Category: Newcastle News

Skilled migrants, refugees and international students will connect with potential employers next month at the region’s first International Careers Day, which is designed to create job pathways while helping address workforce shortages.

A one-day expo will be held at Newcastle City Hall on 23 March, offering access to full-time, part-time, graduate and casual opportunities across health, technology, tourism, advanced manufacturing and professional services sectors.

The initiative is being led by City of Newcastle and delivered in partnership with the University of Newcastle, TAFE NSW, College of International Education, Business Hunter, Mosaic Multicultural Connections, Training Services NSW, Genu Training, Hunter Local Jobs, and Refugee Education Australia, with support from Study NSW. 

City of Newcastle Executive Manager Media Economy Engagement and Affairs Nick Kaiser said the event will deliver meaningful employment opportunities for students while supporting businesses with ongoing workforce pressures. 

“With 250 students and 35 businesses expected to participate, the expo will feature employer booths, breakout presentations, and one-on-one support services designed to build confidence, capability and connections,” Mr Kaiser said. 

“By delivering an interactive expo-style format with resume writing support, professional photography and industry presentations, we’re making it easier for businesses to connect with talent and for students to take confident steps toward employment.” 

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Access Inclusion Standing Committee, Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk said the event demonstrates the city’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, globally connected local economy. 

“Through initiatives like our International Student Ambassador Program, we are proud to champion programs that help students feel welcomed, supported and connected to opportunity,” Cr Adamczyk said.

“Building on this work and previous events such as the Jobs Connect Breakfast, this Careers Day strengthens long-term industry partnerships and advances workforce inclusion across our region.” 

The event is supported by $20,000 in funding from Study NSW, helping deliver a high-impact program that enhances the international student experience engagement and employability. 

Investment NSW Deputy Secretary Rebecca McPhee said the event will help international students build strong career pathways and position NSW as a globally competitive study destination.  

“Newcastle and the Hunter region offer international students a powerful combination of world‑class education, industry‑connected learning and a community that genuinely welcomes global talent,” Ms McPhee said.

“Events like this help students translate their skills and qualifications into real career opportunities, while giving local employers direct access to a diverse and highly capable workforce.”

Registrations are now open for businesses and students to express their interest in taking part in the event.

Police are conducting a search for a man missing from the Lake Macquarie region in the state’s north.

Paul Ellis, aged 48, was last seen on the beach at Catherine Hill Bay, approximately 16km north of Belmont, about 2.30pm today (Sunday 22 February 2026).

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

PolAir and Marine Rescue were involved in searching the area during daylight hours and a land search is currently underway by local police who are being supported by Police Rescue and the State Emergency Services.

Police and his family hold serious concerns for his welfare as he lives with a number of health issues.

Paul is described as Caucasian appearance, thin build, 195cm tall, short blonde hair and has a goatee beard.

He was last seen wearing a grey t-shirt and blue shorts.

One of Newcastle’s youngest residents will become the king, or queen, of the castle by permanently naming the cubby house being built as part of the Foreshore Park playspace.

City of Newcastle is inviting children under 12 years to colour in a picture of the “nuts and bolts” tower structure and suggest a name for the cubby house, which will be located underneath the elevated boardwalk.

The competition was officially launched today at a community event celebrating the opening of Foreshore Park’s new accessible amenities building and kiosk.

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp, Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley, Councillor Declan Clausen and Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe attend the community event to celebrate the opening of Foreshore Park’s new accessible amenities building and kiosk.Asset Advisory Committee Chair Councillor Declan Clausen said City of Newcastle was continuing to involve the community in the development and delivery of the Harbour Foreshore Masterplan.

“Since 2020, we’ve been engaging with the community to seek their feedback, collaborate on the design and develop a shared vision for our premier city park and major events space,” Cr Clausen said.

“We’ve now delivered the first project under the Masterplan, with the accessible amenities and Sunnyboy Park kiosk open for the community to enjoy.

“Excitement is growing as work progresses on the construction of our flagship Foreshore Park inclusive playspace and waterplay area.

“The cubby house naming competition is a wonderful way to involve our youngest residents in this project and build anticipation for when they can explore the city’s largest playground for themselves.”

The Foreshore Park projects are supported by funding from the NSW Government’s Everyone Can Play program, Variety the Children’s Charity, the Touched by Olivia Foundation and the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley welcomed the opening of the amenities and said she was looking forward to the completion of the playspace project.

“Foreshore Park is one of Newcastle’s most loved community spaces, and it’s fantastic to see new accessible facilities now open for families to enjoy,” Ms Catley said.

“Projects like this are all about making sure every child and every family feels welcome, included and able to enjoy our beautiful foreshore.

“Local kids are being invited to help name the cubby house, giving our younger generation a real sense of ownership and pride in their park.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the inclusive playspace completed later this year so even more families can come together to play, connect and enjoy everything this special place has to offer.”

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said the projects would ensure Foreshore Park can be enjoyed by even more members of the community.

“Foreshore Park is a fantastic community space both for major events and for everyday enjoyment,” Mr Crakanthorp said.

“These new amenities will provide high-quality, accessible public infrastructure for all Novocastrians to use.

“This colouring and naming competition is such a unique opportunity for the children of Newcastle to get creative and leave a lasting mark on this city that they call home.

“It is also great to see the new kiosk fall into the hands of local operators.”

City of Newcastle Interim Executive Director of City Infrastructure Rob Dudgeon said construction of the playspace and waterplay area remains on track for completion late this year.

“While work to date has involved mostly in-ground activities to prepare the site including irrigation, stormwater and services, construction activities are starting to ramp up with major concrete pours currently in progress for the waterplay areas, along with construction of the footings for the elevated play structure ahead of its installation,” Mr Dudgeon said.

“The placement of sandstone seating and retaining walls has commenced across the site, while work is expected to get underway soon on the network of footpaths and associated pathway lighting. 

“Work is also progressing offsite on the bespoke major play elements linked to the city’s industrial, maritime and Indigenous heritage, including the ‘nuts and bolts’ towers, whale-themed swing set and tugboats, which are currently being fabricated.

“We’re excited to continue sharing updates with the community as this project takes shape throughout the year.”

Visit the project page for the latest information on Foreshore Park, or the cubby house competition page to find about more details and access the colouring-in sheet.

A person has died following a house fire in the State’s north yesterday.

About 6.45pm (Friday 20 February 2026), emergency services were called to Bagnall Beach Road, Corlette, following reports of a fire.

Fire and Rescue NSW crews attended and extinguished the blaze, which caused extensive damage to the home.

A woman was found deceased inside the house.

She is yet to be formally identified.

Officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District have established a crime scene and an investigation is underway into the circumstances surrounding the fire.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

As inquiries continue, anyone with information is urged to contact Port Stephens-Hunter Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from the Port Stephens area.

Jack Taylor, aged 14, was last seen on Schank Drive, Metford, about 8.25am today (Thursday 19 February 2026).

When he failed to return home and could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for Jack’s welfare as he lives with a number of medical conditions which require regular medication.

Jack is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 165cm tall, of slim build, with short brown hair.

He was last seen wearing a school uniform consisting of black shorts, a white shirt, and black shoes.

Jack was last seen heading in the direction of Metford Railway Station and is known to frequent the Thornton shopping centre.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from the Hunter region.

Benjamin Potroz, aged 34, was last seen in Thornton, about 10:30pm yesterday (Wednesday 18 February 2026).

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were notified today (Thursday 19 February 2026) and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for his welfare.

Benjamin is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175cm tall, of thin build, with brown hair.

He may be travelling in a 2021 model silver Subaru sedan with NSW registration ESW07S.

He is known to frequent the Thornton, Newcastle and New Lambton areas.

Legendary rock band Foo Fighters have been confirmed to headline Foocastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium on November 12 as part of their Take Cover Tour, in a major coup for Newcastle and the Hunter’s booming visitor economy.

In honour of their first ever visit to Newcastle, the city is getting ready to welcome the 15-time Grammy Award winners with a Hollywood inspired attraction. The hill overlooking Newcastle’s famous Nobbys Beach will feature a giant FOOCASTLE sign today to celebrate the Foo Fighters’ first concert in the Hunter.

Foo Fighters fever will take over Foocastle in the lead up to the show, with the city to come alive with activations and tailored experiences to welcome fans from all over the state, country and world.  

Foocastle is the band’s fourth stop on their Australian tour, with a show also confirmed for Sydney’s Accor Stadium.  

World-class events like the Foo Fighters tour and global aviation links with the recent opening of the Newcastle International Airport are transforming Newcastle into a powerhouse for the regional visitor economy, creating jobs, backing local businesses and showcasing the Hunter to the world.

The Foo Fighters are the fourth major touring artist to visit Newcastle, following the success of Elton John, Paul McCartney and P!nk – the first concerts at McDonald Jones Stadium in over three decades, which delivered enormous economic benefits for local hotels, restaurants and small businesses.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to growing in regional NSW tourism and having major events, such as Foo Fighters, that attract visitors year-round, will deliver real economic benefits to local communities.

Minister for Tourism Steve Kamper said:

“Foo Fighters are one of the world’s biggest bands who will transform Foocastle and bring the Hunter to life.

“We are focused on transforming Newcastle into a major event destination with the Foo Fighters adding to a growing list of international touring artists and sporting events, with the Women’s State of Origin, the 2026 Rugby League World Cup and the 2027 Rugby World Cup to come.

“Foo Fighters tour landing in Newcastle reinforces the Hunter’s rapid rise as one of Australia’s premier regional event destinations, with major global acts choosing the harbour city for headline shows alongside major international capitals.

“This momentum is being supercharged through the new Newcastle International Terminal and our NSW Take Off Fund, which has unlocked Newcastle as a global gateway for tourism, trade and investment.”

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said: 

“The Hunter is back in the spotlight. International flights are landing, global superstars are arriving and the world is finally catching on to what we’ve known all along – that centre stage belongs to the Hunter.

“As the Foo Fighters roll into Newcastle, we’re rolling out the welcome mat to Australia and the world. Come and see for yourself why the Hunter is our state’s best-kept secret… not for much longer.”

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said:

“Newcastle will put on a show for the Foo Fighters and their fans.

“We can’t wait to welcome all to Foocastle – home of the Foo Fighters for one night only.

“Foo Fighters will be one of the biggest events we’ve ever hosted in Newcastle, and we’ll be making sure it will be an unforgettable night for the band and all who come to see the legendary rockstars in action.”

City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath said:

“Major events don’t come much bigger or louder, than the Foo Fighters.

“Having Foo Fighters for a stadium show is a huge coup for Newcastle and once again puts our city up in lights on the international stage.

“Novocastrians and visitors will no doubt pack out the stadium for what will be a night to remember. As someone who has seen his fair share of Foo Fighters concerts, the good news is even if you miss out on a ticket, pretty much all of Newcastle will still be able to hear it!”

Frontier Touring CEO Dion Brant said: 

“The Foo Fighters tour of Australia will see the band visit seven cities, and we’re delighted that Newcastle fans would be treated to their first ever visit from the legendary rockers.”

Police are appealing for information to help locate Samuel Fallshaw who was reported missing from Sydney’s west in 2024.

Now aged 50, Samuel was last seen at Penrith Train Station about 3pm on Tuesday 28 May 2024.

On Saturday 1 June 2024, Samuel’s father contacted police requesting a welfare check on Samuel as his car had been at the intersection of Warks Hill Road and Bells Line of Road in Kurrajong Heights for about five days.

Despite extensive inquiries by Nepean Police Area Command and the Missing Persons Registry to locate Samuel – including three separate public appeals for assistance – no one has seen or heard from him since.

Following extensive inquiries, police have information to suggest Samuel may be in the Newcastle area.

Police believe he may be frequenting the Nobbys Beach, the Telford Street area, and surrounding areas.

Samuel is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 180cm tall, of large build with brown medium-length hair and hazel eyes.

Anyone with information on Samuel’s disappearance is urged to contact Triple Zero or Crime Stoppers.

City of Newcastle has kicked off 2026 with a $500,000 boost from the Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation as final preparations occur before the opening of the $48 million expansion project.

The donation is the result of community fundraising by the Foundation and follows the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with City of Newcastle.

Newcastle Art Gallery Director Lauretta Morton OAM, City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath and Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation Deputy Chair Ian Andrews celebrate the ongoing relationship between the organisations.

City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath said the organisations were dedicated to the future of the expanded Gallery, which will celebrate its full reopening next week.

“Since being established in 1977 the Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation has played an integral role in supporting the growth and success of the Gallery through advocacy, fundraising and contributions to its nationally significant collection,” Mr Bath said.

“This $500,000 donation follows $12.5 million raised over many years for the Gallery’s expansion and demonstrates the Foundation’s ongoing dedication to its success, which is reinforced by a memorandum of understanding between our two organisations.

“We look forward to gathering together with the Foundation and our community next week to celebrate the full reopening of the Gallery, which will mark the completion of the largest capital works project and most significant commitment to cultural infrastructure in City of Newcastle’s history.”

Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation Deputy Chair Ian Andrews said the community contribution via the Foundation was the catalyst for securing support from all levels of government. 

“The initial $10 million commitment in 2020 was made possible through the Valerie and John Ryan Bequest, together with community fundraising over many years, and we are proud to have raised more than $2.5 million since launching the expansion fundraising campaign in early 2022,” Mr Andrews said.

“Thanks to the prudent investment of donor funds over several years, the Foundation is pleased to be able to contribute a further $500,000 to honour its $13 million goal.

“The Foundation would like to acknowledge the donors and supporters for their unwavering generosity and commitment. With the signing of the MoU, we now look forward to continuing to work together as a community to help our new Gallery realise its full potential.”

Newcastle Art Gallery Director Lauretta Morton OAM witnesses the signing of the MoU by City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath and Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation Deputy Chair Ian Andrews.

The elected Council and members of the Foundation’s Board unanimously endorsed the new MoU at their respective meetings in December last year.

The MoU recognises the historical and cultural importance of the Gallery as custodian of the most valuable public art collection in Australia outside of a capital city, which provides a time capsule of Australian art dating back more than 200 years and is worth $145 million.

It acknowledges the work undertaken by City of Newcastle and the Foundation to preserve and promote the Gallery and reflects the shared strategic priorities of the two organisations, including financial support of exhibitions and programming, and the long-term sustainability of the Gallery as a leading cultural institution.

Newcastle Art Gallery Director Lauretta Morton OAM said the Foundation’s contribution to the expansion project and the Gallery’s collection has been invaluable.

“For almost 50 years, the Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation has championed the growth of the Gallery, enriching its collection by contributing to the acquisition of more than 335 significant works of art,” Ms Morton said.

“Their support for the expansion project and their ongoing contributions to the future success of the Gallery are essential as we embark on a new era for the reimagined Gallery that will see us present more of our works, collaborate with leading artists nationwide and host major Australian and international exhibitions.”

The expansion and reopening of the Newcastle Art Gallery will be celebrated with a range of events and activities from 27 February to 1 March, including an opening night street party in Laman Street on the Friday and the launch of its major collection exhibition, Iconic Loved Unexpected, on 28 February.

Visit https://newcastleartgallery.nsw.gov.au/ to stay up to date with the Newcastle Art Gallery expansion project and full reopening program.

The expansion project is supported by $5 million from the Australian Government under the Regional Recovery Partnerships and $5 million from the New South Wales Government under the Regional Recovery Package, as well as $13 million from the Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation.

The NSW Government has provided funding of $2 million to City of Newcastle for a DA approval process that has seen the council slash its DA times by more than 50%.

The Accelerated Development Application (ADA) system significantly reduces assessment times for low-risk, decision-ready development applications, cutting the average turnaround to less than 10 days.

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) has awarded City of Newcastle $2 million to develop a framework for the rollout of the ADA model, beginning with a trial phase at several councils seeking to speed up determination of DAs.

City of Newcastle’s Chief Executive Officer Jeremy Bath said the NSW Government was to be congratulated for looking to his council for advice on how to help other councils whose DA processing times are just too slow.

“City of Newcastle has developed an innovative process for fast tracking determination times for DAs without compromising quality or increasing staffing numbers,” Mr Bath said. 

Executive Director of Planning and Environment Michelle Bisson said the program’s success is built on collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to improving the development approval process.

“City of Newcastle is leading the way in innovating development assessments to set a state-best benchmark recognised by the NSW Government for its efficiencies and broader potential,” Ms Bisson said. 

“Since creating and implementing the ADA in 2022, City of Newcastle has been consistently ranked the fastest-performing council in the state for DA determinations.

“For low-risk applications such as minor home renovations, councils can now issue approvals in less than two weeks. The system allows planning teams to dedicate more time to complex projects, improving overall turnaround times.

“The ADA system has already been successfully implemented at Muswellbrook Shire Council and Upper Hunter Shire Council through a $1 million joint grant from the NSW Government, demonstrating its scalability and impact.

“We’re proud to see ADA recognised as a model for reform across NSW, reflecting the hard work and innovation of our planning team and the benefits it brings to applicants, councils, and communities.

“With this rollout, Newcastle’s planning innovation is set to shape the future of development assessment across NSW, delivering faster approvals, smarter processes, and stronger outcomes for communities.”

Since its launch in 2022, City of Newcastle’s ADA system has processed more than 1,300 applications, reducing undetermined DAs by 52 per cent with an average of less than 10 days to process many low-risk applications.

City of Newcastle’s ADA pathway covers 10 types of developments. Most applications determined are residential, including alterations and additions, single dwellings and secondary dwellings. 

The system improves the quality of information lodged and uses an eligibility checker to quickly determine if an application can be assessed through ADA. 

The higher efficiency frees up council staff for more complex DAs, increasing capacity for merit assessment and responding to site constraints. This results in improved development outcomes and timeframes.