Category: Newcastle News

Following a resolution of the elected Council in December 2024, City of Newcastle has been reviewing the use and operation of the dive tower at Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre.

The dive tower was constructed as part of the original facility, which officially opened to the public in January 1963.

It includes 5m, 7.5m and 10m platforms and is located alongside the 1m and 3m springboards, which are all serviced by a 5m-deep pool.

General public access to the dive tower was restricted seven years ago due to safety concerns. The facilities are currently only able to be accessed by accredited diving organisations. 

There are 12 aquatic centres (including Lambton) with heritage dive towers in Australia. However the Lambton tower is one of only two heritage towers (those built before 2000) still in use, with the other remaining facility, at Canberra Olympic Pool. The heritage dive tower at Canberra Olympic Pool is scheduled for permanent closure as part of an upcoming redevelopment project.

Contemporary diving facilities around Australia built since 2000 are also predominantly restricted for use by trained and qualified professionals associated with accredited diving clubs, with public use highly limited.

As part of the review of the dive tower requested by Council, City of Newcastle sought guidance from SafeWork NSW due to the age of the asset and challenges in meeting current safety standards. Following two inspections in November, SafeWork has issued improvement notices that have identified the risks of falls and slips on the tower, 3m springboards and one of the 1m springboards.

The dive tower, 3m boards and southeastern 1m board have been temporarily closed in order to review the SafeWork improvement notices which includes engaging a qualified expert to conduct a risk-based assessment, determine appropriate control measures and associated costs. 

City of Newcastle will consult with stakeholders during the review period in line with SafeWork’s direction including the Dive Club and its approximate 70 members.

Police are appealing for the public’s assistance following a number of suspicious fires in the state’s north yesterday.

About 12.20pm yesterday (Sunday 30 November 2025), emergency services were called to the corner of Frame Drive and Gingers Lane, Sawyers Gully, following reports of a grass fire.

A short time later, at about 12.30pm, emergency services were called John Renshaw Drive, Buchanan, following reports of two more grass fires.

NSW Rural Fire Service crews attended and extinguished both blazes.

About three hours later, at 3.40pm, emergency services were called to a fire on a grass verge on John Renshaw Drive, Black Hill, and further emergency services responded to another fire on a grass verge of Averys Lane, Buchanan.

Both these fires were again extinguished.

No reports of injuries were received and there were no reports of damage to vehicles or property.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District were called established crime scenes at all locations, commencing inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

As part of inquiries, police are appealing for information on a white Mazda SUV last seen in Kurri Kurri about 3.30pm yesterday (Sunday 30 November 2025).

Anyone else with CCTV or dash cam footage of the Sawyers Gully, Buchanan, and Kurri Kurri areas between 12pm and 4pm yesterday (Sunday 30 November 2025) is urged to contact Hunter Valley Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

City of Newcastle will undertake short-term remediation work at Bar Beach next week to combat erosion threatening the stability of the sand dunes, following recent severe storm events and large swells.

Heavy machinery will be used to scrape sand from the lower part of the beach and deposit it closer to land to support and accelerate the natural process of sand accumulation.

The work is intended to strengthen the resilience of the dune system while City of Newcastle continues to develop long-term management solutions for the Bar Beach to Merewether embayment as part of the Southern Beaches Coastal Management Program (CMP).

City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager Environment and Sustainability Marnie Kikken said sand scraping is an interim solution to a complex issue.

“The current erosion south of Cooks Hill Surf Life Saving Club is approximately 100 metres in length, with an erosion width varying from 5–10 metres,” Ms Kikken said.

“The short-term remediation will build a protective buffer to help reduce the immediate risks to public safety and infrastructure and reduce the risk of further erosion.

“However, the work is subject to natural processes and could be seriously impacted by a single severe storm event.”

The short-term remediation work will begin on Monday and is expected to take five days to complete. It has been designed to cause minimal disruption to residents, businesses and surf lifesaving club activities.

A small section of the Dixon Park Beach carpark will be used as a site compound for equipment, with a temporary ramp to be built to allow machinery to access the beach.

There will be intermittent disruptions and pedestrian diversions along Bathers Way to allow machinery access, with the operation of heavy equipment along Dixon Park Beach and Bar Beach to take place during normal business hours.

There will also be temporary closures of sections of Bar Beach for public safety.

The current fencing and exclusion zones remain in place along the Bathers Way due to the unstable dune, with City of Newcastle’s coastal engineers conducting regular inspections and ongoing stability assessments of the cliff and promenade.

The development of a more permanent solution for the stretch of coastline has moved a step closer with City of Newcastle recently completing a month-long education campaign and eight-week community engagement process on the Southern Beaches CMP.

More than 800 people attended in-person pop-up events across Newcastle during the consultation, with almost 1400 contributions received through the online survey and poll on potential management options for the coastline from Bar Beach to Merewether.

The feedback will be considered as part of the development of the draft CMP, which is expected to go on public exhibition in 2026.

A phone booth that transforms New Year’s resolutions into a glowing LED installation will be a quirky addition to City of Newcastle’s end-of-year celebrations on the Foreshore next month. 

The “wish exchange” is among the family-friendly fun being offered at this year’s New Year’s Eve event, which will once again culminate in the 9pm fireworks over the harbour. 

City of Newcastle’s New Year’s Eve celebrations at the Foreshore 2024Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said the celebrations will facilitate a moment of reflection for the whole community and a chance to connect over a shared year of achievement. 

“Our New Year’s Eve celebration is a highlight of Newcastle’s annual events calendar, attracting more than 35,000 to the Foreshore precinct surrounding Queens Wharf each year,” Cr McCabe said.

“The event is an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate a momentous year, while looking forward to what comes next.”

The New Year’s Eve celebrations will kick off at 5pm with plenty on offer for people of all ages.

Families can enjoy a kids’ zone with nostalgic carnival-style games, circus workshops, a toddler-only jumping castle and a craft section where kids can design their own sustainable New Year’s Eve sunglasses from thrifted frames. 

The Station will feature bigger stages this year with a line-up of homegrown entertainment, including local musicians, comedy and cabaret performances as well as three DJ stages across the site. 

The celebrations will culminate in a spectacular display of fireworks, which will launch from a barge in the middle of the harbour to provide incredible uninterrupted views. 

City of Newcastle Executive Manager Media Engagement Economy & Corporate Affairs Nick Kaiser said the inclusive event has been tweaked following feedback for an improved experience.

“We’ve listened to the community’s comments from previous years and moved the fireworks display to a central harbour location so they can be seen from every point along the foreshore, from Queens Wharf to Camp Shortland,” Mr Kaiser said.

“The event will include an accessible viewing platform, grassy picnic zones and a dedicated quiet zone ideal for those who may need a break from the large crowds and stimulation. Designated spots for accessible parking and additional public transport options will also be available.” 

To find out more visit visitnewcastle.com.au/nye2025 

A Tighes Hill cooking school is working to tap into Newcastle’s $1.5 billion annual tourism market with tasty new experiences aimed at attracting more visitors from outside the region.

Yellow Door Kitchen is one of five local businesses taking part in City of Newcastle’s Product Mentoring Development Program, which is designed to develop and promote new tourism products and activities to a wider market.

Executive Manager Media Engagement Economy and Corporate Affairs Nick Kaiser with owner Janet Newton at Yellow Door Kitchen.Executive Manager Media Engagement Economy and Corporate Affairs Nick Kaiser said City of Newcastle is working to expand the range of bookable tourism experiences in Newcastle to meet growing demand.

“This program is aimed at enhancing Newcastle’s growing reputation as a compelling destination within the Australian leisure travel market,” Mr Kaiser said.

“Almost five million people visited our city in 2024 but the majority of those visitors only came on a day trip or stayed overnight.

“With the expansion of Newcastle Airport’s international routes, it’s important to build capacity for domestic and international tourist-ready experiences.

“The unique activities will provide a deeper connection to life in Newcastle beyond the usual sightseeing opportunities, giving tourists even more reasons to stay in our city while providing a boost to the local economy.”

This year’s Product Mentoring Development Program attracted businesses that offer a range of experiences such as brewery tours, history crawls, First Nations culture and Civic Theatre backstage tours.

As part of the program businesses are taking part in two half-day workshops and will receive one-on-one mentoring sessions with previous participants such as Nova Cruises, Mitch Revs and Foghorn Brewery, as well as six months of ongoing business support.

Yellow Door Kitchen is already popular with locals and visitors from Sydney, but owner Janet Newton said she’s looking to expand her reach.

“City of Newcastle’s Product Development Mentoring Program is perfectly designed to help us find ways to reach a wider audience,” Ms Newton said.

“We have so much to offer with hands-on classes for people of all ages and cooking abilities, as well as cooking demonstrations involving food from all over the world.

“I’m excited to be part of this year’s program and look forward to learning from other industry professionals.”

This is the third round of the Product Development Mentoring Program, which to date has seen City of Newcastle support 23 local businesses develop and expand their ideas for the tourism market.

Mr Kaiser said the program was just one of the initiatives being delivered under City of Newcastle’s Destination Management Plan to help grow and support the visitor economy.

“The tourism sector plays a vital role in Newcastle’s economy, having experienced significant growth during the past 10 years,” Mr Kaiser said.

“We’re committed to leading a collaborative whole of industry approach toward shaping Newcastle as a premier destination.

“Projects such as the Product Development Mentoring Program are about investing in the capacity of our local industry, while initiatives such as our campaign with global travel platform Tripadvisor highlight our bookable attractions to attract new visitors and increase tourist spend. 

“This campaign has been running since mid-September and has already resulted in more than 80,000 visits to our ‘Seek New in Newcastle’ webpage, ensuring we continue to reinforce everything Newcastle has to offer to as many potential visitors as possible.”

A phone booth that transforms New Year’s resolutions into a glowing LED installation will be a quirky addition to City of Newcastle’s end-of-year celebrations on the Foreshore next month. 

The “wish exchange” is among the family-friendly fun being offered at this year’s New Year’s Eve event, which will once again culminate in the 9pm fireworks over the harbour. 

City of Newcastle’s New Year’s Eve celebrations at the Foreshore 2024Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said the celebrations will facilitate a moment of reflection for the whole community and a chance to connect over a shared year of achievement. 

“Our New Year’s Eve celebration is a highlight of Newcastle’s annual events calendar, attracting more than 35,000 to the Foreshore precinct surrounding Queens Wharf each year,” Cr McCabe said.

“The event is an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate a momentous year, while looking forward to what comes next.”

The New Year’s Eve celebrations will kick off at 5pm with plenty on offer for people of all ages.

Families can enjoy a kids’ zone with nostalgic carnival-style games, circus workshops, a toddler-only jumping castle and a craft section where kids can design their own sustainable New Year’s Eve sunglasses from thrifted frames. 

The Station will feature bigger stages this year with a line-up of homegrown entertainment, including local musicians, comedy and cabaret performances as well as three DJ stages across the site. 

The celebrations will culminate in a spectacular display of fireworks, which will launch from a barge in the middle of the harbour to provide incredible uninterrupted views. 

City of Newcastle Executive Manager Media Engagement Economy & Corporate Affairs Nick Kaiser said the inclusive event has been tweaked following feedback for an improved experience.

“We’ve listened to the community’s comments from previous years and moved the fireworks display to a central harbour location so they can be seen from every point along the foreshore, from Queens Wharf to Camp Shortland,” Mr Kaiser said.

“The event will include an accessible viewing platform, grassy picnic zones and a dedicated quiet zone ideal for those who may need a break from the large crowds and stimulation. Designated spots for accessible parking and additional public transport options will also be available.” 

To find out more visit visitnewcastle.com.au/nye2025 

A Tighes Hill cooking school is working to tap into Newcastle’s $1.5 billion annual tourism market with tasty new experiences aimed at attracting more visitors from outside the region.

Yellow Door Kitchen is one of five local businesses taking part in City of Newcastle’s Product Mentoring Development Program, which is designed to develop and promote new tourism products and activities to a wider market.

Executive Manager Media Engagement Economy and Corporate Affairs Nick Kaiser with owner Janet Newton at Yellow Door Kitchen.Executive Manager Media Engagement Economy and Corporate Affairs Nick Kaiser said City of Newcastle is working to expand the range of bookable tourism experiences in Newcastle to meet growing demand.

“This program is aimed at enhancing Newcastle’s growing reputation as a compelling destination within the Australian leisure travel market,” Mr Kaiser said.

“Almost five million people visited our city in 2024 but the majority of those visitors only came on a day trip or stayed overnight.

“With the expansion of Newcastle Airport’s international routes, it’s important to build capacity for domestic and international tourist-ready experiences.

“The unique activities will provide a deeper connection to life in Newcastle beyond the usual sightseeing opportunities, giving tourists even more reasons to stay in our city while providing a boost to the local economy.”

This year’s Product Mentoring Development Program attracted businesses that offer a range of experiences such as brewery tours, history crawls, First Nations culture and Civic Theatre backstage tours.

As part of the program businesses are taking part in two half-day workshops and will receive one-on-one mentoring sessions with previous participants such as Nova Cruises, Mitch Revs and Foghorn Brewery, as well as six months of ongoing business support.

Yellow Door Kitchen is already popular with locals and visitors from Sydney, but owner Janet Newton said she’s looking to expand her reach.

“City of Newcastle’s Product Development Mentoring Program is perfectly designed to help us find ways to reach a wider audience,” Ms Newton said.

“We have so much to offer with hands-on classes for people of all ages and cooking abilities, as well as cooking demonstrations involving food from all over the world.

“I’m excited to be part of this year’s program and look forward to learning from other industry professionals.”

This is the third round of the Product Development Mentoring Program, which to date has seen City of Newcastle support 23 local businesses develop and expand their ideas for the tourism market.

Mr Kaiser said the program was just one of the initiatives being delivered under City of Newcastle’s Destination Management Plan to help grow and support the visitor economy.

“The tourism sector plays a vital role in Newcastle’s economy, having experienced significant growth during the past 10 years,” Mr Kaiser said.

“We’re committed to leading a collaborative whole of industry approach toward shaping Newcastle as a premier destination.

“Projects such as the Product Development Mentoring Program are about investing in the capacity of our local industry, while initiatives such as our campaign with global travel platform Tripadvisor highlight our bookable attractions to attract new visitors and increase tourist spend. 

“This campaign has been running since mid-September and has already resulted in more than 80,000 visits to our ‘Seek New in Newcastle’ webpage, ensuring we continue to reinforce everything Newcastle has to offer to as many potential visitors as possible.”

Raptor Squad have charged a man following an aggravated robbery in the state’s Hunter Region earlier this year under Strike Force Bromsgrove.
Strike Force Bromsgrove is an investigation by State Crime Command’s Raptor North into a series of related aggravated robbery related incidents in the Nelson Bay area in March 2025.
About 5.25am on Thursday 27 March 2025, emergency services were called to Salamander Way in Salamander Bay following reports of a home invasion.
On arrival, officers attached to Port Stephens Hunter Police District were told five unknown men dressed in dark clothing and face coverings – two armed with firearms, and one armed with a knife – had entered the home.
The group of males allegedly threatened the home’s occupants – a 48-year-old woman and two men aged 52 and 26 – demanding drugs before stealing their mobile phones, a luxury handbag, and a luxury hat.
The offenders then fled the scene in a white 4WD vehicle, suspected to be bearing stolen registration plates CX35UZ.
Local police commenced initial inquiries and NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the youngest man for a suspected broken nose.
The matter was then referred to State Crime Command’s Raptor North who commenced investigations under Strike Force Bromsgrove.
Following extensive inquiries, about 7.50am today (Wednesday 26 November 2025), strike force detectives arrested a 21-year-old man in Prestons.
The man was taken to Liverpool Police Station, where he was charged with robbery while armed with dangerous weapon and participate in a criminal group.
He was refused bail to appear in Liverpool Local Court today, where police will allege in court the man was allegedly armed with a shotgun during the home invasion, which he used to assault the occupants of the home.
Investigations under Strike Force Bromsgrove continue.

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

Sunny Jenkins, aged 30, was last seen at John Hunter Hospital about 1.00pm on Sunday 23 November 2025.

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District were contacted and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police hold concerns for his welfare as his disappearance is out of character.

Sunny is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 185cm tall, of solid build, with brown hair and hazel-coloured eyes.

He is known to frequent the areas of Swansea, Belmont and Garden Suburb.

The Minns Labor Government has secured a blockbuster lineup of Rugby League World Cup 2026 matches for Newcastle, reinforcing the city’s growing reputation as a world-class destination for international sporting events.
The pride and passion of the Pacific will be on full display at McDonald Jones Stadium for Round One of the tournament on 18 October 2026. A dynamic Sunday afternoon double-header will see the New Zealand women taking on their Fiji Bulikula rivals before a barnstorming Pasifika showdown in a crucial men’s group match between the Fiji Bati and their Cook Islands neighbours.
In a major boost for the Hunter region, thousands of rugby league fans from across the globe will descend on Newcastle for the first men’s and women’s Semi Finals on Saturday 7 November 2026, further demonstrating the city’s ability to host unforgettable sporting moments.
With a further 12 matches to be played across Sydney and Wollongong, Rugby League World Cup 2026 is estimated to attract more than 32,000 fans to NSW and inject over $19 million into the NSW visitor economy, delivering significant economic benefits for hotels, pubs, restaurants and local businesses across the three host cities and surrounding regions.
Hosting the Rugby League World Cup 2026 aligns with the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, which aims to grow the visitor economy to $91 billion by 2035. A key pillar of the Strategy is building a dynamic, nation-leading calendar of major events that drives year-round visitation to support jobs and businesses that rely on tourism.
Today’s announcement adds to NSW’s unrivalled line-up of major sporting events for 2026, including the United Cup, New Year’s Ashes Test, Sydney Sail GP, AFC Women’s Asian Cup, Sydney 500, Bathurst 1000, State of Origin, NRL & NRLW Grand Finals and the TCS Sydney Marathon Abbott World Marathon Major.
For information on Rugby League World Cup 2026 fixtures and tickets visit www.rlwc2026.com. Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:
“Newcastle is Rugby League heartland and that passion will be on full display during the 2026 World Cup.
“Watching a footy game at McDonald Jones Stadium should be on every League fan’s bucket list and the 2026 World Cup is the perfect opportunity to experience a double-header game day in Newcastle.
“Our city is a world class sporting destination and it is terrific that thousands of people will travel here not only for the match, but to experience everything we have to offer.”
Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said:

“Newcastle is the home of thousands of devoted rugby league fans. This is a huge win for my community.
“In 2025, we saw major sporting events come to our city, from NRLW Magic Round to Wallabies and Wallaroos home tests. It is great to see more major events lined up for 2026.
“I can’t wait to show the world how great Newcastle is.”