Police remain at the scene of a unit fire in Newcastle’s CBD this morning.
About 6.45am (Thursday 21 October 2021), emergency services were called to Darby Street, Cooks Hill, following reports a unit was well alight.
As residents evacuated the building, they assisted a 41-year-old man from his unit.
He was treated by an off-duty nurse prior to the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics; he was then airlifted to Royal North Shore Hospital for treatment to severe burns.
Crews from Fire and Rescue NSW extinguished the blaze a short time later.
Darby Street has since reopened to traffic. Officers from Newcastle City Police District have established a crime scene and have commenced an investigation into the circumstances and cause of the fire.
Category: Newcastle News
All the news happening in the Newcastle and Hunter Region
Employment opportunities in focus as City responds to COVID-19
January 2022 will usher in a new year – and a new career – for 12 trainees, apprentices and graduates as Newcastle looks to create employment opportunities for the city’s young people as part of its response to COVID-19.
City of Newcastle will begin recruiting for its annual intake of early career positions this month, with roles available across a range of sectors including business services, customer service, greenkeeping, horticulture, conservation, metal fabrication, carpentry, civil construction and human resources.
Successful applicants will begin work towards the end of January, bringing City of Newcastle’s number of apprentices, trainees, undergraduates and graduates to forty-two.
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said that as one of the largest employers in the region, City of Newcastle has an important role to play in creating career pathways and ongoing job opportunities.
“COVID-19 has been one of the most challenging periods for local jobseekers, with an economic downturn, rising unemployment levels and the restrictions put in place as part of the lockdown orders,” Cr Clausen said.
“Young people have borne the brunt of these impacts, with youth unemployment levels in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie rising to almost 20 per cent earlier this year, significantly higher than the state average.
“Supporting and creating local job opportunities continues to be an important part of our response to the pandemic.
“This includes boosting our 2021/22 works program, which will support the local economy and help create new jobs, and forging ahead with our next intake of apprentices, trainees and graduates, to ensure there are quality early career opportunities for young people available in Newcastle.
“Importantly, these positions offer a foot in the door that can lead to meaningful employment in the longer term.
“In the past 12 months we’ve been able to transition 10 of our trainees and apprentices into permanent or ongoing temporary work opportunities with us, with three of these also undertaking further tertiary studies supported by City of Newcastle. An additional four staff employed under the graduate program have also secured permanent positions.
“With more than 20 of our current apprentices and trainees under the age of 24, City of Newcastle fosters an environment where young staff can learn from experienced professionals. In return these youth employees offer us the passion and enthusiasm that comes with commencing a full-time work career.”
Tarryn Collison-Marsh was among those who made the successful transition into a full-time role this year after previously gaining an apprenticeship in Civil Construction and Road Maintenance in January 2019.
“Obtaining my apprenticeship was not only a kickstart to commence a career at City of Newcastle but also a great stepping stone for a future in the civil construction industry,” the 21-year-old said.
“I’ve learned many skills that will not only greatly benefit me in my career but also in everyday life, such as greater communication skills and the ability to complete my own projects.
“This year I commenced a Diploma in Civil Construction Design and hope to continue my work and study options with City of Newcastle to eventually achieve my goal of becoming a Civil Engineer working on major projects for the Newcastle community.”
City of Newcastle will begin recruiting for its annual intake of early career positions this month, with roles available across a range of sectors including business services, customer service, greenkeeping, horticulture, conservation, metal fabrication, carpentry, civil construction and human resources.
Successful applicants will begin work towards the end of January, bringing City of Newcastle’s number of apprentices, trainees, undergraduates and graduates to forty-two.
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said that as one of the largest employers in the region, City of Newcastle has an important role to play in creating career pathways and ongoing job opportunities.
“COVID-19 has been one of the most challenging periods for local jobseekers, with an economic downturn, rising unemployment levels and the restrictions put in place as part of the lockdown orders,” Cr Clausen said.
“Young people have borne the brunt of these impacts, with youth unemployment levels in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie rising to almost 20 per cent earlier this year, significantly higher than the state average.
“Supporting and creating local job opportunities continues to be an important part of our response to the pandemic.
“This includes boosting our 2021/22 works program, which will support the local economy and help create new jobs, and forging ahead with our next intake of apprentices, trainees and graduates, to ensure there are quality early career opportunities for young people available in Newcastle.
“Importantly, these positions offer a foot in the door that can lead to meaningful employment in the longer term.
“In the past 12 months we’ve been able to transition 10 of our trainees and apprentices into permanent or ongoing temporary work opportunities with us, with three of these also undertaking further tertiary studies supported by City of Newcastle. An additional four staff employed under the graduate program have also secured permanent positions.
“With more than 20 of our current apprentices and trainees under the age of 24, City of Newcastle fosters an environment where young staff can learn from experienced professionals. In return these youth employees offer us the passion and enthusiasm that comes with commencing a full-time work career.”
Tarryn Collison-Marsh was among those who made the successful transition into a full-time role this year after previously gaining an apprenticeship in Civil Construction and Road Maintenance in January 2019.
“Obtaining my apprenticeship was not only a kickstart to commence a career at City of Newcastle but also a great stepping stone for a future in the civil construction industry,” the 21-year-old said.
“I’ve learned many skills that will not only greatly benefit me in my career but also in everyday life, such as greater communication skills and the ability to complete my own projects.
“This year I commenced a Diploma in Civil Construction Design and hope to continue my work and study options with City of Newcastle to eventually achieve my goal of becoming a Civil Engineer working on major projects for the Newcastle community.”
Man charged with assaulting store employee after allegedly refusing to wear face mask – Upper Hunter region
A man has been charged after refusing to wear a face mask in-store and allegedly assaulting a store worker in the Upper Hunter region yesterday.
About 4.15pm (Tuesday 19 October 2021), a 30-year-old man was working at a food store on Mayne Street, Murrurundi when a man entered the store without wearing a face mask.
The store employee offered the man a mask, when the man allegedly became verbally aggressive towards the worker and left the store.
A short time later, the man returned to the store and walked behind the counter, before allegedly assaulting the employee repeatedly and attempting to drag him from the store while threatening him.
Customers went to the aid of the injured man, and the man left the scene.
The store employee was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics for cuts and bruises to his face and swelling to his left eye, before being taken to Murrurundi Hospital. He has since been released.
Officers from Hunter Valley Police District were called and commenced investigations.
Following inquiries, police attended a home on Rosella Street, Murrurundi, and arrested a 53-year-old man.
He was taken to Muswellbrook Police Station where he was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
The man was granted conditional bail, to appear at Scone Local Court on 18 November 2021.
Nominations now open for City of Newcastle 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards
As another challenging year draws to a close, City of Newcastle is calling for nominations for its 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards to recognise the strength, resilience and excellence of Novocastrians.
Nominations are being sought for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year and Community Group of the Year, with consideration given across each category to nominees’ community contributions throughout 2021.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the awards recognised the outstanding achievements of everyday Novocastrians.
“This year has been just as, if not more, testing than 2020, with the Newcastle community feeling the sustained effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic,” Cr Nelmes said.
“The City of Newcastle 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards are our opportunity to formally acknowledge those among us who have risen to the challenge to improve, innovate, support and lead – it could be your neighbour, friend or colleague.”
The 2022 recipients, to be announced at an award ceremony in January, will be in esteemed company. Past Citizens of the Year include Indigenous ENT surgeon Professor Kelvin Kong; ovarian cancer awareness campaigner and ABC radio presenter, the late Jill Emberson; and three-time Paralympic gold medalist Kurt Fearnley OAM.
A proud Worimi man and passionate advocate for health equality between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations, devoting time to working in remote Australian communities and contributing to vital research at the Hunter Medical Research Institute, Dr Kong has ascended from Associate Professor to Professor during his time as 2021 Citizen of the Year.
“I was humbled to accept the award earlier this year on behalf of all of Newcastle, following proudly in the footsteps of such extraordinary Novocastrians including Jill Emberson, whom I admire to this day,” Prof Kong said.
“I am honoured as your 2021 Citizen of the Year to represent First Nations people who have been practicing medicine in this country for 60,000 years. This important work does not stop when I pass the baton to the 2022 Citizen of the Year, whose contributions I’m certain will further exemplify what the award means and the recognition it brings.”
Nominations are now open online at newcastle.nsw.gov.au/citizenoftheyear or via hardcopy form available on the website or at City of Newcastle’s City Administration Centre. Nominations close 5pm Wednesday 17 November 2021 and will be judged by the City of Newcastle Award Panel consisting of the Lord Mayor, CEO, Councillors, The Grainery Church Pastor Sue Irwin and the current Citizen of the Year Award holders.
New funding to welcome back live performances
As the city emerges from lockdown, City of Newcastle has announced the return of its ‘Locally Made and Played Grant’ program with funding available to showcase talented local artists and incentivise venues to host live performances.
Venues are invited to apply for up to $1500 in grant funding to host live music, comedy or micro-theatre style performances. The funds will be used to support individual performers and artists at $300 per performance.
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said with restrictions easing, now is the perfect time to start activating the city and welcoming back live music and performances.
“It’s been a very tough few months for our community, and many Novocastrians are emerging from lockdown with a new spring in their step and look forward to celebrating their newfound freedom,” Cr Clausen said.
“Live music and performances will breathe life back into our city. City of Newcastle is committed to activating Newcastle and creating opportunities for live performances, which will provide a much-needed boost to the arts and hospitality sectors.
“The two-pronged funding approach will not only provide a boost to local venues financially hit as a result of COVID-19 but will also help support our local performing artists.”
Chair of City of Newcastle’s Community and Culture Advisory Committee, Councillor Carol Duncan said Newcastle’s once bustling live music and cultural scene is set to rebound with the support of the Locally Made and Played Grants.
“Live performances funded by the Locally Made and Played Grant will apply to performances that take place between 1 and 20 December 2021, to coincide with the easing of restrictions and warmer weather, when more people venture out in the lead up to the busy Christmas trading period,” Cr Duncan said.
“We look forward to welcoming locals and visitors back over this period to enjoy the lively atmosphere that Newcastle has to offer.”
Previous grant recipient, publican Adam Hardy from The Rogue Scholar said the new round of grant funding comes at a critical time, with many local performers and artists are relying on venues to reopen and invite them to perform, for their livelihood.
“This announcement will be music to the ears of the local live performance industry, who have been hit hard by the prolonged lockdown,” Mr Hardy said.
“Live performances add to the fabric of our community and its pleasing to see City of Newcastle are creating opportunities to ensure we are fostering our local talent.”
Grants applications are now open and close on 29 October 2021.
The Locally Made and Played Grant is part of City of Newcastle’s COVID-19 Community Economic Resilience Program.
Visit City of Newcastle’s Grants and Sponsorship’s webpage for more information.
Improved safety coming soon for Shortland Local Centre
A more attractive and accessible local centre is on its way for Shortland, with City of Newcastle set to start construction on an upgrade to improve safety next month.
The upgrade will include the installation of a new pedestrian refuge and road cushions to reduce driver speeds on busy Sandgate Road, and the implementation of a 40km/hr High Pedestrian Activity Area.
A new Light Traffic Thoroughfare will also remove heavy vehicle traffic over 10 tonnes, between Wetlands Place and Vale Street.
City of Newcastle is now seeking community feedback on timed parking options for Shortland, to address concerns raised about availability of parking spaces near local businesses.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said access to safe and convenient parking is a priority for Shortland businesses and their customers.
“When we spoke to the community earlier this year we heard that safety was a key concern, but so was the ability to get a park near the shops at key times during the day,” Cr Nelmes said.
“Shortland residents are passionate about supporting local businesses, so improvements to the Local Centre such as new footpaths, landscaping and seating will make it a more attractive place to visit.
“Increasing the turnover of parking spaces means it will be easier for people to get here and access shops and services.”
Ward Four Councillor Jason Dunn said that community feedback has been an important part of developing the Shortland Local Centre project.
“It was great so many people had their say to shape this project earlier this year, and I now encourage the community to provide feedback on the range of options for timed parking in the area,” Councillor Dunn said.
“In earlier consultation we heard concerns about access to parking, particularly on mornings when bins are put out for collection, and the options being presented to the community include a possible solution to this problem.”
Visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/yoursay to view the proposed options and provide feedback before 8 November.
Newcastle recognised for innovative approach to economic development
City of Newcastle’s innovative approach to talent attraction and people-first economic development strategy has been recognised at the 2021 National Economic Development Awards for Excellence.
The recently adopted Economic Development Strategy was shortlisted as a finalist in the ‘Strategic Thinking’ category for its transformative and innovative vision and leadership toward economic development over the coming decade.
The talent attraction and relocation program, New Move was also shortlisted as a finalist in the marketing category for its novel ‘10,000 Reasons’ promotional campaign to incentivise 30 skilled, community-minded individuals to relocate to Newcastle with a $10,000 grant.
City of Newcastle’s Economic Development Strategy (EDS) sets the vision and provides leadership for Newcastle which will strengthen existing and create new economic opportunities.
The EDS acknowledges that the success of the local economy is built on the talent, skills and ingenuity of our people. These skills lead to innovation, creativity and ultimately the formation of new jobs and investment.
A comprehensive evidence-driven approach led to four priorities areas being identified in the EDS. Two focus on investing in people and ensuring that the population of Newcastle is skilled and innovative. The other two focus on enhancing the foundations of the city, enabling people to create their own opportunities in Newcastle.
The delivery program provides a suite of opportunities for residents and seeks to attract new talent to the city where needed. The programs are inclusive and, in many cases, targeted to marginalised groups.
New Move program recipients play an important role in supporting growth and diversity of the city’s economy with new skills and innovation generating new economic opportunities that stimulate local employment and productivity.
Long-term, New Move will raise awareness and reset the perception of Newcastle among networked skilled professionals in metropolitan markets; showcasing the city as an economic hub driven by innovation and skills, supported by a vibrant and eclectic culture with modern infrastructure.
The recently adopted Economic Development Strategy was shortlisted as a finalist in the ‘Strategic Thinking’ category for its transformative and innovative vision and leadership toward economic development over the coming decade.
The talent attraction and relocation program, New Move was also shortlisted as a finalist in the marketing category for its novel ‘10,000 Reasons’ promotional campaign to incentivise 30 skilled, community-minded individuals to relocate to Newcastle with a $10,000 grant.
City of Newcastle’s Economic Development Strategy (EDS) sets the vision and provides leadership for Newcastle which will strengthen existing and create new economic opportunities.
The EDS acknowledges that the success of the local economy is built on the talent, skills and ingenuity of our people. These skills lead to innovation, creativity and ultimately the formation of new jobs and investment.
A comprehensive evidence-driven approach led to four priorities areas being identified in the EDS. Two focus on investing in people and ensuring that the population of Newcastle is skilled and innovative. The other two focus on enhancing the foundations of the city, enabling people to create their own opportunities in Newcastle.
The delivery program provides a suite of opportunities for residents and seeks to attract new talent to the city where needed. The programs are inclusive and, in many cases, targeted to marginalised groups.
New Move program recipients play an important role in supporting growth and diversity of the city’s economy with new skills and innovation generating new economic opportunities that stimulate local employment and productivity.
Long-term, New Move will raise awareness and reset the perception of Newcastle among networked skilled professionals in metropolitan markets; showcasing the city as an economic hub driven by innovation and skills, supported by a vibrant and eclectic culture with modern infrastructure.
Two charged after alleged break and enter – Wallsend
Two men have been charged after an alleged break and enter at Wallsend overnight.
About 11.30pm (Sunday 17 October 2021), four people – three men and a woman – were inside a home on Chalmers Road, Wallsend, when two other men – aged 18 and 20 – arrived and entered through the front door.
A verbal altercation occurred, before the younger man allegedly struck a 34-year-old man with a plastic pipe several times.
It will be further alleged the 18-year-old man then threatened the four occupants with a firearm, before the pair fled the scene on foot.
The 34-year-old man was taken to John Hunter Hospital for treatment to lacerations to his head.
Officers from Newcastle City Police District attended and established a crime scene.
A 20-year-old man was arrested a short time later at William Street, Jesmond, while an 18-year-old was arrested shortly after at Victory Parade.
Both men were taken to Waratah Police Station and charged with special aggravated break and enter commit serious indictable offence-weapon, possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit, assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company of others and common assault.
The pair were refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court later today (Monday 18 October 2021).
Woman charged following rail line protest – Sandgate
A woman has been charged following protest activity in Newcastle this morning.
About 7.30am (Monday 18 October 2021), officers from Newcastle City Police District were called to the rail corridor near Mangrove Road, Sandgate, following reports of several protestors blocking the rail line.
Upon arrival, the group dispersed, with police speaking with a 20-year-old woman who had climbed on top of a loaded coal train.
With assistance from negotiators, Police Rescue and Police Transport Command officers, the woman was safely removed from the location and arrested about 10.40am.
The woman from Hamilton was taken to Newcastle Police Station and charged with enter prescribed premises of any person without lawful excuse, cause/attempt to cause train or tram in motion to be stopped and cause obstruction to railway locomotive or rolling stock.
She was granted conditional bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Thursday 11 November 2021.
Nominations now open for City of Newcastle 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards
As another challenging year draws to a close, City of Newcastle is calling for nominations for its 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards to recognise the strength, resilience and excellence of Novocastrians.
Nominations are being sought for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year and Community Group of the Year, with consideration given across each category to nominees’ community contributions throughout 2021.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the awards recognised the outstanding achievements of everyday Novocastrians.
“This year has been just as, if not more, testing than 2020, with the Newcastle community feeling the sustained effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic,” Cr Nelmes said.
“The City of Newcastle 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards are our opportunity to formally acknowledge those among us who have risen to the challenge to improve, innovate, support and lead – it could be your neighbour, friend or colleague.”
The 2022 recipients, to be announced at an award ceremony in January, will be in esteemed company. Past Citizens of the Year include Indigenous ENT surgeon Professor Kelvin Kong; ovarian cancer awareness campaigner and ABC radio presenter, the late Jill Emberson; and three-time Paralympic gold medalist Kurt Fearnley OAM.
A proud Worimi man and passionate advocate for health equality between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations, devoting time to working in remote Australian communities and contributing to vital research at the Hunter Medical Research Institute, Dr Kong has ascended from Associate Professor to Professor during his time as 2021 Citizen of the Year.
“I was humbled to accept the award earlier this year on behalf of all of Newcastle, following proudly in the footsteps of such extraordinary Novocastrians including Jill Emberson, whom I admire to this day,” Prof Kong said.
“I am honoured as your 2021 Citizen of the Year to represent First Nations people who have been practicing medicine in this country for 60,000 years. This important work does not stop when I pass the baton to the 2022 Citizen of the Year, whose contributions I’m certain will further exemplify what the award means and the recognition it brings.”
Nominations are now open online at newcastle.nsw.gov.au/citizenoftheyear or via hardcopy form available on the website or at City of Newcastle’s City Administration Centre. Nominations close 5pm Wednesday 17 November 2021 and will be judged by the City of Newcastle Award Panel consisting of the Lord Mayor, CEO, Councillors, The Grainery Church Pastor Sue Irwin and the current Citizen of the Year Award holders.
Nominations are being sought for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year and Community Group of the Year, with consideration given across each category to nominees’ community contributions throughout 2021.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the awards recognised the outstanding achievements of everyday Novocastrians.
“This year has been just as, if not more, testing than 2020, with the Newcastle community feeling the sustained effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic,” Cr Nelmes said.
“The City of Newcastle 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards are our opportunity to formally acknowledge those among us who have risen to the challenge to improve, innovate, support and lead – it could be your neighbour, friend or colleague.”
The 2022 recipients, to be announced at an award ceremony in January, will be in esteemed company. Past Citizens of the Year include Indigenous ENT surgeon Professor Kelvin Kong; ovarian cancer awareness campaigner and ABC radio presenter, the late Jill Emberson; and three-time Paralympic gold medalist Kurt Fearnley OAM.
A proud Worimi man and passionate advocate for health equality between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations, devoting time to working in remote Australian communities and contributing to vital research at the Hunter Medical Research Institute, Dr Kong has ascended from Associate Professor to Professor during his time as 2021 Citizen of the Year.
“I was humbled to accept the award earlier this year on behalf of all of Newcastle, following proudly in the footsteps of such extraordinary Novocastrians including Jill Emberson, whom I admire to this day,” Prof Kong said.
“I am honoured as your 2021 Citizen of the Year to represent First Nations people who have been practicing medicine in this country for 60,000 years. This important work does not stop when I pass the baton to the 2022 Citizen of the Year, whose contributions I’m certain will further exemplify what the award means and the recognition it brings.”
Nominations are now open online at newcastle.nsw.gov.au/citizenoftheyear or via hardcopy form available on the website or at City of Newcastle’s City Administration Centre. Nominations close 5pm Wednesday 17 November 2021 and will be judged by the City of Newcastle Award Panel consisting of the Lord Mayor, CEO, Councillors, The Grainery Church Pastor Sue Irwin and the current Citizen of the Year Award holders.