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Stay water safe as summer celebrations kick off

With NSW expecting its hottest summer in four years, our waterways will be busier than ever as boats, jet skis, swimmers, divers and kayakers and paddleboarders share limited space at the most popular spots to cool off.

Data from AUSPLAY shows more than 129,000 people are involved in kayaking and canoeing in NSW, more than any other state or territory in Australia.

Tragically, there have been 10 kayak fatalities in the last five years in our state and 35 kayaking incidents. People aged over 65 are over-represented in kayaking fatalities, making up 40% of total deaths over that time.

Social paddling is on the rise, with Sydney Harbour Kayaks, one of Australia’s largest kayak and surf ski centres, reporting their kayak tour bookings have tripled in the last year.

The advice from NSW Maritime for anyone picking up a paddle for the first time, or if you haven’t done it in a while, is to pay attention to the weather, paddle in groups, and bring a waterproof marine radio or mobile phone in a waterproof bag. If paddling in Sydney Harbour, kayakers are advised to stay close to the shore, well away from ferries and busy vessel thoroughfares.

NSW Maritime expects thousands of riders will be out over the summer months on Personal Watercraft (PWC) or jetskis on coastal and inland waterways. The number of PWC licenses has soared by 36% in the last three years to more than 89,000, with Gen Z the fastest growing demographic among riders.

Tragically, in NSW there have been four jet ski fatalities in the last five years and 58 incidents. The top jetski and PWC offences for 2023 have been for licence and registration breaches, followed closely by speeding and irregular riding – such as doing donut manoeuvres too close to the shore and swimmers.

For more information on waterways safety and rules for your vessel

For more information about major summer events on Sydney Harbour including exclusion zone maps and times.

Transport Minister Jo Haylen said:

“Holidaymakers are heading up and down the coast this summer to enjoy some on-water fun. Whether heading out on a boat, paddling in a kayak or jumping on a jetski, remember to put safety first and wear a lifejacket.

“It’s fantastic to see so many people exploring our beautiful waterways and keeping active this holiday season. A safe and enjoyable experience starts with knowing and sticking to the rules.

“If you’re giving someone a paddle board or kayak this Christmas, make sure you include what could be the most important gift – a lifejacket.

“Sydney Harbour is the hub of some of our state’s biggest summer celebrations, and being safe on the water is key to making sure this holiday season is a happy one.”

Transport for NSW Acting Co-Ordinator General Mark Hutchings said:

“Paddlers and kayakers don’t need a licence or registration, but they do need to know the rules. Wear a brightly coloured lifejacket, make sure you’re visible at night lit with bright white lights on the front and back and know your physical limits.

“The wash from a passing boat, especially something large like a ferry can be enough to seriously rock or even capsize a smaller vessel like a kayak or canoe so keep your distance and always be aware of your surroundings.

“Riding a jetski irresponsibly can create dangerous conditions for drivers, passengers and anyone else on or in the water so we urge people to think of other waterway users.”

Christmas 2023 PM STATEMENT

I’d like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas.

For so many Australians, this is a chance to rest.

To spend time with our family, catch-up with friends, and to cherish the memories of those no longer with us.

And for Christians, this is a holy time.

In this time of celebration and reflection, we express our gratitude to everyone who’s giving up their Christmas for the sake of others.

In particular, our emergency personnel and Australian Defence Force members, whether here or overseas. Our medical workers and our hospitality and those who give up for others through charities.

Of course, this isn’t an easy time for everyone.

I know many Australians are doing it tough at the moment, in particular those in Far North Queensland, dealing with the aftermath of the floods.

To them I say, you are all in our thoughts. May better times be ahead.

And may all Australians have a happy and joyous Christmas, and a safe one.

And please this festive season, drive safely.

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/oembed?url=https%3A//vimeo.com/897682758/4d0efd91d8&max_width=0&max_height=0&hash=1cWX62OlbWW5Ps67uvF_WshLOVXSK4BwukxFDLxFmAU

Recovery support for fire-affected Narrabri community

Disaster assistance is now available in the Narrabri Local Government Area (LGA) following impacts of fires in the Pilliga State Forest that started on 8 December 2023.

The assistance measures are being provided by the Albanese and Minns Governments through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Support includes:

  • assistance for eligible residents to help meet immediate needs like emergency accommodation or small cash payments to purchase essential items generally provided from evacuation or recovery centres
  • grants for eligible residents to replace lost essential household items to maintain basic standard of living
  • grants for eligible residents to undertake essential structural repairs to restore their homes to a safe and habitable condition
  • support for affected local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged essential public assets
  • concessional interest rate loans for small businesses, primary producers, sporting and recreation clubs, and non-profit organisations to repair or replace damaged or destroyed property
  • freight subsidies for primary producers to help transport livestock and fodder. 

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Senator the Hon. Murray Watt said the fires had burned through more than 130,000 hectares in the Pilliga State Forest. 

“This is a large bushfire that has been fuelling dangerous fire-generated thunderstorms with smoke visible from hundreds of kilometres away,” Minister Watt said. 

“I want to thank those who have worked hard to battle this blaze. The Minns Government and Rural Fire Service continue to monitor the situation and the Albanese Government stands ready to respond to any requests for assistance.” 

NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said fire-impacted community members and primary producers would be supported in their clean up and recovery. 

“Work to assess the impact is being conducted as quickly as possible, and this is the first step in making assistance available to those in need,” Minister Dib said. 

“The scale and intensity of this fire is a reminder of the dangers we face over summer.

“Recent rain is a welcome change for firefighters as they work to contain the fire following threats to life and property over the past week.” 

NSW Member for Barwon Roy Butler thanked emergency services, particularly volunteers. 

“This fire could have been far more devastating had it not been for the efforts of emergency service staff and volunteers. 

“Even yesterday there were about 200 people out on the fire ground, and 60 people from various agencies in the Fire Control Centre.

“Without volunteers and community assistance none of this would have been possible. Well done to everyone involved.” 

For information relating to financial assistance, replacing lost documents, location of your nearest recovery centre and more, please contact Service NSWlaunch on 13 77 88launch or visit nsw.gov.au

To apply for a concessional loan or primary producer grant, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authoritylaunch on 1800 678 593launch

Further information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist websitelaunch.

Green light for the return to racing at Western Sydney International Speedway

Speedway racing will make a long-awaited but welcome return to Eastern Creek in early 2024 following the appointment of a new Venue Manager and Operator for Western Sydney International Speedway.

Western Sydney International Dragway Ltd, which runs the neighbouring Sydney Dragway, has been appointed as Venue Manager with Sydney International Speedway Pty Ltd appointed as the new Operator.

Together with Government, the new management team is working hard to deliver a world-class experience for both fans and racers, with racing to commence back at the venue in early 2024.

The new Venue Manager and Operator are working on a program of race events so that fans can be trackside to see world-class racing in early 2024.

The motorsports precinct at Eastern Creek attracts around 700,000 visitors each year.

Motorsport is estimated to contribute $2.8 billion in direct and indirect value to the Australian economy including $270.1 million of value added to the New South Wales economy.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“After the previous government bungled the establishment of the new speedway at Eastern Creek, I am pleased that racing will return in early 2024.

“The racing community was promised a world-class facility and we are delivering on that promise.

“After receiving a five-star safety rating the track is ready to race on and we are working with the new management to make Eastern Creek the number one motorsports precinct in Australia.

“I’m committed to the success of motorsports and its social, and economic value to the community.

“Motorsports have a long and proud history in Sydney dating back to 1926 at the Sydney Showground at Moore Park, four decades at Parramatta and now a bright future at Eastern Creek.”

Sydney Dragway Chairman Tony Beuk said:

“Western Sydney International Speedway is a state-of-the-art facility with amazing potential. We are excited by the two forms of motorsport working together to create a bright co-operative future, with the opportunity to share resources between two disciplines of motorsport that share similar passions.

“Sydney Dragway has 20 years of experience in event management, ticketing and logistics and we’re looking to work with Sydney International Speedway Pty Ltd who understands the speedway industry.  Together, we are committed to getting racing back at the venue early in the new year and making it a success for the racing community.

“We are looking to attract the best Australian and overseas racers to Australia’s premier motorsports precinct.

“The return of speedway racing to Eastern Creek ensures racing will not only survive but thrive in Sydney.”

Community encouraged to have their say on Clubgrants scheme

The NSW Government has released a discussion paper and begun community consultation into the effectiveness of the Clubgrants scheme, as part of a wider review to ensure the grants program is providing a social benefit to the people of NSW.

The consultation period will be open until 18 March 2024.

Clubgrants enables eligible registered clubs to contribute a portion of gaming machine profits to local community services, projects and infrastructure through grants, and receive a tax concession in return.

The discussion paper provides background on Clubgrants, the terms of reference and targeted questions to help guide submissions. There is also a survey for those who do not want to write a submission.

The public consultation will enable key stakeholders, participants, and members of the public to provide feedback and have their say as part of the review.

Liquor & Gaming NSW is seeking feedback from 23 December 2023 until 18 March 2024. Read the discussion paper and have your saylaunch. 

The Review into the ClubGrants Scheme was announced in tandem with the Independent Panel on Gaming Reform, which brings together representatives from industry, harm minimisation advocacy groups, law enforcement, unions and a person with lived experience to build consensus on a roadmap for reform.

It adds to a number of reforms already undertaken by the Minns Government to reduce gambling harm and prevent money laundering:

  • reduced the cash input limit from $5,000 to $500 for all new poker machines from 1 July 
  • reduced the statewide cap on gaming machine entitlements by more than 3,000 
  • banned political donations from clubs involved in gaming 
  • removed VIP gaming signage across NSW 
  • invested $100m into gambling harm minimisation over the next four years.

Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said:

“The NSW Government is committed to ensuring integrity and public trust in government grants.

“The Clubgrants scheme has not been formally reviewed by government since 2013, so this review will give the community and key stakeholders a chance to have their say on its effectiveness.

“Registered clubs are part of the social fabric in local communities across NSW, and the Clubgrants scheme helps to provide vital local services, projects and infrastructure.

“Feedback from a broad range of stakeholders and members of the public is critical to ensure their views are considered. 

“I encourage everyone to read the discussion paper and provide a submission or complete the survey before 18 March. Your feedback about the scheme will form an important part of our review.”

Update on Platypuses reintroduced to Royal National Park

Six months after the historic reintroduction of platypuses to Royal National Park south of Sydney, the iconic Australian animals are thriving in their new habitat.

Ten platypuses were released in May, after being locally extinct for 50 years. Each of them carries an acoustic tag which pings listening receivers up and down the rivers of the Royal.

The latest data show nine of the ten animals are adapting well to their environment. The tenth platypus has ventured beyond the team’s tracking capabilities, which she has done before, and the team is confident she is exploring creeks she has previously visited.

Visitors to the Royal National Park are now regularly reporting platypus sightings. This underscores the value of conservation efforts in connecting people with nature and raising awareness about the importance of preserving Australia’s unique wildlife.

This project is a collaboration between the Platypus Conservation Initiative (UNSW Sydney), WWF-Australia, NSW National Parks Wildlife Service and Taronga Conservation Society. The project is guided by a commitment to preserving the Royal National Park’s unique biodiversity and supporting the long-term success of the platypus population.

Plans are underway to conduct comprehensive surveys in the park next year to assess the breeding success and overall health of the platypus population. The goal is to confirm whether the reintroduced platypuses have successfully reared young, which would mark another milestone in this ambitious conservation project.

Minister for Climate Change and the Environment Penny Sharpe said:

“These wonderful native animals are facing multiple threats in the wild, and there is an increasing need to actively manage their conservation for the ongoing survival of their populations.

“After taking part in the reintroduction program in the Royal National Park six months ago, I am thrilled to hear they are thriving in their new habitat and venturing deep into the park.”

Lead Researcher Dr Gilad Bino, UNSW’s Centre for Ecosystem Science said:

“The reintroduction has exceeded our expectations. The platypuses have adapted exceptionally well to the Royal National Park, a testament to the robustness of both the species and the habitat.

“We are closely monitoring the one platypus which has ventured beyond our monitoring capacity, but she will no doubt reconnect soon.”

Platypus researcher Dr Tahneal Hawke, Centre of Ecosystem Science said:

“Recent water quality and macro-invertebrate surveys show the system is in generally good condition, offering suitable resources for the platypuses. As they enter their breeding season, we are optimistic they will breed.”

WWF-Australia conservation ecologist Patrick Giumelli said:

“Our tracking data is providing fascinating insights into how the platypuses are interacting with their new habitat. We’re learning so much from these ten animals that will help inform future reintroductions of the species.

“We need to take these bold actions to reverse the decline of this Australian icon and secure its future.”downloadDownload as PDFprintPrint this page

Residential care a breeding ground for crime, overhaul needed

Queensland’s residential care system for children needs an overhaul to prevent it from being a breeding ground for crime and long-term welfare dependency.

One Nation candidate for Keppel James Ashby said changes were also needed to ensure qualified carers were supported to remain in the system.

“There are about 11,000 children in residential care in Queensland, partly due to the foster care system being on the verge of collapse,” Mr Ashby said.

“For many of these kids, it costs Queensland taxpayers between $500,000 and $1 million to care for them. Some of them are forced to stay in hotels due to a shortage of residential care homes.

“The system is under a lot of strain. Carers are almost powerless to work closely with children to foster an environment of trust with appropriate behavioural boundaries, and in many cases are unable to prevent kids from leaving a home and roaming the streets. Qualified carers are leaving the system and are being replaced with others, some of whom are unqualified and inexperienced or who are in it for the good pay ($120,000 starting salary) rather than good outcomes.

“Well-intentioned child safety requirements also prevent the development of a normal home environment where these kids can learn basic life skills. They have virtually nothing to do but sit around watching TV or playing games.

“Children who’ve been in the system for a while have learned how to game it and weaponise it, threatening carers with accusations of assault or worse in order to get their way or excuse poor behaviour. Discipline goes out the window. And unless they’re eligible for an ‘independent living’ arrangement, once these kids reach 18 they’re effectively on their own, often without prospects.”

Mr Ashby called for suitably qualified residential care house managers to be given greater autonomy in managing the care of kids in their charge.

“These highly qualified and experienced carers are the ones on the ground working daily with these children yet they have virtually no say in the management of kids’ programs and activities,” he said. “It should be these people – who know individual kids best – who should be planning their care.

“Carers entering the system should also be required to successfully complete appropriate training before coming into contact with kids. At the moment, because of a shortage, carers are being placed in charge of kids before their training is complete.

“Sadly, there will always be some parents unsuited to the role of parenting. We must have a sustainable and effective system of state care, but high demand coupled with well-intentioned but impersonal bureaucracy is threatening the system’s viability and delivering less-than-optimal outcomes.

“We all want what’s best for our kids. One Nation will work to introduce reforms to Queensland’s youth justice and residential care systems to better protect community safety and produce positive outcomes for our state’s vulnerable young people.”

Code of Conduct investigation

In accordance with the Council resolution of 12 December 2023 (below), City of Newcastle (CN) sought advice on the proactive release of the outcome letter and investigation report prepared by the external Conduct Reviewer, in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act).

As required under the GIPA Act, CN consulted with third parties whose information was captured in the documents prepared by the external Conduct Reviewer.

The outcome letter was prepared by the independent Conduct Reviewer and is a summary of the independent Code of Conduct review and its findings. The outcome letter was made available to Councillors at the Council meeting held on 12 December 2023.

A redacted copy of the outcome letter is available. The redacted sections of the outcome letter are currently the subject of consultation with a third party. Once the consultation is completed, CN will be able to determine whether it can release the information, in accordance with the GIPA Act.

The investigation report is the full report prepared by the external Conduct Reviewer. Consultation on the investigation report continues, in accordance with the GIPA Act. As noted in the Council resolution, the Procedure does not provide for Councillors to receive a copy of the investigation report where the finding is there is no breach of the Code of Conduct.

CN is currently working through its legal obligations in relation to the investigation report, having regard to the Code of Conduct, the Procedure and the GIPA Act. This will take some time as it is important CN complies with its legal obligations. A further update will be provided in due course as to whether the investigation report is able to be proactively released under the GIPA Act, but this is not expected to be till late January 2024 at the earliest.

Statement attributable to David Clarke, Executive Director Corporate Services

In accordance with Council’s resolution of 12 December 2023, City of Newcastle sought advice on the proactive release of the outcome letter and investigation report prepared by the independent, external Conduct Reviewer into alleged Code of Conduct breaches by City of Newcastle’s Chief Executive Officer.

City of Newcastle is governed by strict requirements under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act) when considering the proactive release of documents which contain the information of third parties.

City of Newcastle has undertaken consultation on the outcome letter, which was prepared by the external Conduct Reviewer and is a summary of the independent Code of Conduct review and its findings. The outcome letter was made available to Councillors at the Council meeting held on 12 December 2023″.

A redacted copy of the outcome letter is available on City of Newcastle’s website at [link]. The redacted sections of the outcome letter are currently the subject of consultation with a third party. Once the consultation is completed, CN will be able to determine whether it can release the information, in accordance with the GIPA Act.

The investigation report is the full report prepared by the external Conduct Reviewer. Consultation on the investigation report continues, in accordance with the GIPA Act.

The investigation report is not able to be considered for release until the GIPA Act requirements have been finalised. A further update will be provided in due course.

14 December 2023

An independent investigation has been undertaken into alleged Code of Conduct breaches by City of Newcastle’s (CN) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) following a resolution of Council on 25 July 2023 and a letter from the Minister for Local Government.

In accordance with CN’s Procedure for Administration of the Code of Conduct, the matter was referred to an external Conduct Reviewer, independent of CN, for assessment and investigation.

The investigation found no evidence that the CEO incentivised the author to write the articles, nor did he reveal to the author confidential information, which was contained in the letters to the Newcastle Herald.

There is no evidence that the CEO directly contributed to the letters and the investigation found both allegations were not substantiated.

The Conduct Reviewer has referred allegations of how confidential electoral roll details about Council staff and their friends and family came into the possession of journalists to the appropriate external agencies to determine the next steps.

The procedure does not provide for the Conduct Reviewer to take action or make a referral in relation to the Code of Conduct for Members of the Legislative Assembly.

Now the matter is finalised, CN will advise the Minister for Local Government and relevant external agencies of the outcome of the investigation.

The investigation report remains confidential, and the procedure does not provide for Councillors to receive a copy of the investigation report where the finding is there is no breach of the Code of Conduct.

CN will proactively consider and seek advice to determine whether the outcome letter and investigation report issued by the Conduct Reviewer, in part or full, can be released publicly in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009.

The full Procedure for Administration of the Code of Conduct is available on the CN website.

The Resolution to Ordinary Council Meeting 12 December 2023 regarding the outcome of this matter is also available.

Record capital works and a booming visitor economy as City of Newcastle wraps up 2023

Delivering a record $117.8 million capital works program, hosting two of the greatest musicians of all time, beginning the rejuvenation of Stockton Beach and a return to swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths are just some of the highlights City of Newcastle (CN) is celebrating following another big year of milestones and achievements.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, who this year became one of Newcastle’s longest serving Lord Mayors, reaching nine years in the role praised City of Newcastle staff and gave thanks to the community when reflecting on 2023.

CEO Jeremy Bath and Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes join City of Newcastle staff at the Works Depot Christmas party

“I want to thank the people of Newcastle, who have repeatedly supported our Council to show leadership and take tough decisions to deliver the change our city has needed,” Cr Nelmes said.

The Lord Mayor praised the City’s staff across the entire organisation for continuing to serve the community, including residents, workers, visitors, community groups and businesses.

“2023 has given us all plenty of reasons to be proud of ourselves, proud to be Novocastrians, and proud to work for a local government that is leading the way,” Cr Nelmes said.

Just this week swimmers made their long-awaited return to Newcastle Ocean Baths, with a celebration poolside for the completion of stage one of the multi-million dollar upgrade of the much love community facility.

This year City of Newcastle demonstrated a commitment to sustainability with CN spending $376.5 million this year to provide services and facilities to more than 169,000 residents, while recording a modest surplus of $7.8 million.

CN’s record $117.8 million capital works program included the Lugar Park amenities upgrade in Kotara, drainage upgrades at Smith Street, Merewether, the multipurpose sports and community hub at Myer Park, Adamstown, as well as road pavement stabilisation works at Kinta Drive, Beresfield and new traffic control signals at Chinchen Street, Islington.

As part of the Local Centres Program work is progressing at Orchardtown Road in New Lambton, with a future project for Georgetown now in the planning stage.

CN’s ongoing investment in recreational spaces saw five new local playgrounds officially opened in Fletcher, Waratah, Birmingham Gardens, Beresfield and Mayfield.

In January, Elton John entertained almost 50,000 fans at McDonald Jones Stadium backed up by Paul McCartney’s historic first concert outside an Australian capital city. The shows were secured as part of City of Newcastle’s Major Events Partnership with Venues NSW and injected an estimated $23 million into the local economy.

There was more big entertainment news thanks to Come From Away’s record-breaking season at the Civic Theatre, with 21,500 theatregoers from across the Hunter and beyond attending 23 shows.

In May, Newcastle was hailed as the ‘Top Tourism Town’ by Business NSW at the Local Government NSW Destination & Visitor Economy Conference, in recognition of its strategic initiatives to increase visitation and support tourism development for local operators.

Home grown hero Emily Van Egmond was awarded a Key to the City of Newcastle in August in recognition of the Matildas’ heroic efforts during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

New Annual returned in September with a range of amazing acts and performers. Newcastle’s flagship arts and culture festival has registered around 95,000 visitors and featured more than 1,500 visiting and local artists during its first three years, encouraging council to endorse a new 5-year commitment.

In October, the Newcastle Knights women were honoured with a civic reception at City Hall after beating the Gold Coast Titans in the grand final to claim their second-straight NRLW premiership.

Newcastle also earned the right to host Game Two of the 2024 Women’s State of Origin series at McDonald Jones Stadium on June 6.

Also that month Stockton residents celebrated the arrival of a 75-metre-long dredger spraying a rainbow of sand off the coastline, depositing 100,000 cubic metres to help renourish the beach.

November saw City of Newcastle and the RAAF host the largest single day event in the region’s history with the Newcastle Williamtown Air Show attracting around 100,000 spectators and delivering an estimated economic output of $19.5 million, with hotels reporting a 97% occupancy rate over the weekend.

CN’s City Administration Centre will be closed from midday Friday 22 December 2023, reopening on Tuesday 2 January 2024. For more information about CN’s services, visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au

Cancer survivorship clinic celebrates 10 years of operation

One of the first cancer survivorship clinics in NSW is celebrating 10 years of providing dedicated support to patients and their families following a cancer diagnosis.

Established in 2013, the Sydney Survivorship Centre at Concord Hospital gives patients access to evidence-based exercise interventions from diagnosis to treatment and through to survivorship.

The dedicated team helps patients manage treatment related side effects, improve their physical function and wellbeing and help prevent long term or persisting adverse effects of their cancer and treatment.

Health Minister Ryan Park highlighted the need for such an important service and praised the tireless efforts of the staff who work at the clinic.

“Making sure we look after the most vulnerable members of our community is vitally important and this service provides a multi-disciplinary team to give survivors the best possible chance of a positive outcome after their diagnosis,” Minister Park said.

“The team at the Cancer Survivorship Centre do an incredibly important job in helping patients navigate through such a terrifying point in life.”

There are an estimated 750,000 cancer survivors in Australia with an expected three per cent increase this year.

The aim of survivorship programs is to improve the services and care for cancer survivors in Australia through research, education and an understanding of the issues that affect people who have been treated for cancer.

While “survivorship” means different things to different people, most cancer survivors share similar issues around the fear of the cancer returning or the anxiety of follow up visits.

This free clinic helps patients come to terms with those fears and anxieties in a relaxed environment.

About 130 new patients are seen at the clinic each year with long term follow-up provided for about 40 per cent of those patients.

Staff will see patients every three months for the first three years, then six monthly for years four and five.