Category: Newcastle News

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage boy reported missing from the State’s Hunter Region.

Brayden Bennett-Schuster, aged 16, was last seen in Raymond Terrace about 12pm on Friday 16 January 2026.

Unable to be contacted or located since, officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family have concerns for Brayden’s welfare due to his age.

Brayden is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 160cm tall, with a thin build, and brown hair.

He is known to the frequent the Raymond Terrace, Central Coast, and Mount Druitt areas.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to call Port Stephens-Hunter Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The Newcastle Inner City Bypass is collaborating with several agencies to mitigate impacts to native plant species across the project site, including the vulnerable Tetratheca juncea (Black-eyed Susan).

Transport for NSW, the Hunter Region Landcare Network, Trees in Newcastle and Fulton Hogan have collaborated to collect plant species before impact by the Newcastle Inner City Bypass – Rankin Park to Jesmond project.

The conservation efforts included salvage of the vulnerable Tetratheca juncea (Black-eyed Susan).
As part of the salvage of the threatened species, the team carried out the collection of seeds, cuttings and other native plant material to use at their nursery located at Redhead, Lake Macquarie.

Plant propagation of various species, including a range of Eucalyptus, is already underway in nurseries managed by Landcare and Trees in Newcastle.

Seed has been collected from felled trees that are otherwise difficult to collect due to their height.
On top of this work, the project team has also salvaged suitable trees to be reused as bridge timber in the maintenance of Transport’s heritage bridges.

In addition, suitable felled timber has been provided to Local Land Services for reuse in river restoration projects and to local Indigenous people to produce cultural weapons and tools to enable the continuation of cultural practices.

The historic Araucaria bidwillii (Bunya pine tree) from the Jesmond roundabout has also been donated to a local guitar making school while appropriate timber will be reused onsite for fauna habitat and rehabilitation during landscaping.

Revisions throughout the design process have seen the project corridor moved east from the original design alignment to minimise the impacts to flora, in particular to threatened species.

Clearing within the project boundary has been reduced to the greatest extent practicable, resulting in around an eight-hectare reduction in native vegetation clearing against the 44-hectare limit originally approved for the project.

Biodiversity offsets have been provided in accordance with the NSW Biodiversity Offsets Policy for Major Projects. This includes 3,244 ecosystem credits and 12,690 species credits. This includes offsetting for fringe impacts to the existing bushland.

Sharon Claydon, Member for Newcastle:

“Newcastle expects major projects to proceed while protecting the precious environment that makes our region so special – that’s exactly what this work is doing. We’re delivering critical infrastructure while safeguarding vulnerable species like the Black-eyed Susan.”

“This is smart, responsible project delivery. By redesigning the corridor and working with our incredible local Landcare groups, we’re keeping native plants in the landscape and reducing impacts wherever possible.”

“The Newcastle Inner City Bypass will ease congestion for tens of thousands of motorists, and these environmental protections mean we can do it without sacrificing the natural environment our community values so deeply.”

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 is 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.”

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 these summer holidays 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.”

A man has been charged after a male was allegedly hit by a vehicle in the state’s Hunter Valley yesterday.

About 11.30am yesterday (Sunday 18 January 2026), emergency services were called to Blaxland Avenue, Singleton Heights, following reports an elderly man had been struck by a car in the front yard of a house.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District were told the man sustained serious injuries and was dragged underneath the vehicle following an argument with the driver.

The elderly man was treated at the scene by first responders and NSW Ambulance Paramedics for suspected spinal fractures, a head injury and severe lacerations to the arms and legs, before being taken to John Hunter Hospital in a critical but stable condition.

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

About 12.10pm, police arrested a 44-year-old man at Singleton Police Station.

The man was taken to Singleton Hospital for mandatory testing.

After his release from hospital, the man was taken to Cessnock Police Station, where he was charged with five offences – cause grievous bodily harm to person with intent, dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm – drive manner dangerous, operate vehicle so as to harass/intimidate, drive furiously in motor vehicle – cause bodily harm and negligent driving (occasioning grievous bodily harm).

He was refused bail to appear in Bail Division – Court 2 earlier today (Monday 19 January 2026), where bail was formally refused, to appear at Newcastle Local Court on 18 March 2026.

As investigations continue, police are appealing for anyone who was in the area of Singelton Heights and may have witnessed the incident or has dash cam footage, to contact Cessnock Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A woman will face court today charged with domestic violence offences after a man was allegedly stabbed at a Newcastle hotel yesterday.

About 10.50am yesterday (Friday 16 January 2026), emergency services were called to a hotel on Young Street, Carrington, following reports of an alleged stabbing.

Officers attached to Newcastle City Police District attended and located a 23-year-old suffering stab wounds. He has allegedly assaulted and stabbed by a woman, known to him.

He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to the John Hunter Hospital for the treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

A 22-year-old woman – known to the man – was arrested at the hotel and taken to Newcastle Police Station.

She was charged with wound person intend to cause grievous bodily harm (DV), stalk/intimidate intend fear physically harm, and common assault.

The woman was refused bail to appear at Bail Division – court 2 today (17 January 2026).

A man will face court charged over two alleged armed robberies in the state’s north.

On Tuesday 23 December 2025, officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District commenced an investigation following reports of an alleged armed robbery in Ryamond Terrace.

Police were told about 6.40pm two men entered a business on William Street, Raymond Terrace, before allegedly threatening an employee and demanding cash.

One man allegedlly assaulted the employee – a 23-year-old man – with a metal pole before leaving with cigarettes, and an amount of cash.

The employee was not injured.

A crime scene was established and an investigation into the incident commenced.

About 8am yesterday (Thursday 15 January 2026), police were called to a business on William Street, Raymond Terrace, after reports of an alleged armed robbery.

Police were told two men entered the store before allegedly stealing packets of cigarettes and an amount of cash and leaving in a black sedan.

A crime scene was established as police commenced an investigation into the incident.

Following inquires, about 3pm yesterday (Thursday 15 January 2026), police arrested a 25-year-old man on Campbell Drive, Raymond Terrace.

He was taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station where he was charged with robbery while armed with dangerous weapon, and robbery in company.

He was refused bail to appear at Bail Division Court 2 today (Friday 16 January 2026).

Inquirires into the incident continue.

Almost 400 paddlers will put their power to the test in Newcastle this weekend as the city hosts the state’s largest regatta for outrigger canoes.

Newcastle Outrigger Canoe Club will bring the ancient Polynesian tradition, turned popular sport, to the city’s harbour as teams from across NSW battle it out in a spectacular display of speed, balance and endurance. 

Deputy Lord Mayor Cr McCabe joins Newcastle Outrigger Canoe Club Vice President Vaughan Hakaraia with club members alongside a six-person outrigger canoe, named Whibayganba at Throsby Creek. The Pasha Dasha Regatta is one of 19 events to have shared in more than $155,000 from City of Newcastle’s annual event sponsorship program.

Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said the funding program helps support the growth and sustainability of the city’s visitor economy while enhancing Newcastle’s reputation as an events destination.

“City of Newcastle is committed to getting behind events that showcase Newcastle as a vibrant destination for visitors and locals,” Cr McCabe said.

“Through our annual sponsorship program we support events at all levels, from local community activations to nationally recognised events, helping to drive visitation and deliver meaningful economic benefits to the city.

“We’re thrilled to welcome hundreds of competitors, their families and supporters to Newcastle for this weekend’s Pasha Dasha Regatta, which will also provide a fantastic spectacle for locals to watch and enjoy.” 

Newcastle Outrigger Canoe Club Vice President Vaughan Hakaraia said he was grateful for the support from City of Newcastle, which will help them deliver their 15^th annual Pasha Dasha Regatta on 17 January. 

“As a local club, we’re proud to facilitate what has become the largest club regatta in New South Wales,” Mr Hakaraia said.

“This is our biggest annual event, attracting hundreds of participants from across the state, travelling from the south at Wollongong and north from Port Macquarie. 

“The event has been running since 2010 and we’re proud to host the 15^th annual regatta in Newcastle and showcase the iconic harbour.”

The regatta is just the tip of the iceberg in a packed events calendar supported by City of Newcastle.

Upcoming sporting events will see competitors travel to Newcastle from across the Hunter and around the state, including for the sixth action-packed edition of the Beach 5s rugby festival, which will be held at Nobbys Beach from 24-26 January.

Hundreds of swimmers are expected to take to the open water for the 30^th anniversary of Stockton Surf Lifesaving Club’s popular Newcastle Harbour Swim on 26 January, while Stockton will also play host to the Island Triathlon Festival on 31 January and 1 February with two fitness-fuelled days of running, triathlon, and aquathlon events. The focus will then be on the road when thousands of runners take on one of the city’s most challenging courses with the Hill to Harbour race on 29 March.

The Newcastle Show (27 February – 1 March) and Newcastle Chilli Festival (22 March) offer other options for locals and visitors looking to spice up a trip to the city in coming months, with City of Newcastle’s event sponsorship program also supporting a range of activities celebrating community, culture, food and drink.

To stay up-to-date with all the events happening across Newcastle visit visitnewcastle.com.au/whats-on, or to find out more about City of Newcastle’s annual event sponsorship program visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/sponsorship

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.”