Category: Newcastle News

A range of free services for furry family members will be on offer this Saturday as City of Newcastle Rangers look to enhance their impressive record for rescuing lost pets.

To be held at City of Newcastle’s animal facility in Tighes Hill, the Pet Support Day will provide Newcastle residents with practical measures to help keep their dogs and cats safe, properly identified and connected to the people who love them.

City of Newcastle Rangers Jacob, Dana and Rachael with rescued dog ‘Leo’ at the Tighes Hill animal facility.City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager Transport and Regulation Ryan Tranter said Rangers are always looking for ways to create more positive outcomes for the community.

“Our Rangers love animals and just want what’s best for them and their families,” Mr Tranter said.

“During the 2025/26 financial year they assisted 268 pets, including around 100 that were returned directly to their owners because they had a microchip with up-to-date registration information.

“Our Rangers always work hard to reunite animals with their families. Approximately 70 dogs did spend some time with our team at Tighes Hill before we could locate their owners and return them home.

“Making sure your pets are microchipped, registered, and wearing up-to-date ID tags is one of the simplest things you can do as an owner to keep them safe and get them home as soon as possible.”

During the community event, the Rangers will be offering free microchipping and NSW Pet Registry updates for Newcastle residents, as well as information on responsible pet ownership.

City of Newcastle has also partnered with charitable organisation The Stay Foundation to offer vet care from Mayfield Veterinary Hospital, including free services such as vaccinations, health checks and desexing for eligible residents who hold a valid pension card.

Ranger Coordinator Rachael Davis said the team is passionate about educating the community on responsible pet ownership and providing support to residents and their animals.

“Our Pet Support Day will be a cost-effective way to strengthen the bond between people and their pets to ensure more animals remain safely in their homes,” Ms Davis said.

“We’ll be providing a helping hand with pet essentials, access to affordable vet care, information on available pet resources and the chance to connect with the community.

“As Rangers, we strive to provide a safe and caring environment for all animals, but our primary goal is to reunite lost pets with their owners.

“We also worked alongside 16 rehoming organisations over the past year to give almost 100 animals a second chance by finding them new homes across Australia.”

The Pet Support Day will take place this Saturday 7 November at City of Newcastle’s Tighes Hill animal facility between 10am and 12pm.

For more information visit the event page. 

A man has been charged with allegedly committing a sexual act in a public toilet last week.

On Monday 2 November 2026, officers from Hunter Valley Police District commenced an investigation following a report of a sexual act.

Police were told about 1pm on Saturday 31 October 2026, a 10-year-old boy entered a male bathroom at a shopping centre located on Keene St, Cessnock.

Police were told an unknown man allegedly performed a sexual act on himself before the child left the bathroom.

Following inquiries, about 11am yesterday (Wednesday 4 November 2026), a 39-year-old man was arrested at a home on Rutherford Drive, Rutherford.

He was taken to Maitland Police Station and charged with carry out sexual act with another without consent and breach of bail.

The man was refused bail to appear at Bail Division Court 2 today (Thursday 5 November 2026).

The Minns Labor Government can reveal a new and expanded Maitland Grossmann High School will be built in Chisholm, next door to the new public school and public early learning, giving local families a one-stop drop-off for a world-class public education from preschool to Year 12.

The new 4.2-hectare site will ensure the 140-year-old school will be rebuilt bigger and better to meet the needs of the growing Maitland community.

To be located off Dublin Drive in Chisholm, within the Thornton North Urban Release Area, one of Maitland’s fastest-growing areas, the expanded high school will provide modern facilities and permanent classrooms for 1,500 students when it opens in 2030.

The project will deliver 81 new classrooms including 14 support learning classrooms, as well as specialised classrooms including a vocational education and training (VET) kitchen. The new school will also include a multipurpose hall, games courts and playing field, library, covered outdoor learning area, staff amenities and lift access.

The high school will be located next door to the new primary school and co-located public early learning service in Chisholm which are also due to open in 2030, ensuring local families in this growing area can access public education and early learning close to home.

All students currently enrolled at Maitland Grossmann High School and permanent staff will transition to the new school once it opens, with the Department of Education working closely with school leadership to ensure the design reflects the needs of the current and future school community.

A range of works have been completed at the current school to ensure students are supported until the new school opens, including new covered walkways, shade structures and outdoor seating, a vocational education and training hospitality kitchen, replacement of timber retaining walls between Blocks F and M, and external paintwork.

The new school further expands the Minns Labor Government’s delivery of public education infrastructure across the growing Hunter region, which includes:
New public primary school, preschool and high school in North Rothbury (Huntlee)
New public primary school and co-located public early learning in Chisholm
New high school in Medowie
Gillieston Public School redevelopment
Thornton Public School upgrade
12 new public preschools due to open early next year

The 2026-27 Budget delivers a $9.2 billion investment in school infrastructure in NSW over the next four years, including $2.2 billion in regional NSW.

In addition to funding new and upgraded schools, the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education includes putting qualified teachers in front of every classroom, with improved pay and conditions, bringing vacancies down to a 12-year low.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

As one of the Hunter’s fastest-growing areas, Maitland families deserve access to world-class public education close to home.

Not only are we expanding Maitland Grossmann High School on a new site, we’re building it next door to a new public primary school and early learning. This means future students will have a public education pathway right through to Year 12 all on the one site.

The local member Jenny Aitchison has been pushing to find a bigger site for this new high school and has been a huge part in delivering more classrooms for growing families in Maitland.

This is part of the government’s investment in rebuilding public education in the Hunter so that families have the schools and facilities they need for decades to come.”

Deputy Premier of New South Wales and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:

I am excited to share our plans for the relocation and rebuilding of Maitland Grossmann High School on this site in Chisholm, right next door to the brand new public primary school we are building with co-located public early learning, which will be a game-changer for local families.

The rebuild and expansion of Maitland Grossmann High School will honour the legacy of a school that has been at the heart of this community for more than 140 years, while giving future generations of students the modern facilities they deserve.

Maitland families are seeing their community grow, and we are committed to supporting that growth by delivering world-class local public schools built for the future as part of work to rebuild public education across NSW.”

Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison:

Established in 1884, Maitland Grossmann High School has a special place in the history of our community and in the lives of generations of local families.

It’s incredibly exciting to be able to give this school a new home in the heart of one of our fastest-growing communities, with the space, facilities and classrooms to welcome the next generation of students.

Having the high school alongside a new primary school and public early learning service means families in Chisholm will have access to quality public education right on their doorstep – from the earliest years through to the HSC.

When the doors open in 2030, I want future students to find what thousands of Maitland students have found over the past 140 years: a place to learn, thrive and a school they’re proud to belong to.”

Maitland Grossmann High School principal Neil Fara said:

“This is exciting news for our school community and an important step towards supporting our growing student population into the future.

“While we look forward to what lies ahead, we will continue to focus on providing the best possible education for the students in our classrooms today.”

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage boy missing from the states Hunter Region.

Archer Haynes-Prior, aged 14, was last seen on Station Street, Waratah, about 7.30pm yesterday (Sunday 1 November 2026).

When he was unable to be located or contacted, officers attached to Newcastle City Police District were notified and inquiries into his whereabouts commenced.

There are concerns for Archer’s welfare due to his young age.

Archer is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 185cm tall, of thin build, with brown hair.

He was last seen wearing black tracksuit pants, a black Geed Up hoodie and blue Nike TN shoes.

Archer is known to frequent the Wallsend, Shortland and Sydney CBD areas.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to contact Newcsatle Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A man has been charged following an alleged pursuit between the Hunter Valley and Sydney yesterday afternoon.

About 12.20pm (Monday 2 November 2026), Traffic and Highway Patrol officers attempted to stop a hatchback on Wine Country Drive at North Rothbury.

When the driver allegedly failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated.

The pursuit continued south to the M1 Motorway towards Sydney’s Hills District where the pursuit was terminated.

The hatchback returned to the M1 a short time later and commenced driving northbound towards Newcastle.

With the assistance of PolAir, the hatchback was monitored as it continued north along stretches of the Old Pacific Highway and the M1.

About 3.05pm, road spikes were successfully deployed near George Booth Drive at West Wallsend.

The driver, a 20-year-old Hunter Valley man, was arrested a short time later.

He was taken to Toronto Police Station and charged with police pursuit – not stop – drive recklessly and drive motor vehicle during disqualification period.

He was refused bail and will appear before Bail Division Court 2 today (Tuesday 3 November 2026).

A man has been arrested following an alleged pursuit between the Hunter Valley and Sydney this afternoon.

About 12.20pm (Monday 2 November 2026), Highway Patrol officers attempted to stop a hatchback on Wine Country Drive at North Rothbury.

When the driver allegedly failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated.

The pursuit continued south to the M1 towards Sydney’s Hills District where the pursuit was terminated.

The hatchback returned to the M1 a short time later and commenced driving northbound towards Newcastle.

With the assistance of PolAir, the hatchback was monitored as it continued north along stretches of the Old Pacific Highway and the M1.

About 3.05pm, road spikes were successfully deployed near George Booth Drive at West Wallsend.

The driver, a 20-year-old Hunter Valley man, was arrested a short time later.

He was taken to Toronto Police Station where inquiries are ongoing.

Two ships linked to a sham seafarers’ union have raised serious concerns for crew welfare in Newcastle, with inspectors facing obstruction by port managers.

The KIBO (IMO 9719331), berthed at a Port of Newcastle berth, was detained for 10 days at its previous port of call in Ghent, Belgium, after 21 deficiencies were identified. ITF inspectors have visited the vessel to assess crew welfare and establish whether those deficiencies have been properly rectified.

Meanwhile, the PROLIN (IMO 9853058) bulk carrier, alongside at the Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group (NCIG) coal terminal, has also attracted serious concern from the ITF Inspectorate because of its links to the International Seafarers’ Union (ISU), a fake union that the ITF says is associated with the use of sham workplace agreements to undermine international seafarers’ wages and conditions.

While Port of Newcastle facilitated the snap inspections of KIBO, NCIG management refused access to ITF inspectors seeking to inspect the PROLIN and assess the welfare of its crew. On the same day, the inspector was also denied an inspection on another ship at the Port Waratah Coal Service (PWCS) berth. The refusal raises serious questions about why two coal terminal operators would prevent independent inspectors from checking on workers aboard a vessel where there are concerns about their employment arrangements and welfare.

ITF Inspector Dan Crumlin said the actions of port and terminal operators must not be allowed to undermine the protection of vulnerable seafarers.

“The commercial interests of coal exporters and shipowners must never be allowed to obstruct efforts to protect seafarers from unsafe conditions, exploitation and mistreatment,” Mr Crumlin said.

The ITF says the KIBO and PROLIN are linked to the ISU, which it alleges operates in conjunction with Lanibra, a private shipowners’ agency offering services designed to sideline genuine trade unions.

According to the ITF, these arrangements use sham agreements to drive down wages, degrade working conditions and strip seafarers of protections secured through legitimate collective bargaining. The consequences can be particularly severe for international seafarers who depend on their employment for their livelihood and have limited practical ability to challenge their employer while at sea.

Matt Purcell, who is leading the ITF’s campaign against the ISU-Lanibra arrangements, said sham unions exploit the vulnerability of seafarers by creating the appearance of representation while removing the protections that genuine unions fight to secure.

“A union is supposed to give workers a collective voice and the power to stand up to their employer. A sham union turns that principle on its head. It gives shipowners a way to present an exploitative employment arrangement as legitimate while workers are left with lower wages, worse conditions and fewer protections,” Mr Purcell said.

The ITF Inspectorate’s October intensive inspection campaign is targeting vessels across Australian ports to identify substandard employment arrangements, investigate crew welfare concerns and ensure shipowners meet their obligations to seafarers.

The circumstances also recall the COSTANZA, which was arrested and subsequently banned from Australian waters following ITF Inspectorate intervention in Newcastle two years ago. That case demonstrated the importance of independent inspections in exposing serious concerns involving foreign-flagged vessels and protecting seafarers from exploitation.

The ITF Inspectorate has written to the KIBO’s charterer, warning of the risks that the crew transporting its cargo may be experiencing exploitation or mistreatment.

Local MUA branch secretary Glen Williams backed in the ITF Inspectorate’s demands. “Ship charterers and port operators like NCIG and PWCS can’t wash their hands of responsibility for the conditions under which their cargo is transported. We are trying to stamp out modern slavery in the supply chain while these Australian companies help perpetrators sweep it under the rug,” Mr Williams said.

The ITF Inspectorate is calling on NCIG and PWCS management to explain their refusals to grant inspectors access to ships berthed at their wharves. Both Newcastle coal terminal operators must ensure inspectors can carry out their work without further obstruction.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from Newcastle.

Christopher Boyd, aged 58, was last seen on Flavum Street, Fletcher, about 5pm on Friday 30 October 2026.

When he was unable to 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 Christopher’s welfare as he lives with dementia.

He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm tall, of slim build with brown hair and brown eyes.

Christopher is known to frequent the Wallsend, Maryland, and New Lambton areas.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to contact Lake Macquarie Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 27 October 2026. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.

Lord Mayoral Minutes

Standing together: support for Dr Helen Haines MP and a recommitment to respect in public life

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously endorsed that extends Council’s heartfelt support and good wishes to Dr Helen Haines MP, Federal Member for Indi, her husband Phil, their family, her staff and the people of Indi, and condemns violence, threats and intimidation directed at elected representatives, their staff and all who serve the public.

Acknowledging the contribution of the late Hon. Dr John Price AM 

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously endorsed that notes the passing of the Hon. Dr John Price AM and recognises his lifetime of service to Newcastle, the Hunter and NSW, including seven years as an Alderman of Newcastle City Council. Council extends its condolences to John’s family, friends and all those who knew him.

Ordinary business 

Tabling of register of disclosure of interest annual report 

Council noted the tabling of the Register of Disclosures of Interest for the financial year 2025/26 by the Chief Executive Officer.

Authorisation for signing of the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2026 

Council voted unanimously to receive the draft Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2026 and formally referred them to the Audit Office of NSW in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993.

Public exhibition of Alcohol Regulated Area Network 

Council voted unanimously to publicly exhibit the proposed expansion of the Alcohol Regulated Area Network in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 for a minimum period of 30 days.

Executive Monthly Performance Report 

Council voted unanimously to receive the Executive Monthly Performance Report for September 2026.

Tender report – East End regional precincts and partnerships program works – Stages 3, 4, 7 and 8 – D 

Council voted unanimously to accept a tender for the East End Public Domain Stages 3, 4, 7 and 8 refurbishment.

Notices of Motion

Extension and Enhancement of Community Engagement, Draft Hexham and Woodberry Swamp Catchments Flood Study 

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion to extend the public exhibition period for the draft Hexham and Woodberry Swamp Catchments Flood Study from the original closing date of 19 November 2026 to 18 December 2026 and confirm whether an extension requires the agreement of Maitland City Council and Cessnock City Council as partners in the study, and to liaise with them as required.

Establishing a Newcastle Multicultural Reference Group 

Council unanimously supported an amended notice of motion that City of Newcastle establish a Newcastle Multicultural Reference Group to provide direct community and stakeholder input to Council on multicultural community priorities and issues affecting culturally diverse communities and social cohesion.

Let’s be better online: supporting respectful online engagement 

Council unanimously supported an amended notice of motion to support the “Be better online” initiative considered by Port Stephens Council on 25th August 2026, recognising the growing impact of online abuse, threats, intimidation and hateful commentary on elected representatives, Council staff and members of our community.

Reviewing permanent outdoor furniture fees ahead of the 2027/28 budget

Council supported an alternate notice of motion that Council notes the findings of the 2026 review and the staff recommendation to retain Permanent Outdoor Furniture Fees, establishing an internally restricted reserve for revenue collected to fund local beautification and community safety improvements, benefiting the broader business community in the surrounding precincts.

Wildlife rescuers should not bear the cost of bird flu response 

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion that Council write to the local members for Newcastle, Wallsend, and Charlestown requesting they advocate for vital health and safety funding for PPE for Hunter Wildlife Rescue in the face of the H5 bird flu outbreak.

Bring the Port of Newcastle back into public hands

Council supported a notice of motion that noted the port of Newcastle is a key strategic asset for our city and region. Council will write to the Prime Minister and NSW Premier calling on both levels of government to work together to bring the 50% stake of the port back into public hands.

The AUKUS treaty

Council supported an alternate notice of motion that notes that no decision has been made by the Australian Government to establish an East Coast submarine base in Newcastle and requests full and meaningful consultation with the Newcastle community before Newcastle is subject to any future detailed consideration as a potential location.

City of Newcastle’s plan to transform the Hunter Street Mall into a traditional high street will enter its final phase in January. 

Daracon Group has been appointed to continue the streetscape overhaul on Hunter and Newcomen Streets, after being awarded the tender unanimously at last night’s Council meeting.  

Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said the work is futureproofing Newcastle’s city centre and making it a more attractive place for everyone. 

“The improvements that we’ve been able to make in recent years are contributing to the area’s revival and this is another step forward,” Cr Morris said. 

An artist’s impression of the planned upgrades for Hunter Street, looking west from Newcomen Street.

“When we look around at projects like the recently delivered Newcastle Art Gallery, ongoing work at places nearby like Queens Wharf and Foreshore Park, plans for Newcastle Ocean Baths and Rail Bridge Row, Newcastle is an exciting place to be right now. 

“We thank the Australian Government for providing significant funding that means we can deliver this project many years sooner than we’d originally expected, which will make for a better-connected and more welcoming Newcastle.” 

The East End Village project is supported by $16.7 million from the Australian Government’s regional Precincts and Partnerships Program. 

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said it was exciting to see this next stage getting underway. 

“The Albanese Labor Government’s $16.7 million investment is helping transform Newcastle’s East End, breathing new life into Hunter Street Mall and creating a more vibrant, accessible and welcoming city centre,” Ms Claydon said. 

“These upgrades will deliver greener streets, safer and better connections for pedestrians and cyclists, and inviting public spaces where locals and visitors can shop, meet and enjoy everything our city has to offer. 

An artist’s impression of the planned upgrades for Hunter Street, looking east from Thorn Street.

“I’m particularly pleased to see plans for a new public plaza featuring artwork that celebrates Newcastle’s rich Indigenous heritage, recognising the stories, culture and connection to Country that are central to our city’s identity.  

“This investment is helping shape a city centre that reflects Newcastle’s confidence and ambition, while preserving the character and history that make our city unique. It will support local jobs and businesses today, while creating a better connected and more liveable East End for the future.” 

The work on Hunter and Newcomen Streets will include new road surfaces, footpaths, street trees and gardens, as well as important underground infrastructure. 

It will also feature a new public plaza on Market Street, between Hunter Street and Keightley Street, providing a space for people to relax and enjoy a significant new piece of public art to celebrate Newcastle’s rich Indigenous history. 

The bi-directional cycleway established during previous stages of the project will be continued, providing a vital connection between the city and the harbour. 

City of Newcastle Executive Director City Infrastructure David Witherdin said the project will add to recent streetscape upgrades delivered on Hunter, Perkins, Brown and Wolfe Streets. 

“Importantly for everyone in the area, we are working towards an early 2028 completion date for this phase,” Mr Witherdin said. 

“This will mean residents, businesses and visitors will experience less disruption and be able to enjoy this renewed space sooner.” 

As with previously completed phases, these improvements are intended to integrate with almost $1 billion of residential development in Newcastle’s East End, transforming the area into a vibrant and welcoming space for residents, visitors and shoppers. 

Read more about the East End project and view artist impressions of the revitalised spaces by visiting the project page.