Month: October 2025

Next chapter dawns bright for Lambton Park cafe

Construction is underway to transform a locally significant building in one of the city’s most popular parks into a vibrant, accessible café at the heart of Lambton. 

Originally built in the 1940s as a Baby Health Centre and later converted into tea rooms in 2017, the site will be redesigned into a welcoming dining destination named First Light. 

Image: From L-R: State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery, Cr Mark Brooker, Cr Siobhan Isherwood, Cr Peta Winney-Baartz, City of Newcastle Executive Director Corporate Services David Clarke, and cafe operator Angelo Luczak celebrate that construction is underway to transform the former Baby Health Centre in Lambton into a vibrant new cafe.  Executive Director Corporate Services David Clarke said the project reflects City of Newcastle’s commitment to public spaces that foster connection and belonging. 

“This project is a tangible example of how we’re revitalising community assets into inclusive infrastructure that enriches everyday social life,” Mr Clarke said.

“Lambton Park is already a cherished community destination, and by transforming this notable building into an accessible café, we’re creating a space that welcomes everyone, from young families to older residents.

“Its location near the library and playground makes it a natural hub for social interaction, wellbeing and connection.”

An artists impression of Lambton Park Cafe frontThe new upgrades will include open-plan dining, a commercial kitchen and a front pergola for additional seating.

Accessible amenities and a ramp to the new rear deck, which overlooks Lambton Park’s playground area, will ensure the café is a welcoming destination for all members of the community. 

The upgrades are supported by $1 million from the NSW Government through the Crown Reserve Improvement Fund. 

State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery said the project’s progress was a welcome milestone. 

“I’m very pleased to see the next stage of this project progressing as Council engages its chosen operators to commence the works on the Lambton Café project,” Ms Hornery said.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the works complete so that our community can benefit from this café, partially funded via $1 million from the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund.”

An artists impression of Lambton Park Cafe rearThe redevelopment also marks a new chapter for three accomplished names in Newcastle’s hospitality scene, who are joining forces to bring First Light to life. 

Mister Sister Manager Angelo Luczak, Luke Marshall, Director of The Kiosk Newcastle, and Corey Park-Pearson, owner and chef at Parks Bistro and Catering, each bring a wealth of regional and national experience.

Mr Luczak said the team shares a vision to bring a fresh dining experience to Lambton and create a space that feels like home.

“The idea of teaming up has been floating around for years, we’ve always shared a deep respect for each other’s craft and passion for hospitality, and this project is the perfect time to bring that dream to life,” Mr Luczak said.

“With strong ties to the local hospitality scene and a diverse network of friends, collaborators, and customers, we see First Light becoming more than just a café. Our vision is to be a go-to meeting spot for locals, coffee lovers and foodies from across Newcastle and beyond. 

“We’re proud to work with local farmers, coffee roasters and suppliers to build a seasonal menu that celebrates quality and workmanship. Everything we do is grounded in community, connection, and a genuine love for good coffee, food and company. 

“We’re looking forward to contributing to the vibrant and valuable hospitality culture that makes Newcastle such a remarkable place to live and dine.” 

The café is expected to open early 2026. 

City’s highest honour awarded for civic leadership

City of Newcastle has named civic leader Carol Duncan OAM as the 21st Freeman of the City for a community-focused career with international impact. 

The city’s newest Freeman was celebrated as a trusted and influential voice in Newcastle whose more than 30-year contribution spanned broadcast journalism, local government and community advocacy.

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge congratulates Carol Duncan OAM on being named the Freeman of the CityLord Mayor Ross Kerridge said Ms Duncan’s contribution to Newcastle has been profound and enduring. 

“Carol is a trailblazer, her ability to unite people through storytelling, public service, or cultural preservation has made Newcastle a stronger, more connected city,” Cr Kerridge said. 

“In 2012 she established the hugely popular local history group Lost Newcastle, which has helped reunite families, support academic research and grow the Vera Deacon Regional History Fund, ensuring Newcastle’s stories endure for generations.

“The Lost Newcastle project has become an extraordinary resource for gathering important stories and details from our history that would otherwise be lost. It is a community-based people’s history project that has become much loved.”

The former ABC journalist and Newcastle councillor has used these avenues to advocate for local arts and culture, help the community through challenge and sustain local history, through local storytelling. 

Ms Duncan’s passion for health and science communication and her award-winning reporting on disasters and public health helped shape policy and support vulnerable communities. 

This included sharing the stories of people with lived experience of Human Papillomavirus, with her groundbreaking broadcast work supporting the extension of the HPV vaccination for boys in Australia and the UK in 2013. 

Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull presents Carol Duncan OAM with the Freeman of the City honour at an awards ceremony last nightDeputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull presented Ms Duncan with the honour at City Hall last night before an audience that included city officials, cultural leaders and fellow Freemen.

Cr Pull said Ms Duncan’s passion and advocacy for music, arts and the night-time economy were key achievements on her time on Council.

“Carol was a stalwart community advocate throughout the seven years she served as a Newcastle councillor, championing arts, culture, and civic life and chairing key committees including city of Newcastle’s Community and Culture Strategic Advisory Committee and Public Art Standing Committee,” Cr Pull said.

“Her leadership helped shape Newcastle’s cultural infrastructure and supported countless community-driven initiatives and I am honoured to officiate today’s Freeman of the City ceremony for such a deserving recipient.”

Ms Duncan said the honour reflects the strength of Newcastle’s people. 

“I feel very honoured and deeply appreciative to be appointed a Freeman of the City of Newcastle. At its heart, my long career in radio and in local government showed me the immense value of working for and with our community,” Ms Duncan said. 

“Whether it’s preserving and sharing our rich history and memories through Lost Newcastle, building bridges between communities and supporting them through challenges, or championing the next generation of musicians and creatives, this recognition reminds us that Newcastle’s greatest strength has always been its people and their stories.

“To be able to contribute positively to people’s lives is a gift, but there’s a long list of people who have supported and encouraged me for more than 30 years, and their generosity makes everything possible. And I’m not done yet!”

The Freeman of the City acknowledgement is Ms Duncan’s second major honour this year, after being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours for her service to the community.

Ms Duncan joins a list of 20 other Novocastrians to be named the Freeman of the City including former Lord Mayor Joy Cummings, philanthropist and historian Vera Deacon and Surfest co-founder Warren Smith.

$5 million in immediate support for businesses downstream of impacted timber mills

The Minns Labor Government is providing $5 million in funding to support downstream businesses who have been impacted by the moratorium on timber harvesting within the proposed boundary of the Great Koala National Park.

The new Forestry Industry Supply Chain Program will offer help of up to $100,000 to a downstream business that relied on impacted timber mills so they can meet increased operating costs.

The eligible businesses usually source their hardwood or wood by-products from one of the impacted sawmills. They will now be able to apply for assistance to cover the cost differences of sourcing similar products from a new supplier, including for an increase in freight costs.

Downstream businesses could include specialised, operations that process timber into finished or semi-finished goods, such as furniture manufacturers.

Eligible businesses could also include businesses that use sawdust for biomass energy generation, or use eligible wood by-products such as wood chip, wood shavings, and sawdust.

The NSW Government is working closely with the impacted mills businesses, workers and the broader industry on immediate costs and impacts, while progressing their long-term options and ensuring appropriate support for workers.

Immediate support already being offered to affected workers and their families includes:

  • Business Continuity payments flowing to impacted mills to ensure workers are being paid while further support is being finalised
  • The Rural Financial Counselling Service providing free and independent financial counselling to businesses
  • Training Services NSW providing advice on training to bridge skills gaps and helping to identify suitable job opportunities
  • TELUS Health services providing 24/7 confidential mental health and financial counselling services to affected workers and their immediate family.

The NSW Government has also committed $6 million to a Community Grants package which will provide support to small businesses and the community on the Mid North Coast, creating new jobs and investment. Further details will be announced soon.

The NSW Rural Assistance Authority is administering the Forestry Industry Supply Chain Program. Applications will open on Tuesday 7 October 2025 and close on 8 December 2025, or when available funding is allocated.

For further information about the Forestry Industry Supply Chain Support Program, including eligibility and guidelines, go to www.nsw.gov.au/greatkoalanationalpark

Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“Our Government’s priority has been supporting the impacted mills and their workers, and now we have more details on those businesses operating downstream of the mills we have been able to develop this program of support for them.

“When we announced the proposed boundaries and moratorium for the new park we stated we would provide financial assistance to impacted businesses and this supply chain support program is a demonstration of that occurring.

Minister for Small Business and Minister for North Coast, Janelle Saffin said:

“We are delivering on our election promise to create the Great Koala National park and ensure future generations can see these most precious of species in the wild.

“We are also delivering on our promise to work together to ensure no one is left behind. This decision will ensure downstream small businesses are supported as they search for new opportunities.

“There will also new opportunities created for tourism and small business under a $6 million package that we will develop in consultation with local communities to grow jobs and investment as the Great Koala National Park is established.

NSW strengthens economic ties with Singapore through new Memorandum of Understanding

The NSW Government will enhance trade and investment opportunities with Singapore through a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on innovation and the green economy.

The MoU between Investment NSW and Enterprise Singapore – a statutory board under Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry – was signed today in Sydney, coinciding with Singapore Prime Minister Mr Lawrence Wong’s visit to Australia, and 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The MoU will focus on sectors including energy, urban development, technology and transport, and will facilitate commercial partnerships between NSW and Singaporean companies, investors and entrepreneurs.

Key benefits of the MoU include:

  • Encouraging investment from Singapore businesses into New South Wales.
  • Enhancing NSW’s role as a home for Singapore startups and high-growth companies.
  • Attracting innovators, entrepreneurs and scientists from Singapore to NSW’s innovation districts including Tech Central.
  • Enabling NSW exporters to become early-movers in high-growth Southeast Asian markets.

The MoU aligns with the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy 2035, which emphasises government-to-government relationships and maintaining strong formal agreements in priority markets.

Partnerships like this, which focus on Southeast Asia’s technological advancements and economic growth, provide a strong foundation for the NSW Government’s longstanding relationship with the region to expand and deepen.

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said: 

“This deal reflects our commitment to building deeper economic ties with Singapore through practical, forward-looking collaboration.

“It will help unlock new opportunities for NSW businesses in one of Southeast Asia’s investment hubs and fast-growing innovation sectors.

“This is a priority market replete with longstanding and likeminded trading partners.

“By working together, we’re strengthening our collective competitiveness, and creating new investment pathways for the future.

“The Australian Government has done a fantastic job strengthening our national relationship with Singapore, clearing the way for important agreements like these.”

Investment NSW Deputy Secretary Rebecca McPhee said:

“This agreement is a strategic step in delivering the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy 2035, with a clear focus on continued international engagement to drive innovation, sustainability and commercial outcomes.

“It will enable NSW companies to scale into new markets and attract Singaporean talent and investment into our state.

“We’re proud to partner with Enterprise Singapore to turn shared ambition into tangible growth.”

Enterprise Singapore Managing Director Cindy Khoo said:

“Over the years, Singapore enterprises have grown their presence in NSW, leveraging the state’s vibrant innovation ecosystem and push for decarbonisation, alongside the strong support of our partner and government networks in the market.

“With this latest partnership, we look forward to unlocking even more commercial opportunities and progress in areas of green economy and innovation. 

“I am confident that Singapore companies will make good partners, contributing expertise that can complement and support NSW businesses’ in their growth ambitions. These include providing proven innovative solutions and bringing with them relevant experience in Southeast Asia that can help open doors for NSW businesses to expand into the region.”

Land audit unlocks another 600 dwellings

The Minns Labor Government’s ongoing statewide property audit has identified a further seven government-owned sites with the potential to deliver more than 600 new homes as part of its Building Homes for NSW program.

All sites identified as part of the land audit are first offered to Homes NSW and Landcom, the NSW Government’s developer.

Among the latest tranche of government-owned sites, three are in Greater Sydney and four are in regional centres.

In the Northern Tablelands region, Homes NSW are investigating the former Duval High School site in Armidale which has the potential for over 100 new social, affordable and market dwellings to support regional growth driven by the New England Renewable Energy Zone.

The site at Valla Beach, north of Nambucca Heads and close to the Pacific Highway, could yield more than 160 new dwellings. With sites at Boolaroo in the Lake Macquarie region and Broken Hill capable of delivering 190 new homes.

Among the newly announced Greater Sydney locations, the site at Whalan in the Blacktown local government area currently comprises lots which may support more than 120 new homes. Other sites in North Kellyville and Prairiewood could collectively provide around 19 new dwellings.

The Prairiewood site in particular is suited to low-rise housing using the Government’s recently announced NSW Housing Pattern book, which offers high-quality architect designs supported by a 10-day planning approval pathway to make it faster and more affordable to design and build a home.

The specifics of housing delivery including the quantity and types of homes for all newly announced property audit sites will be available once due diligence, planning and regulatory approvals are complete.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“We are continuing to tackle the state’s housing crisis head-on, these new sites, delivering more than 600 homes, continues our strong response to the housing supply crisis.

“The property audit program is delivering a steady pipeline of new housing development opportunities on unutilised surplus government land, to help address our critical shortage in housing supply.

“While stimulating housing supply in our urban centres is critical, we have also been able to identify key sites in regional cities such as Broken Hill and Armidale to deliver much needed housing to our regional communities.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“As the land audit continues to unlock land for new homes, the Minns Government is identifying sites that suit the NSW Housing Pattern Book designs and their 10-day approval pathway so builders can get straight on with building.

“As we tackle our housing supply challenges, we want to make sure there are homes that are well-designed, sustainable and adaptable to a range of lifestyle choices.”

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“Our land audit is delivering real results. Approximately ten thousand potential homes identified in just over a year shows the scale of what is possible when government gets serious about housing supply.

“We are making sure surplus public land is put to work for the community, not left sitting idle. Every one of these sites has the potential to deliver hundreds of homes where they are needed most.

“This is about more than numbers. From Armidale to Broken Hill to Sydney’s west, these projects will mean more people can afford to live near work, near family, and with the security of a roof over their head.

“Whether it is social housing, affordable rentals or market homes, we are determined to build every type of housing people in NSW need. That is the only way to tackle the housing crisis and give people a fair shot at a secure home.”

NSW Government to Deliver More Social Housing in Albury

The Minns Labor Government is taking concrete steps to address the housing affordability and availability crisis across New South Wales. Today, Premier Chris Minns visited Albury to inspect the progress of the $12.8 million East Albury Housing project, which will deliver safe, modern homes for approximately 40 older residents before Christmas.

This project will include 14 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom units, providing vital affordable housing for the community.

In addition, planning approval has been granted for another 27 homes in North Albury, offering safe and well-located accommodation for over 40 residents. Located near bus stops serving Lavington and Albury, this development will feature 17 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom units, along with 19 car parking spaces, two internal lifts, landscaping, and fencing.

These projects form part of the Minns Government’s historic $6.6 billion investment to create a fairer and more accessible housing system across NSW by significantly boosting supply. Over the past year, the Government has delivered 1,711 new social and affordable homes, the largest increase in government-built public and community housing in over a decade.

This commitment contrasts sharply with the previous Liberal-National Government, which oversaw a dramatic reduction in public housing, decreasing from 110,805 homes in 2014 to just 95,765 in 2023. Between 2017 and 2021, their tenure saw only 2,257 new social homes built, while 3,269 properties were sold off or removed during that period.

The Minns Government remains dedicated to delivering more affordable and accessible housing for all New South Wales residents.

Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales said:

“Housing affordability and availability continue to be the biggest challenges facing families and young people across the entire state, no matter where they live. 

“Our government is committed to reversing this trend by investing in new supply and cutting red tape to get things built faster. 

“While there’s still more work to do, it’s fantastic to see this project nearing completion, ensuring that 40 people will have safe and secure housing just in time for Christmas.”

Rose Jackson, Minister for Housing and Minister for Homelessness said:

“We announced the start of this project in November last year and here we are today proudly standing in-front of 24 brand new social housing properties which will give approximately 40 older residents a safe and secure place to call home.”

“These new social housing projects in Albury are an important step forward in our work to address the shortage of affordable homes.

“Projects like this are about giving residents stability, security, and a place to call home. Our government is committed to doing just that through significant investment and real action on the ground.”

Decency, Unity and The Australia We Believe In

Today is a day for compassion. It’s a day to remember innocent lives lost in Israel and Gaza, and to stand together as Australians in our shared hope for peace.
 
The Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, were despicable acts of terror that shocked the world with their brutality and barbarity. The grief for the worldwide Jewish diaspora remains deep, and the later suffering of Gaza civilians is undeniable. Both communities deserve understanding, not hostility.
 
The Sydney Opera House is a symbol of unity and creativity It should never be used as a backdrop for division or protest. It belongs to every Australian, no matter their faith or background.
 
New South Wales is a place where people of all faiths and backgrounds live side by side. What makes us stronger is our willingness to listen, to be respectful if we disagree and to protect one another from hate.
 
There is no place in our state for anyone who glorifies terrorism or celebrates violence. We can condemn terror while showing compassion for those suffering in conflict.
 
I call on all community and faith leaders to speak with calm and decency. The words we use matter. They can divide, or they can heal.
 
Australians have always believed in fairness, tolerance and respect. On this difficult day, we should live those values, together.

2nd anniversary of 7 October attack

The 7th of October 2023 was a day of pain and terror for Jewish people around the world, and we must never forget the atrocities that were inflicted by Hamas.

The attack on innocent people at a music festival that promoted ‘friends, love and infinite freedom’ underlined a core truth, that Hamas stands in opposition to all humanity, and all that we value as human beings.

Two years on, we remember all those who were lost on that day, the largest loss of Jewish life on any single day since the Holocaust. Over 1,200 innocent lives ruthlessly taken without mercy.

We remember Australian Galit Carbone, who was tragically murdered by Hamas. We hold Galit and her loved ones in our hearts.

Today, we also think of those still held hostage and join with our partners around the world in calling for the hostages to be returned immediately, and with dignity. We stand with their families, and with all those who have had to hold this two year vigil, which must feel like an eternity.

The Australian Government also stands with Jewish people around the world, who feel the cold shadow of history’s darkest chapter in any act of antisemitism. We will always stand against antisemitism, and so should everyone.

Australia welcomes President Trump’s plan to end the conflict in Gaza after almost two years of conflict and a devastating loss of civilian life.

Australia has consistently been part of the international pressure for a ceasefire in Gaza, the return of hostages, for aid to flow and for a two-state solution.

It is our duty to do everything in our power to see a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. The State of Israel and the State of Palestine living side by side, within internationally recognised borders, in peace and security.

Appeal to locate a man missing from Lake Macquarie

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from the state’s north.

Leo Hampton-Tungutalum, aged 22, was last seen on The Boulevarde, Toronto, about 1.30pm on Friday 3 October 2025.

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for Leo’s welfare.

Leo is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, 175cm tall, medium build, brown eyes, short beard and black hair.

He is known to frequent the Lake Macquarie and Sydney metropolitan areas.

Diamonds and Netball Greats Headline Masters State Titles

Some of the biggest names in Australian netball will hit the court in the Illawarra this weekend for the Netball NSW Masters State Titles, hosted at the Illawarra Netball Association’s Indoor Sports Centre.

Australian Diamonds greats will headline a star-studded player list, joined by NSW Premier League athletes including Emily Keenan. Together, they will showcase the talent, experience and passion that makes the Masters competition one of the highlights on the Netball NSW calendar.

For the Illawarra, excitement is building with the home association fielding two teams, ready to test themselves against defending champions Eastwood Ryde and strong challengers from across the state, including Newcastle, Manly Warringah, Gosford, Shoalhaven and Port Stephens.

“Masters is such a special event because it’s not just about competition, it’s about connection – teammates who’ve shared so much of their careers coming together again. We know the standard will be high, but we’re excited to test ourselves against some of the best netballers in the state,” said Bec Bulley, former Australian Diamond, NSW Swifts and GIANTS player.

“Eastwood Ryde is proud to come into the tournament as defending champions. Our team has a long history together and we are really excited to hit the court again and get our connections firing,” Emily Keenan, former NSW Swift and Eastwood Ryde Premier League athlete said.

“We’re looking forward to coming up against some tough competition, seeing how we can respond and having plenty of fun along the way.” 

With every team playing each other once across the two-day tournament, fans can expect fierce competition, old rivalries reignited and new stories written as the best of the best come together in the Illawarra.

“Illawarra has a proud netball history and it’s really special to bring an event like this to our home court. Having two teams representing our association will add to the atmosphere and give the local community plenty to cheer about,” said Vanessa Sturman, President and Representative Coordinator of Illawarra District Netball Association.

Event Details:
11–12 October 2025
Illawarra Netball Association – Indoor Sports Centre

Teams: Baulkham Hills, Blacktown City, Eastwood Ryde, Gosford, Great Lakes, Hastings Valley, Illawarra (two teams), Manly Warringah, Newcastle, Port Stephens and Shoalhaven.

For detailed Team Lists, visit here.