Category: Newcastle News

The M1 Pacific Motorway extension has hit a significant construction milestone, with crews driving the final pile to complete foundation works for 11 new bridges between Black Hill and Raymond Terrace.

The milestone clears the way for the next phase of high-intensity construction on one of the Hunter’s most important road projects.

Since February 2024, project teams have installed 278 bridge piles across the 15-kilometre corridor, including 173 piles for the 2.6-kilometre viaduct that will span the Hunter River and surrounding floodplain.

Sixteen piles were installed directly into the riverbed using heavy-lift barges – a complex operation delivered safely and efficiently.

Motorists have already benefited throughout the busy summer period, after new bridges opened at Black Hill, Tomago and Raymond Terrace, and the Masonite Road bridge at Heatherbrae opened in October.

The remaining seven bridges, including the Hunter River viaduct, will open progressively as construction gathers pace.

The $2.24 billion M1 extension project, jointly funded by the Federal Albanese and the NSW Minns Labor Governments, with the Commonwealth contributing $1.792 billion, and NSW contributing $448 million. The project will also deliver the critical Hexham Straight widening, unlocking safer, faster and more reliable journeys across the Hunter.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

These bridge piles are the literal foundations for the nationally significant M1 extension and getting them in place is a major step forward.

This is one of the busiest sections of the Pacific Highway, and I’m pleased the Albanese and Minns Governments are working together to deliver this major improvement.”

NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison:

Driving the final pile is a powerful milestone – it means the foundations are done and the finish line is firmly in sight.

Along with the Coffs Harbour Bypass, this is a nation-changing piece of infrastructure, and the missing link between Queensland and Victoria – which enable everyone to drive between these two states without passing through a single traffic light.

The M1 extension to Raymond Terrace will transform travel across the Hunter, improving safety, reliability and daily journeys for thousands of motorists.”

NSW Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley:

This is an important milestone for the Hunter. Completing the bridge foundations brings us another step closer to improving how people move to, from and around the region.

By working in partnership with the Albanese Government, we’re delivering infrastructure that improves safety, reliability and supports the Hunter as it continues to grow.”

Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson:

These bridge foundations will stand for decades, supporting transport infrastructure and easing congestion for now and well into the future.

The Albanese and Minns Labor Government are investing in our fast-growing region to ensure the M1 Extension delivers lasting benefits for our local communities.”

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

The M1 extension is critical to keeping Newcastle and the Hunter moving.

Anyone who’s spent time sitting in traffic at Hexham over this summer holiday, or any other day, knows just how frustrating this bottleneck is for families and commuters.

Today’s milestone shows real progress – delivering congestion relief, better freight efficiency and stronger connections for our region.”

the State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery:

This is a huge win for the Hunter workforce and local businesses.

Completing bridge foundations keeps momentum strong and brings us closer to an M1 extension that will support jobs, productivity and safer travel across the region.”

Robbery and Serious Crime Squad detectives have charged three men allegedly behind a spate of armed robberies across Newcastle and Sydney last week.

The armed hold ups occurred in Waratah, Seven Hills, Pyrmont and Kingswood between Monday 5 January and Thursday 8 January 2026.
About 8am on Monday 5 January 2026, officers attached to Newcastle City Police District were called to a licenced premises on Station Street, Waratah, following reports of a robbery. Police were told two men allegedly armed with a handgun, entered the hotel, and demanded cash from an employee before leaving on foot.
About 1pm on Wednesday 7 January 2026, officers attached to Blacktown Police Area Command were called to a pawn shop on Artillery Crescent, Seven Hills, following reports of a robbery. Police were told a man allegedly armed with a handgun, entered the store and demanded cash and jewellery. The employee refused and the man left empty handed.
About 2am on Thursday 8 January 2026, officers attached to Sydney City Police Area Command were called to a convenience store on Murray Street, Pyrmont, following reports of a robbery. Police were told two men allegedly armed with a handgun, entered the store, and demanded cash before fleeing with a safe.
About 4.45pm on Thursday 8 January 2026, officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command were called to a convenience store at Kingswood Train Station following reports of a robbery. Police were told a man armed allegedly armed with a handgun, entered the story and demanded cash. The employee refused and the man left empty handed.

Local police commenced inquiries into each matter before it was established the same handgun and dark coloured Holden sedan were used in each robbery before the matter was referred to State Crime Command’s Robbery and Serious Crime Squad who established Strike Force Dudley to investigate.

Following extensive inquiries, about 2pm on Sunday 11 January 2026, strike force detectives arrested a 36-year-old man at a hotel on Main Street, Blacktown, who was taken to Blacktown Police Station.

A short time later, strike force detectives – with assistance of the Public Order and Riot Squad – executed a search warrant at a home in Wilberforce.

During the search, detectives allegedly located a dark coloured Holden sedan, phones and items allegedly used in the robbery.

The 36-year-old man was charged with robbery while armed with dangerous weapon, and two counts of in company rob while armed with dangerous weapon, relating to the incidents at Waratah, Seven Hills, and Pyrmont.

He was refused bail to appear at Blacktown Local Court on Monday 12 January 2026, where he was further refused bail to appear at Penrith Local Court on Friday 6 March 2026.

Following extensive inquiries, about 4.10pm on Monday 12 January 2026, strike force detectives arrested a 27-year-old man on Castlereagh Road, North Penrith.

He was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with conceal serious indictable offence and possess prohibited drug, relating to the incidents at Waratah and Pyrmont.

About 8.20pm the same day, strike force detectives – with assistance of the Public Order and Riot Squad – conducted a search warrant at a home on Joseph Street, Kingswood.

During that search, detectives allegedly seized clothing, CCTV and jewellery items.

A 35-year-old man was arrested at the scene and taken to Penrith Police Station.

He was charged with assault with intent rob while armed with dangerous weapon and fail to comply digital evidence access order direction, relating to the Kingswood incident.

Both men were refused bail to appear at Penrith Local Court yesterday (Tuesday 13 January 2026).

Anyone with information that may assist investigations into organised criminal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Local artists are being offered the chance to shine at New Annual in 2026 as City of Newcastle’s flagship arts festival continues to elevate Newcastle’s profile as a thriving creative city.

Applications are now open for the ‘Made New’ program, which provides up to $40,000 in funding for Newcastle-based or affiliated artists to present during the New Annual festival, which will be held from 25 September to 4 October 2026.

Tom Avgenicos playing during New Annual 2025Last year’s New Annual was the largest in the event’s history featuring a total of 87 shows which attracted approximately 50,000 attendees, almost double the amount from 2024, with an economic impact of almost $3.5 million.

Festival Director Tory Loudon said City of Newcastle-commissioned surveys revealed 96% of respondents would be likely to attend New Annual again.

“Last year’s New Annual demonstrated the strength of Newcastle’s creative community and the city’s growing confidence as a cultural destination,” Ms Loudon said.

“More than 70% of the program featured local artists in 2025 and the ‘Made New’ program will ensure we continue to celebrate the exceptional creative talent within our region through new works.

“We had amazing success last year introducing new venues into the program. From the transformation of Newcastle Museum into a theatre space, to the overwhelming response to performances at Newcastle Ocean Baths and University House.

“This year we’re looking for original works that tell a story about Newcastle in a unique way or use a Newcastle space in a new way. We love out of the box ideas and there’s a maximum of $40,000 available per project.”

Councillor Jenny Barrie, Chair of City of Newcastle’s Community and Culture Strategic Advisory Committee said New Annual is a festival for the entire community. 

“The feedback we received showed that New Annual made Novocastrians feel connected to their city, while the productions truly reflected local stories and gave audiences a sense of pride,” Cr Barrie said.

“New Annual is evolving into an iconic festival that is truly Novocastrian, providing local audiences with free and low cost opportunities to engage with a range of arts while attracting cultural tourism to the city.

“The festival showcases what can be achieved when collaboration and ambition align, celebrating creativity that is shaped by place and powered by people.”

The 2025 festival saw Newcastle’s coastline and civic spaces reimagined as vibrant stages for art, performance and community connection, featuring diverse events, activities and performances.

Alongside performances at Newcastle Ocean Baths, other highlights included giant shipping containers that transformed Camp Shortland into a public art trail, the multi-sensory DARKFIELD in Wheeler Place, a whimsical six-hole mini putt-putt course at The Station, the First Night Art Party on Laman Street and a singing workshop with men’s choir sensations Spooky Men’s Chorale.

Locals working across interdisciplinary art forms, visual arts, dance, theatre, music, and multimedia have until 12 February 2026 to submit an expression of interest for New Annual 2026.

Successful applicants will be included in the New Annual festival program, ensuring City of Newcastle will provide support with marketing, publicity and production.

To keep up to date with the latest festival news or find out more about the “Made New” process, visit www.newannual.com

To view a copy of the New Annual 2025 post festival report, click here

To see highlights of the 2025 festival, click here

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

Jade Wilson, aged 18, was last seen in Wakehurst Crescent, Metford, on Tuesday 16 December 2025.

When she failed to return home and couldn’t be located or contacted officers attached to Port Stephens/Hunter Police District were contacted and commenced inquiries to locate her.

Police and family hold concerns for Jade’s welfare.

Jade is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 165cm tall, of medium build, with dark hair. She wears glasses.

She usually wears tights and a jumper.

A motorcycle rider has died after crashing in the states Hunter Region.

About 10.40am today (Sunday 11 January 2026), emergency services were called to Yarrawa Road, Yarrawa, about 34kms south west of Muswellbrook, following reports of a crash.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District arrived to find a motorcycle had left the roadway and crashed into a pole.

The rider – a man believed to be aged in his 70s – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for serious injuries but died at the scene.

He is yet to be formally identified.

Police have established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the incident.

A report will be prepared for the information of the coroner.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a woman missing from the state’s north.
Selena Poulton, aged 37, was last seen on Margina Close, Tuncurry, about 10am on Wednesday 7 January 2026.
Officers attached to Barrier Police District were notified today (Sunday 11 January 2026) and officers attached to Manning Great Lakes Police District commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.
Family and police hold concerns for Selena’s welfare.
Selena is described as being of Aboriginal/Torre Strait Islander appearance, about 160cm – 165cm tall, of thin build, with brown hair and brown eyes.
She was last seen wearing a grey jacket.
Selena is believed to frequent the Forster and Tuncurry areas.

Three men have been charged after a brawl at a licenced venue in the Hunter region.

About 11.30pm (Saturday 10 January 2026), officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District responded to reports of a brawl at a licenced venue on Lings Road, Buttai.

Police were told three men – one of whom was allegedly armed with a knife – assaulted four other men.

The three men allegedly attempted to leave in a vehicle; however, were stopped by police.

All three were arrested and taken to Cessnock Police Station.

A 37-year-old man was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, armed with intent commit indictable offence, choke person intend to commit indictable offence, affray, and stalk/intimidate intend fear physical harm (personal).

He was refused bail and appeared before Bail Division Court 2 today (Sunday 11 January 2026), where he was formally refused bail to appear before Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday 18 March 2026.

A 33-year-old man was charged with three counts assault occasioning actual bodily harm, affray and common assault.

He was refused bail and appeared before Bail Division Court 2 today (Sunday 11 January 2026), where he was formally refused bail to appear before Cessnock Local Court on Wednesday 21 January 2026.

A 29-year old man was charged with common assault and affray.

He remains in hospital under police guard and will appear before Bail Division Court 2 tomorrow (Monday 12 January 2026)

The four other men – two aged 52, 57 and 61 – were taken to hospital for treatment of injuries.

Inquiries into the incident continue.

City of Newcastle is supporting four local teens turn their surf lifesaving skills into real-world experience with an innovative trainee lifeguard program.

The six-week traineeship gives high school students the chance to work alongside professional lifeguards during the summer holidays, gaining hands-on experience patrolling Newcastle’s beaches and ocean baths.

This year’s school-aged summer trainees on their first day of lifeguard training at Dixon Park Beach: Liam Doyle and Lexi Sutherland sitting in rough terrain vehicle (RTV),  Bronte Bowker standing. Trainee Sid Burns (not pictured) is also part of this year’s intake.

Delivered in partnership with Hunter Surf Life Saving, the program has doubled in size since it was launched in 2021 as the first program of its kind in NSW.

City of Newcastle Acting Executive Director Creative & Community Services Lynn Duffy said the program plays a vital role in keeping Newcastle’s beaches safe while supporting young people with meaningful, career-ready work.

“Each year more than one million people visit Newcastle’s beaches, so it’s important that we continue to develop and grow our professional lifeguard team to help keep our community safe,” Ms Duffy said.

“Through real-world experience and guidance from professional lifeguards, our school-aged trainees get a structured introduction to lifeguarding, working weekday shifts during the busy summer holidays. 

“Participants build confidence through a formal recruitment process, sharpen their surf lifesaving skills and gain on-the-job experience needed to pursue a career in lifeguarding.

“The initiative also strengthens collaboration across the sector including connections with Hunter Surf Life Saving and local clubs, while creating a local talent pipeline that supports beach safety now and into the future.”

Designed for school-aged students who are already members of one of the 12 local Surf Life Saving clubs, participants complete up to 24 hours of paid rostered shifts each week, with training that includes interview preparation and formal induction for those progressing into trainee lifeguard roles.

Since launching, the initiative has kick-started the careers of around 20 casual lifeguards, many continuing to patrol Newcastle’s six beaches and two ocean baths from Stockton to Merewether. 

Former trainee and now City of Newcastle lifeguard Jack Johns, who grew up in Newcastle, said the traineeship helped turn his love of the ocean into a career.

“The trainee program gave me the confidence, skills and real-life experience I needed,” Mr Johns said.

“Starting out as a trainee and now working as a lifeguard on the beaches I grew up on has been incredible. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone who loves the beach and wants a meaningful summer job with real career options.”

Newcastle Councillor Jenny Barrie, who is a passionate advocate for surf lifesaving and beach safety, said the tragic start to the 2026 summer season elsewhere along the NSW coast highlighted the importance of well-trained lifeguards.

“It’s been devastating to see drownings occur in other parts of the state this summer, and while none have occurred at patrolled beaches or here in Newcastle, it’s a stark reminder of why investing in the training of lifeguards is so very important,” Cr Barrie said.

“It’s critical when you’re out enjoying our beautiful beaches to follow the key water safety rules including to never swim alone and always swim between the red and yellow flags. If you’re unsure conditions are safe, ask a lifeguard for advice.”

A boy has died after being pulled unconscious from a pool on the state’s mid north coast.

About 7:30pm (Friday 9 January 2026), emergency services were called to Bobs Farm following reports a four-year-old boy was unresponsive after being pulled from a pool.

Family members performed CPR until NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived and took over.

The boy was treated at the scene before being taken to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition, where he later died.

Officers attached to Port Stephens/Hunter Police District attended and commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

City of Newcastle is encouraging Novocastrians to discover the hidden wonders of our local coastline this summer through a free, hands-on coastal education program.

Kicking off on 12 January, Coastal Curiosity is a series of six free workshop designed to help people of all ages connect with Newcastle’s unique coastal ecosystems.

City of Newcastle staff member Eliza Hoyland and UoN PHD student, Hayden Swift stand alongside young participants of City of Newcastle’s environmental event ‘Hidden Life of Sand’.

City of Newcastle Executive Director Michelle Bisson said the program empowers the community to actively care for the coastline through participation and connection to place.

“Coastal Curiosity gives the community the chance to be hands-on and to learn from scientists and cultural knowledge holders, while contributing to real data that helps protect Newcastle’s coastal environments,” Ms Bisson said.

“The sessions are spread across different days of the summer school holidays and are tailored for families, young people and adults interested in nature, science, culture and sustainability.

“Participants will play an active role in protecting our coastal environments through a range of engaging, practical activities.

“By combining environmental education, cultural connection and citizen science, Coastal Curiosity aims to deepen understanding of Newcastle’s coastal ecosystems and inspire positive behaviour change to support biodiversity protection.”

The program’s guided workshops will be held at local coastal locations, including Stockton Beach, Nobbys Beach and the Cowrie Hole, with each session designed to reflect the distinctive ecosystems at each site.

This year’s program includes a strong focus on building practical skills, with participants guided on how to identify and record coastal plants and animals, as well as collect and report data on marine debris and microplastics.

Activities also include a community beach clean-up that transforms collected debris into artworks, highlighting both the issue of marine pollution and opportunities for positive action, as well as hands-on dune planting that contributes to coastal restoration efforts.

The sessions are free but bookings are required and are now open to Newcastle Local Government Area residents, with a waiting list for participants outside the area. All sessions are delivered outdoors and are subject to weather conditions.

For program dates and session details, check out the dedicated booking page.