Category: Newcastle News

Hunter Valley Police have seized over $40,000 worth of cannabis and other illicit substances growing from a shed roof in the state’s Hunter region.

In June 2025, officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District commenced an investigation into the cultivation and supply of cannabis in the Hunter Valley area.

Following extensive investigations, police executed a search warrant at a property on Aberdare Road, Aberdare, about 8.30am yesterday (Tuesday 8 July 2025).

During the search, police located and seized over 8kg of cannabis found growing from inside a shed ceiling, 48g of methylamphetamine, 1.2g of heroin and a taser.

The estimated street value of the cannabis seized is $45,000.

Following the search police arrested a 44-year-old man before taking him to Cessnock Police Station.

He was charged with possess prohibited drug (3), possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit (3), supply prohibited drug (2), possess prohibited plant and cultivate prohibited plant.

The man was refused bail to appear before Local Bail Division Court 2 today (9 July 2025).

The Albanese Government is securing Australia’s energy future with a Hydrogen Headstart investment in Orica’s Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub.

The project will secure the future of ammonia and explosives manufacturing at Kooragang Island by reducing its reliance on gas. This keeps local manufacturing competitive and sustainable, supporting jobs and the long-term future of the industry in the Hunter.

Located on Kooragang Island in the heart of the Hunter Region, the project will deploy a 50 MW electrolyser powered by renewable energy, producing around 4,200 tonnes of green hydrogen each year.

By switching from gas to green hydrogen, the project will also significantly cut emissions from Orica’s ammonia production facility and help produce green ammonia for domestic use across mining, agriculture and manufacturing sectors.

It will also help open Australia to exporting clean renewable hydrogen overseas, and the jobs and economic benefits that will come with it as the world looks to decarbonise.

Delivered through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), the funding willbring down costs and accelerate the uptake of renewable hydrogen in heavy industry.

Hydrogen Headstart supports large-scale renewable hydrogen projects such as Orica’s by bridging the commercial gap between the cost of producing renewable hydrogen and the current market price.

Before funding is released, Orica will work closely with ARENA to meet a number of conditions and demonstrate progress toward key milestones.

This $432 million announcement follows the $814 million awarded to Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners’ Murchison Green Hydrogen Project in Western Australia earlier this year. Together, these two landmark investments mark the conclusion of Hydrogen Headstart Round 1.

Building on this success, Round 2 is now open for consultation here (hyperlink). This is an opportunity for industry to help refine implementation of the program and take on lessons for the first round.

Consultation will run for [4 weeks] with a view to opening the next round of the program in the coming months.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen:

“The Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub is securing long-term, high-quality jobs for the region, while decarbonising industries that are vital to our economy.

“This investment shows we can secure existing industries such as ammonia and fertiliser production by transforming how they’re powered – creating new clean-tech jobs and future-proofing the Hunter’s economic base.

“Regional communities like the Hunter will lead the way in Australia’s transformation into a renewable energy superpower – and this project is a great example of what that looks like in practice.”

Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon MP:

“This landmark investment puts our region right at the forefront of Australia’s clean energy future.

“The $432 million investment will create good local jobs, drive innovation, reduce emissions, and help position Newcastle and the Hunter as a national leader in renewable energy production.

“This builds on the Albanese Labor Government’s significant investments in new energy infrastructure at the Port of Newcastle, in clean energy training at TAFE, and in research and development at the University of Newcastle.

“Newcastle and the Hunter has powered Australia for generations, and with this investment, will continue to do so, but in a way that is sustainable and future focused.”

The final concept designs have been unveiled for the Port of Newcastle’s Clean Energy Precinct, which will establish the Hunter region as an industry leader in Australia’s transformation to net-zero.    

Community members, prospective commercial partners and international investors attended a virtual-reality walk-through of the site today, where the future design of the precinct was brought to life.The Clean Energy Precinct will be located on a disused 220-hectare site on Kooragang Island, just north of Newcastle’s CBD and straddling the south channel of the Hunter River.

With a $100 million investment from the Australian Government, the Port of Newcastle site will be transformed into a burgeoning industrial hub enabling the production, storage, distribution and export of clean energy products, including green hydrogen and ammonia. The precinct will integrate clean energy production and storage with the Hunter’s Hydrogen Hub gateway projects, the New South Wales Renewable Energy Zones, and offshore wind developments – making it a vital cog in our net zero future.

The Port of Newcastle has been progressing Front-End Engineering and Design and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) studies, backed by community consultation and industry engagement, and today’s release of designs allow the public and potential commercial partners to visualise the planned layout of the precinct infrastructure.

The precinct infrastructure includes electrical and water services, production facilities, storage, vehicle access, and pipelines for distribution and export.

The EIS will be released publicly later this year, and construction of the precinct is expected to break ground in 2027.

For progress updates on the Clean Energy Precinct, visit the Port of Newcastle’s website.

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

“Australia’s largest coal port is diversifying its offering and preparing to accommodate new and growing industries on the shores of the Hunter River.

“Newcastle has always been one of the most productive industrial centres in Australia, and we’re ensuring its legacy continues with the Clean Energy Precinct.

“It’s crucial that we develop the infrastructure now to be prepared for Australia’s energy future, and that’s exactly what we’re doing here on Kooragang Island.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen:

“The Hunter has been an industrial and economic powerhouse for decades, making the Port of Newcastle an ideal location for a Clean Energy Precinct that can support decarbonisation of heavy industry and connect Australia’s renewable resources to the world.

“The Albanese Labor Government is supporting industrial regions like the Hunter to take advantage of the economic and job opportunities that come with reliable renewable energy.”

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“This is a defining moment for Newcastle – a city that has helped power the nation for generations is preparing to the future with clean energy.

“It’s hard to imagine a more powerful symbol of our region’s transformation – land once earmarked for a coal terminal will now be at the forefront of the global clean energy transition.

“This masterplan lays the groundwork for thousands of jobs in renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy exports.

“From coal to clean energy, this is what a transition looks like. Thoughtful, strategic, and grounded in the strengths of our region and our people.”

Local sporting clubs are set to benefit from much-needed upgrades at Wallsend Park, with work now underway on a new in-ground irrigation system.

The project backed by a $285,000 investment from the Albanese Labor Government, will give some of the region’s biggest sporting clubs more certainty and deliver modern, accessible playing fields that meet the future demand of the community.

Wallsend Park is home to the Wallsend Cricket Club, Wallsend Football Club, and the Wallsend RSL Junior Cricket Club.

These upgrades are in addition to the recent election commitment from the Albanese Labor Government of $3 million to install drainage and irrigation at the neighbouring Upper Reserve in Wallsend.

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“It’s great to see this work now underway.

“Wallsend Park is a hub for local sport, and these upgrades will make a real difference for the people who use it week in, week out.

“These clubs are at the heart of our community – they bring people together, support our kids, and promote healthy, active lifestyles.

“The Albanese Labor Government is proud to be investing in the future of community sport right here in Wallsend.”

Wallsend Cricket Club President Peter Hanna:

“The irrigation project is significant for the Club in that it future proofs our ability to provide high class sporting facilities in our local Wallsend community.

“It will also significantly reduce the level of effort and time in the weekly preparation of practice and playing wickets for both our junior and senior teams, reducing manual watering and associated workload for out volunteer curation team. That assistance is something that is really appreciated today where it is increasingly difficult to attract and retain volunteers.”

The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are building more homes in Newcastle with nine new social housing units nearing completion in Wallsend thanks to joint funding from the Commonwealth’s Social Housing Accelerator Fund (SHAF) and local government.

The new nine-unit development at Curry Street is being delivered thanks to a partnership between Homes NSW and the City of Newcastle, who each agreed to jointly fund the construction of more dedicated social housing for the Wallsend community.

Work commenced in mid-2024 on the new two-storey block which has been built at a cost of $4.42 million, creating 19 jobs throughout the lifetime of its construction.

The new complex, located on the traditional lands of the Awabakal people, will feature four 1-bedroom and five 2-bedroom homes, replacing ageing homes at the site.

Close to schools, public transport, and local shops, the new units are expected to be finished by mid-May and will soon provide safe and modern homes for up to 16 new residents.

Homes NSW allocated funding for the build from the Commonwealth SHAF’s vacant accelerator stream which has already restored and renovated more than 300 previously uninhabitable vacant homes.

The new homes demonstrate what’s possible under the $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program, which will build 8400 new homes for public housing, deliver 21,000 new affordable and market homes and upgrade 30,000 social housing properties.

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said:

“It is fantastic to see the Albanese Labor Government’s Social Housing Accelerator Fund being put to such good use here in Wallsend.

“We know we need to supercharge social housing delivering and this new development is being turned around in under a year, with new homes to help reduce Newcastle’s social housing waitlist.

“These new units, which have replaced ageing and not fit-for-purpose homes, are built to a high standard, and are close to local amenities such as shopping, services, and transportation.”

NSW Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“We will continue to work tirelessly to expand the number of new social housing developments across the state, including finding well-located sites with vacant homes where we can deliver better for the most vulnerable people in our community.

“This successful partnership between the NSW Government and the City of Newcastle should be a signal to the sector and all levels of government that we are ready and willing to work together to confront the housing crisis.

“We will continue to deliver more and better housing across the state thanks to the Minns Labor Government’s record investment in social housing and this collaborative approach.”

A musical comedy about the anxiety of high school, performed by young Novocastrians, is just one of the offerings being presented by City of Newcastle during the July school holidays.

From free exhibitions and workshops at our libraries and Newcastle Museum to an exciting range of outdoor facilities, there are plenty of ways to keep the kids entertained.

CIVIC THEATRE AND PLAYHOUSE

Calvin Berger is the second show in City of Newcastle’s Upstage at the Playhouse 2025 program, an exciting initiative that introduces fresh, new and adapted works to be presented and performed by the local artists.

It tells the story of a boy who feels awkward about his appearance and so arranges for another boy to chase the girl of his dreams.

Making its Newcastle premiere at the Civic Theatre Playhouse tonight, the production is presented by Hyde Entertainment, a Newcastle-based theatrical and entertainment company helmed by 18-year-old Seb Smee.

The show is recommended for people over the age of 12, with discount tickets available for full time students.

There are also family friendly shows on offer at the Civic Theatre in the holidays including The Gruffalo’s Child, Madagascar The Musical and Disney’s Frozen Junior, presented by Hunter Drama.

NEWCASTLE MUSEUM

There’s something for kids of all ages at Newcastle Museum during the school holidays, starting with Caring for our Coast, a mini museum experience from the Australian Museum, where visitors can get up close and curious with objects such as a Port Jackson shark jaw, an Abalone shell, a cross-section of a midden and more.

The Maths Magic Science Show is ideal for children preparing to go to high school, while Bricks 4 Kidz workshops will see children rotate through three exciting stations building with LEGO®.

For a taste of Australia, health practitioner and proud Darkinjung woman, Sarah Corrigan is offering the chance to try some bush tucker, including syrups and finger limes.

Bookings are essential for the Bricks 4 Kidz workshop which costs $20 per child, but all other events are free, with no booking required.

For more information visit Newcastle Museum online.

SKATE PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS

With more than 115 playgrounds to choose from, there are plenty of reasons to brave the cold during the holidays to help the kids burn off some energy.

City of Newcastle has invested more than $14 million into playground projects across Newcastle during the past seven years to upgrade and replace facilities.

There are also nine skate parks provided by City of Newcastle, with a variety of features to test skaters, riders and scooters of all levels.

South Newcastle Beach Skate Park includes the Hunter’s first wheelchair-accessible skate bowl and facilities for all level skaters; while the Stockton Active Hub features the first street style skate plaza in the Hunter and Mayfield Skate Park has a variety of concrete blocks, quarter pipes, hips and banks.

For a full list of skate parks visit City of Newcastle’s website. 

BLACKBUTT RESERVE 

Enjoy the sights and sounds of Blackbutt Reserve with the added bonus of the new Blackbutt Café by Durks in the Carnley Avenue recreation area. Featuring an undercover dining and seating area, it offers coffee, breakfast and lunch dining options, as well as picnic boxes and catering.

Wildlife exhibits are open from 10am to 4.30pm daily, with free entry. Blackbutt Reserve picnic facilities are open from 7am until 7pm. Shelters, barbecues and nature walks are available between these hours.

For more information on booking a shelter or animal feeding times visit the Blackbutt Reserve page on our website.

LIBRARIES

At our City and Wallsend libraries aspiring programmers can learn the basics of computational thinking and sequencing or join an introductory Dungeons & Dragons program for beginners and get to know the famous role-playing game, with the guidance of an experienced Game Master.

The younger kids can enjoy craft-based play including a Playdough Party, or join Uncle Amos Simon, proud Worimi, Birpai and Wiradjuri man, to learn how to make an artwork using natural materials and how to make rope from stringybark, all while enjoying a mini silent disco.

For gaming enthusiasts, there’s a Nintendo Switch gaming event playing Super Smash Bros where kids can enjoy some friendly competition.

For more information visit City of Newcastle Libraries online.

FORT SCRATCHLEY

The Historic Fort Scratchley will be welcoming visitors during the school holidays.

Guided tours, led by passionate Historical Society volunteers with a wealth of knowledge about the site, are offered at regular intervals each day (except Tuesdays).

The historic gun is fired daily at 1pm, weather permitting.

For details or to book a tour visit Fort Scratchley online.

Two men and a teenage boy have been charged after weapons and drugs were seized during a vehicle stop at Newcastle this morning as part of Operation Foil.

About 3.15am today (Friday 4 July 2025), officers from Newcastle City Police District conducted a vehicle stop at the intersection of King Street and Steel Street, Newcastle.

It will be alleged that in the vehicle police located a baton and a number of weapons as well as methylamphetamine.

The three male occupants were arrested and taken to Newcastle Police Station.

The 22-year-old driver was charged with possess prohibited drug, and custody of knife in public place.

He was granted bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Thursday 10 July 2025.

A passenger – also 22 – was charged with two counts of custody of knife in a public place, and possess prohibited drug.

He was refused bail to appear at Parramatta Local Court today (Friday 4 July 2025).

The third occupant – aged 16 – was charged with custody of knife in public place, and have custody of an offensive implement in a public place.

He was also refused bail to appear at a children’s court today. 

Operation Foil is a high visibility statewide operation targeting violent offenders, knife crime and the possession of weapons in public places.

Students from Alesco Senior College are leading a large-scale ecosystem restoration project as one of 18 local climate action initiatives to receive a share of funding from City of Newcastle.

The project, designed and facilitated by ReGen Alliance, will see students plant 750 native trees on their campus in Elemore Vale, turning degraded bushland into a living classroom.
 
The funding has been delivered through City of Newcastle’s Youth Climate Action Grants thanks to a $150,000 contribution from Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund.

City of Newcastle Executive Manager Environment and Sustainability Marnie Kikken said the response from young people and community organisations has been inspiring. 

“These projects reflect the energy and innovation of young Novocastrians committed to creating a safe and climate-resilient future,” Ms Kikken said.

“With this latest round of funding, we’re not just supporting environmental outcomes, we’re supporting education, equity and empowerment, all aligned with the goals of the Newcastle Environment Strategy.”

Deputy Chairperson of City of Newcastle’s Liveable Cities Strategic Advisory Committee Cr Elizabeth Adamczyk said this funding gives our young residents the chance to design and deliver urgent climate solutions.

“These projects show that when we support youth with the practical tools and resources to address their climate change concerns, they’re empowered to make a visible, lasting impact in their own communities and shape a healthy and sustainable future for our city,” Cr Adamczyk said.

ReGen Alliance’s Living Classroom project is putting this into action, with Alesco Senior College students participating in weekly learning sessions, to lead all stages of the project from site preparation, to planting and monitoring. 

Co-founder of ReGen Alliance, Rebecca Giddins, said the program offers a chance for students to grow confidence and connection through nature-based learning.

“This program creates a safe, positive space where students can connect with nature and develop a sense of purpose. This project will offer a long-term educational opportunity to observe how ecosystems grow and adapt over time,” Miss Giddins said.

City of Newcastle is one of only three Australian local governments selected to participate in Bloomberg Philanthropies’ global initiative and has now distributed $225,000 across 30 projects over two rounds of funding.

Microgrants between $1,500 – $7,500 were available to young people aged 15 to 24, or organisations who represent them, to design and deliver local climate action projects.

Among the young grant recipients are University of Newcastle students Luca Surman and Ryan Muir, whose Bingage initiative began as a university project and evolved into a smart recycling initiative. 

Mr Muir said the project incentivises young people to participate in recycling by gamifying the process for students living on Callaghan Campus. 

“By linking everyday actions to social recognition, data insights, and reward-based challenges we’re aiming to build lasting habits and a culture of sustainability among students,” Mr Muir said. 

“Participants engage through smart bins and an integrated app that rewards positive recycling behaviours, like rinsing bottles or returning sponsor-branded waste, with points. 

“Once the return target is met, the student or team with the highest contribution wins a major prize, and the collected waste is upcycled into infrastructure projects through local businesses and installed on campus.” 

Other successful projects include Lambton High School’s Eco Bloom project, which will see students create a pond and garden habitat for local wildlife through native planting and water conservation techniques, and Hunter Innovation and Science Hub, which will deliver an electric vehicle festival for youth and hands-on solar energy education for primary school students. 

Newcastle High School’s Conservation Critters program will see students deliver guided nature tours and pollinator picnics to educate people of all ages about biodiversity, the value of native species, and how to take environmental action in their own backyard. 

Projects funded in round two of the Youth Climate Action Grants align with City of Newcastle’s Climate Action Plan, supporting clean technology, circular economy initiatives, green and blue space restoration, electric transport, and the development of zero-emissions industries.

Police are appealing for assistance to locate a man missing from the Newcastle area.

Alexander Tumiotto, aged 48, was last seen on Tighes Terrace, Tighes Hill, about 1:30pm on Monday 30 June 2025.

When Alexander could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Newcastle City Police District were notified today (Thursday 3 July 2025) and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for Alexander’s welfare as he lives with Autism.

Alexander is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 165cm – 175cm tall, of medium build, unshaven, with dark hair and brown eyes.

He was last seen wearing dirty/ripped clothing and a beanie.

He is known to frequent Newcastle, Redfern and the Carriage works in Everleigh. He may be using the rail network to travel.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to contact Newcastle City Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.