Category: Newcastle News

The Hunter’s largest infrastructure project is powering ahead, with the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace now expected to open to traffic in late 2026 -more than a year earlier than originally planned.
This accelerated timeline comes as the project reaches a major milestone, with the northern section, the Heatherbrae Bypass, now complete.
The M1 Pacific Motorway extension and Hexham Straight widening projects are being funded jointly with a total investment of $2.24 billion – $1.792 billion provided by the Albanese Labor Government and $448 million from the Minns Labor Government.   
Significant progress has been made on the ground, including the completion of five kilometres of new motorway forming the Heatherbrae Bypass.
As part of the northern section, the Raymond Terrace interchange, the Masonite Road overpass and a major bridge crossing at Windeyers Creek have also all been completed.

Completion of the Heatherbrae Bypass means this section of the M1 extension is ready to go, and will open as soon as work on the 10-kilometre southern section from Black Hill to Tomago is complete, later this year. 
Following opening, contractors will remain on site to monitor how the new road adjusts to carrying highway traffic, undertake landscaping establishment, and targeted maintenance as required – for up to two years on the southern section and one year on the northern section.
The project’s early delivery has been supported by detailed planning, staged construction sequencing and strong delivery partnerships, helping bring forward the benefits for motorists travelling to, from and around the Hunter.
For more information and to sign up for regular updates on the progress of the M1 extension visit www.nswroads.work/m12rtportal: http://www.nswroads.work/m12rtportal

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King:
“This is a big day for one of the largest infrastructure projects in the Hunter’s history. Completion of the Heatherbrae section of this project means we are well and truly past the halfway mark, with all work set to be completed by the end of the year.
“The school holiday traffic we’re seeing on the existing highway right now is a great reminder as to why this project is vital. Nearly 25,000 vehicles use this road on a normal day, with that number swelling during the holiday breaks.
“This is just one of a number of important investments the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are making in the fast-growing Hunter region, ensuring we have safe and reliable road network for decades to come.”Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley:  “Only Labor is delivering the infrastructure the Hunter needs to keep moving forward. 
“We are investing heavily in the infrastructure our community relies on and projects like this mean less time in traffic and more time doing what matters.
“Now that the Heatherbrae Bypass is complete, this next step is linking it properly into the motorway so the benefits are felt right across the Hunter.
“Reaching this milestone is incredibly exciting and even more so because we’re opening ahead of schedule.”

NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison:“Seeing a project of this scale moving more than a year ahead of schedule doesn’t happen by chance – it’s down to the incredible crews on the ground getting the job done. 
“As one of the largest infrastructure projects in the region’s history, the M1 extension will deliver faster, safer and more reliable journeys for communities across the region.
“The project is now progressing ahead of the previously expected 2028 completion, with the full motorway on track to open in late 2026.
“Reaching this milestone with the northern section, including the Heatherbrae Bypass, shows just how much progress is being made and brings us one step closer to delivering a fully connected motorway.
“I want to give a huge thanks to the crews and everyone involved in delivering this phase of the project. The completion of Heatherbrae Bypass is the result of detailed planning, smart construction sequencing and a strong partnership between Transport for NSW and its industry partners.”

the Member for Port Stephens, Kate Washington:
“My community is excited to see the M1 extension to Raymond Terrace being delivered a full year ahead of schedule.
“By the end of the year, we’ll finally be able say goodbye to the Hexham Bridge bottleneck.”

Member for Paterson, Meryl Swanson:  
“The completion of the Heatherbrae Bypass is another major milestone delivered by the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments, and a clear sign we are one step closer on completing this project for our community.”
“I committed to delivering the M1 Pacific Motorway Extension to Raymond Terrace, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to watch it take shape. Seeing it power ahead of schedule is a testament to the hard work behind the scenes – and it means the Hunter will benefit from this vital infrastructure sooner.”

Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon:  
“Novocastrians know better than anyone how frustrating the bottlenecks around Hexham and Heatherbrae can be.
“This project means less time stuck in traffic and more time at home with family – that’s a real, everyday win for our community.
“Seeing this progress brings us closer to a solution that will genuinely improve the way Novocastrians move every single day.”

the State Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery: 
“Completing the northern section, including the Heatherbrae Bypass, is a huge achievement for everyone involved in this project.
“This is a big piece of infrastructure that will take pressure off local roads and improve safety once the full motorway is open.
“It’s great to see the project tracking ahead of schedule and moving closer to a late 2026 opening for our community.”

A man has died after a crash in the state’s north overnight.

About 9:15pm today (Sunday 5 April 2026), emergency services were called to Cullingral Road, Merriwa (approximately 70km north west of Muswellbrook), following reports of a crash.

On arrival, officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District located a single vehicle which had left the road, before crashing into an embankment.

NSW Ambulance paramedics attempted to treat a man – however; he died at the scene. He is yet to be formally identified.

Officers have commenced investigations into the circumstances of the crash.

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

A beloved children’s book will take centre stage during the April school holidays as City of Newcastle provides a range of activities to keep kids active and entertained.

The Civic Theatre is showcasing a new theatrical adaption of You & Me and the Land of Lost Things from writer Andy Griffiths and illustrator Bill Hope on 14 April, featuring a wild quest through a world of snapping turtles, flying socks, treasure-hungry pirates and a very anxious bull.

Nicholas Starte, Mym Kwa, Mathew Lee and Catherine Dominguez in the You & Me and the Land of Lost Things theatrical production. Photo credit: Phil ErbacherTo complement the production, Newcastle and Wallsend Libraries are offering illustration workshops on 7 and 8 April, while on 15 April a special event inspired by the book will offer participants the chance to learn basic navigation and map reading skills to take part in a treasure hunt.

At Newcastle Museum children can create their own version of the adventure gear that features in the popular children’s tale on 9 April, with participants also in the running to win a signed copy of the book.

Community and Culture Strategic Advisory Committee Chair Councillor Jenny Barrie said City of Newcastle is offering plenty of fun for families.

“City of Newcastle’s cultural facilities will be hubs of entertainment and education these school holidays for Novocastrians enjoying a staycation,” Cr Barrie said.

“The Civic Theatre has a range of options for children of all ages, including spectacular magic in Circus of Illusion, Hunter Drama’s Once Upon A One More Time at the Playhouse, a new live touring dance show called The Next Step: Legacy World Tour and a K-Pop Icons performance.

“City and Wallsend libraries have a packed scheduled, from LEGO challenges and hands-on workshops with a sea theme, to creative sessions that challenge Minecraft fans to build their own Model Newcastle inspired by the Newcastle Museum exhibition.”

There’s plenty more on offer at the Museum, including the ever-popular science shows, which will help children discover the structure of the Earth using custard and chocolate or allow them to test their knowledge of dinosaurs.

A two-day program called Marionette Melodrama will see recycled materials used to create a puppet with its own distinctive personality.

There’s also a writing workshop for teenagers and an upcycling session where participants can bring old clothes back to life.

Primary school children will have more than one reason to visit Newcastle Art Gallery with two different workshops running in the first and second week of the holidays.

Art Gallery educators will deliver ‘Frame It’ sessions where children can design and create their own frame box to explore how artists use the foreground, midground, and background to create stories in their works of art.

Inspired by collection artist Nell’s sculpture currently on display at the Gallery, the ‘Ghosty’ holiday workshops will give children the chance to create their own puppet, as well as a special case for Ghosty to live in and travel home safely.

For more information on all the school holiday activities visit The Civic Theatre, City of Newcastle Libraries, Newcastle Museum and Newcastle Art Gallery websites.

Balancing the needs of organised sport with a growing number of casual users will be a key consideration in the development of a new Strategic Sports Plan for Newcastle.

Following initial consultation with sporting associations, City of Newcastle is now looking for input from the community and sports club members regarding current sporting facilities within the local government area (LGA), as well as suggestions for future needs.

Executive Manager Community and Recreation Lynn Duffy said the feedback will play a critical role in shaping the new plan, which will guide how City of Newcastle improves and invests in sportsgrounds.

“We want to capture the thoughts and needs of all community members when it comes to sporting infrastructure,” Ms Duffy said.

“Since the COVID‐19 pandemic, social sports and recreation have been on the rise thanks to activities such as running, walking and unofficial group outdoor games.

“This trend increases the need for our sporting infrastructure to be planned and developed with shared use as a priority, to ensure it can accommodate a predicted population boom and evolving participation trends in both organised sport and informal recreation.

“We want to know who’s using the grounds, what they are using them for, and what sort of upgrades would improve their experience.

“In addition to updating the plan, the project will establish clearer frameworks for how City of Newcastle engages with users of its sportsfields and outdoor recreation spaces.”

Adopted by the elected Council in 2020, the 10-year Strategic Sports Plan was designed to address future demand and inform the ongoing supply, maintenance and upgrade of sporting infrastructure across the LGA.

More than 70% of its recommendations have been partially or fully delivered, but shifting participation trends, climate impacts and competing demands for usable land prompted City of Newcastle to review and update the plan.

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Sports Infrastructure Working Party, Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, said the Strategic Sports Plan provides a crucial framework for investment.

“City of Newcastle currently invests more than $15 million annually in the maintenance or upgrade of its sporting infrastructure,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.

“The revised plan will better reflect evolving community needs, define the process for clubs seeking facility upgrades, and align sports infrastructure planning with other projects such as the Broadmeadow Place Strategy and Southern Beaches Coastal Management Plan.

“A key objective is to review existing infrastructure and improve the quality, accessibility and functionality, creating facilities that support universal access, catering to people with disabilities, families, and older adults, not just high-performance athletes.

“The new Strategic Sports Plan will explore the way our sports users and broader community can work together to maximise the use of our sports facilities as our population grows.

Community members can find out more or make a submission via the Have Your Say page on City of Newcastle’s website. 

Community engagement opens today and will close at 5pm on 11 May 2026.

With fuel prices on the rise, many Newcastle households are feeling the pinch.  

If you’re looking for ways to use less fuel, save money and take control of your energy costs, there are practical steps you can take right now. Small changes can add up. 

1. Ride or walk for small trips

For shorter journeys, consider walking or cycling. It’s free, healthy and often quicker for local trips. Check out some Newcastle cycleways that can make riding to work or the shops easier.  

Been a while since you rode? We regularly offer free bike checks and cycling and maintenance courses.  

2. Get help to cycle safely to school

Our free school holiday workshops support high school students to build cycling skills and confidence.  

Led by experienced instructors, these sessions can help your kids ride safely, giving you the option to leave the car at home for school trips.  

3. Catch public transport

Buses, trains and light rail can be a cheaper alternative to driving, especially for daily trips. More people are choosing public transport, making it a practical option to reduce fuel and commuting costs.  

Plan your trip using Transport for NSW’s Trip Planner. 

4. Try carpooling

Carpooling with colleagues, friends or neighbours can reduce fuel costs and traffic. Sharing trips is a simple way to make regular travel more affordable. Ask around and you’ll be surprised who is also traveling in the same direction as you! There are also carpooling apps like Moovl or RideMates. 

5. Cut your energy costs in minutes

Many households are paying too much for energy. Our Better Green Bills program helps you find the cheapest renewable electricity plan in minutes using your real usage data. 

Get a free 12-month subscription and join the other Newcastle households saving an average of $368 a year through Better Green Bills. 

6. Future-proof your home

Switching your home to electric appliances and powering them with renewable energy can reduce your reliance on rising fuel and gas costs. This could include heating, cooking, hot water and even your car. Get free, independent and personalised advice on electrification, solar, batteries and rebates through Go Electric Newcastle. 

Go Electric Newcastle is useful for everyone – whether you rent or own, live in a free standing or strata household.  

7. Renting? Try a portable induction cooktop

If you use gas for cooking, a portable induction cooktop is a simple, low-cost alternative. It’s efficient, fast and can help reduce your gas bill, especially when paired with solar. You can borrow one for free from Newcastle Libraries to try before you buy. 

8. Use fuel price comparison tools

Fuel prices can vary across Newcastle. Visit NSW FuelCheck to find the cheapest fuel near you and check availability before you fill up. 

9. Check rebates and support

NSW Government offers rebates and incentives to help reduce energy costs, including public transport concessions, toll relief and energy bill rebates. Checking what you are eligible for could put hundreds of dollars back in your pocket each year. 

     10.   Consider a staycation 

A staycation in Newcastle can save money on fuel or flights while still offering plenty to see and do. Explore Newcastle’s beaches, galleries, nature walks and events. Be inspired at Visit Newcastle

Sporting organisations in the Swansea electorate have shared in $4.49 million  following the awarding of grants in the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program.  
   
The Program provides grants for minor facility upgrades, new equipment and programs that support and encourage participation in sport and active recreation in NSW.  
   
Grants up to $20,000 were available, with up to $50,000 in the Swansea electorate.  
   
For further information, including the list of successful projects, visit:   www.sport.nsw.gov.au/local-sport-grant-program: http://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/local-sport-grant-program  
   
Organisation   Project    Funding  
Lake Macquarie Yacht Club  LMYC Discover Sailing Development & Training Programs  $2,000 
Canoe Academy Outrigger Club  Purchase of 2 person outrigger canoe (OC2) to increase paddling participation  $9,950 
Doyalson Wyee Football Club  Doylo Wolves Uniform Upgrade Project  $20,000 
Swansea-Caves Cricket Club  Creation of storage infrastructure for cricket gear and nonfixed equipment  $3,060 
Northern Lakes Junior Rugby League Football Club  Security upgrade and PA system replacement for Northern Lakes Warriors JRLFC  $3,261 
Gwandalan and Summerland Point Football Club  Sporting equipment for all teams  $8,373 
   
   
Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said:  
   
“Sport plays a vital role in bringing the Swansea community together.  
   
These grants will help our local clubs buy vital equipment and resources to enable more Swansea residents to participate in sport.  
   
I congratulate local sports organisations that were successful in securing funding and thank all the volunteers and clubs for the work they do in supporting the community.”  
   
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:  
 
“The Minns Labor Government is backing, communities and organisations across NSW to enjoy the benefits of sport and active recreation.  
   
The Local Sport Grant Program provides vital funds to community sporting organisations to invest in minor facility upgrades, new equipment and programs.   
   
With tight budgets and clubs ever more reliant on volunteers, this funding gives teams resources to invest where they need, be it purchasing new jerseys or hosting local events like come and try days.   
   
I congratulate the more than 500 sports organisations across NSW that were successful in securing funding and commend them for their commitment to our collective health, wellbeing and sense of identity.”  
 

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage girl missing from the state’s mid-north coast. 

Letha Walters, aged 13, was last seen in Thornton, about 12.30am on Sunday 29 March 2026.

When she could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Port Stephens Hunter Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.

Police and family have concerns for Letha’s welfare due to her age.

She is described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 150cm to 160cm tall, with a slim build and curly red/purple hair.

Letha was last seen wearing a black hooded jumper, black shorts and carrying a black tote bag. 

She is known to frequent the Gosford, Maitland, Newcastle, Hornsby and Riverview areas.

Anyone with information into her whereabouts is urged to contact Maitland Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

City of Newcastle has shared a first look at its plans to renew Wickham’s village heart as it calls for tenders to deliver pedestrian and public domain upgrades on Union Street.

The project will enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists with traffic calming measures and the introduction of a one-way shared zone, while improved lighting, landscaping, seating and paving will reinvigorate the area’s appeal.

An artist’s impression of planned upgrades in Union Street, Wickham.

City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath said the upgrades formed part of a broader Wickham Public Domain Plan developed in consultation with the community.

“This is the first project to progress as part of a long-term plan to transform Wickham while celebrating its unique character,” Mr Bath said.

“We worked closely with a number of stakeholders including local community group Great Lifestyle of Wickham during the development of the Public Domain Plan and are pleased to now be moving forward with the first project. 

“By breathing new life into Union Street, we will create a sense of place and character for everyone who lives, works or spends time in Wickham.

“We are inviting tenders from experienced contractors to help City of Newcastle bring this vision to life, with a view to commence construction around October this year.”

An artist’s impression of planned upgrades in Union Street, Wickham.

The project, which takes in the area on Union Street between Station and Throsby streets, will also include improved stormwater infrastructure, upgrades to the roadway and new line marking for cyclists. 

Specialist heritage advice will be sought to guide the reuse of materials, such as patterned stone pavers that presently line Union Street, with work to preserve and restore the pavers expected to begin in June.

The main construction work is scheduled for later this year, following the award of the tender.  

Community consultation on the Wickham Public Domain Plan was undertaken in February 2023, with 74% of respondents supportive of the proposed pedestrian network improvements and traffic calming devices. 

The plan was adopted in November 2023 and sets out a number of improvements that will be delivered over many years by both City of Newcastle and third parties, including developers. 

Mr Bath said Wickham is playing a key role in the strategic shift of Newcastle’s business hub to the city’s west end, with connections to multiple modes of public transport.

“Wickham’s transformation is continuing from its semi-industrial past into a mixed-use urban neighbourhood, with ongoing interest from investors and developers and an increase in residents calling the suburb home,” Mr Bath said.

“The Wickham Public Domain Plan provides a clear, shared vision for future improvements to public spaces and aims to create a welcoming and positive environment while also improving safety and accessibility.”

A key section of Wolfe Street has been reopened as City of Newcastle puts the finishing touches on the latest phase of the East End Village revitalisation project.

The multimillion-dollar upgrade includes the section of Hunter Street between Thorn and Wolfe Streets, and Wolfe Street between King and Scott Streets.

Daracon’s Scott Myers and Gabriel Ascanio, City of Newcastle’s Interim Executive Director City Infrastructure Robert Dudgeon and project manager Kate Summers, Daracon’s Michael Rummery and Marc Veronese in the Hunter Street MallNew footpaths, road surfaces and the latest stretch of a separated cycleway will make it easier to navigate this area of the former Hunter Street Mall, while significant stormwater and underground infrastructure upgrades have enhanced and future-proofed key services for residents and businesses. 

CEO Jeremy Bath said City of Newcastle’s vision for a more liveable and vibrant city centre is taking shape.

“Our East End Village project is reinstating the former Hunter Street Mall as a traditional high street, making it a better place to live for the growing number of residents that are calling the area home,” Mr Bath said.

“We are ensuring our city centre is more people-focused, making it easier to navigate and a much nicer place to spend time, which provides a boost to local businesses and our economy.”  

Since construction started on East End Village project in 2021, City of Newcastle has invested more than $16 million over three phases into the revitalisation of the former Hunter Street Mall. 

To date, this has delivered extensive streetscape upgrades to Hunter Street from Brown to Wolfe Street, and the block bound by Hunter, Wolf, King and Perkins Streets. 

City of Newcastle Interim Executive Director City Infrastructure, Robert Dudgeon, thanked residents and businesses for their support throughout construction.

“We’ve worked closely with local businesses and stakeholders to maintain access and continuity of trade, while delivering upgrades that will support the area into the future,” Mr Dudgeon said.

“I’m particularly pleased with how we’re making our city centre an attractive place for everyone to spend time by improving accessibility and landscaping in the area, and that will continue through future stages of the project.”

Final line marking works on the latest section of separated cycleway, along with finishing touches like paver installations and clean-up of the area, will be completed in April.

The focus will then switch to the next phase of the project, with upgrades on Hunter Street, Market Street, and Newcomen Street.

City of Newcastle is currently assessing tenders for this section of the revitalisation project, which is supported with funding from the Australian Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program.

The project is planned to start once these funding arrangements have been finalised.

For more on the East End Village project, visit https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/east-end.  

With fuel prices on the rise, many Newcastle households are feeling the pinch.  

If you’re looking for ways to use less fuel, save money and take control of your energy costs, there are practical steps you can take right now. Small changes can add up. 

1. Ride or walk for small trips

For shorter journeys, consider walking or cycling. It’s free, healthy and often quicker for local trips. Check out some Newcastle cycleways that can make riding to work or the shops easier.  

Been a while since you rode? We regularly offer free bike checks and cycling and maintenance courses.  

2. Get help to cycle safely to school

Our free school holiday workshops support high school students to build cycling skills and confidence.  

Led by experienced instructors, these sessions can help your kids ride safely, giving you the option to leave the car at home for school trips.  

3. Catch public transport

Buses, trains and light rail can be a cheaper alternative to driving, especially for daily trips. More people are choosing public transport, making it a practical option to reduce fuel and commuting costs.  

Plan your trip using Transport for NSW’s Trip Planner. 

4. Try carpooling

Carpooling with colleagues, friends or neighbours can reduce fuel costs and traffic. Sharing trips is a simple way to make regular travel more affordable. Ask around and you’ll be surprised who is also traveling in the same direction as you! There are also carpooling apps like Moovl or RideMates. 

5. Cut your energy costs in minutes

Many households are paying too much for energy. Our Better Green Bills program helps you find the cheapest renewable electricity plan in minutes using your real usage data. 

Get a free 12-month subscription and join the other Newcastle households saving an average of $368 a year through Better Green Bills. 

6. Future-proof your home

Switching your home to electric appliances and powering them with renewable energy can reduce your reliance on rising fuel and gas costs. This could include heating, cooking, hot water and even your car. Get free, independent and personalised advice on electrification, solar, batteries and rebates through Go Electric Newcastle. 

Go Electric Newcastle is useful for everyone – whether you rent or own, live in a free standing or strata household.  

7. Renting? Try a portable induction cooktop

If you use gas for cooking, a portable induction cooktop is a simple, low-cost alternative. It’s efficient, fast and can help reduce your gas bill, especially when paired with solar. You can borrow one for free from Newcastle Libraries to try before you buy. 

8. Use fuel price comparison tools

Fuel prices can vary across Newcastle. Visit NSW FuelCheck to find the cheapest fuel near you and check availability before you fill up. 

9. Check rebates and support

NSW Government offers rebates and incentives to help reduce energy costs, including public transport concessions, toll relief and energy bill rebates. Checking what you are eligible for could put hundreds of dollars back in your pocket each year. 

     10.   Consider a staycation 

A staycation in Newcastle can save money on fuel or flights while still offering plenty to see and do. Explore Newcastle’s beaches, galleries, nature walks and events. Be inspired at Visit Newcastle