Month: November 2025

Man charged with murder after death near Cessnock – Strike Force Keavall

A man will face court today charged with the alleged murder of a woman near Cessnock.

About 7.30pm on Friday (31 October 2025), emergency services were called to a home on Ellalong Street, Kearsley, following reports of a concern for welfare.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District attended and located the body of a 39-year-old woman with a gunshot wound in the home.

Following the discovery, Hunter Valley detectives, assisted by State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad, established Strike Force Keavall to investigate the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death.

About 6.45pm yesterday (Saturday 1 November 2025), following extensive investigations, strike force detectives attended a sporting club carpark on Eaton Street, Bellbird, where they arrested a 37-year-old man.

Following the arrest, strike force detectives searched a parked Hyundai Tucson locating and seizing a sawn-off shotgun and ammunition.

The man was taken to Cessnock Police Station where he was charged with murder, possess prohibited drug (two counts), possess unauthorised prohibited firearm and possess ammunition w/o holding licence/permit/authority.

He was refused bail to appear before Parramatta Local Court today (Sunday 2 November 2025).

Netball NSW Celebrates Excellence at 2025 Awards Night

It was a night of glamour, pride, and celebration as the Netball NSW Awards Night brought together the state’s brightest stars and most dedicated contributors to recognise another outstanding year for netball in New South Wales.Images: Available Here: https://netballnsw.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a61fdddc7216e646211550b26&id=788b335fad&e=5dd905e812. Credit Steven Markham

Paige Hadley, NSW Swifts; Trudi Busch, CMO Homeworld; the Hon. Steve Kamper MP, Minister for Sport; Sallianne Faulkner, Chair Netball NSW. 

From grassroots heroes to elite champions, the Netball NSW “night of nights” recognised the incredible achievements, resilience and dedication of the people who make the game thrive. Players, coaches, officials, volunteers and administrators from across the state joined special guests including The Hon. Steve Kamper MP, NSW Minister for Sport, and The Hon. David Harris MP, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, in celebrating excellence both on and off the court. Minister Kamper presented the prestigious Community Excellence Award to Ballina Netball Association, recognising the Association’s outstanding contribution to its local community and commitment to inclusivity, participation and connection through sport. The event also honoured Carole Sykes OAM, who was elevated to Legend Status in the Netball NSW Hall of Fame – the organisation’s highest accolade – in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to the sport in New South Wales. Tributes were paid to Margaret Corbett OAM, a Netball NSW Hall of Fame Legend and Life Member, whose passing earlier this year was marked by the display of her iconic Golden Boots as a symbol of her enduring legacy. Suncorp Super Netball stars Erin O’Brien (GIANTS Netball) and Paige Hadley (NSW Swifts) were among the high-profile attendees, with both receiving the coveted Marilyn Melhuish OAM Medal – Suncorp Super Netball Player of the Year for their exceptional performance and leadership throughout the 2025 season. Netball NSW Chair Sallianne Faulkner and CEO Tracey Scott joined Board Directors, Life Members and valued partners to celebrate the achievements of 2025, a year that saw record participation, strong community engagement, and success on and off the court. “Twelve months go very quickly in netball, and it’s hard to believe we’re here in Bankstown again celebrating another incredible year for our game in New South Wales,” Ms Faulkner said. “In 2025, we’ve seen record-breaking results across every level of the sport — from nearly 400,000 fans attending Suncorp Super Netball matches, to 7,320 athletes competing at our Junior and Senior State Titles, and record participation in our DOOLEYS Metro League and Netball NSW Premier League’s 10th anniversary season. “Our NSW 19U and First Nations Team, the Waradas, both claimed national gold, while our Marie Little Shield team continued their dominance. We’re also immensely proud of the 14 NSW athletes nationally identified and the six selected in the Australian 21U Squad, including three Youth World Cup gold medallists. “On the back of record participation and strong community engagement, Netball NSW — and the people who make it what it is — have continued to thrive. As ever, robust debate, shared ideas and a collective drive for excellence remain at the heart of our growth.” These achievements formed the backdrop to a night that honoured the individuals, teams and associations who have shaped another remarkable year for netball in New South Wales. “This evening is about recognising and celebrating the collective achievements of our players, coaches, officials, volunteers and administrators who make netball the leading sport for women and girls in our state,” Tracey Scott, CEO of Netball NSW said.  “We are incredibly proud of the strength of our community, the depth of our talent pathways, and the dedication of everyone who contributes to the ongoing success of our sport.” As the curtain comes down on another successful year, the 2025 Netball NSW Awards Night reflected the enduring passion, unity and spirit that continue to define netball in New South Wales — setting the stage for another exciting year ahead in 2026. 2025 Netball NSW Award Winners  
Award   2025 Recipient/s  
Heritage List   Waratah Mosaic   
Hall of Fame – Legend   Carole Sykes OAM 
Anne Clark BEM Service Award   Jenny Bazley, Camden and District Netball Association Monica O’Callaghan, Baulkham Hills Shire Netball Association   Gail Mayers, Charlestown Netball Association Keri Sheraton, Ku-Ring-Gai Netball Association                                                         Kay Piper, Inner West Netball Association    
The Marilyn Melhuish OAM Medal – Suncorp Super Netball Players of the Year  NSW Swifts – Paige Hadley  GIANTS Netball- Erin O’Brien  
The Nance Kenny OAM Medal – Premier League Opens Player of the Year   Lauren Woods, North Shore United
The Wendy Archer AM Medal – Premier League U23’s Player of the Year   Sophia Martinussen, UTS Randwick Sparks  
The Margaret Corbett OAM Coaches Award – Coach of the Year   Nardia Trevor, Baulkham Hills Netball Association 
The Neita Matthew OAM Umpire Award   Kiri Bowcock, Baulkham Hills Netball Association    
The Lynn Quinn OAM Bench Official Award   Julie Scholte, Camden & District Netball Association 
The Dot McHugh OAM Administrator of the Year Award   Helen Pratt, Ku-Ring-Gai Netball Association  
Men’s Netball NSW State Player Joe Miller, Ku-Ring-Gai Netball Association
The Kids Cancer Project Fundraiser Winner Sutherland Shire Netball Association
Community Volunteer of the Year Award   Julia Morrissey, Out of Touch Netball Club, Bathurst AssociationSophie Bradbery, Bradson Netball Club, Port Stephens Netball Association 
Community Excellence Award   Ballina Netball Association  
The Marj Groves AM Academy Awards   Monika ‘Otai, GIANTS Netball AcademyLili Gorman-Brown, QBE Swifts Academy
The Judy Dunbar Media Awards Best Overall Media CoverageCommunity Media Excellence  Netball Scoop  Danielle Schuhmeier, Camden Netball Association

Man arrested after death near Cessnock – Strike Force Keavall

A man is in custody as inquiries continue into the death of a woman near Cessnock overnight.

Police had made a public appeal earlier today to locate a 37-year-old man they believed could assist with inquiries.

That man was arrested a short time ago when police were alerted he had been seen in Bellbird.

A sawn-off shotgun and ammunition were allegedly found when the vehicle he was in was searched; they’ve been seized for forensic examination and the man has been taken to Cessnock Police Station.

A black Hyundai Tucson has also been seized.

The arrest follows the discovery of a woman’s body in a home on Ellalong Street, Kearsley, just after 7.30pm yesterday (Friday 31 October 2025).

Local detectives, assisted by State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad, established Strike Force Keavall to investigate the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death.

Inquiries are continuing.

Strike Force Keavall formed to investigate death of woman near Cessnock

Police investigating the death of a woman near Cessnock overnight are seeking to speak with a man they believe can assist with inquiries.

Emergency services were called to a home on Ellalong Street, Kearsley, just after 7.30pm (Friday 31 October 2025), responding to reports of a domestic violence-related incident.

Inside the house police located the body of a woman.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District established a crime scene overnight, which is being examined by specialist forensic officers.

Local detectives, assisted by State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad, have established Strike Force Keavall to investigate the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death.

Hunter Valley Police District Commander, Superintendent Steve Laksa, said detectives wish to speak with 37-year-old Christopher James McLoughney, as they believe he has information that may assist investigators.

“Based on information provided to investigators, we are warning anyone who sees this man to not approach him but to call Triple Zero (000) immediately,” Supt Laksa said.

“He is described as being of Caucasian appearance with short red hair, a thin build and 175cm to 178cm tall. It’s not known what he is wearing; however, he may be in possession of a firearm.

“It’s believed he may be driving a 2008-model black Hyundai Tuscon SUV with NSW registration, DK75HP.

“It is very important that people do not approach this man.

“We are appealing to anyone with information about this man’s whereabouts contact Cessnock Police or Crime Stoppers as soon as possible as we believe he may have information crucial to the investigation,” he said.

Supt Laksa said a child, who is believed to have lived at the home, is being cared for by his extended family.

“At this time, investigators are investigating this as a domestic and family violence-related incident.

“A post-mortem examination will be conducted in coming days to establish identity and determine cause of death; however, I can confirm a firearm was discharged at the premises.”

Supt Laksa said the incident will have a significant impact on the families of those involved.

“The community of Cessnock – and the Hunter Valley as a whole – will be affected by the tragic death of this young mother, but I know there will be support for those involved.

“I appeal to anyone in the area who has information which can assist investigators to call police immediately,” Supt Laksa said.

Travel to Malaysia for ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, will this weekend represent Australia at the 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Malaysia.

ASEAN sits at the core of Australia’s vision for a peaceful, stable and prosperous region, where all countries – large and small – are free to exercise their sovereignty.

Through the ADMM-Plus, defence ministers from across the region come together to pursue dialogue and cooperation in support of these fundamental principles. 

While in Kuala Lumpar, the Deputy Prime Minister will also hold a series of bilateral and multilateral meetings with his counterparts.  

Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

“The ADMM-Plus is the region’s premier defence forum, bringing together a critical group of states to pursue the dialogue and cooperation that is a pre-requisite for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region. 

“Australia strongly supports a regional order with ASEAN at its centre, providing an essential stabilising influence.

“I look forward to the opportunity to engage with my counterparts this weekend as we continue to look at opportunities to advance our defence and security cooperation.”

Minister Rae celebrates Aged Care profits while older Australians pay more

From today, Labor’s new Aged Care Act comes into force, meaning older Australians will pay more for essential care, including up to $50 just for help with a shower, and some will have to forgo care altogether.

This week, Labor’s Minister for Aged Care, Sam Rae, celebrated rising aged care provider profits in an interview with the ABC. To celebrate rising profits for providers while introducing big new co-payments is a slap in the face to older Australians.

The Greens were the only party to vote against the financialisation of care when the bill moved through the Parliament last year, and have called on Labor to reconsider, reverse the care-for-profit system and instead focus on ensuring every Australian can get the care they need at the time that they need it.

Home care co-payments risk losing care

Under the new Support at Home program, new co-payments mean that older Australians will be forced to pay pay up to $50/hour for help with showers, meals, and basic care at home, based on Department of Health data.

While participants in the old program prior to last September were promised they would be no worse off, but in practice older Australians are facing increased prices and fees resulting in lower levels of service. There is no limit on the amount providers can charge for home care fees until 1 July 2026. Aged care economic advisor StewartBrown has advised providers to increase their fees by between 30 and 38 per cent.

Residential care costs increase while inequity rises

Under the new Act, half of all older Australians will pay more to enter residential aged care, including 3 in 10 full pensioners and 75% of part-pensioners. 

Labor have already raised a cap on residential aged care deposits from $550,000 to $750,000, which has driven up prices overnight. Providers can also now keep up to 10% of a residents so called ‘Refundable’ Accommodation Deposit

As Uniting NSW & ACT has warned, aged care residents who can afford this increased upfront deposit (usually from selling their family home) may be worth twice as much in revenue to an aged care facility as an older person who is living week to week, meaning older renters and poor people will find it harder to access care.

Waitlist continues to grow

In last Senate Estimates, it was revealed that as at the end of September, the waitlist for aged care only continues to grow. 

The total combined number of people waiting for care (either for an assessment, or for an aged care package) is up from approx 217,000 in June-July to 238,248 at the end of September. Just 63,000 new packages will be released between 1 November and the end of the financial year.

The only reason for a shortage in the availability of home care is that the government chooses to release fewer home care packages than the community needs each year. The Greens-led Senate inquiry, as well as the Royal Commission, recommended ended the ‘rationing’ of care and instead moving to a ‘demand driven’ system, but Labor have rejected this in favour of enforced shortages.

Senator Penny Allman-Payne, Greens spokesperson for Older People:

“Under Labor’s new Aged Care Act, the worse your health, the more you’ll pay for care.

“From today, a tsunami of co-payments will break on older Australians.”

“Minister Rae is celebrating increased profits for aged care providers, while under Labor’s plan 1 in 3 people on a full pension are paying more for residential care, and others will be charged up to $50 every time they need help with a shower. That’s shameful.”

“Our parents and grandparents deserve to be looked after in their old age, not forced to choose between a shower each day and a meal.”

“Aged care should not be for profit.” 

“While 1 in 3 big corporations pay no tax, but older Australians can’t get basic help they need, something is seriously wrong.”

“The Greens will fight to reverse care for profit, to end the shortage of care, and to make sure every older person in this country can get the help they need at the time they need it.”

NACC puts out the trash but keeps its Commissioner – for now

The NACC has announced that Commissioner Brereton will no longer participate in consideration of Defence referrals. They did this in a statement on its website on the afternoon of Friday 31 October announcing that Commissioner Brereton “has decided that he will not participate in consideration of any referrals which involve the interests of any Defence or ADF individual or unit that is or comes before the Commission, regardless of whether it might reasonably be perceived to involve a conflict”. 

The NACC goes on to say “The Commissioner is taking this step, although it is unnecessary from the perspective of properly managing actual or apparent conflicts, solely in an endeavour to recentre the focus on our important operational and educational work.” 

Senator David Shoebridge, Greens Justice and Defence Spokesperson said:

“This is a ‘major-general’ backdown from Commissioner Brereton who, up until now, tried to stare down the growing public revolt over the conflicts of interest.

“In a show of contempt for transparency the NACC only disclosed this major development with a website post put up after 5pm on Friday night. There’s a name for this, it’s called, “putting out the trash.”

“This announcement leaves so many unanswered questions:

– Why is Commissioner Brereton still a Major-General in the ADF?

– What happens to all the defence referrals he has been working on, and making decisions on, until now?

– Why is Commissioner Brereton being paid over $800k a year not to work on defence referrals?

“Defence, which is embroiled in a series of multi-million dollar procurement scandals, is one of the largest customers for the NACC which had over 120 Defence referrals as at April this year. 

“It is not just that the NACC’s statement came late on a Friday night, so too did the Government’s tabling of the NACC Annual Report which was over two weeks late.

“Astoundingly, given the serial failures of the NACC Commissioner Brereton to deal with conflicts of interest in his own role, the NACC says conflicts of interest is one of its three main corruption prevention themes.

“Corruption complaints concerning conflicts of interest are also identified in the NACC annual report as major elements of its ongoing work.

“It remains untenable for Commission Brereton to stay as the NACC Commissioner given his repeated failure to deal with his own conflicts of interest.  

“This latest step only highlights the damage he has done to the NACC’s public standing.

“Anti-corruption agencies should be modelling best practice, not cynically making significant announcements late on Friday afternoons.

“The Albanese Government needs to act and, if Commissioner Brereton will not leave of his accord, bring the matter before the Parliament for a decision on his future,” Senator Shoebridge said.

Southern Star Research takes out top prize at NSW Export Awards

A Sydney-based company helping to accelerate clinical trials and bring new medical products to market has been named Exporter of the Year at the NSW Export Awards.

Southern Star Research received the honour at a gala ceremony last night alongside a win in the International Health Category.  

As an Australian Contract Research Organisation, Southern Star Research works with biotech and pharmaceutical companies to manage trials, track results and gain regulatory approvals for their clients’ treatments. 

The Minns Labor Government has backed Southern Star Research through its Going Global Export Programs for the last two years, bringing their expertise and services to the competitive Greater China, South Korea and US markets.  

The business took part in the Going Global Health to USA Program in 2023, supported by InvestmentNSW’s trade representatives with pitch coaching, business matching and introductions to US partners.  

Southern Star Research’s success is a testament to the strength of the NSW healthcare sector, which contributes $60 billion to the state’s economy. It also highlights the positive impact of the NSW Government’s export programs and how local businesses are being supported to achieve international growth objectives.  

This support will grow even stronger as the NSW Government continues to implement its Trade and Investment Strategy. More than 30 Going Global Export Programs and Going Global Trade Missions will be delivered over the next year, supporting up to 350 NSW businesses to thrive in the international marketplace.  

Southern Star Research was among 18 other NSW businesses from a diverse range of industries including agribusiness, food and beverages, resources and energy and manufacturing and advanced materials that were celebrated at the NSW Export Awards last night.  

Now in its 63rd year, the Awards celebrate the contribution exporters make to NSW through diversification, job creation and increased economic prosperity.  

For a full list of the 2025 NSW Export Award winners, visit the Export Council of Australia.   

The winners in the 14 national categories will now progress as finalists for the Australian Export Awards, to be held in Canberra on Wednesday 26 November 2025.  

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said: 

“I want to congratulate Southern Star Research for taking out the top prize of NSW Exporter of the Year – the Minns Labor Government is proud to have supported their exporting journey, helping them expand into new markets and create jobs here at home. 

“Success stories like Southern Star Research reinforce that we are delivering on our NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, a first-of-its-kind push with clear targets to increase the value of NSW exports. 

“We know that exporters generate high revenues, provide more jobs and drive innovation, so that’s why we are excited to help their opportunities grow. 

“With quality programs, and a strong network of trade representatives in NSW and around the world, the NSW Government is committed to ensuring our state’s businesses remain competitive and connected on the global stage.” 

Minister for Medical Research David Harris said: 

“Southern Star Research is just the latest in a long list of outstanding home-grown businesses driving innovation across our state’s medical research sector, and I commend them on their win.  

“NSW businesses continue to show that our state is home to world-class products, services and talent in the health technology industry.  

“We are proud to see our researchers and developers forging new paths in international markets, setting benchmarks for excellence, and producing technologies that will help millions of Australians.”    

Southern Star Research Managing Director and Founder David Lloyd said:  

“We’re deeply honoured to receive both the International Health Award for NSW and the NSW Exporter of the Year title.  

“These awards reflect the dedication of our team and our commitment to advancing global health through high-quality clinical research. As a proud NSW-based organisation, we’re passionate about showcasing the strength of our local talent and the impact NSW’s innovation can have on the world stage.  

Chair of the Export Council of Australia Dianne Tipping said:  

“As Chair of the Export Council of Australia, I’m thrilled to congratulate all the exceptional finalists and winners of the 2025 NSW Export Awards.  

“This year’s cohort reflects the remarkable diversity, resilience, and innovation that define NSW exporters—from regional trailblazers to global industry leaders. Their achievements not only strengthen our economy but also showcase the world-class capabilities that NSW brings to international markets.  

“We’re proud to celebrate their success and the vital role they play in shaping NSW’s future on the global stage.” 

Central Darling Shire to have first Council in 12 years

The people of Central Darling Shire have their first Council in 12 years, with the Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig today confirming the three people to serve as appointed councillors alongside the councillors elected by the community.

The new Rural and Remote Council model will enable the Council to draw on a wide range of expertise to ensure that it can address the challenges of service provision in a remote location.

Central Darling will have an equal mix of elected and appointed councillors to ensure strong local representation while maintaining stable governance.

This new model was introduced by the Minns Labor Government to address the unique challenges of larger remote councils and to provide a pathway back to democratic representation for Central Darling Shire after 12 years of administration.

Following the election for the Council’s three wards, Peter Sullivan was elected to Ward A, Max Bradley to Ward B, and Daniel Fusi was declared elected uncontested in Ward C.

The three appointed councillors were determined by the Minister after the election results were declared, to ensure their skills and experience will complement those of the elected councillors.

The appointed councillors are:

  • Robert (Bob) Stewart – Mr Stewart has served as the Administrator of Central Darling Shire Council since 2019, conducting day to day business during this challenging time which has included fish kills, drought, and floods. Bob has over 40 years of local government experience and understands the specific financial, socioeconomic and environmental challenges for the region.
  • Fiona Kelly – Ms Kelly is a proud Barkindji/Ngiyampaa woman and Executive Principal of Menindee Central School which she also attended as a student. Ms Kelly has dedicated herself to culture and community, and her leadership at Menindee Central has seen a number of positive changes.
  • The Hon. Barbara Perry – Ms Perry is a former Auburn Councillor, served 13 years in NSW Parliament as the Member for Auburn and served in several Ministerial roles including Minister for Local Government from 2008-2011. She has a legal background and has significant experience in governance and interaction with the State government.

Bob Stewart has been named as the Chairperson for the new Central Darling Shire Council and will continue to provide strategic direction. The Council can elect a Deputy Chair at its first meeting in December.

All councillors will undergo an induction program to ensure they are ready and equipped to serve the people of Central Darling effectively.

The NSW Government is also providing $6 million in funding to support the Council’s financial stability as it transitions out of administration. This funding, with the agreed program of expenditure, will help the Council address immediate infrastructure priorities, build capacity and deliver local government services across the Shire.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“Returning democratic representation to Central Darling Shire after 12 years under administration was a key priority for the Minns Labor Government and I’m very proud that we’ve reached this point.

“I congratulate both the elected and appointed councillors of Central Darling Shire and I wish them well in their new roles serving this community.

“Central Darling Shire faces unique challenges. The government will continue to work closely with the Council to ensure it has the support it needs.

“I expect all councillors to work together to serve the community, and I look forward to seeing them get down to the business of running the Council.”

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said:

“This is an important day for the communities of Central Darling Shire and means the Council can finally get on with the job. After over a decade in administration this will be just the first step toward the post-administration era.

“The Rural and Remote model, consisting of a mixture of elected and appointed members, was developed in consultation with me and many other local stakeholders to get Central Darling back on the path of having an elected local government. There is scope for changing that model after it gets up and running.

“We want to see all our new councillors succeed, and I look forward to working together with them to deliver for the people of Central Darling.”

Key Health Worker Accommodation boost for Lismore

Communities in Lismore are set to benefit from new Key Health Worker Accommodation, which will help attract and retain essential healthcare staff to the region.

Lismore is one of more than 20 Key Health Worker Accommodation projects in rural, regional and remote NSW across nine local health districts, as part of the Minns Labor Government’s $200.1 million program.

The investment will support the building of new accommodation, refurbishment of existing homes, and the purchase of suitable properties such as residential units, with Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) now seeking development partners.

The new accommodation is planned to include between 10 and 20 self-contained, flood-resilient, studio apartments close to Lismore Base Hospital, ensuring healthcare workers have access to fit-for-purpose, comfortable and convenient accommodation.

NNSWLHD received $34.2 million as part of the program to deliver key health worker accommodation projects in Lismore as well as Grafton and Tweed.

Interested parties can access the Request for Information through the BuyNSW platform.

The new Lismore Key Health Worker Accommodation is expected to be completed by mid-2028.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“The Minns Government is committed to ensuring regional health services have the workforce and infrastructure they need to provide quality care.

“By providing fit-for-purpose, flood-resilient housing in Lismore, we’re removing one of the major barriers to attracting and keeping skilled health professionals in the region.

“This investment will make a real difference to the sustainability of local health services and the community’s access to care.”

NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey:

“NNSWLHD is looking forward to working with potential development partners to deliver high-quality and affordable accommodation.

“We’re seeking innovative and community-minded partners to help us create modern, well-located housing to support our staff.

“We know access to suitable accommodation can make all the difference in recruiting and retaining skilled staff, particularly in regional and remote areas.

“We recognise the importance of this project to our staff and the broader community, and we’ll continue to provide updates as it progresses.”