Category: Newcastle News

After years working long shifts as a theatre nurse through the COVID pandemic, Speers Point resident Rebecca Hazell reached a turning point. Like many healthcare workers, the experience left her rethinking how she wanted life to look for her young family and how she could feel more connected to the community around her.
 
“I still love nursing, but after those years I really wanted to slow things down a little and feel more connected to people locally. I was looking for something that gave me more flexibility while still feeling part of the community.”
 
Two years ago, while on maternity leave with her second child, Rebecca started a Box Divvy food Hub from her garage in Speers Point – a community-run grocery model where neighbours order food together online and collect it locally each week. There are no membership fees, but members commit to ordering regularly so the group can buy collectively and share the benefits.
 
Today around 50 households collect their groceries from Rebecca’s home every Tuesday. On Hub day, people arrive carrying tubs and boxes to collect their orders. Children play in the driveway – sometimes taking turns on Rebecca’s son’s tiny toy tractor – while parents swap school tips, recipes and local news.
 
Rebecca had already been a member of another local Box Divvy food Hub for several years and was drawn to the idea of neighbours ordering groceries together and sharing the benefits of buying collectively while reducing packaging at the same time.
 
“It’s such a simple system. People order what they need during the week and then pop in to collect it. Some people grab their groceries and head straight home, others stay for a chat. It’s relaxed and it works really well for families.”
 
The response from locals was immediate. Within six months the Hub grew from around 25 members to about 50 households, quickly filling Rebecca’s garage with weekly deliveries of fruit, vegetables and pantry staples.
 
“At one point my husband had to move his boat out of the garage to make room for the deliveries,” she said.
 
Each week members collect their groceries, many bringing their own tubs or boxes so produce can be packed without plastic. For many locals, the appeal goes beyond convenience. Rebecca says members appreciate the freshness of the food, the transparency around pricing and the sense that their shopping is supporting Australian producers rather than large supermarket supply chains.
 
“People really like knowing where their food is coming from and that farmers are being paid fairly,” she said. “There’s very little packaging and everything is really fresh. It just feels like a better way to shop.”
 
Rebecca says the biggest surprise has been how quickly friendships have formed.
 
“We moved here from Sydney before we had kids, so it’s been such a lovely way to meet people in the area. My son loves Hub day – all the kids want a turn driving his little tractor while their parents pick up groceries.”
 
The sense of connection has extended beyond food. Members have organised “kindness boxes” for families going through difficult times and care packages for visiting seafarers staying nearby who rarely have access to fresh produce.
 
“People don’t expect it, but they’re incredibly touched when the community comes together like that.”
 
Rebecca still works two days a week at the hospital, but the Speers Point food Hub has become something special.
 
“It started as a practical way to shop, but it’s turned into something much more. It feels like it’s bringing a bit of community back.”
 
Rebecca’s Speers Point Box Divvy food Hub is almost full, with limited spot for a few more families.
 

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

Beau McDonald, aged 31, was last seen leaving a home on Hakea Way, Metford, in a 1997 white Holden Jackaroo SUV, at about 6.30pm yesterday (Tuesday 10 March 2026).

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police hold concerns for Beau’s welfare as his disappearance is out of character.

Beau is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm – 180cm tall, of medium build, with black hair and brown eyes.

He is believed to frequent the Black Hill, Heddon Greta, Kurri Kurri and Maitland areas.

Newcastle has cemented itself as the home of rock and roll with Guns N’ Roses secured to play at McDonald Jones Stadium on December 8.

It will be a live concert season for the ages with Guns N’ Roses to follow Foo Fighters to perform in front of a packed McDonald Jones Stadium crowd for the very first time.

State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp, Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz and McDonald Jones Stadium Venue Manager Dean Mantle celebrate the announcement that Guns N’ Roses will play in Newcastle in December.

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, Guns N’ Roses is one of the best-selling musical acts of all time.

Formed in Los Angeles in 1985, Guns N’ Roses’ hits including Sweet Child O’ Mine, Welcome To The Jungle, Knockin’ On Heavens Door, November Rain and many others have transcended generations.

The international rock band will see tourists flock to the Hunter for the one-night only show.

World-class events like the Guns N’ Roses 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.

Guns N’ Roses are the fifth international band to be announced to perform at McDonald Jones Stadium in the past three years following Elton John, Paul McCartney, P!NK and Foo Fighters – and the stadium’s first concerts since Newcastle Earthquake Relief over three decades ago.

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

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said: 

“To locals, Newcastle is already paradise and I am thrilled that soon we’ll officially throw open the gates to Paradise City.

“Newcastle is a world-class city and the fact Guns N’ Roses are knocking on our door proves major international acts know this is a city worth playing for.”

Minister for Sport and Tourism Steve Kamper: 

“Guns N’ Roses are rock and roll royalty and to have them take centre stage in Newcastle is a huge coup for the region.

“We can’t wait to see Guns N’ Roses knockin’ on Newcastle’s door this December, just weeks after the Foo Fighters take over the city.

“Guns ‘N Roses 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.”

Local Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said:

“Guns N’ Roses wrote “Take me down to the Paradise City” almost 40 years, and now that dream is coming to life with a trip to Newcastle.

“Last month we announced the Foo Fighters would be taking on McDonald Jones Stadium, and to follow that up with Guns N’ Roses is every rocker’s dream.

“Forget coal, Newcastle’s biggest export in 2026 is a different kind of rock, rock ‘n’ roll!”

Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, City of Newcastle representative on Venues NSW Hunter Advisory Committee said: 

“Securing Guns N’ Roses on the back of the Foo Fighters last week is not just a win for Newcastle music fans; it’s a win for local businesses and the Hunter region. 

“This second announcement is further evidence that Newcastle has confidence international music promoters as a sure thing when it comes to ticket sales. Promoters now know based on sales from recent concerts for Pink, Sir Elton John, Paul McCartney and this week the Foo Fighters, that Novocastrians can be relied upon to pack out McDonald Jones Stadium when Guns N’ Roses show up in December. 

“It’s going to be a very big summer for Newcastle. And the good news is we are in talks with promoters about more international acts to come to our city in 2026! Watch this space!”

Merewether won’t be the only place to enjoy the sights and sounds of Surfest this month as foundation sponsor City of Newcastle celebrates the iconic event’s 40^th anniversary.

A free exhibition at Newcastle Museum will offer an insight into the history of the contest, representing a year-long collaboration between the Museum and Surfest to uncover the stories that make this competition a special part of local, national and international surfing culture.

A crowd of more than 25,000 surfers and fans gather on Newcastle Beach for Surfest in 1986. Chris Patterson, Hannan Photography

The exhibition, titled Newcastle: The City That Made Surfest, will open on Friday 20 March showcasing objects and photographs from the Surfest archives, items loaned from the community, as well as surfboards owned by local surfing legends Mark Richards and Russell ‘Russ’ Maloney.

CEO Jeremy Bath said City of Newcastle has been part of Surfest every year since its inception.

“Surfest began in 1985 as an initiative of Newcastle City Council, with Council contributing the initial funding to help create the contest,” Mr Bath said.

“The success of proud Novocastrian and four-time world champion Mark Richards gave organisers confidence Surfest could work in Newcastle.

“The contest was seen as a way to help Newcastle evolve from its industrial roots and promote its beaches and surf breaks to a new audience. As it celebrates its 40^th anniversary, Surfest is now the largest surfing festival in the southern hemisphere.”

City of Newcastle’s Director Museum Archive Libraries and Learning Julie Baird said the exhibition will highlight the role Surfest has played in shaping our city.

“This exhibition celebrates the Newcastle community that forged the legends and legacies of Surfest in Newcastle and around the world,” Ms Baird said.

“It offers new ways to connect the public with stories for and about Newcastle, from the Mark Richards twin-fin surfboard, shaped by the four-time world champion at the family surf shop on Hunter Street, to the posters that were plastered all over the city in 1985.”

Other items in the collection include a board that was presented to 14-time Indigenous Classic men’s champion Russell Maloney, and the women’s trophy that represents Phillipa Anderson, Surfest’s first Novocastrian champion.

Sports Infrastructure Working Party Chair Cr Peta Winney-Baartz said City of Newcastle is proud to have fostered an event that champions men’s and women’s events, junior competitions and the Indigenous Classic.

“Every object tells a story and this exhibition will show how Surfest has made an impact on so many people over four decades,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.

“The exhibition features a surfboard commissioned especially for the Indigenous Classic, a cornerstone of the Surfest competition. 

“Proud Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander surfers have travelled from across Australia to compete in this event since the late 1990s.

“The exhibition will follow on from City of Newcastle’s support for a special mural to celebrate the 40th anniversary, which was painted on the wall of Merewether Surf Life Saving Club last month by Newcastle artist Mitch ‘Revs’ Resevsky.

“Surfest has always fostered a strong relationship between local organisations and businesses, while the influx of people supports local shops, cafes, retail and other services, boosting our profile as a world-class destination.”

Classic footage taken throughout the history of Surfest will also be on display.

Organiser Warren Smith said local support has always been vital to the success of the contest.

“Local media has played a big part in promoting Surfest,” Mr Smith said.

“A lot of the earliest footage came from Newcastle’s own NBN Television, which broadcast the finals of Surfest live in the early years of the competition.”

Fittingly, City of Newcastle has also supported a special documentary produced by NBN, marking the 40^th anniversary of Surfest. 

It will air on Saturday 7 March ahead of Surfest’s WSL Challenger Series event, which will begin on Monday 9 March.

An encore of the documentary will be telecast on Saturday 21 March at 2pm.

Charges have been laid after a man was shot by police in Newcastle this week, critical incident investigation continues.

The Northern Operations Support Group and Northern Region Domestic Violence High Risk Offender Team attended a unit block on Honeysuckle Drive about 8.30am on Tuesday (3 March 2026), to arrest a man wanted on five outstanding arrest warrants.

Officers forced entry to a unit where a man – allegedly armed with a knife – confronted police.

Two Tasers were deployed; however, both were ineffective against the man.

The man allegedly continued threatening officers with the knife before a police officer discharged a firearm, shooting the man.

The 36-year-old man sustained a gunshot wound to his shoulder.

He was taken to John Hunter Hospital in a stable condition before being airlifted to the Royal North Shore Hospital where he remains in a serious but stable condition, under police guard.

Police have been told that the man’s injuries are not considered life-threatening.

The five outstanding warrants for domestic violence, firearm, drug and traffic offences have subsequently been executed.

The matters were mentioned in Bail Division – Court 2 on Wednesday (4 March 2026) and were mentioned in the same court again today (Friday 6 March 2026).

A critical incident team from Lake Macquarie Police District will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The investigation will be reviewed by the Professional Standards Command and oversighted by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man reported missing from the state’s Hunter Region.

Thomas Smith, aged 25, was last seen on Benjamin Circle, Rutherford, on Wednesday 28 January 2026.

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were notified yesterday (Thursday 6 March 2026) and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for his welfare.

Thomas is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175cm tall with medium build and brown hair.

He is known to drive a red Honda Jazz with NSW registration CHW81E.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to contact Port Stephens Hunter police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The NSW Government will provide additional financial support to assist residents impacted by the New Lambton landslip, ensuring familes have housing security while long-term recovery options are considered.

From May, the NSW Reconstruction Authority will provide funding for eligible residents directly impacted by the landslip to assist with alternative accommodation for up to 12 months.

The funding will allow residents to remain in alternative accommodation while the City of Newcastle and the NSW Reconstruction Authority explore potential long-term steps for the site, following the release of the geotechnical report and engineering assessments into the landslip.

The NSW Government has been working closely with the City of Newcastle since the landslip occurred, previously providing emergency accommodation, one-off financial assistance for renters, and up to $900 personal hardship grants.

Additionally, Council was granted $1 million through the Community Recovery Support Fund for immediate clean-up/make safe works on community assets not covered by standard disaster funding.

Representatives from the NSW Reconstruction Authority this week met with Council and impacted residents to discuss the geotechnical report.

Directly impacted New Lambton residents, eligible for the rental assistance, will be contacted by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said :

Safety and certainty are two of the most important things people crave after a disaster. This rental assistance will take the immediate pressure off New Lambton residents while we work alongside them and the City of Newcastle on the next steps for recovery.

I want to particularly thank the Member for Charlestown, Jodie Harrison, who has been a tireless advocate for her community, working closely with me to ensure that the voices of impacted residents are heard.

There is no quick fix, but we’re committed to sitting at the table with the community and Council and to navigate these challenges together.

We understand the distress these disasters cause. Our role is to provide the necessary support to ensure the residents of New Lambton are not facing their recovery alone.”

Member for Charlestown, Jodie Harrison said:

We have listened and understand the financial stress that the affected New Lambton residents are facing.

I’m pleased that this additional rental assistance is now being offered and it will go some way to supporting residents, as the government works through the findings of the geotechnical report and next steps.

I will continue to work with the government, Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin and the Reconstruction Authority to make sure residents’ voices are heard, and that they continue to be supported through the recovery process.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority Chief Executive Officer Kate Fitzgerald said:

We know recovery takes time, especially with complex events like the New Lambton landslip, and I’d like to thank residents and Council for the open discussions we’ve had .

RA met with Council and residents this week and remains firmly committed to working closely with those impacted to identify clear, long‑term solutions.”

Tiny hands and great wisdom are coming together as part of new program created by City of Newcastle to encourage shared moments of connection between different generations.

Little and Wise pairs pint-sized storytellers from Merindah Children’s Centre with residents from Uniting Koombahla aged care facility for shared adventures in creativity, play and learning.

From L-R: Aged care resident Mary Michel and Merindah preschooler Laine join Newcastle Libraries Head of Service Delivery Mala Scorse for the final Little and Wise session at Wallsend Library.The four-week program, being delivered at Wallsend Library, is designed to strengthen social connections across generations through guided sessions and hands-on activities including storytelling, art, music, gardening, movement and technology-based activities.

Newcastle Libraries Director Julie Baird said Little and Wise reflects the evolving role of libraries as inclusive community spaces.

“Libraries play an increasingly important role as welcoming places where people can come together, access support and build relationships,” Ms Baird said.

“It’s a simple idea with a powerful impact, helping children build confidence and communication skills, while supporting older residents to stay socially connected and engaged in their community.

“The program is designed to bring generations together so they can learn from their shared experiences. These interactions build empathy, mutual respect and emotional connections that might not otherwise happen in our busy lives.”

Each session begins with group story time led by library staff using large-format picture books, before participants move into one-on-one reading and hands-on activities designed to encourage interaction, communication and creativity.

The inaugural program wraps up at Wallsend Library this week before moving on to Newcastle City Library for the next four weeks with participants from Maroba Aged Care and Cooks Hill Preschool.

Preschool Educator Bella Goldfinch from Merindah Children’s Centre said the program provided children with the opportunity to experience play and learning in a different setting while building confidence and social skills.

“The program was very engaging, and the joy shown by both groups was truly a special, memorable experience. We have had a lot of positive feedback from the children and families as they have shared stories of the program at home,” Miss Goldfinch said.

Uniting Koombahla Leisure and Wellness Coordinator Irene Ross said the program created valuable opportunities for residents to stay socially active and engaged.

“Seeing two different generations connect is truly wonderful,” Mrs Ross said.

“The little ones are learning how to engage with their wise friends, and wise friends enjoy watching their little friends mind explore the world. Our wise friends have so much fun taking part in activities with the little friends.”

Councillor Deahnna Richardson said programs like Little and Wise demonstrate City of Newcastle’s commitment to building inclusive communities.

“Supporting programs that bring our youngest and oldest residents together strengthens the social fabric of our city and ensures everyone has opportunities to participate in community life,” Cr Richardson said.

“The initiative reflects the evolving role of libraries as community hubs. Libraries are more than places to borrow books, they are welcoming spaces that support learning, connection and wellbeing.

“Little and Wise is a great example of how City of Newcastle is working with community partners to deliver programs that benefit both young children and older residents.”

Little and Wise is supported through the Australian Library and Information Association’s Community Cohesion Program, which delivers more than 750 learning programs across public and university libraries nationally.

Following the completion of the first two rounds of the program, it will be evaluated to inform future delivery. Sessions are currently limited to children from selected children’s centres and childcare facilities.

Jane Goddard from Swansea has been named the Swansea  Local Woman of the Year for 2026.  
 
The Local Women of the Year Awards celebrate visionary thinkers, everyday heroes, social advocates, and trailblazing role models who make a meaningful difference in their communities.  
 
This year, a total of 94 inspiring women have been nominated by their local Members of Parliament as part of NSW Women’s Week (2–8 March) – a week-long celebration that empowers women and promotes gender equality across the state.  
 
Award recipient Jane Goddard was nominated by the Hon. Yasmin Catley MP – Member for Swansea in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the community as a community volunteer.  
 
Jane has been an active volunteer for over 20 years, generously offering her time, skills, and compassion to a wide range of community initiatives. Her long-standing commitment to helping others is truly inspiring. She has volunteered with Look Good Feel Better, a program that supports cancer patients by delivering workshops focused on skincare, hair care, and makeup, helping participants regain confidence during their treatment journey. In Newcastle, Jane has contributed her talents at Soul Hub, providing free haircuts and serving hot meals to vulnerable members of the community.   
 
Additionally, Jane has used her expertise to recondition numerous wigs for individuals experiencing hair loss, ensuring they feel confident and comfortable.   
 
All Local Women of the Year will be recognised during the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony, held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday 5 March.  
 
Women who volunteer and reside in regional, rural, and remote areas of NSW will also be honoured through inclusion in the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll – a public tribute acknowledging the countless women who generously give their time and energy to support others.  
Learn more about the Women of the Year Awards and watch the livestream by visiting  www.nsw.gov.au/wotya26: http://www.nsw.gov.au/wotya26 .  
 
For more information about the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll, visit  www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/rural-womens-network/hidden-treasures-honour-roll: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/rural-womens-network/hidden-treasures-honour-roll .  
   
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:  
“The Local Woman of the Year 2026 recognises and honours the contributions of everyday women and girls across New South Wales who are making a difference in their communities.  
   
“Local MPs have nominated exceptional women whose efforts inspire us all.   
   
“Congratulations and thank you to every Local Woman of the Year – this recognition is truly well deserved.”   
   
   
The Hon. Yasmin Catley MP – Member for Swansea   said:  
   
“I’m incredibly proud to see Jane recognised as a role model in our community. Her dedication to improving life in Swansea and empowering women is both admirable and inspiring.”   
   
“Jane has been a dedicated volunteer for over 20 years supporting those in need. Her continued service   exemplifies compassion, generosity, and a deep commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.”