Category: Newcastle News

Three teenagers have been charged over an alleged carjacking in the state’s Hunter Region.

About 3.20am on Saturday 4 May 2024, officers attached Newcastle Police District were conducting patrols of Jesmond, when they attempted to stop a Suzuki Vitara on Newcastle Road.

When the Suzuki allegedly failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated.

Road spikes were deployed and the vehicle stopped on Longworth Avenue, Wallsend, before three boys ran from the vehicle.

The boys – aged 13, 14, and 15 – were located a short time later and arrested before being taken to Waratah Police Station. They were later released to be dealt with under Young Offenders Act.

Following further inquiries, police established the Suzuki was stolen from the carpark of a shopping centre on Tyrell Street, Wallsend, after the driver, a 51-year-old woman was threatened with a knife.

The 15 and 14-year-olds were re-arrested yesterday (Tuesday 7 May 2024) and taken to Waratah Police Station where they were charged with robbery armed with offensive weapon and robbery in company.

Both have been granted conditional bail to appear at a children’s court on Monday 3 June 2024.

About 10am today (Wednesday 8 May 2024), the 13-year-old boy was re-arrested at Waratah Police Station.

He was also charged with robbery armed with offensive weapon and robbery in company and granted conditional bail to appear at a children’s court on Monday 27 May 2024.

City of Newcastle welcomed more than 160 new citizens from 41 countries today to take the pledge of commitment to Australia alongside family, friends and dignitaries. 

Hailing from every corner of the world, from Afghanistan to Cyprus, Kenya and the USA, Newcastle’s newest citizens were treated to performances by the Deadly Callaghan Yidaki Group and The Grainery Church before receiving their citizenship certificates at the iconic City Hall. 

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and Frank Bynon at City Hall

Among the new Australians was businessman and philanthropist Frank Bynon, originally of South London, who after 50 years down under took the pledge. 

 “It was on New Year’s Eve in 1973 when a friend and I decided to scrape together the airfare to move to Australia,” Mr Bynon said. 

 “We arrived in Perth after a long flight that included six stops and soon found labouring work in Sydney, Townsville and Melbourne thanks to the generosity of strangers. That first pay cheque of $900 felt incredible because back then a beer only cost eight cents!  

 “I met my wife Jan soon after I arrived in Sydney and we moved up to Newcastle where we had our family. In the mid-90s I started my business in industrial service and supplies, which has since expanded throughout New South Wales and Queensland. 

 “Over the years Jan and I have supported charities in our community that mean a lot to us, which has been a great privilege.  

 “Now 50 years, three kids and 10 grandkids later, there is no place like Newcastle, and I’m very proud to officially become an Australian and call ‘Newy’ home.” 

 Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the citizenship ceremony is one of the most important days of the year for new citizens and their families and she loves sharing in the celebrations. 

 “Newcastle is a diverse and inclusive community that embraces new citizens from all cultures and backgrounds,” Cr Nelmes said. 

 “We have a long and proud history as a welcoming city with 15 per cent of our residents born overseas and 134 languages other than English are spoken at home. 

 “City of Newcastle has gained almost 180 new Australian citizens already this year and today’s cohort takes it to more than 340.”

 Today’s ceremony featured a didgeridoo and dance performance by the Deadly Callaghan Yidaki group led by Alex Nean from Gamilaroi country. An Acknowledgement of Country was provided by his daughter Kyara Nean, also from Gamilaroi country. 

 Layla Rose Schillert and Stuart Brown from the Grainery Church sang the Australian National Anthem and were joined by Klaye Sanders to perform ‘I Am Australian’. 

 City of Newcastle’s next citizenship ceremony will be held in September 2024 at City Hall. 

City of Newcastle has secured more than $75,000 in funding to help residents aged 15 to 24 deliver urgent climate change solutions for our city.

City of Newcastle was invited to apply to the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF) following Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes’ visit to the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai in December last year.

Tree planting is just one of the ways young Novocastrians can deliver a climate change solution.Alongside Melbourne and Hobart, Newcastle was one of only three Australian cities to be chosen for the funding by the YCAF, which will provide technical assistance to support up to 100 cities worldwide in delivering youth-led climate action.

Cr Nelmes said young City of Newcastle staff and the City of Newcastle Youth Advisory Council will review applications to make sure the priorities of young residents are captured.

“This funding gives our young residents the chance to design and deliver urgent climate solutions,” Cr Nelmes said.

“Microgrants of between $1500 and $7500 will be available for individuals 15 to 24 years, or organisations who represent them, to deliver youth-led climate projects, from tree planting to policy proposals.

“Any city that fully allocates the initial round of funding within six months can apply for a further $150,000 to distribute to more projects over the following year.

“With more than 80 per cent of youth around the world reporting they’re worried climate change threatens people and the planet, this is a great chance for our youth to make a difference in their own backyard.”

Michael R. Bloomberg, UN Special Envoy on Climate Ambition and Solutions and the 108th mayor of New York City said climate change is an all-hands-on-deck challenge.

“It’s critical that young people, who have the most at stake help lead the way. This new fund will help mayors mobilize and empower tomorrow’s leaders to take action today,” Mr Bloomberg said.

Emilia Sáiz, Secretary General for United Cities and Local Governments, said youth today are the guardians of our future.

“Bringing them together with local governments through this groundbreaking initiative, we will see cities reach newfound progress in shaping more resilient and regenerative communities that can act on the climate emergency in entirely new ways,” Ms Sáiz said.

James Anderson, who leads the Government Innovation program at Bloomberg Philanthropies said the Youth Climate Action Fund will provide a springboard for mayors worldwide to put these lessons to work.

“In order for cities to catalyse ever broadening, ever more ambitious efforts, they’ll need to continue to shift away from traditional, top-down models to those that solicit ideas and crowd in energy from across the community, including and especially from young people who are so vested in solving the climate crisis,” Mr Anderon said.

As an active member of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy, Cr Nelmes has led a concerted effort to create an environmental legacy for future generations.

The youth-led climate projects will align with our 10-year Newcastle Environment Strategy, which was adopted last year with the key priorities of action on climate change, nature-based solutions and the circular economy.

Some of the initiatives already underway include transitioning City of Newcastle’s vehicles, plant and equipment to electric-powered or low emission alternatives and expanding our urban forest to create connected green corridors for iconic, threatened and pollinator species.

Applications for the Youth Climate Action Fund open on 1 June and close on 30 June 2024.

For more information on how to apply contact sustainability@ncc.nsw.gov.au

About Bloomberg Philanthropies:

Bloomberg Philanthropies invests in 700 cities and 150 countries around the world to ensure better, longer lives for the greatest number of people. The organization focuses on creating lasting change in five key areas: the Arts, Education, Environment, Government Innovation, and Public Health. Bloomberg Philanthropies encompasses all of Michael R. Bloomberg’s giving, including his foundation, corporate, and personal philanthropy as well as Bloomberg Associates, a philanthropic consultancy that advises cities around the world. In 2023, Bloomberg Philanthropies distributed $3 billion.

City of Newcastle is inviting the community to have a say on its ambitious long-term vision for Newcastle.

The Community Strategic Plan, Newcastle 2040, was adopted by Council in 2022 following extensive community consultation, providing a vision to guide and inform City of Newcastle’s strategies and projects for the next 10 years and beyond.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said City of Newcastle was reviewing the plan as part of its commitment to providing meaningful opportunities for locals to have their say on the future of the city.

“Our Community Strategic Plan, Newcastle 2040, was developed thanks to feedback from more than 5,400 Novocastrians who shared their thoughts on what we need to do to make Newcastle a liveable, sustainable, inclusive global city,” Cr Nelmes said.

“Since adopting Newcastle 2040 in April 2022, we’ve been working to deliver our strategies and projects in alignment with the aspirations of the Newcastle community.

“We’re helping to create a more liveable city through local centre upgrades, enhanced safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as investment in sporting infrastructure, playgrounds, roads, and stormwater drainage.

“Newcastle is also becoming more sustainable thanks to our efforts to act on climate change to achieve net zero emissions.

“Now we want to again hear from our community as we review our Community Strategic Plan, to ensure that we are on track towards achieving our vision and have a clear plan for how we will get there.”

Residents and interested stakeholders can provide feedback before 5 July by completing a community survey online or by speaking to City of Newcastle staff at a range of pop-up events to be held across the city throughout May and June.

For more information including pop-up event dates and locations visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/yoursay.

A man reported missing from the Newcastle area has been located safe.

The 70-year-old left the Maitland Hospital on Metford Rd, Metford, about 11am yesterday (Sunday 5 May 2024.

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

Following a search of the area, the man was located safe at East Maitland at 2am this morning (Monday 6 May 2024). He has been returned to hospital.

Police would like to thank the media and the community for their assistance.

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

Glen Haines, aged 70, left the Maitland Hospital on Metford Rd, Metford, about 11am yesterday (Sunday 5 May 2024.

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

Glen lives with dementia and concerns are held for his welfare.

It has since been established; Glen was captured on CCTV walking west along Mitchell Drive at East Maitland at 12.18pm today and a search has been conducted of the area.

Glen is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm tall, with a medium build, and brown hair.

He was last seen wearing a checkered red/blue shirt, blue denim jeans and brown boots, as depicted.

Glenn resides in the Maitland area and is believed to be on foot.

Anyone who may have seen Glenn or has information into his whereabouts is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Raptor Squad officers have discharged a firearm during the arrest of a man for alleged drug and firearm offences under Strike Force Stranraer.

Strike Force Stranraer was established in May 2023 by State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad to investigate the alleged supply of drugs and firearms in the Maitland and West Ryde areas.

To date, 12 people have been charged and remain before the courts.

Following extensive inquiries, about 6.25am yesterday (Tuesday 30 April 2024), strike force detectives executed a crime scene warrant in Gillieston Heights.

On arrival, police were confronted by the occupant of the home – a 26-year-old man – armed with two hunting style knives, prompting an officer to discharge their firearm.

No one was injured and the man was arrested.

The man was taken to Maitland Police Station, where he was charge with supply pistol to person unauthorised to posses, use etc offensive weapon with intent to commit indictable offence, use etc offensive weapon to prevent police investigation, supply prohibited drug >= commercial quantity, and participate in a criminal group.

The man was refused bail and appeared in Maitland Local Court yesterday, where he was formally refused bail to appear in Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday 19 June 2024.

A review into the discharge of the firearm has commenced.

Investigations under Strike Force Stranraer continue.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a woman missing from the Lake Macquarie area.

Vicki Davey, aged 63, was last contacted about 11.30am yesterday (Wednesday 1 May 2024).

When she could no longer be contacted or located, officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.

Police and family hold serious concerns for her welfare as she lives with conditions which require treatment.

Vicki is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 150cm tall with slim build, and has blonde/grey hair in a bob.

She was last seen wearing jeans, a jumper and joggers.

Police believe she may have gone for a walk in the Glenrock nature reserve at Kahibah.

Anyone with information into her whereabouts is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

City of Newcastle has secured more than $75,000 in funding to help residents aged 15 to 24 deliver urgent climate change solutions for our city.

City of Newcastle was invited to apply to the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF) following Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes’ visit to the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai in December last year.

Tree planting is just one of the ways young Novocastrians can deliver a climate change solution.Alongside Melbourne and Hobart, Newcastle was one of only three Australian cities to be chosen for the funding by the YCAF, which will provide technical assistance to support up to 100 cities worldwide in delivering youth-led climate action.

Cr Nelmes said young City of Newcastle staff and the City of Newcastle Youth Advisory Council will review applications to make sure the priorities of young residents are captured.

“This funding gives our young residents the chance to design and deliver urgent climate solutions,” Cr Nelmes said.

“Microgrants of between $1500 and $7500 will be available for individuals 15 to 24 years, or organisations who represent them, to deliver youth-led climate projects, from tree planting to policy proposals.

“Any city that fully allocates the initial round of funding within six months can apply for a further $150,000 to distribute to more projects over the following year.

“With more than 80 per cent of youth around the world reporting they’re worried climate change threatens people and the planet, this is a great chance for our youth to make a difference in their own backyard.”

Michael R. Bloomberg, UN Special Envoy on Climate Ambition and Solutions and the 108th mayor of New York City said climate change is an all-hands-on-deck challenge.

“It’s critical that young people, who have the most at stake help lead the way. This new fund will help mayors mobilize and empower tomorrow’s leaders to take action today,” Mr Bloomberg said.

Emilia Sáiz, Secretary General for United Cities and Local Governments, said youth today are the guardians of our future.

“Bringing them together with local governments through this groundbreaking initiative, we will see cities reach newfound progress in shaping more resilient and regenerative communities that can act on the climate emergency in entirely new ways,” Ms Sáiz said.

James Anderson, who leads the Government Innovation program at Bloomberg Philanthropies said the Youth Climate Action Fund will provide a springboard for mayors worldwide to put these lessons to work.

“In order for cities to catalyse ever broadening, ever more ambitious efforts, they’ll need to continue to shift away from traditional, top-down models to those that solicit ideas and crowd in energy from across the community, including and especially from young people who are so vested in solving the climate crisis,” Mr Anderon said.

As an active member of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy, Cr Nelmes has led a concerted effort to create an environmental legacy for future generations.

The youth-led climate projects will align with our 10-year Newcastle Environment Strategy, which was adopted last year with the key priorities of action on climate change, nature-based solutions and the circular economy.

Some of the initiatives already underway include transitioning City of Newcastle’s vehicles, plant and equipment to electric-powered or low emission alternatives and expanding our urban forest to create connected green corridors for iconic, threatened and pollinator species.

Applications for the Youth Climate Action Fund open on 1 June and close on 30 June 2024.

For more information on how to apply contact sustainability@ncc.nsw.gov.au

About Bloomberg Philanthropies:

Bloomberg Philanthropies invests in 700 cities and 150 countries around the world to ensure better, longer lives for the greatest number of people. The organization focuses on creating lasting change in five key areas: the Arts, Education, Environment, Government Innovation, and Public Health. Bloomberg Philanthropies encompasses all of Michael R. Bloomberg’s giving, including his foundation, corporate, and personal philanthropy as well as Bloomberg Associates, a philanthropic consultancy that advises cities around the world. In 2023, Bloomberg Philanthropies distributed $3 billion.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a girl reported missing near Newcastle.

Shayarnika Brown, aged 13, was last seen at a home on Sandgate Road, Wallsend, about 11am on Saturday 27 April 2024. 

Unable to be located since, she was reported missing to officers attached to Newcastle City Police District, about today (Tuesday 30 April 2024). 

Police and family hold concerns for Shayarnika’s welfare, due to her young age. 

Shayarnika is described as being of Aboriginal/ Torres Strait Islander appearance, of medium build, about 165cm tall, with long brown hair. She was last seen wearing a black Tupac jumper and black torn jeans. 

She is known to utilise public transport and frequents railways stations in Sydney and Albert Street, Werrington. 

Anyone with information in relation to Shayarnika’s whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.