Safety improvements on the way for Hamilton South black spots

City of Newcastle has started work on a $2.1 million project that will make it safer and easier for pedestrians, cyclists, and all other road users to navigate two key intersections on Parkway Avenue.

The work will focus on the approaches to the roundabouts at National Park Street and Smith Street, which both have a history of accidents.

The project is being delivered by City of Newcastle, utilising $469,000 from the Australian Government Black Spots Program, which is administered by Transport for NSW.

Cr Pringle, Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon and Ryan Tranter on Parkway Avenue, Hamilton SouthCr Pringle, Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon and Ryan Tranter on Parkway Avenue, Hamilton South.Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said this is a great day for road safety and active transport in Newcastle.

“Safer, more accessible options for walking and cycling are exactly what our city needs,” Ms Claydon said.

“These upgrades, backed by a $469,000 investment from the Albanese Labor Government, will make a real difference for local residents, families, the Newcastle High School community, and commuters who want a healthier, more sustainable way to get around.

“Better paths and cycleways mean safer streets, cleaner air, and a healthier Newcastle, and I am proud to be part of a Federal Government supporting projects that deliver all of that and more.”

The project will provide traffic calming improvements, including the installation of speed humps and the realignment of the kerb to narrow the lanes, which will enhance safety for all traffic approaching each of the roundabouts.

Further improvements include cycle lanes along Parkway Avenue, with separated off road bypasses for cyclists at each of the roundabouts.

There are also raised shared path crossings across Parkway Avenue at both National Park Street and Smith Street to provide safer and more accessible crossing facilities for the large number of cyclists, pedestrians, and school students who travel through the area.

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Liveable Cities Strategic Advisory Committee, Councillor Joel Pringle, said the upgrades have been shaped by community feedback.

“We received more than 400 submissions from drivers, cyclists and pedestrians and 91% of them were supportive of the proposed changes,” Cr Pringle said.

“Parkway Avenue is an important connecting route for schools, sportsgrounds, shopping centres and beaches so these changes are designed to cater for everyone.

“The Parkway Avenue road reserve, including the Norfolk Island and New Caledonian trees, is locally heritage listed and these trees will be retained and protected during the construction phase.

“This will help to maintain the urban canopy, which provides much-needed shade and reduces heat during summer.”

Executive Manager of Transport and Regulation Ryan Tranter said City of Newcastle has been working closely with the community to ensure the project supports current needs, as well as supporting future development in the area, including the upgrade to Newcastle High School.

“The project’s main aim was to improve cyclist safety by slowing traffic on approach to the roundabouts and provide off-road cyclist bypasses at each roundabout, as well as designated on-road cycle lanes with a clear buffer to parked vehicles,” Mr Tranter said.

“This will help to address the conditions which have led to eight crashes in the past five years at these two roundabouts, with the majority involving cyclists.

“As part of the project we have incorporated two raised shared path crossings on Parkway Avenue in front of the school to improve pedestrian safety in the area, as we also look to improve active transport connectivity between Hamilton South and the commercial areas to the north.

“Our safety improvements align with the transport management plans for Newcastle High School and support NSW Schools Infrastructure’s current campus development project, ensuring the new connections support the expected increase of students coming to the campus.” 

Roadworks are expected to commence on 19 August, with the section of Parkway Avenue to be closed to traffic.

The project is due to be completed by early 2026.

Winter upgrades prepare pools for busy summer season

City of Newcastle has used the winter closure period to complete more than $1 million worth of upgrades across its network of five inland swimming pools.

The installation of three new heat pumps at Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre is complete, ensuring swimmers will enjoy warmer water when the facility reopens for the new season on 25 August.

Beresfield Swimming CentreState Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery (middle) with Ward Four Councillors Elizabeth Adamczyk and Callum Pull with the new pool blankets, which were replaced as part of the solar heating upgrade at Beresfield Swimming Centre.

Lambton also has a new platform to improve accessibility, while Beresfield Swimming Centre received an upgrade of its solar heating system supported by a $220,000 grant from the NSW Government.

Families in Stockton will have plenty to celebrate once the warmer weather returns thanks to a $145,000 upgrade at their Swimming Centre that includes new playground equipment, barbecues, picnic tables, shade structures and new accessible footpaths.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager Community and Recreation Lynn Duffy said it’s been a busy program of maintenance activity.

“City of Newcastle is committed to providing safe, clean and enjoyable aquatic facilities for the community,” Ms Duffy said.

“During winter all five of our inland pools have received safety upgrades, fresh paint jobs, maintenance of pool tiles and promenades, servicing of plant rooms and equipment, as well as plumbing repairs and improvements.

“New roller shutters have been installed at Wallsend and Lambton to improve security and we’ve delivered lighting upgrades at Beresfield and Mayfield.

“Lambton also received a new platform lift and ramp to make the pool more accessible, as well as an extensive paint job which includes non-slip areas.

“Replacing the solar heating system at Beresfield required pump room modifications and the replacement of rooftop thermal solar matting, which will greatly improve the facility’s energy efficiency.”

State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery said she was delighted to nominate the project for funding under the Local Small Commitments Grant scheme.

“Beresfield Pool is such an important community asset and the solar heating upgrade was very deserving of funding,” Ms Hornery said.

“Providing this $220,000 from the Minns Government will go a long way to ensuring the pool is kept heated into the swimming season and provide a more comfortable experience in the water for our local swimmers and swimming clubs.”

“I want to thank City of Newcastle for implementing this project.”

City of Newcastle’s inland pools at Wallsend, Mayfield, Stockton and Beresfield will reopen on Saturday 27 September.

$658 million redevelopment of Sydney Children’s Hospital Randwick and Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre now complete

Construction of the $658 million Sydney Children’s Hospital Stage One and Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre project has reached completion. This marks a major milestone in the hospital’s redevelopment, transforming paediatric care for children and their families across the state.

Minister for Health Ryan Park joined the Member for Coogee Dr Marjorie O’Neill to visit the new 12-storey building delivered as part of a more than $1.5 billion investment in health infrastructure within the Randwick Health and Innovation Precinct.

The new building brings together leading clinicians, researchers and educators under one roof, with contemporary health facilities and spaces for families to connect while navigating their healthcare needs.

The new building will welcome patients and their families from late 2025, following an operational commissioning period.

The $658 million project includes:

  • A new and enhanced children’s intensive care unit
  • A new and larger children’s emergency department  
  • Co-located laboratories to support the Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre’s research, education and training  
  • A new medical short stay unit 
  • A new neurosciences centre 
  • A new virtual care centre and hospital command centre – KidsHQ
  • Inpatient units for medical, surgical and sleep studies
  • A day oncology centre and inpatient units, along with a dedicated bone marrow transplant unit
  • A new children’s hospital pharmacy
  • Improved family amenities, including single patient bedrooms with a carer bed and ensuite
  • Indoor and outdoor recreational spaces for families to take a break from clinical settings
  • Education, training and clinical simulation spaces.
  • New playground and pet visiting space

In a first for Australia, childhood cancer research and the clinical care of children with cancer will integrate into one paediatric facility, accelerating the translation of research discovery into improved clinical practice.

The Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre will be housed within the new hospital building and adjacent UNSW Health Translation Hub.

The Centre will include advanced laboratory spaces and deliver integrated, specialist cancer treatment, education and research programs, with this aim to transform childhood cancer treatment and become one of the world’s leading paediatric cancer centres.

The new building will also enable significant enhancement of paediatric neurology services, with the top floor dedicated to a new Neuroscience Comprehensive Care and Research Centre, providing integrated specialist services to improve the care and treatment of children with a range of neurological conditions. 

This project has been delivered by NSW Health Infrastructure in partnership with the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network and Children’s Cancer Institute, with John Holland as principal contractor.  

Almost 1.95 million construction hours have been worked throughout the life of the project, which will also enable a pipeline for 500 roles within paediatrics across the Randwick Health and Innovation Precinct.

The 2025-26 Budget confirmed a $12.4 billion investment over four years for health infrastructure to continue building a modern, resilient health system that meets both current needs and future demand. This includes the NSW Government’s announcement of $11.25 million to support the planning of upgrades to the Royal Hospital for Women, further investing in the Randwick Health and Innovation Precinct.

For more information on the new children’s hospital and research centre and other Randwick Campus Redevelopment projects, visit www.nsw.gov.au/randwick-campus-redevelopment.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“I’m delighted to see first-hand the completion of this state-of-the-art paediatric health facility designed to transform children’s care in this state for generations to come.

“The new building will bring together clinicians, researchers and educators in one place, which will significantly improve health outcomes for children and their families.

“The upgraded health facilities will attract clinicians, professionals and academics, support employment, drive innovation and productivity, and support to generate strong economic benefits for the community.”

Member for Coogee:

“I’m proud to be part of a government which is strengthening paediatric health care, research and innovation, which will be a game-changer for the local community and beyond.

“The new paediatric hospital has been designed to support families during their toughest times, including more single-patient rooms, family-friendly zones, play areas, and a pet-friendly zone to provide a welcoming environment and promote healing.

“It has been so exciting to watch the new children’s hospital and research centre come to life, which has involved more than 1,000 children, parents, carers and staff providing input throughout the planning of the new building, shaping the design of welcoming, home-like spaces that promote health and wellbeing, family togetherness, and patient-centred care.”

Cathryn Cox PSM, Chief Executive, Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network:  

“Since 2020, we have been planning with our staff, families and community to reimagine our hospital environment.

“The modern facilities, technology and equipment will give us room to grow, tailor care to improve health outcomes, and respond to the state’s evolving paediatric healthcare needs.

“This is an exciting moment for our Network, as we move into a facility that matches the world class care our clinicians provide every day to some of the sickest children in the state.”

Swim spot set to make a splash on the Bay Run

A new $3.8 million swimming spot is on the way for the Bay Run with a development application lodged and the NSW Government and Inner West Council finalising a funding agreement and signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The MoU outlines how both levels of government will work together to develop the Callan Park Tidal Baths which are expected to make a splash, at the Iron Cove foreshore.

The Minns Labor Government has committed $2 million to help deliver the project, which was first identified in the Parramatta River Masterplan, prepared by the Parramatta River Catchment Group in 2018.

The new swim spot set to offer a spot for a dip along the Bay Run will also benefit users of nearby parks and sports fields such as Leichhardt Oval and King George Park. This location will make sure the investment can be enjoyed by the Inner West community and beyond, including swimmers, pedestrians, joggers, cyclists and families.

Designs for the tidal baths include an accessible pathway and ramp, a generous fixed jetty, pontoon and shark net.

Following approval construction is expected to take six months, allowing the Baths to be open for the summer in 2026.

Greater Sydney Parklands is preparing a Callan Park Foreshore Master Plan to support integration of the swim site with the waterfront areas of Callan Park which will be shared for community consultation in the coming months.

For more information on the Callan Park Tidal baths visit the Inner West Council website.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“We made a commitment to deliver a swim site in Sydney’s Inner West and this MoU plunges us to the next stage of the project.

“The iconic Bay Run and surrounding parklands are already a community hub for family fun, sport, relaxation and exercise, so adding a swim spot where people can cool off in summer will be the perfect addition to an already thriving public space.

“This $2 million commitment is in addition to the $4.8 million the Minns Labor Government committed in the Budget to demolishing derelict buildings and return 1.6 hectares of parkland.”

Member for Summer Hill Jo Haylen said:

“This is great news for the Inner West because we’re closer than ever to having a free spot to take a dip in, to take the edge off summer heat without having to travel out of our local neighbourhood.

“We look forward to working with Inner West Council to develop this project so we can enhance this Callan Park for the enjoyment of the whole community.”

Inner West Council Mayor Darcy Byrne said:

“The Callan Park Tidal Baths will be a spectacular addition to the Bay Run which is already one of the best used recreation facilities in Sydney.

“This swim site in the next step in incredible rehabilitation of the Parramatta River and will attract swimmers’ and families from all over the Inner West to take a dip in Callan Park.”

Greater Sydney Parklands Chief Executive, Joshua French said:

“Callan Park holds a special place in the hearts of the community who want to see the park reach its full potential.

“The Callan Park swim site will continue our foreshore improvement program and will be a place for families and visitors to enjoy the waterside location and relax on the beautiful foreshore.”

Lismore flood recovery hits major milestone

Lismore’s long-term recovery from the devastating floods of early 2022 has taken an important step forward, with a contract awarded to a joint venture between CMC Group and JF Hull Holdings for the region’s largest road restoration package.

The major construction contract will enable critical repairs to restore roads from more than 60 landslips, improving reliability and reconnecting towns.

This marks a key milestone in restoring essential transport links across the Lismore region, with more than 50 road and transport infrastructure projects already completed, and almost 140 other projects currently in progress or under development.

Some projects have experienced delays or faced further damage due to the severe weather brought by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025.

Work will be staggered over three years to reduce impacts on local communities and make full use of a locally based workforce from the Lismore local government area.

Jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the permanent repairs are now underway, with the reconstruction projects giving communities confidence in the safety, reliability, and resilience of their roads for decades to come.

Additionally, close to $17 million in new funding is being provided to Lismore City Council to help restore its road infrastructure and make it more resilient against future flooding.

Through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package (RRTRP) and Essential Public Asset Reconstruction funding under the DRFA, several causeways across the region will be replaced to withstand future floods and improve road resilience.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:

“This contract is an important step in Lismore’s recovery journey, delivering critical repairs that the community has been waiting for since the 2022 floods.

“By investing in resilience, we are not just fixing what is broken – but we’re building back better to protect local residents from future flood events.

“The focus on local workforce and staged construction outlines the commitment from the Australian and New South Wales Governments to support the Lismore region’s economic and overall recovery whilst minimising disruption to residents.

“I would like to commend everyone that has been affected by the devastating natural disasters that have impacted the Lismore community for their strength, resilience and commitment to supporting each other in getting through difficult times.”

Minister for Recovery and North Coast and State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin:

“The Lismore region is getting its old mojo back, as we step up our rebuild with some great new developments.

“Our mission as we build back and emerge from recovery is to be improving the resilience of our infrastructure as we go.

“This announcement means we can invest in our roads so that they are better able to withstand the weather events of the future.”

Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison:

“The Minns Labor Government has quadrupled disaster recovery funding, from $190 million a year under the previous government, to an average of more than $800 million a year.

“We know landslips across the Lismore local government area had a massive impact on residents immediately after the flood and this contract to repair a further 60 landslips will keep up the momentum for action.

“Our objective has been to speed up support to councils dealing with disaster damaged roads.

“Together with the Albanese Labor Government, the vital $2.2 million investment under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements is rebuilding and reconnecting the Lismore community.”

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg:

“We’ve come a long way already and there’s still more work to do. These projects will reconnect villages and support our local economy.

“Lismore is not just rebuilding – we are rising.”

Medibus brings specialist diabetes care to Forster and Taree

Access to holistic diabetes care is set to improve for Lower Mid North Coast communities with the new Diabetes Alliance Program Plus (DAP+) Medibus visiting Forster and Taree this week.

The custom-built Medibus is a fully equipped mobile health clinic which brings a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including an endocrinologist, diabetes educator, Aboriginal health worker, and podiatrist.

The clinical team will support patients directly and up-skill local general practitioners (GPs), nurses, and allied health professionals to provide gold-standard diabetes care within the primary care sector.

Diabetes remains one of the most critical health challenges for the Hunter and New England region, with an estimated one in eight people living with the condition, and many more undiagnosed.

If left unmanaged, diabetes can result in serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, amputations, and premature death.

Diabetes disproportionately impacts those living in low socio-economic communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who are three times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

The service is fully booked for this visit, however the Medibus will return to the Lower Mid North Coast in November. Access to the Medibus is via your GP or a local healthcare provider.

The Medibus is an initiative of the Diabetes Alliance Program Plus (DAP+), first established in 2015 by Hunter New England Local Health District and the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network.

In 2023, a five-year, $12.4 million donation from the Colonial Foundation enabled the program to expand. This included welcoming new partners, including the Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, to lead innovative research and evaluate the program’s impact on patient outcomes and the broader health system.

Further information can be found on the dapplus.org website.

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park:

“The DAP+ MediBus is exactly the kind of healthcare innovation our regional communities need.

“By bringing specialist diabetes care close to people’s home we are ensuring everyone, regardless of where they live, can access the support and care they need to manage diabetes.

“Everyone deserves equitable access to expert, evidence-based health care. This initiative is delivering tailored, best practice diabetes management directly to regional communities and I’m proud to see the mobile clinic visiting Forster and Taree locals this week.”

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley:

“When we announced the Medibus rollout across the Hunter earlier this year, I was excited to see lifesaving healthcare travelling to people who might otherwise struggle to access the support they need.

“Our goal is to make it easier for people to get the care they need without the stress or burden of travelling long distances, especially in regional and rural areas.

“Diabetes can lead to serious complications, so we’re making it easier for people to seek help early. We’re looking forward to seeing the Medibus reach even more communities across the Hunter later this year.”

Labor spokesperson for Myall Lakes, Emily Suvaal:

“I’m very happy to see the Medibus visiting our area and bringing expert, evidence-based diabetes care to those who need it most.

“Diabetes is a significant health challenge for many people in our region, and timely access to care is vital.”

Hunter New England Local Health District, DAP+ Implementation Manager, Morag Joseph:

“Our aim is to increase awareness of diabetes and work alongside local health professionals in Forster and Taree, so that patients can receive the best possible care, now and into the future.”

Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program to provide a ‘Remarkable’ boost to collaboration across the innovation ecosystem

Remarkable, an initiative of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance aimed at empowering Disability Tech innovators, is just one of 13 organisations the Minns Labor Government will support as part of the latest round of the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program.

$400,000 in funding will go towards delivering a range of innovation-themed events and initiatives over the coming months including pitch nights, hackathons, and tech summits, as well as projects that have the potential to lead to the creation of new businesses and attract investment in target areas.

The first of these initiatives will take place tonight with a UNSW Founders Pitch night in Southwest Sydney.

Other initiatives will follow all over the state, with a report and forum zeroing-in on the gender funding gap hosted at Tech Central, a medtech and health innovation workshop in Wagga Wagga, and the Remarkable Disability Tech Summit 2025 at Sydney Town Hall.

The Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program boosts collaboration and partnerships across the innovation ecosystem, delivering a key action in the Innovation Blueprint 2035, with the latest funding round delivering a diverse mix of activities across Sydney and regional NSW.

Applications opened earlier this year, with a record number received.

In line with the Minns Labor Government’s strategic, whole-of-government approach to its Industry and Innovation policy frameworks, the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program supported initiatives that aligned with the Innovation Blueprint 2035, along with the Housing, Net Zero and Local Manufacturing priorities of the NSW Industry Policy.

This consistent strategic vision demonstrates how the Minns Labor Government is committed to building a better NSW with a thriving innovation ecosystem, so businesses can create more economic and social opportunities for our people and help tackle the state’s most important challenges. 

For more information on the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program visit the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program web page. 

Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Innovation in tech, housing, and manufacturing is one of the top priorities of the Minns Labor Government.

“Collaboration is key to delivering a more prosperous innovation ecosystem, and through the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program, we’re ensuring entrepreneurs and startups at various stages of growth can connect, learn, and develop.

“Our strongest assets are our people, and it’s through collaborative initiatives where ideas flourish, and connections and partnerships are made.

“This is another step the Minns Labor Government is taking to bring our Innovation Blueprint to life which is helping to cement NSW as the innovation powerhouse of the nation.”

Remarkable (Cerebral Palsy Alliance) Founder Pete Horsley said:

“The Remarkable Disability Tech Summit 2025 represents a pivotal moment where we can lead the world in ensuring AI and emerging technologies are designed inclusively from the ground up.

“With over 1 billion people globally needing assistive technology and less than 10% having access to what they need, we’re not just talking about closing gaps – we’re talking about unlocking a US$1.9 trillion opportunity for innovation and economic growth.

“Remarkable is part of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance and with Investment NSW’s support through the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program, we’re bringing together the global tech leaders, researchers, and decision-makers to actively re-wire the future of disability tech.”

UNSW Founders Program Manager Julie Pham said:

“We are grateful for the support provided by the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program.

“This funding enables us to expand Pitch Night South West supporting diverse, early-stage founders in one of the state’s most dynamic growth regions – and deliver the MedTech Innovation Workshop in Wagga Wagga to help regional innovators translate ideas into real-world health solutions.

“Investment NSW’s commitment to backing diverse and regionally focused innovation is instrumental in strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem across NSW.”

Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program – Round 3 Recipients

Four NSW Stars Named in Australian 21/U Team for Netball World Youth Cup

Netball NSW is celebrating the selection of four of its brightest young stars in the Australian 21/U Team to contest the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup, announced today by Netball Australia.

Named in the 12-strong national team are Frederika Schneideman (NSW Swifts Training Partner), Hope White (GIANTS Netball), and Grace Whyte (NSW Swifts), who will all make their debut wearing the green and gold for Australia, along with reserve Monika ‘Otai (GIANTS Netball).

Netball NSW General Manager of Performance and Pathways, Mardi Aplin, said the selection was a proud moment for the state.

“To have four athletes in this team – each with such unique journeys – is a credit to their hard work and to the strength of our pathway. We’re thrilled to see them take on the world stage and know they’ll inspire the next generation back home.”

Frederika “Freddie” Schneideman – GD/GK
A Randwick junior, Schneideman rose through the Netball NSW Pathway and QBE Swifts Academy, starring for ERNA Hawks in Premier League. She was named MVP at the 2024 19/U National Netball Championships, which NSW won, and gained her first Suncorp Super Netball experience in 2025 as a Temporary Replacement Player for the Swifts.

“She is a formidable defence who reads the game perfectly. After an amazing performance in 2024 at the National Netball tournament she was awarded player of the tournament and has always been nationally identified as an underage athlete,” said Aplin.

Hope White – WA/C
Originally from Maitland, White developed her game playing at Newcastle Netball Association. She is a GIANTS Academy product whose sharp playmaking earned her a spot as a permanent replacement player in 2025. She was named MVP of the 2024 19/U National Championships Grand Final at only 17 and has impressed at both state and Super Netball level with her dynamic attacking game.

“This year she was elevated into a full-time contract with the Giants. She’s a really strong and dynamic mid-court wing attack and her vision into the circle is next-level. The commitment, dedication and endless hours driving to Sydney for training has been rewarded with this selection,” Aplin said.

Grace Whyte – GA/WA
Hailing from Tumut in the Riverina, Whyte’s talent was first spotted at a 17/U regional trial in Wagga Wagga. A dual basketball and netball representative for NSW as a teenager, she joined the QBE Swifts Academy in 2022, debuting for the Swifts in 2024, to then be selected as the 11th player the following year and becoming a regular during the season. Her rise has been marked by flair, athleticism and a competitive edge that saw her win multiple national tournament MVP awards.

“I saw Grace out at a regional trial for 17U state team in Wagga Wagga,” recalls Aplin. “She was this really amazing athlete with lots of flair.

Monika ‘Otai – GS/GA (Reserve)
A Tongan heritage shooter and GIANTS Academy graduate, ‘Otai is regarded as one of Australian netball’s most exciting young prospects. After starring in 2024 as a first-time training partner, she toured Fiji with the Australian 21/U squad in preparation for the World Youth Cup.

“Monika is an amazing athlete that is strong under the post and her movement and long range shot sets her apart from others. A St George District junior, she has been captain of multiple teams, and made her debut for Giants this year,” Aplin said.

Australia will head to Gibraltar in September aiming to reclaim the world title in a tournament featuring 20 nations over ten days. The 2025 Netball World Youth Cup will run from Friday 19 to Sunday 28 September 2025.

THREE LANES NOW OPEN ON PART OF HEXHAM STRAIGHT, REDUCING CONGESTION ON A CRITICAL HUNTER CORRIDOR

Hunter motorists are getting a taste of the future, with the first widened section on the Hexham Straight now open to traffic with three lanes in each direction.

The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are collectively investing $2.2 billion in the M1 to Raymond Terrace extension and the Hexham Straight Widening to reduce congestion and improve safety for all road users.

The Australian Government is contributing over $1.79 billion towards the project, with the NSW Government contributing $448 million.

Motorists turning left onto Maitland Road from the Newcastle Inner City Bypass are now benefiting from an additional lane for about 650 metres, including an extension to the turning lane from the bypass.

There is also an additional lane for inbound traffic on Maitland Road from about 650 metres north of the bypass, including more space for traffic turning right onto the Newcastle Inner City Bypass.

The latest works also include an upgrade to the traffic lights at the intersection of the Newcastle Inner City Bypass and Old Maitland Road, while the U-turn facility there is also complete.

In addition, a new pedestrian crossing and bus stops in front of St Joseph’s Calvary Aged Care will also be put in place.

When complete, the Hexham Straight will comprise three lanes in each direction for its entire six-kilometre length, from the Newcastle Inner City Bypass to Hexham Bridge.

This will deliver more reliable travel times for freight and improve safety for all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.

The project is expected to open to traffic in 2026. `

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“This is a significant milestone for the Hexham Straight Widening project, with motorists getting access to three lanes in each direction, even if only for part of the journey.

“This is a taste of things to come, with the project still on track to be completed and open to traffic in 2026.

“The Australian Government is getting on with the job of delivering for the Hunter, not only through this project but also the broader M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace, the Singleton Bypass, and plans for the Muswellbrook Bypass and the westbound flyover at Maitland.”

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“This is a milestone moment for our region and the more than 50,000 motorists who travel this stretch of road every single day.

“For too long, Hexham straight has been a notorious bottleneck. Today, we are opening the first stage of a safer, smoother, and more efficient journey for commuters.

“This project is a great example of how government investment in infrastructure can change lives and support local economies – reducing congestion, cutting travel times, boosting road safety, and unlocking freight routes.

“I am proud to be part of an Albanese Labor Government that is delivering the infrastructure that Novocastrians deserve.”

State Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley:

“The Hunter is the economic powerhouse of NSW, and this project demonstrates our government’s commitment to ensuring our region has the world-class infrastructure it deserves.

“The Hexham Straight is a vital link in our broader Hunter transport network, connecting our growing residential areas with major employment hubs, the Port of Newcastle, and key industrial precincts.

“This $2.2 billion investment shows what can be achieved when governments work together with a shared vision for the Hunter’s future.”

State Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison:

“The Hexham Straight Widening is part of a suite of road projects that are transforming the Hunter road network.

“This project will help thousands of people get where they’re going more quickly and easily, helping improve their quality of life and underpinning economic growth.

“The Minns and Albanese Governments are working together to deliver infrastructure that will meet the needs of the community and motorists now and into the future.”

State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp:

“Maitland Road is a vital local artery that’s used by about 50,000 vehicles each day.

“This project will reduce congestion and improve journey times and safety for all road users, including local businesses and freight operators travelling to and from the Port of Newcastle.

“Congratulations must go to Transport for NSW and contractors – SMEC, Georgiou and Daracon – for their great work on the project to date.”

State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery:

“This is fantastic news for residents in Wallsend and across the Hunter who rely on this busy corridor every day to get to work, school and essential services.

“The opening of the first widened section shows real progress on a project that will transform how people move around our region.

“With 50,000 vehicles using this stretch daily, these improvements will make a meaningful difference to families in Wallsend who depend on reliable transport connections to Newcastle and beyond

Australia and PNG continue to strengthen defence cooperation

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has concluded his visit to Papua New Guinea with the official opening His Majesty’s Papua New Guinea Naval Base (HMPNGS) Tarangau – reflecting the growing defence cooperation and interoperability between our two countries.

HMPNGS Tarangau, also known as the Lombrum Naval Base, is the largest security infrastructure project delivered by Australia in the Pacific and will enable the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) to grow and develop its sovereign capabilities, and respond to PNG’s security priorities.

Delivered under the Lombrum Joint Initiative, the new naval base includes:

  • Working and living accommodation for the PNGDF;
  • A medical centre that will serve the base and local community;
  • Water and sewerage services to supply the base;
  • Upgraded maritime infrastructure, including barge landing ramps;
  • Office infrastructure, including a guard house and headquarters building; and
  • Combined mess facilities, able to accommodate around 200 sailors and officers.

The completion of HMPNGS Tarangau will also provide further opportunities for Australia and PNG to increase interoperability and cooperation through joint training, exercises and ship visits.

During his visit to PNG, the Deputy Prime Minister also handed over 12 up-armoured LandCruisers to the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.

These lightweight vehicles will allow PNGDF personnel to move securely and respond with agility across diverse terrain, further enhancing PNG’s ability to respond to domestic security challenges.

Our defence cooperation with PNG is stronger than ever – underpinned by our shared history and future and our strategic trust as neighbours, partners and friends.

This visit comes just one week after the conclusion of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, which marked the first time a component of the Exercise was held outside Australia, in Papua New Guinea.

Australia and PNG are further strengthening ties through the ongoing negotiation of a defence treaty, announced by the Deputy Prime Minister and Papua New Guinea Minister for Defense, Dr Billy Joseph, in February 2025.

Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

“Australia is committed to partnering with Papua New Guinea to build their sovereign capabilities and enable them to respond to their own security needs.

“Our shared geography and history interests make Papua New Guinea and Australia natural partners, and Australia is pleased to see this partnership growing even further in 2025. 

“The Australian Defence Force and Papua New Guinea Defence Force continue to work together to enhance the interoperability between our two countries, respond to our shared strategic challenges in support of a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.”