Category: Newcastle News

The Fair Work Ombudsman has commenced legal action against the former operators of a Thai restaurant in New South Wales, alleging they failed to make superannuation payments and breached workplace laws when trying to cover it up.

Facing the Federal Circuit and Family Court are Greathunter Pty Ltd, which operated Larnna Thai restaurant in Newcastle until it closed in 2026, and the company’s sole director and manager, Chengda Li.

The Fair Work Ombudsman investigated Greathunter Pty Ltd as part of a campaign targeting Newcastle food outlets.

The Fair Work Ombudsman alleges it discovered that Mr Li was involved in Greathunter failing to make superannuation payments to three employees, as required under the Restaurant Industry Award 2020.

The company had engaged the employees at Larnna Thai for various periods between November 2021 and October 2023. The FWO alleges no superannuation payments were made for any of their work at the time required.

The alleged non-payment of superannuation has been rectified by Greathunter by the company making more than $23,000 in superannuation payments to the employees in 2025, long after the FWO commenced its investigation.

One of the employees was a Thai international student and another was a young worker, aged 19 to 21 at the time. Two of the employees were engaged as cooks and one performed waiter and front-of-house duties.

It is alleged that Mr Li and Greathunter also breached the Fair Work Act by knowingly or recklessly providing false pay slips to the Fair Work Ombudsman during its investigation on two separate occasions stating that the superannuation entitlements had been paid.

Mr Li and Greathunter allegedly also committed a further breach by falsely telling the Fair Work Ombudsman that the pay slips had been prepared by Greathunter’s accountant, when they had in fact been prepared by Mr Li.

Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth said the alleged conduct warranted litigation.

“Allegedly failing to pay superannuation and trying to cover it up with false pay slips and other false information is completely unacceptable conduct,” Ms Booth said.

“We are committed to taking action to protect vulnerable workers in this country and ensure that employers who breach the law are held to account,” Ms Booth said.

“Our experienced inspectors will see through false information. Employers need to be aware that we treat such alleged blatant breaches seriously, and penalties can follow.

“Employers should also be aware that taking action to protect young and migrant workers and improve compliance in the fast food, restaurants and cafés sector are priorities for the FWO.

“Any workers with concerns about their pay or entitlements should contact us for free advice and assistance.”

The FWO is seeking penalties in court. Greathunter Pty Ltd faces penalties of up to $93,900 per breach and Mr Li faces penalties of up to $18,780 per breach.

A directions hearing is listed in the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Sydney on 10 July 2026.

Current federal laws require superannuation to be paid by employers within 28 days after the end of the quarter in which the earnings were paid.

It is noted that from 1 July 2026, employers need to pay superannuation contributions at the same time they pay their employees’ wages.

The Fair Work Ombudsman filed 171 litigations against employers involving visa holder workers, and secured $39 million in penalties in cases that have included visa holder workers, in the eight financial years to June 2025.

Employers and employees can visit www.fairwork.gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for free advice and assistance. An interpreter service is available on 13 14 50. Employees can also seek information from their employer or their union, if they are a union member.

Hexham Manufacturing Pty Ltd has been fined $30,000 by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) for failing to maintain its plant equipment, resulting in sewage-like odours from its dairy processing facility.
The EPA received several odour complaints from residents and businesses between August and October 2025, prompting officers to conduct multiple inspections of the site and surrounding area in Hexham, Newcastle. They confirmed offensive odours were mainly coming from the wastewater treatment plant, with the same smell detected offsite at a number of locations.
In September 2025, the EPA issued Hexham Manufacturing with a Prevention Notice and the company undertook an extensive desludging operation.
The EPA has fined the operator $30,000 for failing to properly maintain its wastewater treatment plant, breaching the conditions of its Environment Protection Licence.
NSW EPA Director of Operations Greg Sheehy said the community had been subjected to unacceptable impacts.
“Operators are required to properly maintain equipment and respond before issues escalate. That didn’t happen in this case,” Mr Sheehy said.
“Our investigation found the facility’s wastewater treatment system had not been adequately maintained for several years, contributing to shocking conditions that caused strong odours.
“Excessive sludge had accumulated in the main aeration dam, impacting the operational performance by leaving the pond overloaded. This build-up resulted in a blanket of fatty acids and dairy waste such as whey, leading to poor settling, foam and odours.
“The local community had to deal with persistent offensive odours for too long, and the EPA will continue taking action where licence holders fail to properly manage and maintain their infrastructure.”
Anyone who experiences strong or unusual odours should report them to the EPA’s Environment Line at info@epa.nsw.gov.au: info@epa.nsw.gov.au, with as much detail as possible to support our investigations.

The countdown is on.

Star Struck 2026 – Out of the Ordinary will burst onto the stage at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre on 12 and 13 June, bringing together more than 4,500 NSW public school students for the Hunter and Central Coast region’s iconic performing arts events.

A major production milestone begins this week, with thousands of students to come together on the arena floor for the first time for the combined dance and drama rehearsals on Thursday 21 May and Friday 22 May.

Now in its 34th year, Star Struck continues to showcase the extraordinary talent, creativity and collaboration of NSW public school students, with over 4,500 students from more than 150 schools across Newcastle, the Hunter and the Central Coast involved in this year’s production.

This year’s production promises to be bigger, bolder and more spectacular than ever, with massed dance, drama, featured vocalists, a live student orchestra, rock band and hundreds of Aboriginal dancers across both casts sharing culture, storytelling and connection through movement.

The theme Out of the Ordinary, celebrates individuality, imagination, courage and creativity, encouraging students and audiences alike to embrace what makes them unique. Through large-scale dance numbers, powerful drama, featured vocal performances and a full live orchestra, the production promises an unforgettable arena spectacular.

The Star Struck Mass Choir will hold its next major rehearsal on Friday 5 June at the Newcastle Showground Exhibition Centre, bringing together hundreds of student voices ahead of show week.

The highly anticipated Sitzprobe rehearsal will follow on Saturday 6 June at Warners Bay High School, uniting the full student orchestra, rock band and vocal team for the first time.

Star Struck is again proud to welcome internationally renowned conductor George Ellis as conductor of the Star Struck Orchestra. One of Australia’s most celebrated conductors and composers, George brings extensive experience across symphonic music, opera, musical theatre, jazz and contemporary performance, offering students an extraordinary professional learning opportunity.

Star Struck Operations Manager Casey Smith said Star Struck remains a powerful celebration of public education and the arts, providing opportunities for students of all experience levels, from those stepping onto a stage for the first time through to highly accomplished young performers extending themselves beyond the classroom.

We are igniting high potential and gifted education in so many ways through Star Struck,” Ms Smith said.

For many students, Star Struck is far more than a performance opportunity, it is a chance to build confidence, friendships, creativity and a lifelong connection to the arts.

The production would not be possible without the incredible support of schools, teachers, families, volunteers and sponsors.”

Tickets available through Ticketek Australia and the Newcastle Entertainment Centre website but get in quick. Demand for this year’s production has been extraordinary, with the Saturday evening performance already sold out.

Star Struck is proudly presented by the NSW Department of Education and supported by major sponsor Glencore.

Additional support is provided by Platinum Sponsor NSW Teachers Federation; Gold Sponsors Newcastle School Portraits and Kinetic Creations; Bronze Sponsors Wests and Hunter Manufacturing Awards; Megastar Sponsors Cappuccino Monkey, Mango Shake, Cabarrus International and Dantza Abesti; and Product Sponsors Perry on Parry, Traffic Plan Professionals and Lake Macquarie Dance Academy.

Media partners include NewFM, 2HD, Newcastle Weekly, Newcastle Herald and Graphika.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:
Media are invited to attend combined rehearsals, dress rehearsals and performances. Interview, photography and rehearsal access opportunities available.

Combined dance and drama rehearsals:
Newcastle Entertainment Centre and Newcastle Showground Exhibition Centre
Thursday 21 May and Friday 22 May

Star Struck Mass Choir major rehearsal:

Newcastle Showground Exhibition Centre

Friday 5 June – 9:00am to 2:00pm

Tech and dress rehearsals:
Newcastle Entertainment Centre

Wednesday 10 June – 3:00pm to 6:00pm, Cast A
Thursday 11 June – 3:00pm to 6:00pm, Cast B

Final performances will take place on:

Friday 12 June – 11:00am and 7:00pm
Saturday 13 June – 1:00pm and 7:00pm

PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS:
Abermain Public School
Adamstown Public School
Anna Bay Public School
Argenton Public School
Ashtonfield Public School
Barnsley Public School
Belair Public Schol
Belmont High School
Belmont North Public School
Belmont Public School
Berkeley Vale Public School
Biddabah Public School
Blackalls Park Public School
Blacksmiths Public School
Bolwarra Public School
Bonnells Bay Public School
Booragul Public School
Branxton Public School
Brooklyn Public School
Budgewoi Public School
Callaghan College Jesmond Senior Campus
Callaghan College Wallsend Campus
Callaghan College Waratah Campus
Cardiff High School
Cardiff South Public School
Carrington Public School
Caves Beach Public School
Central Mangrove Public School
Cessnock East Public School
Cessnock High School
Cessnock West PS
Charlestown East Public School
Charlestown Public School
Charlestown South Public School
Clarence Town Public School
Coal Point Public School
Cooranbong Public School
Denman Public School
Dora Creek Public School
Dungog High School
East Maitland Public School
Edgeworth Public School
Elemore Vale Public School
Ellalong Public School
Fassifern Public School
Fern Bay Public School
Francis Greenway High School
Garden Suburb Public School
Gillieston Public School
Glendale East Public School
Glendale Technology High School
Gorokan Public School
Greta Public School
Gwandalan Public School
Hamilton North Public School
Hillsborough Public School
Hinton Public School
Hunter River Community School
Hunter River High School
Hunter School of the Performing Arts – Primary
Hunter School of the Performing Arts – Secondary
Hunter Signing Choir
Hunter Sports High School
Hunter Trebles
Irrawang High School
Islington Public School
Jesmond Public School
Jewells Primary School
John Hunter Hospital School
Kahibah Public School
King Street Public School
Kirkton Public School
Kotara High School
Kotara South Public School
Kurri Kurri High School
Kurri Kurri Public School
Lake Macquarie High School
Lambton High School
Lambton Public School
Lisarow High School
Maitland High School
Maitland Public School
Mannering Park Public School
Marks Point Public School
Medowie Public School
Merewether Heights Public School
Merewether Public School
Merriwa Central School – Primary & secondary
Metford Public School
Minmi Public School
Morisset High School
Morisset Primary School
Morpeth Public School
Mount Pleasant Public School
Mount view high school
Muswellbrook South PS
Narara Valley High School
New Lambton Public School
New Lambton South Public School
Newcastle East Public School
Newcastle High School
Nords Wharf PS
Northlakes High School
Northlakes Public School
Nulkaba Public School
Paxton Public School
Pelaw Main Public School
Pelican Flat Public School
Plattsburg Public School
Rathmines Public School
Redhead Public School
Rutherford Technology High School
Scone Public School
Shoal Bay Public School
Shortland Public School
Singleton Heights Public School
Singleton High School
Soldiers Point Public School
Swansea High School
Swansea Public School
Tanilba Bay Public School
Tarro Public School
Telarah Public School
Terrigal High School
Terrigal Public School
The Junction Public School
Thornton Public School
TLSC Berkeley Vale Campus
Tomaree High School
Tomaree Public School
Toronto High School
Vacy Public School
Wadalaba Community School
Wallsend Public School
Wallsend South Public School
Wamberal Public School
Wangi Wangi Public School
Waratah West Public School
Warners Bay High School
Warners Bay Public School
West Wallsend High School
Whitebridge High School
Windale Public School
Wirreanda Public School
Wyee Public School.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage girl missing from the Hunter Region
Lilly Nelson, aged 14, was last seen at east Maitland about 3pm yesterday (Saturday 16 May 2026).
When she was unable to be located or contacted, officers attached Port Stephens Hunter Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.

Police and his family have concerns for her welfare due to her young age.
Lilly is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 175cm, thin build, short black hair and blue eyes.
She was last seen wearing a black zip up top, black singlet, dark cargo shorts Lilly may also be wearing double lope piercing in both ears
She is known to frequent the East Maitland and Hamilton areas.
Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact Maitland Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au:

City of Newcastle will use community feedback to help plan for more housing near train stations at Hamilton, Adamstown, Kotara and the Newcastle Interchange.

The four areas have been selected by the NSW Government to be part of the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) Program, which is designed to enable greater residential density near key transport hubs.

Executive Director Planning and Environment Michelle Bisson said City of Newcastle wants to hear what residents love about their suburb and what changes could help accommodate the growth in housing.

“We support the intent of the NSW Government reforms to provide more housing and increased density close to transport,” Ms Bisson said.

“However, a one-size-fits-all approach does not consider factors such as heritage or environmental constraints, so we’re designing a place-based approach to each precinct.

“We want the community to tell us what they love about their local area and what they believe should be prioritised in the future to accommodate more housing.

“That could include improved open public spaces, walking and cycling connections, transport and traffic upgrades, more lighting or the diversity of housing choices.”

Under the National Housing Accord, the NSW Government has committed to delivering 377,000 new homes across the state between 2024 and 2029, with a target of 11,100 new homes for the Newcastle Local Government Area during that period.

To help facilitate these targets, the NSW Government has introduced a range of planning reforms including the TOD program, which permit mid and high-rise development, including apartments and shop-top housing, by changing development standards such as building heights and floor space ratios.

Councils can create their own planning controls for TOD precincts, taking into consideration the distinct characteristics and needs of each location, as long as the planning controls still allow for the Government’s dwelling targets.

Using input from residents, City of Newcastle will produce an urban design framework for each of the four transport hubs, establishing the overall vision, objectives and actions that will provide guidance to property developers.

“The urban design frameworks will outline for property developers and owners what the area should look and feel like, and how things such as land use, streets, public spaces and buildings should work together, taking into consideration hazards such as flooding, bushfire, contamination and high-pressure gas pipelines,” Ms Bisson said.

“The framework will respect the unique local character of each precinct, while still delivering the outcomes that meet the needs of current and future people who live, work and enjoy these areas.”

The development of the urban design frameworks is being delivered with support from a NSW Government grant through the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund.

Community members can find out more or make a submission via the Have Your Say page until 5pm on Friday 12 June 2026.

Work has begun beneath Queens Wharf as preparations get underway for the safe demolition of the fire-damaged western building.

Building inspections will get underway today before the work moves under the wharf later next week, pending favourable swell and wind conditions. Workers will use a small boat to carry out investigations underneath the structure before a floating pontoon is installed to enable the isolation and relocation of utilities connected to the site.

City of Newcastle’s Acting Director of Corporate Services Kathleen Hyland said the upcoming demolition of the western building is a critical first step in unlocking the future potential of the precinct.

“The transformation of Queens Wharf is a significant undertaking for City of Newcastle, which will deliver a new future for one of our city’s most iconic waterfront precincts,” Ms Hyland said.

“Some people would be unaware that this site and the majority of the adjacent road is built on piers above the harbour.

“The complex nature of the sub-structure means there is some preparatory work that needs to be completed as part of the safe and carefully managed demolition of the vacant western building.

“While not all progress will be immediately visible, this work is an essential step in transforming Queens Wharf and enabling the long-term revitalisation of the site.”

This services relocation work will take around two months to complete and will occur both under the wharf and inside the building.

Site establishment for the demolition of the building will begin after the services work is completed.

Access to the ferry and public promenade will be maintained during this period. Once demolition is complete, a range of short-term activations will be implemented to encourage the community and tourists to continue to enjoy the harbourfront site.

Queens Wharf has been a popular destination since it was constructed as a Bicentennial project and officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1988. 

It includes two separate buildings – the western building which has been vacant since a fire in May 2020, and the Queens Wharf Hotel, along with two car parks, a public promenade and the Transport for NSW owned ferry wharf. 

Revitalisation of the precinct received strong community support, with almost 1,800 comments and suggestions received by City of Newcastle during a recent community engagement process, with 97% endorsing the overall vision for the project. 

To stay up-to-date with the latest information about Queens Wharf visit the project page on City of Newcastle’s website.

The Thornton Road Bridge duplication project is entering its next major phase, with demolition of the original rail bridge beneath the existing 2010 bridge set to begin tomorrow, Saturday 16 May 2026. 

The work will take place during a planned 72-hour rail possession. 

Thornton Road is a key crossing over the Main North railway line, linking local communities to the M1 Pacific Motorway, Pacific Highway and Hunter Expressway. It is also one of the region’s key flood-free transport corridors during major weather events.  
Maitland has experienced repeated severe flooding events in recent years and this bridge forms one of the only flood free access routes between the northern suburbs of Maitland and Newcastle, Sydney and the East Coast. During these events, traffic has often ground to a halt.  
The duplication of the bridge will help future-proof this critical transport and flood resilience corridor – improving traffic flow, safety and connectivity for the 24,500 motorists who use this road everyday.  

The original Thornton Bridge was replaced in 2010, with plans at the time for a future duplication. However, the duplication was later cancelled by the former Liberal and National Government, despite continued population growth and increasing demand on the corridor. 
Instead, the former government removed the cap on development north of the bridge in 2012 allowing more homes to be built without committing more funding to significant infrastructure upgrades in the area until 2022. 
The new bridge, expected to begin construction at the end of 2026, will provide two lanes in each direction and improve access across the Main North railway line. 

Early work began in April 2025, including establishment of a pedestrian detour and a temporary site compound. 
Transport for NSW has contacted nearby residents and businesses about the demolition work scheduled across the weekend.  
Anyone with questions or concerns is encouraged to contact Transport for NSW directly on 1800 644 812 and  TRB@transport.nsw.gov.au:

Other investments in Thornton road network:  
· Traffic lights to the north of the bridge at Railway Avenue and Glenroy Street were installed in February 2021, leading to a double right hand turn that requires motorists to merge into one lane immediately before they can access the current 2010 bridge.  
· The NSW Government announced $9.5 million from the Housing Acceleration Fund to new traffic lights at Government Road and Raymond Terrace Road in May 2022. 
· The Albanese Government, under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, and Maitland City Council are each contributing over $3.74 million towards the $7.5 million duplication of Haussman Drive between Raymond Terrace Road and Taylor Avenue, expanding the road to two lanes each way. 
· The Minns Labor Government and Council are also investing another $6.9 million to construct a roundabout at the intersection of Haussman Drive and Taylor Avenue. 

Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison said:   
“Thornton has been the fastest growing area in the state for 10 years, and it is good to see that after more than a lost decade of Liberal and National neglect, work will commence on this long promised project to relieve congestion. 
“In every regional community, there are one or more roads people depend on when disaster strikes. The road that stays open when others go under, the road families rely on to get home safely, evacuate, or stay connected during a flood.  
“For people living on either side of the railway between East Maitland through to Millers Forest, that vital connector road is Thornton Road. 
“Local people have shared their safety concerns about this issue, and I am pleased to see the Minns Government getting on with the job of improving safety and infrastructure for residents living on the northern side of the bridge.” 

City of Newcastle will use community feedback to help plan for more housing near train stations at Hamilton, Adamstown, Kotara and the Newcastle Interchange.

The four areas have been selected by the NSW Government to be part of the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) Program, which is designed to enable greater residential density near key transport hubs.

Executive Director Planning and Environment Michelle Bisson said City of Newcastle wants to hear what residents love about their suburb and what changes could help accommodate the growth in housing.

“We support the intent of the NSW Government reforms to provide more housing and increased density close to transport,” Ms Bisson said.

“However, a one-size-fits-all approach does not consider factors such as heritage or environmental constraints, so we’re designing a place-based approach to each precinct.

“We want the community to tell us what they love about their local area and what they believe should be prioritised in the future to accommodate more housing.

“That could include improved open public spaces, walking and cycling connections, transport and traffic upgrades, more lighting or the diversity of housing choices.”

Under the National Housing Accord, the NSW Government has committed to delivering 377,000 new homes across the state between 2024 and 2029, with a target of 11,100 new homes for the Newcastle Local Government Area during that period.

To help facilitate these targets, the NSW Government has introduced a range of planning reforms including the TOD program, which permit mid and high-rise development, including apartments and shop-top housing, by changing development standards such as building heights and floor space ratios.

Councils can create their own planning controls for TOD precincts, taking into consideration the distinct characteristics and needs of each location, as long as the planning controls still allow for the Government’s dwelling targets.

Using input from residents, City of Newcastle will produce an urban design framework for each of the four transport hubs, establishing the overall vision, objectives and actions that will provide guidance to property developers.

“The urban design frameworks will outline for property developers and owners what the area should look and feel like, and how things such as land use, streets, public spaces and buildings should work together, taking into consideration hazards such as flooding, bushfire, contamination and high-pressure gas pipelines,” Ms Bisson said.

“The framework will respect the unique local character of each precinct, while still delivering the outcomes that meet the needs of current and future people who live, work and enjoy these areas.”

The development of the urban design frameworks is being delivered with support from a NSW Government grant through the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund.

Community members can find out more or make a submission via the Have Your Say page until 5pm on Friday 12 June 2026.

Previously unseen details from thousands of historic photographs are being revealed for the first time following a five-year digitisation project by City of Newcastle. 

More than 5,500 images taken by renowned Newcastle photographer Ralph Snowball have been meticulously scanned, catalogued, researched, and uploaded online by Newcastle Libraries staff and volunteers, uncovering new insights into the people, places and daily life from the late 1800s. 

Digitally archived image taken by Ralph Snowball of Watt Street and Newcastle Train Station.City of Newcastle Director of Museum Archive Libraries and Learning Julie Baird said the enhanced images are transforming how the collection is understood and used. 

“These photographs have long been an important part of our local history, but improved imaging is revealing remarkable new details,” Ms Baird said.

“Our team of staff and dedicated volunteers have captured high-resolution scans that uncover details previously unseen, from names on gravestones to business signage on buildings.

“This project ensures the collection remains a living resource, continuing to deepen our understanding of Newcastle’s history.”

The digitisation project began in 2021, with staff and volunteers working together to scan and catalogue the collection using specialist equipment in Newcastle Library’s digitisation lab. 

At the same time, volunteers contributed to the ongoing research of the collection to update and expand the historical information attached to each image.

Originally discovered in 1988 in the basement of the Snowball family home in Lambton, the collection included around 8,000 glass plate negatives, with just over 5,000 becoming part of the Newcastle Library’s collection.

The images, taken between the 1890s and 1920s, capture an insight into life across Newcastle and the Hunter region, including street scenes, workplaces, beaches, public buildings and major civic developments. 

Subjects range from surf lifesavers at Newcastle Beach and afternoon tea at Fort Scratchley to workmen at the Obelisk, the construction of the Newcastle Ocean Baths and iconic landmarks such as the Newcastle Post Office and Christ Church Cathedral.

A special panel-style event, Celebrating Snowball, will be held at Newcastle City Library on Wednesday 13 May, showcasing the collection and the stories uncovered through the digitisation process. Digitally archived glass negative of Ralph Snowball with his horse and wagonette, taken 9 July 1988.City of Newcastle Director of Museum Archive Libraries and Learning Julie Baird said the Snowball collection continues to deliver lasting value for the Newcastle community.

“We’re now seeing details that simply weren’t visible before, which is helping researchers, historians and the community better understand the people and places captured in these photographs,” Ms Baird said.

“Importantly, this work makes our shared history more accessible, allowing more people to connect with Newcastle’s past and see how our city has evolved.”

The Ralph Snowball Collection is the largest photographic collection to be digitised by Newcastle Libraries and is part of the Local History Collection. 

Newcastle Libraries holds 5,500 glass plates and numerous original prints donated from various sources over the years, including Ralph’s son Frank Snowball and members of the community.  

City of Newcastle also recognised Snowball’s contribution to documenting Newcastle’s history in October 2025 by naming a previously unmarked lane off Bridges Road between Russell Road and Victoria Street in Lambton, after the photographer. 

The Ralph Snowball Collection can be explored online via the Hunter Photobank digital archive. 

The free Celebrating Snowball event will be held on Wednesday 13 May at the Lovett Gallery, Newcastle City Library from 6pm to 7pm. Bookings are not required but for more details visit the Newcastle Libraries website. 

History and details about Ralph Snowball

• Ralph Snowball was born in 1848 in Leadgate, Durham, England. 
• He arrived in Sydney aboard the Nineveh in 1879 with his wife Mary and infant son George and eventually settled on land that later became Clarence Road, New Lambton. 
• He worked as a miner for five years at Lambton Colliery but after suffering an accident, he set up as a professional photographer in 1884. 
• Snowball’s horse-drawn waggonette was well-known around the Newcastle district. He (and his bulky equipment) travelled further afield by whatever means would allow him to capture life and the countryside around Lake Macquarie and the lower Hunter.
• Ralph retired in 1915 and continued taking the occasional photograph up until at least 1924. 
• Outside of photographer, Snowball was active in the community in a number of roles, including becoming the first town clerk when the municipality of New Lambton was formed in 1889 and later a valuator for the council
• He died on 4 August 1925 and was buried at Sandgate Cemetery.

Work has begun on a project to transform Hamilton Station Park into a more welcoming place for residents and commuters.

The project has been shaped by community feedback and developed by City of Newcastle in collaboration with NSW Police and the NSW Government.

Key features will include the installation of ambient and security lighting to improve safety and visibility, new landscaped areas and garden beds, a community noticeboard incorporating cultural and local stories, as well as a ramp to improve access from Beaumont Street.

Existing seating will be replaced with modular, accessible options featuring Aboriginal artwork, to enhance comfort for visitors and the park’s overall welcoming feel.

The $290,000 project is supported by an $80,000 NSW Government Community Building Partnership grant and funded within City of Newcastle’s capital works program.

Cr Joel Pringle, Cr Paige Johnson and Cr Jenny Barrie join Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp at Hamilton Station Park.Ward Two Councillors are supporting the project as part of ongoing efforts to improve safety in Hamilton.

“We’re working closely with the community, local support services, NSW Police and the NSW Government on this project to improve safety, accessibly and community use of this area,” Cr Jenny Barrie said.

“While the upgrade will not resolve all the complex social issues in the area, it will encourage positive use of the space and reinforce the park as a shared community place.

“By following Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles, we want to increase activation and make the park safer for commuters, the community and nearby businesses.”

The initial works will include the removal of existing elements such as seating, signage, concrete areas and footpaths, as well as the perimeter fence to improve sightlines into the park.

Councillor Paige Johnson said the project has been designed using community feedback and recommendations from local agencies and police.

“We’ve been engaging positively with locals and businesses about the changes to open up this space and we want to deliver this as something the community can proudly use,” Cr Johnson said.

“Other features of the project include new pedestrian paths, water and electricity connections as well as a hardstand area to support small community events.”

Councillor Joel Pringle said the upgrades will make the park a more inclusive space for the wider community.

“A new community information board has been developed with City of Newcastle’s Guraki Aboriginal Standing Committee and will help the community learn about the historical and ongoing relationship our Traditional Custodians have with this space,” Cr Pringle said.

“We’ll also be installing a ‘no dig’ garden around the prominent fig tree to safeguard its roots and improve access to shade, while the existing cupboards in the park will be replaced with a purpose-built, weatherproof, donation cupboard, located in a more prominent, well-lit location.”

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said Hamilton Station Park is a place that should be enjoyed by all.

“This safer-by-design upgrade will open up the area and improve safety and security for commuters, pedestrians, and park goers,” Mr Crakanthorp said.

“This project is just one of the many measures being taken to improve anti-social behaviour and crime in and around Hamilton. I look forward to working with Council to deliver this much-needed upgrade.”

Work at the site is expected to be completed by mid-2026, with temporary site fencing and managed pedestrian detours in place during construction to ensure public safety.

Access to Hamilton Train Station will be maintained as the work progresses.

For more information visit our website.