Month: August 2025

Liberals to deliver Kiama sports precinct

Liberal candidate for Kiama Serena Copley welcomed the announcement by NSW Liberal Leader Mark Speakman that a NSW Liberal Government will deliver $26 million for urgently needed upgrades to the Kiama Sports Precinct Complex.

Ms Copley said this $26 million commitment will deliver the first stage of Kiama Council’s masterplan for a modern, fit-for-purpose sporting precinct for Kiama.

This major investment will deliver:

·       New football amenities and changerooms, including dedicated facilities for female players for the first time
·       New netball amenities and changerooms
·       Installation of high-grade lighting for four football fields (including cricket) and the athletics track
·       Resurfacing and reconfiguration of outdoor netball courts and car parking
·       Extensive new drainage and irrigation to weather-proof fields and track
·       Construction of a new synthetic athletics track (replacing the existing grass track)
·       Installation of new CCTV to improve community safety and security

Ms Copley said the local sporting community had been crying out for these upgrades.

“From netball and basketball to football, cricket, athletics and Little A’s, the precinct supports thousands of players every week. This funding will make sure those facilities keep pace with demand and are safe, accessible and ready for the future,” Ms Copley said.

“This announcement is about listening to the needs of local clubs and delivering what matters most, modern amenities, safer playing surfaces, and facilities that encourage participation for all, including women and juniors.”

“I’m proud to be part of the Liberal Team that believes so strongly in Kiama and is willing to invest to ensure we have a better future for generations to come.”

NSW Waradas Crowned First Nations Champions After Extra-Time Epic

The NSW Waradas have crowned their inspiring campaign at the First Nations Netball Tournament with a thrilling gold medal victory, edging out Queensland 53-51 in extra time. Showcasing resilience and belief under pressure, it was the Warada’s relentless attitude that carried them over the line in a memorable grand final.

Head Coach Colleen Mitchell praised her players for their ability to embrace the challenge of a demanding week, which saw them collectively play close to 10 matches.

“”I’m so proud of this incredible group of athletes. This was a big ask for such a young team, but their resilience and energy were outstanding. They not only held their own against older and more experienced opponents, but also grew stronger with each match.”

Mitchell also highlighted the team’s versatility throughout the tournament.

“We used the week to trial different combinations, and that really helped us adapt to the intensity of finals netball. The players showed real maturity in how they embraced those changes and supported each other on and off the court.”

NSW started strongly, edging ahead by one at the first break before extending their lead to five midway through the second quarter. Relentless defensive pressure from Jaylah Boney combined with the sharp shooting of Charlotte Ryan kept Queensland on the back foot. But as half time approached, Queensland clawed their way back, narrowing the margin to just two goals, with NSW leading 21-19.

The third quarter shifted the momentum. When Acacia Ellers was handed a two-minute penalty, Queensland capitalised, turning a five-goal deficit into a two-goal advantage by the three quarter break. NSW showed their resilience in the last term, fighting back from four goals down to draw level at 40-40, even having a chance to steal the lead in the dying minutes. At full time, the scoreboard read 42-42, sending the contest into extra time.

With the pressure at its peak, the Waradas held their composure. Their determination and grit shone through in the final minutes as they steadied, regrouped, and pushed ahead to claim a famous victory – and the gold medal.

“It was a great dynamic among an amazing group of young athletes – there was lots of determination and grit about them,” Mardi Aplin, Netball NSW General Manager of Performance and Pathways said.

Featuring a dynamic new line-up of athletes aged just 17-21 years, the Waradas impressed across the week with their determination, grit, and ability to adapt. Most of the 10 athletes had previously crossed paths at state tournaments, but this was the first time they united on the national stage as one team.

Across the campaign, the Waradas produced dominant performances, recording victories over Northern Territory (45-19), Yakanarna (43-28), Victoria (48-32), Netball Lutruwita (44-32), Western Australia (55-39), and the ACT (37-23). Their only loss in the preliminary rounds came against the more experienced Queensland side (35-51), setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch in the decider.

A highlight of the First Nations Netball tournament was the cultural immersion day, where athletes came together to experience bush tucker making and combination painting.

“It was great for allowing different mobs from around Australia to come together for a common reason,” Aplin said.

Mitchell added:

“That cultural experience was just as important as what happened on court. It reminded the athletes of the bigger picture – the power of connection, identity, and pride in representing their communities.”

Police plunge into icy water for charity – Newcastle

Senior police will plunge into icy ocean water in Newcastle today to raise money for a good cause.

The Polar Plunge sees participants enter the water at 19 locations across Australia between Saturday 19 July 2025 to Saturday 30 August 2025, with eight of these taking place at various locations across NSW.

Law Enforcement Torch Run is a charity made of up of NSW Police Force and other law enforcement agencies, and it coordinates events – including the Polar Plunge – to raise money for the athletes of Special Olympics Australia.

One of the plunges will be held at Merewether Ocean Baths this morning (Sunday 24 August 2025). The event starts with a brief torch run and opening ceremony at 10am, following by the plunge at 10.15am.

Participants from the NSW Police Force, emergency services, community and justice agencies, Special Olympics Clubs, individuals, and corporate partners will take the plunge.

Northern Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Waddell APM, will be jumping into the cold water at Merewether for the important cause.

“For over 20 years we’ve supported the Law Enforcement Torch Run NSW to raise awareness of the great work done by Special Olympics Australia,” Assistant Commissioner Waddell said.

“We are proud to be taking the plunge and to show our support for Special Olympics Australia who bring sport, joy and inclusion to people with intellectual disability and autism.”

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, the Hon Yasmin Catley MP, will also be taking the plunge.

“There’s no better example of the Australian spirit than a day like today, with the community coming together for the Polar Plunge,” Minister Catley said.

“The NSW Government is proud to support our police, whose selflessness is at the heart of everything they do – qualities that shine through in their support for Special Olympics Australia.

“A big thank you to everyone who made this event possible and brought it to Newcastle – and best of luck to all the participants taking the plunge!”

Man arrested after pursuit in Muswellbrook

A man remains in police custody after a pursuit in the state’s Hunter Valley region.

About 2.20am today (Sunday 24 August 2025), officers attached to Traffic and Highway Patrol Command were patrolling the New England Highway, near Muswellbrook, when they attempted to stop a Holden Commodore, allegedly being driven in a dangerous manner.

When it failed to stop as directed a pursuit was initiated.

The pursuit continued along the New England Highway towards Whittingham, where road spikes were successfully deployed; however, the pursuit was then terminated due to a safety concern.

A short time later, police located the vehicle on Hunter Expressway, near Loxton and another pursuit was initiated; however, it was terminated due to a safety concern.

About 2.50am, police sighted the vehicle on Main Road, Cliftleigh, after it had crashed into a car travelling in the opposite direction.

When officers attempted to speak to both drivers; the driver of the Holden – a 34-year-old man – left the scene.

Following inquiries, the man was arrested nearby after police seized a syringe from him.

He was taken to John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition under police guard.

The other driver – a 38-year-old woman – was treated at the scene by paramedics for minor injuries.

A crime scene has been established and police commenced an investigation into the incident.

Two men charged over alleged home invasion – Newcastle

Two men have been charged following an investigation into an alleged home invasion in Newcastle last week.

About 12.40am on Thursday 14 August 2025, police were called to a unit on McNaughton Avenue, Wallsend, following reports of an aggravated break and enter.

At the scene, officers attached to Newcastle City Police District were told two males entered the unit and allegedly threatened a 21-year-old woman with a knife before assaulting her.

A crime scene was established.

The woman was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to the John Hunter Hospital for the treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Police commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Following inquiries, about 12.45pm yesterday (Thursday 21 August 2025), a 25-year-old man was arrested at Campbelltown Railway Station, with the assistance of officers attached to Police Transport Command.

He was taken to Campbelltown Police Station, where he was charged with aggravated break and enter commit serious indictable offence, assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company of other(s), demand property by force in company with intent to steal and destroy etc property in company use fire.

He was refused bail to appear before Campbelltown Local Court today (Friday 22 August 2025).

About 3.40pm yesterday, a second 25-year-old man was arrested at a unit on Henry Kendall Street, West Gosford, with the assistance of officers attached to Public Order and Riot Squad.

He was taken to Gosford Police Station, where he was charged with aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence-armed, assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company of other(s), demand property by force in company with intent to steal, destroy etc property in company use fire, choke etc person intend to commit etc indictable offence and use prohibited weapon contrary to prohibition order.

He was refused bail to appear before Bail Division Court 6 today.

Man issued infringement notice following crash – Hunter Valley

A man has been issued with an infringement notice following a crash at Mount View in the Hunter Valley last month.

About 10.30am on Wednesday 30 July 2025, emergency services were called to Mount View Road following reports of a single-vehicle crash.

At the scene, officers located a Toyota HiAce that had rolled approximately 40 metres down an embankment.

The occupants included the driver – a 73-year-old man – and five passengers, all men aged 52, 54, and three aged 57.

All occupants were transported to the John Hunter Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

A crime scene was established by Hunter Valley Police, with the matter under investigation by the Crash Investigation Unit.

Following inquiries, the 73-year-old driver was issued with an infringement notice for negligent driving.

Man charged over alleged assault – Newcastle

A man has been charged over the alleged assault of another man outside a café in Newcastle earlier this month.

Officers attached to Newcastle City Police District commenced an investigation on Tuesday 12 August 2025, following reports an 80-year-old man was assaulted outside a café on Maitland Road, Mayfield, about 2.45pm on Sunday 10 August 2025.

The 80-year-old man was uninjured.

Following inquiries, on Tuesday 19 August 2025, a 39-year-old man was issued a Field Court Attendance Notice for common assault.

He is due to appear before Newcastle Local Court on Thursday 2 October 2025.

Travel to Malaysia and Philippines

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles will travel to Malaysia and the Philippines this week – further strengthening our already close defence ties. 

In Malaysia, the Deputy Prime Minister will take part in the 5th Malaysia-Australia High Level Committee on Defence Cooperation with Malaysia’s Minister of Defence, Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin.

Australia and Malaysia are longstanding partners and friends. Our shared military history, including through the Five Power Defence Arrangements, underscores our commitment to a peaceful and stable region.

In the Philippines, the Deputy Prime Minister will build on our cooperation and mutual trust through the 2nd Australia-Philippines Defence Ministers’ Meeting with Philippine Secretary of National Defense, Hon Gilberto Teodoro Jr. 

During his visit, the Deputy Prime Minister will also visit Australian personnel taking part in Exercise Alon 25, Australia’s largest overseas joint training activity this year.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles:

“Malaysia is one of Australia’s closest partners, and I look forward to meeting with Minister Khaled to discuss our ongoing commitment to regional peace and security.

“Australia and Malaysia share a longstanding defence partnership, built upon a comprehensive program of exchanges, training and exercises. 

“I look forward to meeting Secretary Teodoro in Manila to discuss ways to deepen Australia-Philippines defence cooperation; by building capacity and strengthening interoperability.

“Our cooperation through Exercise Alon reflects a shared commitment to working together to maintain a peaceful, secure and prosperous region where sovereignty is respected.”

Autistic Australians Used as Political Football in Minister’s Shameful Announcement

At his National Press Club address, Minister Mark Butler announced changes to NDIS eligibility for children he described as having “mild to moderate autism” and developmental delay.

This announcement has been met with outrage from the autistic community and disability advocates, who warn that the move is discriminatory, dangerous, and based on political spin rather than evidence.

Senator Jordon Steele-John, Greens spokesperson for Disability Inclusion and the NDIS: 

“Autistic Australians are being used as a political football, and that is simply unacceptable.

“Autism is lifelong. There is no growing out of it. The Minister’s suggestion otherwise denies reality and risks stripping people of the supports they need to thrive.

“Autistic Australians deserve support from our government. They do not deserve further stigmatisation and the rug to be pulled out from under them by a politician on the national stage because this government is trying to balance its bottom line.

“This announcement is discriminatory, and it will drive poorer outcomes and increase risks of harm. Autistic people are already experiencing poorer mental health, and they are already three to four times more likely to die by suicide. 

“Politicians are making up definitions. Terms like “mild” and “moderate” autism have no clinical basis. They are political inventions, misleading the public and showing deep ignorance.

“This announcement was not co-designed, and there’s no lived experience at its heart. It’s political theatre at the expense of our community. 

“The so-called replacement programs are flawed. The government is pointing to programs such as Inklings and Thriving Kids. Inklings is designed for babies aged 6 – 18 months, and already, we have raised serious concerns about transparency and practice. Thriving Kids is a last-minute curveball without evidence to back it. A few medical appointments cannot replace lifelong disability supports. 

“The autistic community has already endured decades of exclusion, harmful therapies, and being misunderstood. This announcement is deeply shameful. People are scared, and once again, neurodivergent Australians are being left behind. They deserve real support from their government—not stigma, spin, and cuts dressed up as reform.”

Melbourne Uni must apologise for privacy law breach, end crackdown on Palestine protestors

Greens Deputy Leader and Higher Education Spokesperson Senator Mehreen Faruqi has strongly condemned the University of Melbourne following findings by the Victorian Privacy and Data Protection deputy commissioner that the university unlawfully surveilled students and staff during a pro-Palestine protest by using Wi-Fi location data. The deputy commissioner found that because “the collection and use of the data involved the surveillance of students and staff, and surveillance by its nature is antithetical to human rights, the breach was serious”.

The University of Melbourne has maintained that its use of Wi-Fi location data was reasonable “given the overriding need to keep our community safe”.

Lines attributable to Senator Faruqi, Deputy Leader of the Australian Greens and spokesperson for Higher Education:

“The University of Melbourne has doubled down on unlawful surveillance and failed to apologise for its serious breach of privacy.

“Universities should nurture critical thought, dissent and protest. Surveillance is the tool of authoritarian states, not places of learning.

“Using Wi-Fi tracking, CCTV footage and email monitoring against students and staff is a profound betrayal of trust. A university that spies on its students has lost its moral compass.

“Universities should defend free expression, not police it. When a university treats protest as a crime, it betrays its own purpose.

“The University of Melbourne’s claim that the surveillance was justified to ensure community safety is a harmful narrative designed to smear protestors. The real threat to safety is Israel’s genocide in Gaza — and yet the University continues to maintain links with weapons companies fuelling that genocide.”

“Instead of doubling down on this punitive response—one which has already harmed students and staff—the University must offer an unconditional public apology, reverse all disciplinary actions against pro-Palestine protestors, end ties to weapons companies and immediately commit to transparent policy reform that respects privacy, academic freedom, and the right to protest.”