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NACC puts out the trash but keeps its Commissioner – for now

The NACC has announced that Commissioner Brereton will no longer participate in consideration of Defence referrals. They did this in a statement on its website on the afternoon of Friday 31 October announcing that Commissioner Brereton “has decided that he will not participate in consideration of any referrals which involve the interests of any Defence or ADF individual or unit that is or comes before the Commission, regardless of whether it might reasonably be perceived to involve a conflict”.

The NACC goes on to say “The Commissioner is taking this step, although it is unnecessary from the perspective of properly managing actual or apparent conflicts, solely in an endeavour to recentre the focus on our important operational and educational work.”

Senator David Shoebridge, Greens Justice and Defence Spokesperson said:

“This is a ‘major-general’ backdown from Commissioner Brereton who, up until now, tried to stare down the growing public revolt over the conflicts of interest.

“In a show of contempt for transparency the NACC only disclosed this major development with a website post put up after 5pm on Friday night. There’s a name for this, it’s called, “putting out the trash.”

“This announcement leaves so many unanswered questions:

– Why is Commissioner Brereton still a Major-General in the ADF?

– What happens to all the defence referrals he has been working on, and making decisions on, until now?

– Why is Commissioner Brereton being paid over $800k a year not to work on defence referrals?

“Defence, which is embroiled in a series of multi-million dollar procurement scandals, is one of the largest customers for the NACC which had over 120 Defence referrals as at April this year.

“It is not just that the NACC’s statement came late on a Friday night, so too did the Government’s tabling of the NACC Annual Report which was over two weeks late.

“Astoundingly, given the serial failures of the NACC Commissioner Brereton to deal with conflicts of interest in his own role, the NACC says conflicts of interest is one of its three main corruption prevention themes.

“Corruption complaints concerning conflicts of interest are also identified in the NACC annual report as major elements of its ongoing work.

“It remains untenable for Commission Brereton to stay as the NACC Commissioner given his repeated failure to deal with his own conflicts of interest.

“This latest step only highlights the damage he has done to the NACC’s public standing.

“Anti-corruption agencies should be modelling best practice, not cynically making significant announcements late on Friday afternoons.

“The Albanese Government needs to act and, if Commissioner Brereton will not leave of his accord, bring the matter before the Parliament for a decision on his future,” Senator Shoebridge said.

Southern Star Research takes out top prize at NSW Export Awards

A Sydney-based company helping to accelerate clinical trials and bring new medical products to market has been named Exporter of the Year at the NSW Export Awards.

Southern Star Research received the honour at a gala ceremony last night alongside a win in the International Health Category.

As an Australian Contract Research Organisation, Southern Star Research works with biotech and pharmaceutical companies to manage trials, track results and gain regulatory approvals for their clients’ treatments.

The Minns Labor Government has backed Southern Star Research through its Going Global Export Programs for the last two years, bringing their expertise and services to the competitive Greater China, South Korea and US markets.

The business took part in the Going Global Health to USA Program in 2023, supported by InvestmentNSW’s trade representatives with pitch coaching, business matching and introductions to US partners.

Southern Star Research’s success is a testament to the strength of the NSW healthcare sector, which contributes $60 billion to the state’s economy. It also highlights the positive impact of the NSW Government’s export programs and how local businesses are being supported to achieve international growth objectives.

This support will grow even stronger as the NSW Government continues to implement its Trade and Investment Strategy. More than 30 Going Global Export Programs and Going Global Trade Missions will be delivered over the next year, supporting up to 350 NSW businesses to thrive in the international marketplace.

Southern Star Research was among 18 other NSW businesses from a diverse range of industries including agribusiness, food and beverages, resources and energy and manufacturing and advanced materials that were celebrated at the NSW Export Awards last night.

Now in its 63^rd year, the Awards celebrate the contribution exporters make to NSW through diversification, job creation and increased economic prosperity.

For a full list of the 2025 NSW Export Award winners, visit the Export Council of Australia.

The winners in the 14 national categories will now progress as finalists for the Australian Export Awards, to be held in Canberra on Wednesday 26 November 2025.

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“I want to congratulate Southern Star Research for taking out the top prize of NSW Exporter of the Year – the Minns Labor Government is proud to have supported their exporting journey, helping them expand into new markets and create jobs here at home.

“Success stories like Southern Star Research reinforce that we are delivering on our NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, a first-of-its-kind push with clear targets to increase the value of NSW exports.

“We know that exporters generate high revenues, provide more jobs and drive innovation, so that’s why we are excited to help their opportunities grow.

“With quality programs, and a strong network of trade representatives in NSW and around the world, the NSW Government is committed to ensuring our state’s businesses remain competitive and connected on the global stage.”

Minister for Medical Research David Harris said:

“Southern Star Research is just the latest in a long list of outstanding home-grown businesses driving innovation across our state’s medical research sector, and I commend them on their win.

“NSW businesses continue to show that our state is home to world-class products, services and talent in the health technology industry.

“We are proud to see our researchers and developers forging new paths in international markets, setting benchmarks for excellence, and producing technologies that will help millions of Australians.”

Southern Star Research Managing Director and Founder David Lloyd said:

“We’re deeply honoured to receive both the International Health Award for NSW and the NSW Exporter of the Year title.

“These awards reflect the dedication of our team and our commitment to advancing global health through high-quality clinical research. As a proud NSW-based organisation, we’re passionate about showcasing the strength of our local talent and the impact NSW’s innovation can have on the world stage.

Chair of the Export Council of Australia Dianne Tipping said:

“As Chair of the Export Council of Australia, I’m thrilled to congratulate all the exceptional finalists and winners of the 2025 NSW Export Awards.

“This year’s cohort reflects the remarkable diversity, resilience, and innovation that define NSW exporters—from regional trailblazers to global industry leaders. Their achievements not only strengthen our economy but also showcase the world-class capabilities that NSW brings to international markets.

“We’re proud to celebrate their success and the vital role they play in shaping NSW’s future on the global stage.”

Central Darling Shire to have first Council in 12 years

The people of Central Darling Shire have their first Council in 12 years, with the Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig today confirming the three people to serve as appointed councillors alongside the councillors elected by the community.

The new Rural and Remote Council model will enable the Council to draw on a wide range of expertise to ensure that it can address the challenges of service provision in a remote location.

Central Darling will have an equal mix of elected and appointed councillors to ensure strong local representation while maintaining stable governance.

This new model was introduced by the Minns Labor Government to address the unique challenges of larger remote councils and to provide a pathway back to democratic representation for Central Darling Shire after 12 years of administration.

Following the election for the Council’s three wards, Peter Sullivan was elected to Ward A, Max Bradley to Ward B, and Daniel Fusi was declared elected uncontested in Ward C.

The three appointed councillors were determined by the Minister after the election results were declared, to ensure their skills and experience will complement those of the elected councillors.

The appointed councillors are:

Robert (Bob) Stewart – Mr Stewart has served as the Administrator of Central Darling Shire Council since 2019, conducting day to day business during this challenging time which has included fish kills, drought, and floods. Bob has over 40 years of local government experience and understands the specific financial, socioeconomic and environmental challenges for the region.
Fiona Kelly – Ms Kelly is a proud Barkindji/Ngiyampaa woman and Executive Principal of Menindee Central School which she also attended as a student. Ms Kelly has dedicated herself to culture and community, and her leadership at Menindee Central has seen a number of positive changes.
The Hon. Barbara Perry – Ms Perry is a former Auburn Councillor, served 13 years in NSW Parliament as the Member for Auburn and served in several Ministerial roles including Minister for Local Government from 2008-2011. She has a legal background and has significant experience in governance and interaction with the State government.

Bob Stewart has been named as the Chairperson for the new Central Darling Shire Council and will continue to provide strategic direction. The Council can elect a Deputy Chair at its first meeting in December.

All councillors will undergo an induction program to ensure they are ready and equipped to serve the people of Central Darling effectively.

The NSW Government is also providing $6 million in funding to support the Council’s financial stability as it transitions out of administration. This funding, with the agreed program of expenditure, will help the Council address immediate infrastructure priorities, build capacity and deliver local government services across the Shire.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“Returning democratic representation to Central Darling Shire after 12 years under administration was a key priority for the Minns Labor Government and I’m very proud that we’ve reached this point.

“I congratulate both the elected and appointed councillors of Central Darling Shire and I wish them well in their new roles serving this community.

“Central Darling Shire faces unique challenges. The government will continue to work closely with the Council to ensure it has the support it needs.

“I expect all councillors to work together to serve the community, and I look forward to seeing them get down to the business of running the Council.”

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said:

“This is an important day for the communities of Central Darling Shire and means the Council can finally get on with the job. After over a decade in administration this will be just the first step toward the post-administration era.

“The Rural and Remote model, consisting of a mixture of elected and appointed members, was developed in consultation with me and many other local stakeholders to get Central Darling back on the path of having an elected local government. There is scope for changing that model after it gets up and running.

“We want to see all our new councillors succeed, and I look forward to working together with them to deliver for the people of Central Darling.”

Key Health Worker Accommodation boost for Lismore

Communities in Lismore are set to benefit from new Key Health Worker Accommodation, which will help attract and retain essential healthcare staff to the region.

Lismore is one of more than 20 Key Health Worker Accommodation projects in rural, regional and remote NSW across nine local health districts, as part of the Minns Labor Government’s $200.1 million program.

The investment will support the building of new accommodation, refurbishment of existing homes, and the purchase of suitable properties such as residential units, with Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) now seeking development partners.

The new accommodation is planned to include between 10 and 20 self-contained, flood-resilient, studio apartments close to Lismore Base Hospital, ensuring healthcare workers have access to fit-for-purpose, comfortable and convenient accommodation.

NNSWLHD received $34.2 million as part of the program to deliver key health worker accommodation projects in Lismore as well as Grafton and Tweed.

Interested parties can access the Request for Information through the BuyNSW platform.

The new Lismore Key Health Worker Accommodation is expected to be completed by mid-2028.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“The Minns Government is committed to ensuring regional health services have the workforce and infrastructure they need to provide quality care.

“By providing fit-for-purpose, flood-resilient housing in Lismore, we’re removing one of the major barriers to attracting and keeping skilled health professionals in the region.

“This investment will make a real difference to the sustainability of local health services and the community’s access to care.”

NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey:

“NNSWLHD is looking forward to working with potential development partners to deliver high-quality and affordable accommodation.

“We’re seeking innovative and community-minded partners to help us create modern, well-located housing to support our staff.

“We know access to suitable accommodation can make all the difference in recruiting and retaining skilled staff, particularly in regional and remote areas.

“We recognise the importance of this project to our staff and the broader community, and we’ll continue to provide updates as it progresses.”

Fatal motorcycle crash – Kurri Kurri

A man has died following a single-vehicle crash on the state’s Hunter Valley area.

About 5.20pm yesterday (Friday 31 October 2025), emergency services were called to Neilly Street, Kurri Kurri, following reports a motorcycle had hit a parked car, causing the rider to come off the motorcycle and hit the road surface.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District commenced CPR on the rider – a man believed to be aged in his 20s – before he was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, he died at the scene.

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

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

As inquiries continue, anyone with information into the crash or dashcam footage is urged to contact police or Crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Scholarship to continue legacy of Councillor Sinead Francis-Coan

Applications have now opened for a new annual scholarship established to honour former Councillor Sinead Francis-Coan’s lifelong commitment to the environment and climate justice.

Cr Francis-Coan was partway through her first term as a Ward 3 Councillor when she passed away suddenly in June this year.

The scholarship was established through a unanimous notice of motion by the elected Council, to be funded by City of Newcastle and administered by Women’s Environmental Leadership Australia (WELA) for the next three years.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to participate in WELA’s transformative leadership programs, which equip emerging changemakers with the skills to transform Australia’s response to environmental and climate challenges.

Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said the scholarship program ensures Cr Francis-Coan’s inspiring legacy will continue to support future leaders in the years to come.

“Councillor Francis-Coan was a passionate advocate for our climate and environment, equity, feminism and the union movement,” Cr McCabe said.

“This scholarship celebrates her compassionate leadership and remarkable contributions, empowering women and gender-diverse leaders to carry forward her work in creating positive change.”

Before being elected to Council in 2024, Cr Francis-Coan worked as a union organiser and was deeply involved in grassroots movements focused on workers’ rights, environmental protection and gender equity. Since joining the Newcastle Greens in 2014, she has been a role model and mentor to young people and individuals with a disability or experiencing marginalisation.

Lyndall Coan said her daughter’s vision and energy inspired those around her both personally and professionally and hopes this scholarship will empower women and gender-diverse people to develop their leadership potential.

“There are so many gaps Sinead has left behind. These gaps can become pathways for committed, passionate activists with the skills to make a real difference to continue the work that Sinead started,” Ms Coan said.

“I hope that those inspired by Sinead’s unwavering commitment, tenacity and courage will seize this opportunity to grow as leaders. The scholarship is not just financial support, it’s a torch passed forward, inviting women and gender-diverse people to rise, lead, and continue the work Sinead began.”

The Sinead Francis-Coan Scholarship is open to women and gender-diverse changemakers living or working in the Newcastle local government area or who have a meaningful connection to the city.

Scholarship applications will close on 1 February 2026. The scholarship will cover the full program cost of completing the WELA National Leadership Program.

Members of the public who wish to support additional scholarships in memory of Cr Francis-Coan can donate via the WELA website, which has already received more than $3,000 in contributions.

To apply for the scholarship, go to the Scholarships page and scroll to the bottom of the page.

Shine a light on Newcastle’s local legends for 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards

City of Newcastle is providing the opportunity to honour the hard work of outstanding Novocastrians as part of the 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards.

Nominations are now open for the prestigious annual awards, celebrating those who have made a significant impact in Newcastle’s community.

Award categories include Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year and Community Group of the Year.

Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said these awards are a chance to recognise people who make Newcastle a better place to live.

“These awards shine a light on the everyday heroes who go above and beyond to support others, often without recognition,” Cr McCabe said.

“Whether it’s through volunteering, advocacy or simply lending a hand, these contributions strengthen our community and deserve to be celebrated.”

In 2025, the Community Group of the Year title was awarded to The Unforgettables, a choir dedicated to supporting people living with dementia and their carers.

Image: Associate Professors Michelle Kelly and Helen English, alongside the Unforgettables choir for people living with dementia, accepting the 2025 Community Group of the Year title at this year’s ceremony. The group meet every Saturday afternoon at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, providing a welcoming space where participants can engage with music.

Co-founder Associate Professor Helen English said the award meant a lot to everyone involved in the Unforgettables.

“The choir was very proud to have been recognised as the Community Group of the Year, as recognition is so important when you are vulnerable and marginalised due to such an insidious disease,” Dr English said.

“As a result of the award the choir has been asked to sing at more events than it can possibly manage and has become an important icon for the University of Newcastle, singled out in our new Arts and Culture Strategy publication and performing as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations.

“Dementia inclusive choirs are important for many reasons, including the social connections, joy in music and normalising through an accessible activity.

“Recognising our choir reinforces how vital these activities are for both cared-for and care-partners, and we thank City of Newcastle and the wider community.”

Last year’s recipients also included Bailey Myers, who received the Citizen of the Year Award for his 4,500km journey across Australia on foot to raise funds for Indigenous literacy.

Sixteen-year-old Khuslen Batmandakh was named young Citizen of the Year for her dedication to improving literacy through the establishment of the book nook in Jesmond, providing free books to local families.

Nominations are now open online at newcastle.nsw.gov.au/citizenoftheyear and close on 11 December 2025.

A selection panel including the Deputy Lord Mayor, CEO, councillors and the 2025 Award recipients will determine the award winners, who will be announced at a ceremony early in 2026.

Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 28 October 2025

Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 28 October 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.

Ordinary business

Lord Mayor’s absence and delegations to the Deputy Lord Mayor

Council unanimously approved an amended motion to confirm arrangements in relation to the Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge’s leave of absence.

Tabling of register of disclosures of interest annual report

Council voted to endorse the tabling of the Register of Disclosures of Interest for the financial year 2024/25.

Authorisation for signing of the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2025

Council voted unanimously to receive the draft Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2025 and refer them to the Audit Office of New South Wales in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993.

Housing targets for City of Newcastle

Council voted unanimously to call on the NSW Government to accelerate its investment in the enabling infrastructure required to provide 20,000 new homes through the Broadmeadow Place Strategy. Council supported continued advocacy for equitable inclusion in State Government housing reform programs and endorsed exploration of internal planning reforms to accelerate delivery of strategically aligned high-value developments.

Endorsement of public exhibition for the Code of Meeting Practice, Public Voice and Public Briefing Policy

Council endorsed an amended motion to place the Draft Code of Meeting Practice and the Draft Public Voice and Public Briefing Policy on public exhibition for 28 days in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993.

Minmi Road development – transport infrastructure amendments

Council voted on an amended motion to approve the transport infrastructure amendments in Minmi Road, Minmi to be implemented by Winten Pty Ltd to support the Minmi East Subdivision.

Emergency works at Summerhill Waste Management Centre

Council noted a contract undertaken for the treatment and removal of contaminated stormwater at Summerhill Waste Management Centre, which occurred as a result of NSW East Coast Severe Weather from 18 May 2025.

Executive Monthly Performance Report

Council voted unanimously to receive the Executive Monthly Performance Report for September 2025.

Late item

Support for the Newcastle Yowies and hosting of the Koori Knockout

Council voted unanimously for the CEO to approach to the Newcastle Yowies to explore how the City of Newcastle can support and partner with them to host the Koori Knockout in Newcastle in 2026, including consideration of suitable venues, facilities, infrastructure, coordination, and community engagement opportunities.

Notices of Motion

Celebrating the 45th anniversary of Newcastle’s sister city agreement with Ube Japan

Council voted unanimously on an amended notice of motion to endorse the delegation of Councillors Jenny Barrie and Mark Brooker to visit Ube City for three days in November 2025. Council also endorses the establishment of the Newcastle – Ube Sister City Committee to explore opportunities to grow the relationship between Newcastle and Ube.

Construction to kick off new era for Shepherds Hill Cottage

City of Newcastle is moving forward with its plans to renew and re-open the historic Shepherds Hill Cottage to the community.

Work will get underway next week on a $850,000 project that will allow the enviably positioned building to begin its new life as a cafe.

Shepherds Hill Cottage aerial An aerial view of Shepherds Hill Cottage at the top of King Edward Park.

Executive Director Corporate Services, David Clarke, said the adaptive re-use of the Cottage is an essential step in City of Newcastle’s commitment to restoring and preserving the State significant site.

“Shepherds Hill Cottage has stood watch over the city from King Edward Park since the 1890s and remains a cherished landmark along our coastline,” Mr Clarke said.

“As custodians of this historic site we are committed to its long-term preservation and have already invested more than $1 million into the careful restoration of the heritage-listed building, under the guidance of a specialist architect.

“We are now set to embark on the final stage of this renewal, which will deliver the infrastructure required to allow the former mess hall for military officers to come full circle and reopen as a café and restaurant.

“This adaptive re-use will allow the community to once again make use of this remarkable site, ensuring it remains a living part of Newcastle’s story for generations to come.”

The project is supported with a $465,000 grant from the NSW Government through the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund.

State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said the project would allow visitors to step into the past while enjoying modern facilities.

“Shepherds Hill Cottage is a much-loved site for Novocastrians, which is steeped in history while also being full of potential for the future,” Mr Crakanthorp said.

“The NSW Government is proud to be able to deliver almost half a million dollars in funding for this project, which will unlock this beautiful site’s potential and be of great benefit to Novocastrians and tourists alike.”

The 182sqm building sits at the mid-point on the popular Bathers Way coastal walk and has one of the best vantage points in Newcastle with views of the Pacific Ocean, Port Stephens and the Newcastle coastline through to Dudley.

City of Newcastle has engaged a heritage consultant to oversee the construction work on the building and café space, which will include the installation of a new commercial kitchen and cool room as well as upgraded amenities.

A new footpath and ramped access to the entrance will ensure the building caters for all members of the community, while interpretive signage will also be installed to highlight the heritage of the site.

An expression of interest process was carried out to select a café operator for the site, with final negotiations underway with the successful applicant.

The construction work will be followed by an internal fit-out by the operator, with the café expected to be open early to mid next year.

Shepherds Hill Cottage forms part of the Newcastle Recreation Reserve and Shepherds Hill Defence Group Military Installations precinct listed on the NSW Heritage Register.

The Cottage, battery observation post and gun emplacement were originally designed to defend Newcastle’s burgeoning coal port and later served as an integral command position up to the end of World War II.

It is the only coastal defence site in Australia manned simultaneously during World War II by the Royal Australian Navy, Army and Royal Australian Airforce. 

From the early 2000s the cottage was leased to Marine Rescue NSW as one of their headquarters, until it sustained severe damage in the 2015 super storm.

Sydney’s spookiest street party is back and scarier than ever

Ghost Festival is back and spookier than ever transforming Sydney’s historic Rocks and Circular Quay precinct for four nights of spine-tingling fun, immersive experiences, and a Halloween street festival.

Kicking off last night this year’s ghostly fun has built on the increasingly popular Halloween activations in The Rocks, with last year’s inaugural Ghost Festival welcoming 60% more people than previous years.

After drawing over 115,000 visitors last year, Ghost Festival 2025* promises to be even ghostlier with free experiences including live music, street performances, and markets alongside themed food and drink experiences.

Festival highlights include:

Poliakov’s Haunted Woods – A ring of eerie cabins serving up freakishly delicious eats from Messina, Gong Cha, and more. At the heart, the Poliakov Vodka Main Stage will keep the crowd dancing with monster DJ sets and chilling cocktails.
Sydney’s Halloween Market – By day, a charming artisan market; by night, a fog-filled, candlelit bazaar of bubbling brews, magical trinkets, and spooky surprises.
Ghost Cinema at Cadmans Cottage – Outdoor horror screenings under the stars with cult classics, immersive soundscapes, and live performers who might just sneak up mid-scream.
House of Horrors Party – A multi-level haunted house turned tech-house rave with themed rooms and live DJs.
The Crossing Lane & Reese’s Ghouls Gate – Get a full SFX monster makeover and strike a pose in a 360° video booth for a chance to be crowned Sydney’s best Halloween costume.
Halloween Parade – Only on Friday at 8pm the Halloween parade, will create a truly eerie experience when darkness marches into the world of the living.

Entry to the festival is free, but some events are paid and require bookings.

If you spook easily you can get more information on what to expect by visiting Ghost in The Rocks | The Rocks

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“This spooky spectacular will bring Sydney’s streets alive with Halloween spirit, so whether you want family friendly fun, to party, be scared, or soak up the ghostly vibes, Ghost Festival is the place to be.

“One thing festival goers don’t need for fear is their budget with plenty of free activities on offer from live music to street performers and even a dark art trail, so there’s endless fun to have without spending a dollar.”