Category: Newcastle News

Preliminary operational data and high-level feedback from the powered vessel free zones which ran from the 24 December to 26 January over the peak holiday period has shown the trial to largely be a success.

Executive Director Transport for NSW Maritime, Mark Hutchings said that early feedback reflects a broad cross-section of waterway users, including both residents and visitors.

“The trial operational data shows a high compliance rate with minimal complaints,” Mr Hutchings said.

“This was a practical way to test solutions in response to community concerns. We’ve heard consistent feedback about safety and amenity issues on our busy waterways and this trial is a direct response.

“A comprehensive and independent report is expected to be finalised by the end of March which will help us better understand the benefits and any issues with the trial. The report will be released publicly once reviewed.

“No future decisions will be made until that report is assessed as it will include results from feedback being gathered through on-site conversations with residents and visitors, along with observations during peak use periods, focus groups and interviews scheduled post-trial.”

The independent evaluation will assess both quantitative data and qualitative experience, not just sentiment alone. Over 400 residents and visitors, as well as 160 powered vessel users have been consulted.

Engagement is ongoing with more targeted surveys and focus groups occurring in February. Initial anecdotal sentiment shows that when asked whether they support or had concerns about the vessel free zone respondents replied:

• Many stakeholders responded very positively to the trial.
• Some called for a complete ban on jet skis while others thought it was fair for everyone.
• There were mixed views about potential impacts on local businesses, some positives others unsure.
• There was some confusion about what activities were restricted and what access remained permitted.

These inputs are from the Have Your Say website feedback which is one input only. Online survey results are one part of a broader evidence base.

During the trial all powered vessels had to stay at least 30m from the shoreline. Clear signage was installed at all trial sites and nearby launch points.

The trial was important as NSW jet ski ownership has climbed by nearly 23 per cent over the last five years and licenses have surged by 38 per cent with Port Stephens one of the high use areas.

Maritime Boating Safety Officers worked with NSW Police Marine Area Command on the water to educate the community about the trial and encourage compliance from powered vessel users.

New data reveals that 8,280 first home buyers in the Hunter, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie have been given a helping hand by the Minns Labor Government, saving an average of $21,513 off the cost of their first home.

The program provides a full stamp duty exemption of $30,412 for first home buyers purchasing a property up to $800,000 and a concession for homes priced between $800,000 and $1 million.  

It replaces the previous Liberal-National Government’s forever tax on first-home buyers, which left first-home buyers paying an annual tax back to the Government.

Across the region, the top suburbs to benefit are Wallsend (641 first homes), Maitland (586), Cardiff (570) and Cessnock (520).

It includes 2,302 first home buyers in the Lake Macquarie LGA, 1,983 in Newcastle LGA, and 1,575 in Maitland LGA, 1,275 in Cessnock LGA and 613 in Port Stephens LGA.

Across NSW, 82,174 first home buyers have benefited from the First Home Buyers Assistance since July 2023.  Of those, 58,111 people paid no stamp duty at all, while 24,063 individuals paid a reduced amount.

The scheme also works with the Albanese Labor Government’s 5% Deposit and Shared Equity schemes, making it even easier for people and families to buy their first home.

Housing is the number one cost-of-living pressure on young people, families and downsizers.  

Helping first home buyers is a critical piece of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to address these cost-of-living pressures and make sure NSW can be an accessible and affordable place to live.

That’s why the Minns Labor Government is delivering more homes to rent and buy, re-building essential services that families rely on, and providing long overdue investment in critical infrastructure across the Hunter, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

The First Home Buyers Assistance Dashboard has more statistics by suburb and Local Government Area and can be accessed at https://www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/help-centre/resources-library/statistics/fhba-dashboard.

More information about First Home Buyers Assistance is available at https://www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/grants-schemes/assistance-scheme.

Acting Minister for the Hunter Paul Scully:

“The Hunter is quickly earning its reputation as one of the state’s most desirable places to live, work and build a future. This announcement is a clear reflection of that momentum.

“When we came into government, we made a clear commitment to help people access the basics including housing and we’re delivered on it.

“We’re proud to be delivering affordable housing across the Hunter, giving more people the chance to put down roots in a region full of opportunity, strong communities and a bright future.”

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey:

“For more than 80,000 people, this has meant paying less upfront and getting into a home sooner.

“We’re backing first home buyers because everyone deserves a fair shot at owning a home in NSW.

“As our landmark planning reforms deliver more homes, we will continue making it easier for first-time buyers to make them their own.”

Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos:

“This is a critical piece of the puzzle in the Government’s plan to help families plant their roots across the state.

“Saving up to $30,000 on stamp duty means more money in the pockets of families and more opportunities for them to achieve the dream of home ownership.”

City of Newcastle is one of only two councils in Australia to be recognised as an Inclusive Employer by the peak national body for diversity in the workplace.

It is the second time City of Newcastle has been included on Diversity Council Australia’s annual Inclusive Employer Index, joining more than 80 organisations nationwide that have been recognised for best-practice inclusion.

Chief Executive Officer Jeremy Bath said City of Newcastle is committed to embedding inclusion across its workforce and culture.

“This recognition is meaningful because it is based on feedback from our people,” Mr Bath said.

“Being one of only two local councils in Australia to receive Inclusive Employer status highlights the strength of our approach to building a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and able to thrive.

“Achieving this for the second time reinforces our commitment to embedding inclusion in everyday practice.”

To be included on the list, organisations must exceed the National Index Benchmark in at least five out of the six following areas: awareness, engagement, inclusive organisational climate, inclusive leadership, inclusive team, and exclusion. The evidence-based assessment uses staff survey data and independent analysis.

Mr Bath said the recognition reflects City of Newcastle’s ongoing delivery of its Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (IDE) Strategy, which was launched in 2023 around the pillars of inclusive culture, inclusive leadership, and a diverse, representative workforce.

The strategy targets five priority areas: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement, accessibility, culturally and linguistically diverse inclusion, gender equity, and LGBTIQ+ inclusion.

Key initiatives of the approach include inclusive leadership programs, tailored staff learning, diverse working groups, workplace adjustments, inclusive recruitment practices, accessibility support, and ongoing awareness campaigns.

Chair of the Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee, Cr Dr Elizabeth Adamczyk, said the recognition is testament to City of Newcastle’s leadership within the local government sector. 

“This acknowledgement recognises what can be achieved when inclusion, equity, and accessibility is embedded into both organisational strategy as well as everyday practice,” Cr Adamczyk said. 

“The work delivered under the City of Newcastle’s IDE Strategy takes an intersectional approach in recognising and supporting the diverse lived experiences and perspectives of each person in the workforce. 

“This recognition is a demonstration of City of Newcastle’s dedication to fostering a strong culture of inclusion and wellbeing for its employees, and in the community more broadly.” 

For the first time in history, City of Newcastle has honoured two seniors as joint winners of a top award, acknowledging their decades of service to vulnerable communities.
 
 John Cross is honoured for his quiet, dedicated support for Newcastle residents experiencing homelessness, and Wanda McInnes-Fogg has been recognised for her long standing, vital role at Zara’s House where she supports refugee settlement in Newcastle.

From L-R Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge joins the 2026 Citizen of the Year award recipients Peter Sleap, Wanda McInnes-Fogg, Alyssa Wharton, Jenny’s Place representative Dawn Walker and John Cross. Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said the joint award recognises the extraordinary dedication of two seniors who have spent decades strengthening the city’s social fabric.

“John and Wanda have each dedicated countless hours, often unnoticed to supporting people doing it tough,” Cr Kerridge said.

“John’s consistent advocacy for rough sleepers to access care and Wanda’s work supporting refugee women and children with settling and education both contribute to a stronger community cohesion across Newcastle. We are incredibly proud to honour two people who give so much of themselves to others.”

One of John’s most cherished achievements was helping reclaim the identity of Vietnam veteran Alwyn “Shorty” Craig, from decades of anonymity on the streets to long‑term housing, medical care and reunion with his family.

Over the last five years, Wanda has served as the Secretary and Public Officer for Zara’s House, forging key partnerships with the Red Cross, University of Newcastle and TAFE NSW, to build disaster resilience and create skills and employment pathways for refugee women.

She has also assisted numerous refugees to eliminate debt and serves as the coordinator of a bilingual early education program, providing teachers with age‑appropriate activities tailored to each child.

City of Newcastle also announced its Citizen of the Year, honouring a community champion whose personal adversity has driven him to create meaningful change for local families.

Peter ‘Sleapy’ Sleap is a well-known character in Newcastle who has been recognised for transforming his own stage‑four throat cancer survival into a powerful force for good.

Since 2019, Peter’s charity Sleapy’s Foundation has delivered immediate financial relief, meaningful experiences and practical programs for cancer victims and their families, with 99 percent of all funds going directly back into the community. 

In the past year, Sleapy’s Foundation raised $250,000 at its annual Sleapy’s Day event, supported more than 160 local families, provided Cancer Care Bags for patients at Calvary Mater Hospital and led a $500,000 project to establish a courtyard at the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit at John Hunter Hospital.

Rounding out this year’s honours, City of Newcastle has also named its Young Citizen of the Year and Community Group of the Year, acknowledging the contributions of emerging leaders and vital community organisations.

Young Citizen of the Year went to 21-year-old Alyssa Wharton, who was acknowledged for her leadership in cricket, where she mentors young players, organises cricket carnivals and serves as the Cricket Blast Coordinator, growing the program from eight to 50 participants in just three years.

As the only female umpire in the Newcastle Junior Cricket Association, she pushed for junior girls’ games to encourage visibility and representation and was named Cricket NSW’s 2025 Young Leader of the Year.

Community Group of the Year went to Jenny’s Place Women’s Refuge for its long-standing commitment to assist women and children experiencing domestic violence and homelessness.

In the past year, Jenny’s Place Women’s Refuge supported more than 1200 women and children through crisis accommodation, outreach casework and early‑intervention programs.

The organisation continues to enhance its support model, establishing the Community Transport Program in 2025 to help clients without access to a vehicle or who have difficulty affording public transport.

City of Newcastle’s annual Citizen of the Year awards formally recognise the outstanding contributions of exemplary Novocastrians over the past year.

City of Newcastle is adding the finishing touches to a $2.1 million project which is improving
safety for all road users at two key intersections in Hamilton South.

Upgrades to the roundabouts at Smith and National Park Streets along with new on-road cycle
lanes have created a safer, more comfortable journey for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

Features of the project include the realignment of kerbs, the addition of six speed bumps, new
shared path crossings and off-road cyclist bypasses, which will make it easier for people of all
ages and abilities to move around the area safely and confidently.

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

City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager of Transport and Regulation Ryan Tranter said Parkway
Avenue is an important connecting route for schools, sportsgrounds, shopping centres and
beaches.

“These changes have been designed to cater for everyone who travels through the area,” Mr
Tranter said.

“We’ve made it safer for all users by slowing traffic on approach to the roundabouts, providing
off-road cyclist bypasses at each roundabout, as well as designated on-road cycle lanes with a
clear buffer to parked vehicles.

“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.

“We’ve worked closely with Newcastle High to ensure the project aligns with the school’s
transport management plans and supports NSW Schools Infrastructure’s current campus
development project, ensuring the new connections support the expected increase of students.

“The two raised shared path crossings on Parkway Avenue in front of the school will also improve
pedestrian safety and we made sure to retain the heritage character of Parkway Avenue and its
beautiful tree-lined median.

“Our engagement period in 2024 showed the community overwhelming supported the safety and
cycling improvements this project is delivering.”

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said the completion of the Parkway Avenue
project is a real win for our community.

“These improvements make it safer and easier for people of all ages to walk, ride and connect
with their neighbourhood,” Ms Claydon said.

“Good cycling infrastructure saves lives. By providing options to separate bikes from traffic and
improving visibility, we’re making our streets safer for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike.

“This project, backed by a $469,000 investment from the Albanese Labor Government, is about
giving people genuine transport choices.

“Whether you’re riding to school, commuting to work, or out for exercise, this cycleway delivers
safer connections and a healthier, more liveable Newcastle.”

In addition to the black spot funding which addressed the roundabout safety improvements and
the two shared-path crossings, City of Newcastle has funded additional upgrades including the
eight shared-path cyclist roundabout bypasses and the two on-road cycle lanes.

The project aligns with City of Newcastle’s ‘On Our Bikes’ Cycling Plan (2021-2030) and will
support future cycleway connections to the Harbour Foreshore, creating a more connected,
accessible city.

Newcastle Cycleways Movement president Nev Jones said the project design offers choices for
cyclists.

“The shared paths and crossings are there for less confident riders, while experienced cyclists
can continue through the roundabout on-road by claiming the lane,” Mr Jones said.

“The changes to Parkway Avenue near Newcastle High School are expected to slow vehicle
speeds at the roundabouts, improving safety for pedestrians and people of all ages riding bikes.
“The changes are a positive step toward a safer school precinct.”

City of Newcastle will complete the final stage of the project by early February including line
marking, signage and landscaping.

The Minns and Albanese Labor governments, in partnership with Singleton Council, have today cut the ribbon on a major upgrade to Brunners Bridge at Mitchells Flat – strengthening freight access, and improving safety in the Upper Hunter.

The $7.2 million upgrade replaces an ageing bridge with a modern, heavy-duty crossing designed to carry larger freight vehicles and better connect local communities.

The project was jointly funded, with $6.5 million from the NSW Government and $700,000 from the Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

For communities in the Upper Hunter, Brunners Bridge is a vital everyday connection – linking Singleton, Elderslie and Gresford and providing access to the Hunter Regional Livestock Exchange. The Bridge also supports families, connecting them to work, schools and local services.

With a heavier load limit of 68.5 tonnes, the upgraded bridge improves reliability, supports local industry and keeps the region connected when it matters most.

The upgrade involved full demolition of the old structure and construction of a new bridge, culvert and approaches. Wider lanes and an improved road surface allow heavier vehicles to cross safely, reducing pressure on surrounding local roads and improving safety for all road users.

This upgrade follows the recent completion of Kilfoyles Bridge in Singleton, a critical project delivered under the jointly funded Australian and NSW Governments Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements in response to the 2022 NSW floods. The project has improved road safety, strengthened connectivity and boosted flood resilience for residents, visitors and freight operators across the Upper Hunter.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain MP:

Projects like these are critical to ensuring regional infrastructure can safely accommodate modern freight and vehicles.

Replacing the previous bridge, which dates back around 80 years, will help keep communities safely and reliably connected.”

Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison MP:

The completion of this project is great news for locals, visitors and businesses in the Upper Hunter.

Brunners Bridge isn’t just concrete and steel, it’s a daily link for families, farmers and freight in the Upper Hunter.

In Regional NSW, roads are not a convenience. They are the lifeblood that connects people to work, school and services, and keeps freight and agriculture moving. That’s why upgrading local bridges like this matters so much.

The Minns Labor Government is backing regions like the Upper Hunter with tangible investments – building stronger connections and supporting regional economies.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi MP:

This is a great example of all levels of government working together to deliver a great outcome for the Upper Hunter.

This important local project will boost road safety and connectivity for residents, visitors and freight vehicles.

The local communities, freight and agribusiness industry, transport and the wider economy will all benefit from this significant investment.”

Quotes attributable to Singleton Mayor, Cr Sue Moore:

Brunners Bridge has been a longstanding priority in Council’s Infrastructure Advocacy Agenda, and its reopening marks a proud milestone for Singleton. It’s a vital route designed to meet the needs of modern freight and agricultural vehicles.

Gresford Road, where Brunners Bridge crosses Glendon Brook, is an essential freight corridor for the region’s agricultural producers, linking them to the Hunter Regional Livestock Exchange and beyond.

The replacement of this bridge means larger trucks carrying heavier freight loads can now cross safely and efficiently. Increasing the bridge’s load capacity not only improves safety and reliability but also supports the growth of local agribusiness and helps reduce heavy vehicle traffic in surrounding areas.

This project has been years in the making, and I want to sincerely thank the local community for their patience throughout the construction period, especially during the extended road closure.

It’s a testament to the power of collaboration across all levels of government, and an excellent example of infrastructure investment that delivers long-term benefits for the Singleton community.”

A motor cycle rider has died after a crash in the state’s Hunter region.

About 10.35am today (Monday 26 January 2026), emergency services responded to reports of a crash between a motorcycle and a Toyota Hilux along Putty Road, Howes Valley, approximately 50km south-west of Singleton.

The rider – a 21-year-old man – died prior to the arrival of emergency services.

The 48-year-old male driver of the Hilux was uninjured and was taken to Singleton Hospital for mandatory testing.

Officers from Hunter Valley Police District have established a coronial scene and commenced an investigation into the incident where a report will be prepared for the information of the coroner.

Putty Road between Putty and Milbrodale is currently closed and is expected to remain a coronial scene for a considerable amount of time.

Motorists are urged to avoid the area.

A motorcycle rider has died after crashing in the state’s Hunter region.

Shortly after 8.30am today (Sunday 25 January 2026), emergency services were called to Sandy Creek Road, Mount Vincent, following reports of a crash.

Officers from Hunter Valley Police District arrived to find a motorcycle had left the roadway and crashed into a tree.

The rider – a man believed to be aged in his 60s – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for serious injuries, however died at the scene.

He is yet to be formally identified.

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

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