January 2022 will usher in a new year – and a new career – for 12 trainees, apprentices and graduates as Newcastle looks to create employment opportunities for the city’s young people as part of its response to COVID-19.
City of Newcastle will begin recruiting for its annual intake of early career positions this month, with roles available across a range of sectors including business services, customer service, greenkeeping, horticulture, conservation, metal fabrication, carpentry, civil construction and human resources.
Successful applicants will begin work towards the end of January, bringing City of Newcastle’s number of apprentices, trainees, undergraduates and graduates to forty-two.
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said that as one of the largest employers in the region, City of Newcastle has an important role to play in creating career pathways and ongoing job opportunities.
“COVID-19 has been one of the most challenging periods for local jobseekers, with an economic downturn, rising unemployment levels and the restrictions put in place as part of the lockdown orders,” Cr Clausen said.
“Young people have borne the brunt of these impacts, with youth unemployment levels in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie rising to almost 20 per cent earlier this year, significantly higher than the state average.
“Supporting and creating local job opportunities continues to be an important part of our response to the pandemic.
“This includes boosting our 2021/22 works program, which will support the local economy and help create new jobs, and forging ahead with our next intake of apprentices, trainees and graduates, to ensure there are quality early career opportunities for young people available in Newcastle.
“Importantly, these positions offer a foot in the door that can lead to meaningful employment in the longer term.
“In the past 12 months we’ve been able to transition 10 of our trainees and apprentices into permanent or ongoing temporary work opportunities with us, with three of these also undertaking further tertiary studies supported by City of Newcastle. An additional four staff employed under the graduate program have also secured permanent positions.
“With more than 20 of our current apprentices and trainees under the age of 24, City of Newcastle fosters an environment where young staff can learn from experienced professionals. In return these youth employees offer us the passion and enthusiasm that comes with commencing a full-time work career.”
Tarryn Collison-Marsh was among those who made the successful transition into a full-time role this year after previously gaining an apprenticeship in Civil Construction and Road Maintenance in January 2019.
“Obtaining my apprenticeship was not only a kickstart to commence a career at City of Newcastle but also a great stepping stone for a future in the civil construction industry,” the 21-year-old said.
“I’ve learned many skills that will not only greatly benefit me in my career but also in everyday life, such as greater communication skills and the ability to complete my own projects.
“This year I commenced a Diploma in Civil Construction Design and hope to continue my work and study options with City of Newcastle to eventually achieve my goal of becoming a Civil Engineer working on major projects for the Newcastle community.”
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Financials highlight cost of COVID but strong foundation holds City in good stead for future
The two-and-a-half month lockdown of Newcastle is expected to cost the City of Newcastle $8.5 million this year alone with the biggest financial hits coming from the loss of tonnages to the waste management centre at Summerhill, the temporary closure of the Civic Theatre, the closure of the Stockton Holiday Park and a reduction in the number of people using parking meters in the CBD as well as parking tickets being issued.
In an effort to stimulate the local economy as it begins the climb out of lockdown, the City of Newcastle will propose at this month’s Council meeting to increase this year’s infrastructure program by $14 million to an overall record $104.7 million.
The combination of the financial impact of the lockdown combined with the economic stimulus package is forecast to reduce the City’s operating result from continuing operations to a modest surplus of just $2.153 million.
If grants and contributions provided for capital purposes such as developer contributions, state and federal road funding programs are not included then it would be a deficit of $11.635 million.
Due to the City’s prudent management of its financial position prior to the pandemic, the additional infrastructure work can be funded from its cash reserves.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the City has made a conscious decision to provide financial relief and support for vulnerable groups and business, and to expand existing services, while increasing investment in projects to stimulate the local economy and support jobs.
“The latest outbreak of COVID-19 and subsequent restrictions have placed significant strain on our community and our current budget, however as a Council we understand the importance of providing targeted responses and support for those in need,” Cr Nelmes said.
“Council unanimously voted in August to move forward with additional COVID support measures, including rapid response grants to support our vulnerable community members, business training and mentoring programs and economic development and community grants.
“We have also boosted our 2021/22 works program by more than $14 million to a record $104.7 million, which will support the local economy and help create new jobs.
“These crucial decisions were only possible due to our strong financial sustainability, a legacy of delivering six consecutive operating surpluses prior to the pandemic.”
The $8.5 million impact of COVID-19 on the City’s forecast income includes:
- $2.6 million reduction in income caused by waste trucks from Sydney being locked out of the Summerhill Waste Management Centre due to the public health orders affecting the Greater Sydney region
- $2 million loss of ticket sales from the closure of Civic Theatre and other City facilities
- $1 million reduction in parking meter revenue
- $1.3 million reduction in parking tickets
- $600,000 reduction from bookings to the Stockton Holiday Park.
CEO Jeremy Bath said City of Newcastle was well-placed to weather these short-term economic fluctuations because of its strong financial foundations, while the increased works program will have far-reaching benefits.
“Just like the majority of businesses and organisations in our city and region, our organisation has been significantly affected by COVID-19,” Mr Bath said.
“We are fortunate that, despite the impacts of COVID, we have been able to manage these financial setbacks without them threatening the sustainability of the organisation or requiring us to consider other measures such as rate increases or reduced staffing levels.
“Prudent economic management has enabled us to cope with this economic downturn, while our decision to increase our works program to a record $104.7 million will stimulate the local economy, provide enhanced facilities for our community and create new employment opportunities, with every one million dollars we spend generating about 10 new local jobs.
“Importantly, the budget will continue to be fully funded from the City’s cash reserves, which have been built on the back of six years of strong financial management and surpluses.”
Mr Bath said the Long Term Financial Plan adopted earlier this year indicates that the budget will be in surplus next year and remain so for the next 10 years, allowing the City to continue to support existing services and invest in new and upgraded infrastructure to improve the livelihood and wellbeing of our community.
Residents and visitors set for one more summer splash before Newcastle Ocean Baths' upgrade
City of Newcastle Councillors will vote on Tuesday to award the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade contract with the site to close early next year and be off limits for just one summer.
Six companies submitted tenders for the Stage 1 works which were assessed against a range of criteria and a recommended construction program that would limit disruption and impact on baths users.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said having Newcastle Ocean Baths open through the upcoming holiday period would allow locals and returning tourists to enjoy the iconic pools with COVID-19 restrictions lifted.
“Newcastle Ocean Baths turns 100 next year and while this upgrade is well-needed, starting construction after this coming summer means locals who have been staying home and visitors itching to get back to Newcastle can enjoy the space over the holidays,” Cr Nelmes said.
“The upgrade to Newcastle Ocean Baths’ pools, lower promenades and pumping system is significant, which means that shutting after this coming summer it’s expected construction will continue through to Autumn 2023.
“This summer I encourage everyone to visit Newcastle Ocean Baths and enjoy this iconic local facility before it undergoes a generational upgrade and is returned improved for the community in 2023.”
City of Newcastle Acting Director of Infrastructure and Property, Joanne Rigby, said the preferred tenderer was determined after a thorough tender process involving an independent external probity advisor.
“The preferred tenderer has significant experience in large construction projects and their response to the tender demonstrated a thorough understanding of the construction requirements,” Ms Rigby said.
The City of Newcastle is committed to funding the renewal of Newcastle Ocean Baths in full and will direct the $9.5 million recovered from the sale of the Frederick Ash Building to the project. Stage 1 of the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade received $3 million in funding from the NSW Government’s Public Spaces Legacy Program.
Sporting facilities set for upgrades thanks to City of Newcastle grant funding
Sporting facility upgrades for Alder Park in New Lambton, Empire Park opposite Bar Beach, Cook Park in Shortland and Hamilton Park Tennis Club are among 59 projects awarded a combined $450,000 in funding from the City of Newcastle.
Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, who is a member of the City’s Liveable Cities Advisory Committee, said the grant funding is eligible to projects that improve sportsgrounds used by grassroots sporting clubs.
“Novocastrians love their sport, which is why City of Newcastle is committed to assisting local clubs with projects that will benefit the region’s players for years to come,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.
“Grant funding provides clubs the opportunity to enhance the facilities they use on a weekly basis, without impacting upon the cost of playing.
“The injection of $450,000 of grant funding into the local economy will also assist in the creation of jobs as Newcastle recovers from COVID-19 and the recent lockdown.”
Image: Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz and New Lambton FC President Clayton Harrison at Alder Park, which will benefit from new seating thanks to City of Newcastle grant funding.
New Lambton Eagles Football Club President Clayton Harrison said that the grant funding secured through City of Newcastle’s Infrastructure Grants Program will be used to enhance spectator experience with new seating at Alder Park.
“We’re grateful for the financial support from City of Newcastle, which will allow our club to install tiered seating at Alder Park in New Lambton,” Mr Harrison said.
“The seating will not only benefit New Lambton FC spectators throughout the winter season, but also the athletics community which operates from the park during summer.”
Financial support has also been provided to Wallsend Football Club for playing surface improvements at Cook Park, Hamilton Park Tennis Club for electrical upgrades and Merewether District Cricket Club for irrigation upgrades at Empire Park.
The Community Support and Infrastructure Grants assist a wide variety of projects across diverse funding streams including arts, culture and heritage projects, environmental programs and social inclusion initiatives. Façade improvement projects and sustainability initiatives have also been funded through the program.
New Federal Court judges welcome, but long overdue
It has been eight long years of pleading with successive Liberal governments to properly resource our Federal Courts in Newcastle, so news of two new Federal Courts judges being appointed to our courts is certainly welcome. This is a huge win for the people of Newcastle and our region.
The Newcastle Registry had been down a senior judge for more than two months since the former Judge Janet Terry reached the mandatory retirement age of 70. But leaving judicial positions vacant for months on end has become a shocking pattern of neglectful behaviour under this government.
It has taken eight long years, three different attorney-generals, and the abolition of our stand alone family court system, for the Liberal Government to finally accept that our Federal Courts are at breaking point.
It’s more than time that the Commonwealth Attorney-General prioritised our community interests over and above the narrow political interests of the Morrison Government.
Given the heavy caseload in the Newcastle Registry, and the complexities of these cases, which often involve the trauma of marital breakdown, domestic violence, drug abuse and child custody disputes, it is beyond doubt that Newcastle was entitled to additional resources.
I welcome the appointment of Ms Julie Kearney to replace Judge Janet Terry and Ms Vivienne Carty as an additional judge to Newcastle’s Federal Courts. They have an enormous workload ahead – made worse by the Morrison Government’s continuous attacks on the Family Court – and must be properly resourced to do their jobs.
The Federal Government has a very clear responsibility to provide efficient and appropriate judicial and court services to the people of Newcastle. Having neglected our Federal Courts for so long, the Attorney-General must now fix the damage done.
It’s time for the Morrison Government to put an end to this reckless management of our Federal Courts once and for all.
The Newcastle Registry had been down a senior judge for more than two months since the former Judge Janet Terry reached the mandatory retirement age of 70. But leaving judicial positions vacant for months on end has become a shocking pattern of neglectful behaviour under this government.
It has taken eight long years, three different attorney-generals, and the abolition of our stand alone family court system, for the Liberal Government to finally accept that our Federal Courts are at breaking point.
It’s more than time that the Commonwealth Attorney-General prioritised our community interests over and above the narrow political interests of the Morrison Government.
Given the heavy caseload in the Newcastle Registry, and the complexities of these cases, which often involve the trauma of marital breakdown, domestic violence, drug abuse and child custody disputes, it is beyond doubt that Newcastle was entitled to additional resources.
I welcome the appointment of Ms Julie Kearney to replace Judge Janet Terry and Ms Vivienne Carty as an additional judge to Newcastle’s Federal Courts. They have an enormous workload ahead – made worse by the Morrison Government’s continuous attacks on the Family Court – and must be properly resourced to do their jobs.
The Federal Government has a very clear responsibility to provide efficient and appropriate judicial and court services to the people of Newcastle. Having neglected our Federal Courts for so long, the Attorney-General must now fix the damage done.
It’s time for the Morrison Government to put an end to this reckless management of our Federal Courts once and for all.
Competition calls all Novocastrian shutterbugs
Building on the huge success of 2020, Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon has launched the 2021 Newcastle Photography competition today, calling on all budding and seasoned photographers alike to capture the essence of Newcastle on camera.
The winning photo will be featured on her annual Christmas Card.
“The winning photograph will be showcased in a card that will be sent to every household in the city as well as businesses and community groups in our area and dignitaries such as Members of Parliament, Ambassadors and the Governor-General.” Ms Claydon said.
“The winner will also receive a $150 voucher and the three runners-up will receive a $50 each to spend at MacLean’s Booksellers or any one of the dozens of creative, independent and locally owned Makers and Traders Newcastle businesses.”
Ms Claydon said the photo must be taken in the electorate of Newcastle by a Novocastrian.
“I’ll be keeping my eye out for photos which feature Newcastle’s breathtaking beauty and its unique character.”
“The photo can come from any sort of camera, smartphone or drone, but it must have been taken this year,” Ms Claydon said.
“But you’ll need to get in quick because entries close in a few short weeks on Monday, 8 November.”
“It’s been a tough year for Novocastrians, and I look forward to seeing the incredible artistic talent our community has to offer.”
“If last year’s entries are anything to go by, we can look forward to a wonderful and diverse selection of photographs showcasing our beautiful city.”
For more information or to upload your photo visit https://www.sharonclaydon.com/local_issues
The winning photo will be featured on her annual Christmas Card.
“The winning photograph will be showcased in a card that will be sent to every household in the city as well as businesses and community groups in our area and dignitaries such as Members of Parliament, Ambassadors and the Governor-General.” Ms Claydon said.
“The winner will also receive a $150 voucher and the three runners-up will receive a $50 each to spend at MacLean’s Booksellers or any one of the dozens of creative, independent and locally owned Makers and Traders Newcastle businesses.”
Ms Claydon said the photo must be taken in the electorate of Newcastle by a Novocastrian.
“I’ll be keeping my eye out for photos which feature Newcastle’s breathtaking beauty and its unique character.”
“The photo can come from any sort of camera, smartphone or drone, but it must have been taken this year,” Ms Claydon said.
“But you’ll need to get in quick because entries close in a few short weeks on Monday, 8 November.”
“It’s been a tough year for Novocastrians, and I look forward to seeing the incredible artistic talent our community has to offer.”
“If last year’s entries are anything to go by, we can look forward to a wonderful and diverse selection of photographs showcasing our beautiful city.”
For more information or to upload your photo visit https://www.sharonclaydon.com/local_issues
Man airlifted after unit fire – Newcastle
Police remain at the scene of a unit fire in Newcastle’s CBD this morning.
About 6.45am (Thursday 21 October 2021), emergency services were called to Darby Street, Cooks Hill, following reports a unit was well alight.
As residents evacuated the building, they assisted a 41-year-old man from his unit.
He was treated by an off-duty nurse prior to the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics; he was then airlifted to Royal North Shore Hospital for treatment to severe burns.
Crews from Fire and Rescue NSW extinguished the blaze a short time later.
Darby Street has since reopened to traffic. Officers from Newcastle City Police District have established a crime scene and have commenced an investigation into the circumstances and cause of the fire.
Employment opportunities in focus as City responds to COVID-19
January 2022 will usher in a new year – and a new career – for 12 trainees, apprentices and graduates as Newcastle looks to create employment opportunities for the city’s young people as part of its response to COVID-19.
City of Newcastle will begin recruiting for its annual intake of early career positions this month, with roles available across a range of sectors including business services, customer service, greenkeeping, horticulture, conservation, metal fabrication, carpentry, civil construction and human resources.
Successful applicants will begin work towards the end of January, bringing City of Newcastle’s number of apprentices, trainees, undergraduates and graduates to forty-two.
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said that as one of the largest employers in the region, City of Newcastle has an important role to play in creating career pathways and ongoing job opportunities.
“COVID-19 has been one of the most challenging periods for local jobseekers, with an economic downturn, rising unemployment levels and the restrictions put in place as part of the lockdown orders,” Cr Clausen said.
“Young people have borne the brunt of these impacts, with youth unemployment levels in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie rising to almost 20 per cent earlier this year, significantly higher than the state average.
“Supporting and creating local job opportunities continues to be an important part of our response to the pandemic.
“This includes boosting our 2021/22 works program, which will support the local economy and help create new jobs, and forging ahead with our next intake of apprentices, trainees and graduates, to ensure there are quality early career opportunities for young people available in Newcastle.
“Importantly, these positions offer a foot in the door that can lead to meaningful employment in the longer term.
“In the past 12 months we’ve been able to transition 10 of our trainees and apprentices into permanent or ongoing temporary work opportunities with us, with three of these also undertaking further tertiary studies supported by City of Newcastle. An additional four staff employed under the graduate program have also secured permanent positions.
“With more than 20 of our current apprentices and trainees under the age of 24, City of Newcastle fosters an environment where young staff can learn from experienced professionals. In return these youth employees offer us the passion and enthusiasm that comes with commencing a full-time work career.”
Tarryn Collison-Marsh was among those who made the successful transition into a full-time role this year after previously gaining an apprenticeship in Civil Construction and Road Maintenance in January 2019.
“Obtaining my apprenticeship was not only a kickstart to commence a career at City of Newcastle but also a great stepping stone for a future in the civil construction industry,” the 21-year-old said.
“I’ve learned many skills that will not only greatly benefit me in my career but also in everyday life, such as greater communication skills and the ability to complete my own projects.
“This year I commenced a Diploma in Civil Construction Design and hope to continue my work and study options with City of Newcastle to eventually achieve my goal of becoming a Civil Engineer working on major projects for the Newcastle community.”
City of Newcastle will begin recruiting for its annual intake of early career positions this month, with roles available across a range of sectors including business services, customer service, greenkeeping, horticulture, conservation, metal fabrication, carpentry, civil construction and human resources.
Successful applicants will begin work towards the end of January, bringing City of Newcastle’s number of apprentices, trainees, undergraduates and graduates to forty-two.
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said that as one of the largest employers in the region, City of Newcastle has an important role to play in creating career pathways and ongoing job opportunities.
“COVID-19 has been one of the most challenging periods for local jobseekers, with an economic downturn, rising unemployment levels and the restrictions put in place as part of the lockdown orders,” Cr Clausen said.
“Young people have borne the brunt of these impacts, with youth unemployment levels in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie rising to almost 20 per cent earlier this year, significantly higher than the state average.
“Supporting and creating local job opportunities continues to be an important part of our response to the pandemic.
“This includes boosting our 2021/22 works program, which will support the local economy and help create new jobs, and forging ahead with our next intake of apprentices, trainees and graduates, to ensure there are quality early career opportunities for young people available in Newcastle.
“Importantly, these positions offer a foot in the door that can lead to meaningful employment in the longer term.
“In the past 12 months we’ve been able to transition 10 of our trainees and apprentices into permanent or ongoing temporary work opportunities with us, with three of these also undertaking further tertiary studies supported by City of Newcastle. An additional four staff employed under the graduate program have also secured permanent positions.
“With more than 20 of our current apprentices and trainees under the age of 24, City of Newcastle fosters an environment where young staff can learn from experienced professionals. In return these youth employees offer us the passion and enthusiasm that comes with commencing a full-time work career.”
Tarryn Collison-Marsh was among those who made the successful transition into a full-time role this year after previously gaining an apprenticeship in Civil Construction and Road Maintenance in January 2019.
“Obtaining my apprenticeship was not only a kickstart to commence a career at City of Newcastle but also a great stepping stone for a future in the civil construction industry,” the 21-year-old said.
“I’ve learned many skills that will not only greatly benefit me in my career but also in everyday life, such as greater communication skills and the ability to complete my own projects.
“This year I commenced a Diploma in Civil Construction Design and hope to continue my work and study options with City of Newcastle to eventually achieve my goal of becoming a Civil Engineer working on major projects for the Newcastle community.”
Man charged with assaulting store employee after allegedly refusing to wear face mask – Upper Hunter region
A man has been charged after refusing to wear a face mask in-store and allegedly assaulting a store worker in the Upper Hunter region yesterday.
About 4.15pm (Tuesday 19 October 2021), a 30-year-old man was working at a food store on Mayne Street, Murrurundi when a man entered the store without wearing a face mask.
The store employee offered the man a mask, when the man allegedly became verbally aggressive towards the worker and left the store.
A short time later, the man returned to the store and walked behind the counter, before allegedly assaulting the employee repeatedly and attempting to drag him from the store while threatening him.
Customers went to the aid of the injured man, and the man left the scene.
The store employee was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics for cuts and bruises to his face and swelling to his left eye, before being taken to Murrurundi Hospital. He has since been released.
Officers from Hunter Valley Police District were called and commenced investigations.
Following inquiries, police attended a home on Rosella Street, Murrurundi, and arrested a 53-year-old man.
He was taken to Muswellbrook Police Station where he was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
The man was granted conditional bail, to appear at Scone Local Court on 18 November 2021.
Nominations now open for City of Newcastle 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards
As another challenging year draws to a close, City of Newcastle is calling for nominations for its 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards to recognise the strength, resilience and excellence of Novocastrians.
Nominations are being sought for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year and Community Group of the Year, with consideration given across each category to nominees’ community contributions throughout 2021.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the awards recognised the outstanding achievements of everyday Novocastrians.
“This year has been just as, if not more, testing than 2020, with the Newcastle community feeling the sustained effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic,” Cr Nelmes said.
“The City of Newcastle 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards are our opportunity to formally acknowledge those among us who have risen to the challenge to improve, innovate, support and lead – it could be your neighbour, friend or colleague.”
The 2022 recipients, to be announced at an award ceremony in January, will be in esteemed company. Past Citizens of the Year include Indigenous ENT surgeon Professor Kelvin Kong; ovarian cancer awareness campaigner and ABC radio presenter, the late Jill Emberson; and three-time Paralympic gold medalist Kurt Fearnley OAM.
A proud Worimi man and passionate advocate for health equality between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations, devoting time to working in remote Australian communities and contributing to vital research at the Hunter Medical Research Institute, Dr Kong has ascended from Associate Professor to Professor during his time as 2021 Citizen of the Year.
“I was humbled to accept the award earlier this year on behalf of all of Newcastle, following proudly in the footsteps of such extraordinary Novocastrians including Jill Emberson, whom I admire to this day,” Prof Kong said.
“I am honoured as your 2021 Citizen of the Year to represent First Nations people who have been practicing medicine in this country for 60,000 years. This important work does not stop when I pass the baton to the 2022 Citizen of the Year, whose contributions I’m certain will further exemplify what the award means and the recognition it brings.”
Nominations are now open online at newcastle.nsw.gov.au/citizenoftheyear or via hardcopy form available on the website or at City of Newcastle’s City Administration Centre. Nominations close 5pm Wednesday 17 November 2021 and will be judged by the City of Newcastle Award Panel consisting of the Lord Mayor, CEO, Councillors, The Grainery Church Pastor Sue Irwin and the current Citizen of the Year Award holders.