Transport for NSW, Locked Bag 30, Newcastle NSW 2300

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of fixing the transport bottlenecks that matter most to families across NSW.

“The Speers Point roundabout has been a daily frustration for thousands of motorists. We’re not just talking about fixing it, we’re delivering a solution.

“This $16 million investment will slash travel times by more than half during peak periods. That means families getting to work and school on time, and businesses moving goods more efficiently.

“The Minns Labor Government is building a better NSW by investing in the infrastructure that regional communities need and deserve.”

Independent Member for Lake Macquarie Greg Piper said:

“This is exactly what happens when we work together constructively to put the community first.

“I’ve been advocating for these improvements for some time because I hear from constituents every day about this traffic nightmare.

“This $16 million investment proves that when you work collaboratively, you get results.

“These improvements will make a real difference to thousands of families trying to get to work, school and appointments. It’s about giving people their time back.”

Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said:

“Lake Macquarie City Council looks forward to the NSW Government delivering this long overdue investment in the region’s transport infrastructure.

“The NSW Government’s concept design is a crucial step towards removing one of the worst traffic snarls in the Hunter Region.

“Infrastructure investment such as this is essential for keeping our community connected and moving efficiently, particularly in parts of our city seeing rapid residential and commercial growth.”