Category: Newcastle News

City of Newcastle is developing a 10-year Economic Development Strategy, which will play a critical role in guiding the city’s COVID-19 economic recovery.
The community is invited to shape the Strategy, which will envision a future for the Newcastle economy and strive to empower, retain and attract people with skills of the future and create equal opportunity for all members of the community.
Young people will provide an important voice in the conversation, with the COVID-19 economic crisis disproportionately impacting 18-to-25-year-olds, driving the Hunter Region’s youth unemployment rate to 20.7 per cent.
City of Newcastle has partnered with TAFE NSW Newcastle, HunterNet and Hunter Young Professionals to directly engage with young people and facilitate discussion through multiple youth-specific workshops.
^{(L-R): TAFE Services Manager Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, Adrian Collins; City of Newcastle’s Economic Strategy & Government Relations Manager, Simon Massey; Hunter Young Professionals President, Kate David; Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen; Hunter Young Professionals Vice-President, Danielle O’Neill; TAFE Regional General Manager, Jason Darney; and HunterNet COO, Nick Couper at Hamilton TAFE Campus.}
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said with a further almost one in 10 Novocastrians currently unemployed, it was more important than ever to identify future economic opportunities across the board.
“City of Newcastle’s Economic Development Strategy will focus on long-term actions to help create new jobs, drive investment and promote innovation,” Cr Nelmes said.
“When the pandemic first hit, City of Newcastle was one of the first Councils across Australia to act, adopting a $5.5 million Community and Economic Resilience Package with a range of programs to support community wellbeing and maximise cashflow. The Resilience Package was endorsed six days before the Federal Government announced the JobKeeper wage subsidy.”
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said the City had also provided collaborative leadership and advocacy through the facilitation of the City Taskforce.
“Now, we are turning our attention to creating new long-term opportunities for our city, and we are seeking the community’s input,” Cr Clausen said.
A range of programs will be explored under four key pillars: Enabling Skills, Enabling Innovation, City-Shaping Initiatives and Facilitating a Vibrant City.
Community members can have their say via City of Newcastle’s website until Monday 7 December. City of Newcastle will also conduct face-to-face and online workshops with stakeholders and its networks, including the City Taskforce and Strategy and Innovation Committee.
The draft Strategy will be presented to Council in the early new year for consideration to be placed on public exhibition.

City of Newcastle is helping over 50s explore new technologies and interact with smart city innovations through a partnership with University of the Third Age (U3A) as part of their 30^th anniversary celebrations.
To mark the occasion, a series of thought-provoking lectures presented by 17 guest lecturers will take place during the month that cover an array of topics including the prospects for finding life in the universe, Newcastle’s forgotten 1800s diva, the future of agriculture and a guide to 3D printing.
Newcastle U3A is a volunteer run community organisation with tutors who come from diverse backgrounds to freely share their knowledge and passion for continuous, lifelong learning.
A showcase celebration was launched at City of Newcastle’s new Digital Library at 12 Stewart Avenue today where participants explored the City’s newest community asset and were introduced to a range of state-of-the art digital technologies.
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said the University of the Third Age’s mantra of life-long learning aligns perfectly with City of Newcastle’s Libraries model.
“Embracing a culture of lifelong learning enhances every aspect of a person’s life and is known to be beneficial in many ways.
“It is fitting that City of Newcastle Libraries has partnered with Newcastle U3A to present this program as both organisations have a common vision.
“City of Newcastle’s Library Strategy 2019-2029 outlines the essential role that libraries play in actively supporting lifelong learning.
“We applaud the work of long-standing community groups such as U3A for their dedication and service to the community.”
Newcastle University of the Third Age Newcastle Acting President Jenny Williams said the local volunteer run organisation was delighted to partner with Newcastle Libraries to celebrate the 30-year achievement.
“Many people have experienced isolation and loneliness in 2020 due to the COVID restrictions. This program enables participants to meet online, learn new skills and make meaningful connections, as we transition back to a more normal face-to-face learning environment.
“The showcase is a tribute to the tutors’ dedication, perseverance, and commitment to the ideals of the U3A of providing ongoing education, for learning new skills, and fostering self-reliance and independence among members of the ‘third age’.
The community is invited to discover what the Newcastle U3A and the new digital library have to offer. For a full schedule of lectures, visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/library

Nominations are now open for the City of Newcastle’s 2021 Australia Day Awards after a challenging year in 2020 that has demonstrated the strength and resilience of our community.
The Awards will recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals and groups to community life over the past 12 months.
Nominations are being called for in the Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Community Group of the Year categories, with successful award recipients announced on Australia Day, 21 January 2021.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Novocastrians had shown incredible resilience in navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and looking out for their fellow community members through this difficult time.
“We have all felt these impacts to some degree, with most of us having to lean on our support networks to get through tough times,” the Lord Mayor said.
“Now is the time to consider those who have gone above and beyond for our community, be it a neighbour, colleague, or local community group that assists those in need.
“The Australia Day Awards recognise the quiet achievers as well as those more familiar high-profile achievers. What they have in common is their ability to inspire others, overcome challenges and make a significant impact on the people of Newcastle.”
City of Newcastle’s 2020 Citizen of the Year, Michelle Faithfull, was honoured in January as a passionate fundraiser, raising $180,000 for local charities including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation and Ronald McDonald House. She joins award alumni, ovarian cancer awareness campaigner, the late Jill Emberson, and Mark Hughes Foundation co-founder Mark Hughes.
The Hunter Homeless Connect Day coordinator said, while it had been no ordinary year, the Australia Day Award honour had boosted her calling to help others.
“I am passionate about giving back to the community after all the support I have received in turn; we Novocastrians are a caring bunch,” Ms Faithfull said.
“There are so many others doing great work in our wonderful community whose efforts deserve to be recognised.”
^{2020 Australia Day Award recipients Newcastle Pride (Community Group of the Year), Michelle Faithfull (Citizen of the Year) and Alexa Stuart (Young Citizen of the Year) with Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and Councillors Peta Winney-Baartz and John Church at January’s award ceremony.}
Nominees must reside in the Newcastle Local Government Area. Young Citizen of the Year nominees must be 30 years old or younger on 26 January 2021.
Nominations close 5pm Sunday 6 December 2020 and can be submitted via the website or hard copy form downloaded from the same location and available at the City Administration Centre, Level 1, 12 Stewart Avenue, Newcastle West.

A teenage girl has been issued with a Police Infringement Notice (PIN) after police were called to a Halloween party in the Lake Macquarie district overnight.
Officers from Lake Macquarie Police District were called to a home on Lake Road, Glendale, about 6.45pm (Friday 30 October 2020), following reports of a large party.
On arrival they found more than 100 people in the backyard of the property.
Upon seeing the police, some of the partygoers knocked down a fence and ran into adjoining streets and a nearby shopping centre, where multiple fights broke out.
Police intervened and broke up several fights and arrested four teenagers and a 20-year-old man.
The man was taken to Belmont Police Station where he was issued with two Criminal Infringement Notices (CINs) for offensive language and offensive behaviour.
Police returned to the Lake Street address where they issued the 17-year-old female occupant with a $1000 PIN for breaching the COVID-19 Public Health Order.
During the arrests, three police officers sustained minor injuries, with one requiring medical treatment.
Several police vehicles were also damaged after being kicked and having projectiles thrown at them.
Inquiries are continuing.
Anyone with information about people breaching the COVID-19 Public Health Order is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner after a man drowned while swimming at Newcastle earlier today.
Emergency services were called to Nobbys Beach at Newcastle just before 8am this morning (Friday 30 October 2020), following reports a man was unconscious in the water.
Lifeguards pulled the man from the water and commenced CPR until the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, he died at the scene.
The man is yet to be formally identified; however, is believed to be aged in his 60s.
He was taken to John Hunter Hospital, where he later died.
Officers attached to Newcastle City Police District attended and have commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Investigations have commenced following a public place shooting in Lake Macquarie tonight.
About 5.45pm (Friday 30 October 2020), police were called to an address on Ruttleys Road, Wyee, after reports of possible gun fire.
Officers from Lake Macquarie Police District, assisted by other specialist units, attended and established a crime scene at a home where a number of bullet holes were found in a backyard shed.
No one was injured during the incident.
Early investigations suggest the shots may have been fired from a passing vessel on Wyee Creek.
Anyone with information should contact detectives at Lake Macquarie Police District, or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A man will face court after allegedly sexually touching two women at a service station near Lake Macquarie.
Last Saturday (24 October 2020) and Sunday (25 October 2020), two 22-year-old women were working at a service station in Cooranbong, when they were allegedly sexually touched by a man who is known to them.
The incident was reported to officers from Lake Macquarie Police District on Monday (26 October 2020), who commenced an investigation.
Following inquiries, police arrested a 62-year-old man at Cooranbong about 9am yesterday (Thursday 29 October 2020).
He was taken to Toronto Police Station where he was charged with five counts of sexually touch another person without consent.
The man was granted strict conditional bail to appear before Toronto Local Court on Tuesday 15 December 2020.

City of Newcastle has started construction on the first stage of a cycleway linking the City Centre to Merewether Beach.
The first stage is the Merewether to The Junction project, which is a 2.5m-wide, bi-directional path along the eastern side of Watkins Street and northern side of Coane Street, between Watkins and John Parade, which will include new and upgraded raised-crossings for pedestrians and cyclists and associated intersection improvements.

This 1.1-kilometre, $3.1 million project will also significantly improve stormwater drainage systems and capture water for re-use in new garden beds. Construction of this link was brought forward as part of the City’s record $116 million COVID-19-stimulus capital works budget in recognition of residents’ newfound love for cycling during lockdown.
City of Newcastle received $600,000 from the NSW Government’s 2020/21 Walking and Cycling Program to assist with the construction of this stage of the project.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said investment in cycleway infrastructure would enable cycling to play an even larger role within Newcastle’s transport mix in the future.
“We are committed to promoting cycling as a safe and attractive transport option for residents, families, commuters and recreational users, which is why expansion and improvement of the cycleway network is one of the City’s priority projects,” she said.
“Improving and expanding Newcastle’s cycling network is also an important investment in the future of our city, in line with the adopted Newcastle Cycling Strategy and Action Plan.
“The start of construction is an important step towards the completion of the overall City Centre to Merewether Beach cycleway project, which will provide a first-class route between the inner city and one of our most popular beaches”
Councillor and cycling enthusiast John Mackenzie said he was pleased to see the project kick off.
“The community has been very clear in stating that improved cycleways are a top priority and I know this link will be enjoyed by residents, commuters and those visiting this great part of Newcastle. I am happy to see works starting and will be watching and following the project with interest.”
Almost $5 million has been allocated to cycleways projects under the revised 2020-21 capital works budget, including $3.1 million for the Merewether to The Junction cycleway, as well as funding for a missing cycleway link on University Drive between Blue Gum Road and the inner-city bypass in Birmingham Gardens.
To find out more and keep updated on stage one of the City Centre to Merewether cycleway visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/works.

A man will face court today charged after allegedly trespassing and committing a sexual act in separate incidents in Newcastle at the weekend.
Officers from Newcastle City Police District commenced an investigation after reports a man was witnessed allegedly entering two properties at Hamilton South last Saturday (24 October 2020).
Inquiries revealed the same man had allegedly committed a sexual act at a Newcastle shopping centre later the same day.
Following inquiries, police located and arrested a 45-year-old man on Scott Street, Newcastle, about 11.30am yesterday (Wednesday 28 October 2020).
He was taken to Newcastle Police Station and charged with stalk/intimidate intend fear physical harm (personal), wilful and obscene exposure in/near public place/school, enter enclosed land without lawful excuse, enter prescribed premises of any person without lawful excuse, behave in offensive manner in/near public place/school, and intentionally do sexual act with child between 10 and 16-years-old.
Police will allege in court that the man had also intimidated a woman and exposed himself at a Charlestown shopping centre in August.
The man has been refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court today (Thursday 28 October 2020).

City of Newcastle is better placed to protect, promote and restore Newcastle’s 700 heritage items, eight heritage conservation areas and 23 archaeological sites, following the adoption of an updated Heritage Strategy.
The Heritage Strategy 2020-2030 was endorsed by Council on Tuesday night and sets the vision, objectives and measurable outcomes to protect and promote heritage in Newcastle, and provides a framework for managing the city’s historic assets.
Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz chaired the Heritage Working Party that provided advice on the strategy and said City of Newcastle was dedicated to ensuring local Indigenous and European heritage continues to be valued, enhanced and celebrated.
“Our city has a unique mix of heritage conservation areas, archaeological sites, heritage-listed buildings and places that are recognised and protected for their character and significance,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.
“With this strategy, City of Newcastle will lead by example by ensuring that heritage is given due consideration in City projects and development assessments, with decision-making informed by community engagement and facilitated by staff training.
“In addition, the updated strategy better considers and recognises the Awabakal and Worimi peoples’ ancient and ongoing connection with the land.”
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Newcastle’s significant heritage places are a unique historical resource essential for the continuing educational, cultural and economic enrichment of the region.
“City of Newcastle will invest in the promotion and care of these assets as part of the City’s economic and cultural development,” Cr Nelmes said.
“The new strategy emphasises our rich Aboriginal and European heritage and the important role the City’s public exhibitions and performances play at our museum, art gallery, libraries and theatres, all of which celebrate our cultural heritage.
“The Heritage Strategy 2020-2030 will also place us in a stronger position to obtain funding from government and non-government sources to undertake heritage projects.”
The draft Heritage Strategy was placed on public exhibition from 15 June to 27 July 2020. Fifty-five written and online submissions were received from the community and organisations such as The National Trust.
Elements of the Strategy relating to Aboriginal Cultural Heritage were also reviewed by the Guraki Aboriginal Advisory Committee.
Feedback was supportive of the strategy’s vision and content overall, with a number of suggestions implemented to help clarify and strengthen the final document.