Category: Newcastle News

A man has been charged following a drug supply investigation, as well as an alleged pursuit near Maitland today where an officer was injured.

About 11.40am (Wednesday 6 March 2024), officers attached to Hunter Region Enforcement Squad (RES) attempted to stop a BMW sedan on Lawes Street, Maitland, as part of the ongoing drug supply investigation.

As police approached the BMW, the driver allegedly reversed and collided with a NSW Police officer before fleeing the scene.

The male officer was assessed at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Maitland Hospital for the treatment of a leg injury.

The BMW was sighted by Port Stephens-Hunter Police in Chisholm a short time later, and a pursuit was initiated.

Road spikes were deployed on Harvest Boulevard, Chisholm, and the vehicle came to a stop on Raymond Terrace Road where the driver allegedly fled into nearby bushland.

Following a search of the area, police located the 40-year-old man, and following a short struggle in which a taser was deployed, he was arrested.

The man was taken to Maitland Police Station where he was charged with police pursuit – not stop – drive dangerously, assault police officer in execution of duty, use offensive weapon to prevent lawful detention, drive motor vehicle during disqualification period, knowingly deal with proceeds of crime, deal with property proceeds of crime, possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit, possess unauthorised pistol, and three counts of possess prohibited drug.

He was also charged with more than 50 drug supply charges including:

Two counts of supply prohibited drug – large commercial quantity,
Two counts of supply prohibited drug – commercial quantity,
15 counts of supply prohibited drug – indictable quantity,
30 counts of supply prohibited drug, and
Two counts of supply prohibited drugs on an ongoing basis.
He was refused bail to appear before Maitland Local Court tomorrow (Thursday 7 March 2024).

A new trial is laying the groundwork for a greener road network through the use of bio-bitumen.

Transport for NSW recently laid the bio-bitumen asphalt, also known as ECO5, on a section of road at Raymond Terrace as part of the trial.

The bio-bitumen uses repurposed materials including recycled crushed glass, asphalt and crumbed rubber derived from end-of-life tyres, allowing for a lower carbon output per tonne of asphalt and fewer emissions. 

The carbon footprint of ECO5 asphalt is 30 per cent less than that of conventional asphalt.

Transport for NSW will continue to monitor the trial over coming months and, if successful, it could pave the way for similar technology to be adopted across the state’s road network.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“The NSW Government is committed to supporting initiatives that improve sustainability in road infrastructure projects.

“This trial, a first for Transport for NSW, is a huge step on the road to exploring ways we can reduce our carbon footprint.

“Trialling innovative technologies, such as bio-bitumen, is vital in achieving the goal of net zero emissions for the transport section by 2050.

“Well done to Transport for NSW and its contractors for paving the way for a more sustainable future.”

Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said:

“This trial is an important milestone in moving towards using more sustainable and environmentally friendly materials as part of our daily road practices.

“The asphalt company Colas developed the ECO5 product, and the asphalt produced for this trial, came out of their Tomago plant in Port Stephens. The product was developed through a combination of local and international research and development.

“It’s great to see Port Stephens is laying the foundations for a greener future and better local roads.”

Transport for NSW Senior Manager Maintenance and Delivery North Stuart Baverstock:

“Transport for NSW wanted to see what sort of environmentally beneficial asphalt products were out in the market and what we could utilise on our roads as a better environmental product. 

“Transport for NSW uses a huge amount of asphalt. It is a very carbon-rich product, so if we can reduce that even in small amounts then we will get huge savings.”

Visitation to the Newcastle Ocean Baths has skyrocketed since the refurbished pool was reopened to the public, with almost 56,000 swimmers taking a dip in the past two months.

The figure represents visits that have occurred during the lifeguard patrolled hours at the facility since 21 December. It is almost five times higher than the number of swimmers using the Ocean Baths during the corresponding period in 2021/22, before the pool and promenade areas were upgraded. 

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully and Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes unveil a plaque commemorating the completion of stage one upgrade works at the Newcastle Ocean Baths.

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully joined Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes this morning to unveil a plaque officially commemorating the delivery of stage one of the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade.

Minister Scully said it was fantastic to see so many members of the community embracing the newly refurbished facility.

“It’s great to see this historic public asset restored for the community to continue enjoying for many years to come,” Minister Scully said.

“Newcastle Ocean Baths represent the rich history of the region, and this significant upgrade has increased safety and accessibility, returning it to its former glory.

“Upgrades such as this are an important reminder of how great, quality public spaces can bring communities together and increase liveability.” 

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said, “I’m committed to restoring and investing our public infrastructure, the popularity of the Ocean Baths was testament to City of Newcastle’s once-in-a-generation undertaking to restore the much-loved Newcastle icon.

“We worked closely with the Newcastle Ocean Baths Community Reference Group and other stakeholders during the planning and design stages of this project to ensure it meets the needs of current and future users,” Cr Nelmes said.

“The huge increase in swimmers using the Ocean Baths since they reopened reflects the importance of this upgrade and the significantly improved facilities we have delivered.

“The Newcastle Ocean Baths have played an important role in our city’s history for more than 100 years and their revitalisation will ensure they remain accessible to all Novocastrians for generations to come.”

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the Baths have never looked better.

“Having the Newcastle Ocean Baths open made it feel like summer again and I know people can’t wait to swim here through autumn,” Minister Catley said.

“The reopening in December gave us back a favourite place to swim. It’s even better today. The City of Newcastle has delivered a perfect restoration and the NSW Government is proud to help fund it.”

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath and City of Newcastle staff at the Newcastle Ocean Baths.

City of Newcastle Acting Executive Director City Infrastructure, Robert Dudgeon said that work is continuing to progress designs for stage two of the project, with Principal Design Consultant Tonkin Zulaikha Greer preparing concepts for the upgrade of the pavilion buildings, including the heritage façade.

“We will continue to engage with the Newcastle Ocean Baths Community Reference Group and the wider community as the designs are developed,” Mr Dudgeon said.

“We plan to share the concept designs and open a conversation with the community in the coming months.”

Accessibility improvements will again be a key consideration in the design of stage two, informed through consultation with community members and specialist consultants.

“During the development of the design for stage one we heard loud and clear from the community that improvements to accessibility needed to be prioritised, and we continue to listen to this feedback and refine our approach accordingly,” Mr Dudgeon said.

“As with any community facility, there are mixed requirements and preferences amongst users, which also need to be balanced with the operational requirements for managing and maintaining the facility.” 

The $9.5 million recovered from the sale of City of Newcastle’s Fred Ash building helped fund the Newcastle Ocean Baths stage one upgrade along with $3 million in funding from the NSW Government’s Public Spaces Legacy Program. 

The NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program is an investment in high quality public open space and delivers vital infrastructure for communities to love the place they live.

Newcastle organisation, Friends of the Schoolmasters House have received $2,400 in funding to commemorate the service and sacrifices of local veterans through the latest round of the Albanese Government’s Saluting Their Service (STS) Commemorative Grants Program.

The funding will go towards installing a bronze plaque to commemorate local Ash Island service personnel.

Across Australia, more than $1 million in grant funding will be shared amongst 90 successful applicants.

Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon said:

“The grants awarded through Saluting Their Service are a crucial way for local communities to honour veterans and their families.”

“I’m proud the Albanese Labor Government is supporting veterans and veteran organisations in our community. Friends of the Schoolmasters House will now be able to commemorate local Ash Island service personnel, providing long-overdue recognition.

“The current round of Saluting our Service Grants closes on 20 June, and I encourage everyone with a potential commemorative project in Newcastle to put in an application.”

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, the Hon Matt Keogh MP said:

“Saluting Their Service grants support local communities undertake projects that recognise and commemorate the service and sacrifice of our Defence personnel, veterans and their families.”

“Many older communities around Australia have cenotaphs and memorials dating back to World War I, but as an ever growing country we need to ensure Australia’s history is understood, and modern conflicts, and the service of modern veterans is recognised.”

“Australia’s service personnel come from all corners of our vast nation, this program ensures that the stories of local heroes are known, and recognised.”

“There are several significant commemorations in 2024, including the 25th Anniversary of INTERFET and the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. I would encourage anyone thinking about a project commemorating these two significant events in Australia’s military history to apply.”

Saluting Their Service Grant Recipient:

Recipient	Funding description	Amount Sought	Amount Received
Friends of the Schoolmasters House Incorporated	Install a bronze plaque to commemorate local Ash Island service personnel.	$2,400	$2,400

STS is an ongoing national grants program aimed at honouring the history of Australia’s Defence personnel, veterans, and their families.

Applications for the next round of STS grants are open until 20 June 2024.

Grants are available to a wide range of applicants, including ex-service organisations, community groups, schools and local councils.  

STS Grants come in two categories:

• Community Grants: Up to $10,000 for local, community-based commemorative activities.
• Major Grants: Between $10,001 and $150,000 for significant commemorative projects with national, state, territory, or regional impact.

To find out more, or apply for a grant, visit: https://www.grants.gov.au/Go/Show?GoUuid=8f80a57c-4453-4014-8ef3-7ce786b356d7

The NSW Government is inviting expressions of interest for the iconic Newcastle former city railway station, commonly referred to as the ‘The Station’.

The Station is in need of an experienced operator ready to manage the site long-term, maintaining the integrity of the buildings without it falling into disrepair.

The beloved heritage site has long been enjoyed by the Newcastle community, as well as travellers far and wide as they arrived via the railways on their regional travels to Newcastle from 1885 to 2014.

The building symbolises the expansion of rail into regional NSW and is a major example of one type of Victorian Station architecture.

The opportunity to see the station transformed again into a site that travellers and tourists alike will visit is one that the NSW Government applauds.

Colliers International is marketing the long-term lease and EOIs will be accepted until 2 May 2024.  

For more information, visit hccdc.nsw.gov.au/station-EOI.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the right group to transform The Station. The historical significance of this site makes it the perfect place for a community centred project.

“Newcastle’s East End and waterfront is ripe with potential, and we are looking for an operator who will reimagine the site to create a destination that draws both visitors and locals into the city centre while celebrating the unique heritage aspects of the site.

“This lease is another example of the NSW Government working to secure public spaces that hold both historical and cultural significance for the communities that will use them in the future.”

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:

“People from the Hunter have been starting their journeys at The Station since 1885 and it’s been at the heart of Newcastle since sail ships brought coal to the world. People gathered here and it was a gateway to opportunity.

“The city has evolved, and The Station has to be part of that. It’s historic but we can’t let it fade into the past.

“I’m excited that the NSW Government is injecting life into The Station through tourism and hospitality. It will continue to be a living place for the people of Newcastle.”

Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation Chief Executive Valentina Misevska said:

“We’re seeking an outcome that embraces the heritage of the site providing a variety of offerings that people want to visit again and again.

“The Station is much-loved by the community, and an outcome that provides the right social, economic and heritage outcomes will ensure it can continue to be enjoyed by locals and visitors for many decades to come.

“We’ve enabled temporary activation since 2018 to keep the site maintained and in-use while its future is being determined, and now it’s time to find The Station’s long-term operator.”

Art and storytelling of two local artists have launched a new year of off-site programming for Newcastle Art Gallery as the expansion of the cultural institution continues to progress.

Newcastle artist Izabela Pluta is helping transform the exterior of the construction site with a new work of art commissioned as part of the Gallery’s street hoarding project, while locally-based artist Lottie Consalvo shares insights into her career as part of the Gallery’s second podcast series, Conversations from the Collection.

Newcastle Art Gallery Director Lauretta Morton, artist Izabela Pluta and Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes in front of Izabela’s artwork on the construction hoarding around the Gallery.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said these projects provide opportunities for the community to stay connected with Newcastle Art Gallery and its nationally significant collection.

“Newcastle Art Gallery is held in high regard in the Australian arts community, home to a nationally significant collection worth more than $126 million and with an award-winning artistic program,” Cr Nelmes said.

“This esteem will grow further as we progress with our long-awaited Gallery expansion project, which will double the size of the Gallery and significantly increase the exhibition space to display artworks of local, national and international importance.

“In the meantime, however, it is important to give our community as many avenues as possible to stay connected to the Gallery, whether that is through works of art being displayed on the temporary construction hoarding, or by learning more about artists featured in our collection through the second season of the podcast series.”

Pluta’s work of art can be seen on the construction hoarding that runs along Laman Street, while proud Yuwi man Dylan Mooney from Brisbane has his work of art displayed along Darby Street.

Sydney-based artists Diana Baker-Smith and Agus Wijaya will also have their works of art on show to passers-by later this year, with the four artists selected from more than 300 applications from across Australia during an expressions of interest process last year.

The Gallery’s temporary street hoarding commission project is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.

NSW State Minister for the Arts Hon. John Graham MLC said we are lucky to live in NSW, a state rich in creativity. 

“The state’s first arts, culture and creative industries policy commits the government to advocating for the value of culture, to enabling and investing in culture with the whole of government,” Minister Graham said. 
 
 “The Create NSW funding is just one way the NSW Government is supporting our regional arts, culture and creative industries.”

Newcastle Art Gallery has also launched the second season of its Conversations from the Collection podcast, which uncovers the untold stories of six contemporary artists from across Australia who have contributed to the significance of the Gallery’s diverse collection.

Newcastle Art Gallery Director Lauretta Morton OAM said she was thrilled to feature internationally-exhibited, Newcastle-based artist Lottie Consalvo in the podcast.

“We can’t wait to be able to welcome the community back into our expanded Newcastle Art Gallery, which will significantly increase our capacity to present exhibitions and programming that showcase our incredible collection, while supporting contemporary practice and artists’ groundbreaking ideas that engage and broaden our audience,” Ms Morton said.

“The first series of the Gallery’s podcast was launched last year as a way to explore our collection through some of the artists featured within it. The podcast was highly regarded, reaching number two in Apple’s Australian Visual Arts podcast charts and being used as a learning resource for Hunter-based secondary and tertiary educators.

“We are thrilled to be able to share even more of these artist stories through this second season, which features episodes with Lottie Consalvo, Jemima Wyman, Lindy Lee, Janet Fieldhouse, Owen Leong and Tina Havelock Stevens.”

The six-part podcast is now available via the Gallery website and on all major podcast listening apps.

The Newcastle Art Gallery expansion project is supported by $5 million from the Australian Government under the Regional Recovery Partnerships and $5 million from the New South Wales Government under the Regional Recovery Package, as well as $12 million from the Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation made possible through the Valerie and John Ryan bequest, Margaret Olley Trust, and community fundraising over many years. A further $1 million is currently being sought through the Foundation’s public fundraising campaign.

The NSW Government will transform disused homes at a former residential centre for people with disabilities into accommodation for people experiencing homelessness.

Homes NSW is leading the $2 million ‘meanwhile use’ proposal for the Stockton Centre that will refurbish seven homes at the former Stockton Centre in Newcastle to provide temporary accommodation for up to 25 people.

This delivers on a commitment to investigate the temporary use of the former Stockton Centre for short-term accommodation to help drive down homelessness in the Hunter region.

Transforming underutilised property into transitional housing is one of the many ways the NSW Government is working to confront the housing crisis and help get people into safe, long-term accommodation.

Properties to be upgraded include five five-bedroom homes, one two-bedroom unit and one one-bedroom unit.

The project will be delivered in partnership with leading social and affordable housing provider, Home In Place.

Homes NSW is exploring different options for the long-term future use of the site.

The homes and services are expected to become operational in approximately eight months, noting the site needs work to ensure the security and safety of the temporary residents, provide essential amenities and ensure the houses meet the standard appropriate for transitional housing needs.

With more than 55,000 people on the waitlist for social housing, and close to 2000 on the list in Newcastle and Port Stephens region alone, the NSW Government will continue exploring every option to expedite the delivery of more homes.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“We are grappling with a housing and homelessness crisis, and we need to think outside the box to deliver more safe and secure homes for people in need.

“The NSW Government is committed to exploring every option to transform underutilised sites into fit for purpose housing. If we have mothballed properties sitting empty, we will investigate whether they can be upgraded and used to provide vital shelter.

“Transforming these homes into a safe base for people who would otherwise be sleeping rough is the first step to helping people get back on their feet and into longer-term accommodation.

“We know we have a lot of work to do to confront this crisis, but this type of innovative thinking is helping to drive the solution.”

Minister for Disability Inclusion and Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said:

“I have heard heart-breaking stories from people in the Hunter who are couch surfing, sleeping in cars or on the street. I’m pleased to have turned our meeting on site last year into an outcome that could change people’s lives.

“Making the former Stockton Centre site available as short-term accommodation for people experiencing homelessness and providing them with the support they need to move into a longer-term home is a welcome step for our community.”

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said:

“Every day, I’m dealing with people experiencing homelessness, there are about 2000 Novocastrians that don’t have a stable and secure home. This may be a small step, but it is a significant step and having access to this accommodation will make a huge impact on so many lives.

“The previous government should be ashamed of the condition the Stockton Centre has been left in. I’m so pleased that we have found a way to repair these seven houses and bring them up to a suitable standard.

“Just on Friday I was at the House of Hospitality refuge with the 2024 Newcastle Woman of the Year, Sister Carmel Hanson. It is fantastic to be increasing and expanding our transitional housing capacity in Newcastle.”

Tails were wagging today as City of Newcastle (CN) unveiled a new Tessa the guide dog statue in Stockton to replace the much-loved original, which was stolen over a year ago. 

In response to the theft, City of Newcastle engaged Newcastle artist Julie Squires to replicate a new bronze Tessa as a tribute to the statue that stood for over half a century in honour of the loyal guide dog.

Page Power from Guide Dogs Australia, Mrs Jean Dowsett’s nephew David Williams, Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen and artist Julie Squires at the new Tessa the guide dog statue in Stockton.Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said the local community were thrilled to have Tessa the guide dog return home to Stockton.

“Many local residents have fond memories of Tessa, and it is wonderful to have her back in Stockton,” Cr Clausen said.

“While Tessa’s new statue is certainly something to be celebrated, the story behind the bronze dog has incredible heart and deserves to be retold and remembered.

“Guide dog Tessa and her owner Mrs Jean Dowsett spent many hours visiting the Stockton ferry wharf and seeking donations from passengers. The pair raised over $45,000 for Guide Dogs Australia between 1958 and Tessa’s death at age 11 in 1971.

“At the time this was a world record amount of money raised by a single dog and its owner for the charity, which was why at Mrs Dowsett’s request, Stockton Lions Club commissioned the original iconic statue in Tessa’s honour.”

The Dowsett family with Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen at the Tessa statue in StocktonMrs Dowsett’s nephew David Williams thanked City of Newcastle for bringing Tessa back to Stockton.

“It was upsetting to discover that Tessa had been stolen so we are thrilled to be here today to celebrate this new statue,” Mr Williams said.

“I have fond memories of my aunt Jean ‘Elsie’ Dowsett who tragically lost her eyesight in a car accident in 1958. 

“She was selected to train with a guide dog in Perth at first before returning to Sydney and then home to Stockton. She became a tireless supporter of Guide Dogs Australia and was awarded an OBE medal for her record-breaking fundraising with Tessa. 

“The original statue of Tessa had a very shiny head and nose thanks to the countless number of children who patted her. I hope this new bronze is just as admired for many years to come.”

Gary Bristow, Guide Dogs chief philanthropy and fundraising officer, said that the fundraising of Jean Dowsett and Tessa left an unforgettable legacy, and the reinstalled statue was an important part of Tessa’s story in Stockton. 

“Guide Dogs NSW is delighted to participate in the unveiling ceremony of the new statue for guide dog Tessa, reinstating her in the rightful place at Lynn Oval,” Mr Bristow said.

“This event not only commemorates Jean Dowsett and Tessa’s dedication to fundraising but also emphasises the lasting impact their incredible efforts had on the lives of those living with low vision and blindness.

“The raising and training of life changing guide dogs like Tessa is made possible because of the generous ongoing support we receive from all our donors, enabling us to provide vital support thousands of Australians living with low vision and blindness, we are immensely grateful for the continued commitment to our cause.”

Stockton locals celebrate the new Tessa the guide dog statueThe complex process of creating a new statue of the beloved dog was carried out by artist Julie Squires, who began her research by examining archival photos and videos of Tessa given to her by community members.

A life model in the form of Winnie the labrador from Islington Off Leash Area was also photographed from different angles before the modelling and moulding of the lifelike statue began.

The new Tessa, now sitting proudly on her plinth at Lynn Oval, is made from marine grade stainless steel, rubber, and fibreglass moulding for durability, with a beautiful bronze casting metal finish. 

Tessa will have anchor fixtures drilled to a granite base to prevent any vandalism or theft and ensure her longevity as a beloved fixture for the people of Stockton well into the future.

City of Newcastle and the University of Newcastle have today announced a new cultural partnership that will see the two organisations working together to expand the region’s art capabilities. 

The four-year partnership marks a significant milestone for both institutions, expanding the two organisations’ commitment to supporting arts and culture in the region, while providing students with valuable educational experience. 

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and Vice Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky celebrate the partnership.   

As work on the expansion of the Newcastle Art Gallery continues, Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said it was the perfect time to formalise the relationship between the institutions for the benefit of the region’s communities, its visitors and a new generation of students.

“As part of the partnership, the community will benefit from shared spaces, while students across various disciplines including architecture, visual communication, business, and tourism courses will have the opportunity to undertake Career-Ready Placements,” Cr Nelmes said. 

“The students will have the opportunity to learn while shadowing staff through all aspects of gallery operations. Students can learn about exhibitions, while business students will understand more about retail and commercial activities.  

“The gallery will benefit from the University’s academic expertise and resources, while building relationships with students who bring fresh ideas and perspectives to foster growth with new audiences. 

“It is a partnership that will ultimately enrich our city’s future cultural and academic landscape.”

A First Nations cadetship has also been established to provide career ready opportunities in Cultural stewardship in the arts.

University of Newcastle’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, welcomed the four-year agreement with Newcastle Art Gallery, acknowledging the shared interests and goals of both institutions.

“Newcastle Art Gallery and the University of Newcastle share a common commitment to cultivating creativity and innovation in the region,” Professor Zelinsky said.

“This special, collaborative partnership will help us to deliver real-world, professional experience to equip our students with career-ready skills, which we believe is key to their future success.

“The students will not only graduate with a degree but will take away real-life experience from working with the gallery. They will have the opportunity to build connections with the knowledgeable team which will help them find a career they love in the future.

“We are proud to be one of the first institutions in Australia to embed this type of Career-Ready Placements within all undergraduate degree programs and are fortunate to have a network of supportive organisations and businesses like Newcastle Art Gallery that are equally passionate about providing our students with real-world experience.” 

In addition to the students’ professional placements, Newcastle Art Gallery Director Lauretta Morton, OAM, said both institutions would enjoy many shared benefits.

“We look forward to the educational and creative opportunities that this partnership will bring,” Ms Morton said.

“We envision future collaborations across complementary exhibits, research and parallel programming, as well as the opportunity to learn from each other.”

Newcastle Art Gallery was Australia’s first purpose-built regional gallery. It has been at the heart of the city’s rich cultural heritage for over 40 years and is home to one of the most significant art collection in regional Australia.

University of Newcastle’s University Galleries Art Curator, Gillean Shaw echoed Lauretta’s sentiment.

“Our art galleries are renowned for contemporary exhibitions and our Watt Space city gallery is the longest-running student gallery in Australia. This partnership will allow us to work together to create more opportunities for our students and our shared communities to experience artistic diversity and extraordinary creativity.” 

Food for the body and the mind will be on the menu at Blackbutt Reserve as part of a $3 million community-focused project set to get underway next month.

Featuring a new cafe and environmental education space, the multipurpose community facility will provide an enhanced experience for the more than 150,000 people who visit City of Newcastle’s (CN) 182-hectare nature reserve each year.

Kingston Building director Matt Howard, Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, CN Assistant Project Manager Rachael Evans, Councillor Margaret Wood, Blackbutt and Natural Areas Manager Andrew Staniland at Blackbutt ReserveConstruction will begin in March and is expected to be completed by the end of the year, after Councillors voted last night to accept a tender for the project.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the project will complement Blackbutt Reserve’s existing attractions, offering a new space to gather and dine whilst taking in the tranquil natural surroundings and animal experiences.

“As the green heart of our city, Blackbutt Reserve welcomes countless locals and visitors each year who take advantage of the picturesque walking trails, unique native wildlife exhibits and family-friendly playgrounds,” Cr Nelmes said.

“The construction of this multipurpose community facility and cafe will improve an already popular attraction and offer a space for all members of our community to relax and enjoy the surroundings, with an accessible design catering for people with diverse mobility and other sensory needs.

“This project will deliver one of the final stages of our $10 million investment to deliver the Carnley Avenue Recreation Area Masterplan from the Blackbutt Plan of Management, that I developed more than a decade ago with the community after fighting to save this wonderful community asset.”

An artist’s impression of the new Blackbutt Reserve cafe and community facilityThe facility will replace the existing temporary kiosk and will include a cafe with an undercover dining and seating area, as well as a multipurpose space where community and school groups can gather, hold events or learn about the environment.

Cr Nelmes said Council is continuing to deliver quality facilities, with new and redeveloped dining destinations currently in the pipeline as part of the expanded Newcastle Art Gallery, the Bathers Way project at South Newcastle Beach and the Harbour Foreshore Masterplan.

A new operator is also being sought for the café at Lambton Park, which will undergo a major renovation, while the refurbished kiosk at Dixon Park Beach has been incredibly popular since it reopened in 2022.

“By investing in these projects, we will continue to make our recreational and cultural facilities welcoming places for both locals and visitors, while also helping to support new jobs and opportunities for hospitality operators in our community,” Cr Nelmes said.

The cafe and multipurpose community facility have been partially funded by the NSW Government’s Resources for Regions grant program.