A man has died after falling off his bicycle at Newcastle East last night.
About 10.30pm (Wednesday 10 July 2019), emergency services were called to the intersection of Pacific and Scott Street, after reports a cyclist was injured.
Police have been told the 51-year-old male cyclist came off his bicycle after attempting to cross the tram lines, falling and sustaining head injuries.
Numerous members of the public rendered assistance to the man while emergency services were contacted, before he was taken to John Hunter Hospital where he later died.
A crime scene was established by officers from Newcastle City Police District, and inquiries into the incident are continuing.
A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
Category: Newcastle News
All the news happening in the Newcastle and Hunter Region
Three dead, two rescued after catamaran capsized – Newcastle
Three people have died and two have been rescued after a catamaran overturned off the coast of Newcastle this morning.
About 10.10am (Thursday 11 July 2019) an emergency beacon was activated from a 11.7m catamaran that had overturned approximately 7 nautical miles off the coast at Stockton Beach.
Officers from Marine Area Command are responding, together with Marine Rescue Association and the RAAF, and coordinated by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC).
At this stage two people, believed to be a girl and a man, have been winched from the water and taken to John Hunter Hospital.
Three bodies have been found in the water and have been retrieved by Marine Rescue.
The operation continues.
International honours for Smart City success
A brace of awards at the IDC Smart Cities Asia-Pacific Awards has confirmed City of Newcastle’s standing as a leading smart city.
The Smart City Infrastructure component of the Hunter Innovation Project (HIP) was announced outright winner of the ‘Land Use and Planning’ category among an illustrious field of contenders including Singapore.
The City’s Smart Moves Newcastle – Mobility Projects also shared top honours in the ‘Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, Public Transit and Rideshare’ category with Chinese tech powerhouse Shenzhen.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the twin wins, which follow the Smart City of the Year Metropolitan prize in May, proved Newcastle’s modernisation wasn’t going unnoticed internationally.
“Of the seven Australian projects nominated as finalists in the 2019 round of the IDC Smart City awards, Newcastle was the only city to come away with wins,” the Lord Mayor said.
“It speaks volumes to our growing stature that we are mixing it with, and beating, established Asia-Pacific smart cities like Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Busan, Auckland, Taipei and Singapore.”
Now in its fifth year, the IDC smart cities awards honour the initiatives implemented by Asia-Pac cities to use technology to improve operations and better serve citizens. The awards are judged by IDC experts, an international advisory panel and a public vote.
This $7 million three-year HIP project forms part of the broader $17 million collaboration of smart city ideas, facilities and infrastructure by City of Newcastle, the NSW Government, University of Newcastle, Newcastle Now and Hunter DiGiT.
HIP has introduced smart city technology into the city’s public spaces, including communications networks connecting Australia’s largest installation of smart poles, smart lighting, free public WiFi and a soon-to-launch environmental sensor network, and Internet of Things (IoT) lab.
“The digital technologies and sensor capabilities enabled through the Hunter Innovation Project’s smart city infrastructure are a game-changer for the City,” the Lord Mayor said.
“This technology forms infrastructure capable of powering intelligent economic growth.
“It’ll help us manage our city based on data, and attract innovators, businesses and industries who want to be part of our digital revolution.”
The Smart Moves Newcastle – Mobility Project is using technology-enabled infrastructure, such as EV charging stations, smart bus stops and bike sharing programs, while introducing new modes of transport, including a driverless vehicle.
The project is funded by a $5 million grant though the Federal Government’s Smart Cities and Suburbs program and delivered with Transport for NSW, Keolis Downer Hunter, Bykko, and research programs by the University of Newcastle studying behaviours and prototyping new sensor technology.
For more information on the IDC Smart Cities Asia-Pacific Award, visit https://www.idc.com/ap/smartcities/
The Smart City Infrastructure component of the Hunter Innovation Project (HIP) was announced outright winner of the ‘Land Use and Planning’ category among an illustrious field of contenders including Singapore.
The City’s Smart Moves Newcastle – Mobility Projects also shared top honours in the ‘Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, Public Transit and Rideshare’ category with Chinese tech powerhouse Shenzhen.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the twin wins, which follow the Smart City of the Year Metropolitan prize in May, proved Newcastle’s modernisation wasn’t going unnoticed internationally.
“Of the seven Australian projects nominated as finalists in the 2019 round of the IDC Smart City awards, Newcastle was the only city to come away with wins,” the Lord Mayor said.
“It speaks volumes to our growing stature that we are mixing it with, and beating, established Asia-Pacific smart cities like Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Busan, Auckland, Taipei and Singapore.”
Now in its fifth year, the IDC smart cities awards honour the initiatives implemented by Asia-Pac cities to use technology to improve operations and better serve citizens. The awards are judged by IDC experts, an international advisory panel and a public vote.
This $7 million three-year HIP project forms part of the broader $17 million collaboration of smart city ideas, facilities and infrastructure by City of Newcastle, the NSW Government, University of Newcastle, Newcastle Now and Hunter DiGiT.
HIP has introduced smart city technology into the city’s public spaces, including communications networks connecting Australia’s largest installation of smart poles, smart lighting, free public WiFi and a soon-to-launch environmental sensor network, and Internet of Things (IoT) lab.
“The digital technologies and sensor capabilities enabled through the Hunter Innovation Project’s smart city infrastructure are a game-changer for the City,” the Lord Mayor said.
“This technology forms infrastructure capable of powering intelligent economic growth.
“It’ll help us manage our city based on data, and attract innovators, businesses and industries who want to be part of our digital revolution.”
The Smart Moves Newcastle – Mobility Project is using technology-enabled infrastructure, such as EV charging stations, smart bus stops and bike sharing programs, while introducing new modes of transport, including a driverless vehicle.
The project is funded by a $5 million grant though the Federal Government’s Smart Cities and Suburbs program and delivered with Transport for NSW, Keolis Downer Hunter, Bykko, and research programs by the University of Newcastle studying behaviours and prototyping new sensor technology.
For more information on the IDC Smart Cities Asia-Pacific Award, visit https://www.idc.com/ap/smartcities/
City wheels out first driverless vehicle
The future of automated transport has arrived in Newcastle with the City’s brand-new driverless shuttle bus unveiled today.
Wrapped in City of Newcastle’s branding, the 11-seater vehicle was revealed for the first time by Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes at Keolis Downer’s Hamilton depot, where rigorous safety testing will soon commence before passengers can enjoy the unique service along the harbour foreshore.
KD Hunter General Manager Mark Dunlop with the Lord Mayor and KD’s Sue Wiblin.
The Lord Mayor said it was fascinating to inspect the driverless vehicle ahead of its initial 12-month trial.
“This is a major milestone for the city’s smart city journey, and I look forward to working with Transport for NSW and partners Keolis Downer on this unique opportunity to make the future of automated transport in Newcastle a reality as we transform the city into a living lab,” Councillor Nelmes said.
“The City’s vision for a smart, integrated transport network begins in earnest with the arrival of this new driverless vehicle, which we propose connecting with Newcastle’s integrated public transport network.”
“We are planning for passengers to be able to take in views of the City’s harbour along the proposed 2km loop service, from Watt Street along Wharf Road to Nobbys and back, making it very appealing to tourists. A larger circuit will include some of Newcastle’s other beachside destinations after a couple of months.”
KD Hunter General Manager Mark Dunlop with the Lord Mayor and KD’s Sue Wiblin.
Keolis Downer New Mobilities Manager Sue Wiblin confirmed the trial was being developed in accordance with national and state legislation and regulations to ensure it met all safety standards.
“Over the next month, we will complete a rigorous safety testing program, on road and off road, to prepare the vehicle for customer services,” Ms Wiblin said.
“In-built computers and sensing systems capable of detecting obstacles, anticipating movement and evaluating risk of collision, are what sets this vehicle apart from the risks associated with human-controlled cars.
“These systems are capable of detecting vehicle movement and are also able determine the travel route, make decisions to slow down, brake and alternate the vehicle’s path if required.”
While the vehicle is fully automated, a chaperone, who will always be onboard during operations, will be able to stop the vehicle via an override system if required.
Testing will be carried out before the service is launched.
When launched, the trial will help gauge demand for driverless vehicle operations and assess their suitability in mixed traffic and transport scenarios in Newcastle.
Wrapped in City of Newcastle’s branding, the 11-seater vehicle was revealed for the first time by Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes at Keolis Downer’s Hamilton depot, where rigorous safety testing will soon commence before passengers can enjoy the unique service along the harbour foreshore.
KD Hunter General Manager Mark Dunlop with the Lord Mayor and KD’s Sue Wiblin.The Lord Mayor said it was fascinating to inspect the driverless vehicle ahead of its initial 12-month trial.
“This is a major milestone for the city’s smart city journey, and I look forward to working with Transport for NSW and partners Keolis Downer on this unique opportunity to make the future of automated transport in Newcastle a reality as we transform the city into a living lab,” Councillor Nelmes said.
“The City’s vision for a smart, integrated transport network begins in earnest with the arrival of this new driverless vehicle, which we propose connecting with Newcastle’s integrated public transport network.”
“We are planning for passengers to be able to take in views of the City’s harbour along the proposed 2km loop service, from Watt Street along Wharf Road to Nobbys and back, making it very appealing to tourists. A larger circuit will include some of Newcastle’s other beachside destinations after a couple of months.”
KD Hunter General Manager Mark Dunlop with the Lord Mayor and KD’s Sue Wiblin.Keolis Downer New Mobilities Manager Sue Wiblin confirmed the trial was being developed in accordance with national and state legislation and regulations to ensure it met all safety standards.
“Over the next month, we will complete a rigorous safety testing program, on road and off road, to prepare the vehicle for customer services,” Ms Wiblin said.
“In-built computers and sensing systems capable of detecting obstacles, anticipating movement and evaluating risk of collision, are what sets this vehicle apart from the risks associated with human-controlled cars.
“These systems are capable of detecting vehicle movement and are also able determine the travel route, make decisions to slow down, brake and alternate the vehicle’s path if required.”
While the vehicle is fully automated, a chaperone, who will always be onboard during operations, will be able to stop the vehicle via an override system if required.
Testing will be carried out before the service is launched.
When launched, the trial will help gauge demand for driverless vehicle operations and assess their suitability in mixed traffic and transport scenarios in Newcastle.
Aggravated break, enter and steal and firearms offences; man charged – Hunter region
A man has been charged with break, enter and steal and firearms offences in the state’s Hunter region.
Police have been told a 44-year-old man entered the front yard of a home on Cecily Close, East Maitland, and threatened an occupant about 7.30pm yesterday (Sunday 7 July 2019).
He left the premises and later returned allegedly armed with a rifle, before being involved in a struggle with the resident.
He returned to his home and was later seen leaving on foot.
Police from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were called and commenced a search but were unable to find him.
About three hours later, police were called to Redbill Drive, Woodberry, where the man allegedly forced entry to a home, threatened and assaulted a 72-year-old woman.
After a short foot pursuit the man was arrested with the assistance of the NSW Police Dog Unit at Swallow Close, Woodberry, and was taken to Maitland Police Station.
No one was injured; it’s believed the man knew both the alleged victims.
Officers later executed a search warrant at a home on Cecily Close, East Maitland, where they seized a rifle.
The man was charged with aggravated enter dwelling with intent, common assault, steal property in dwelling, destroy/damage property (x2), possess unregistered firearm and not keep firearm safely.
He was refused bail to appear at Maitland Local Court today (Monday 8 July 2019).
Youth group leader charged over alleged aggravated sexual assault of 15-year-old girl near Newcastle
A youth group leader has been charged over the alleged aggravated sexual assault and sexual touching of a teenage girl near Newcastle.
Last month, detectives from the Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad commenced an investigation, following reports a 15-year-old girl had been sexually assaulted by a man known to her.
Following extensive investigations, detectives arrested a 22-year-old man in Beresfield about 7.20am yesterday (Friday 5 July 2019).
Shortly after, detectives executed a search warrant at a home near Belmont and two vehicles have been seized for forensic examination.
The man, who is a youth group leader, was taken to Maitland Police Station where he was charged with two counts of intentionally sexually touch child (under 16 years), and seven counts of aggravated sexual intercourse child (under 16 years).
Police will allege in court that the man sexually touched and sexually assaulted the girl on several occasions between April and May 2019.
He was refused bail to appear at Newcastle Bail Court today (Saturday 6 July 2019).
The man was stood down from his role as youth group leader during the investigation.
Drugs, weapons and counterfeit money seized; man charged – Maitland
A man will appear in court today after being charged with numerous offences, including drug supply, in the state’s Hunter region.
In May 2019, officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District established Strike Force Dunwell to investigate the supply of illicit substances in the local area.
Following inquiries, detectives and officers attached to the Drug Unit executed a search warrant at a house on Narang Street, East Maitland, about 11.40am yesterday (Thursday 4 July 2019).
During the search, a number of items were located and seized including 115 grams of methylamphetamine hydrochloride (Ice), 33 grams of cannabis, a replica prohibited firearm, an extendable baton, over $4000 in counterfeit Australian $50 notes, documentation and electronic devices, believed to be stolen.
A 26-year-old man was arrested at the scene and taken to Maitland Police Station.
He was charged with supply prohibited drug, three counts of possess prohibited drug, possess prohibited weapon, receive stolen property, unlicensed driving and goods in custody.
The man was refused bail to appear before Maitland Local Court today (Friday 5 July 2019).
New playground open in Adamstown
Local families looking for outdoor fun can mark Fletcher Street Reserve’s new playground down as a fantastic place for the kids to play.
The $150,000 facility, nestled away in a leafy part of the suburb, was opened yesterday by Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes as part of the City’s annual playground replacement program.
Located in a reserve also known as Laneway Park, the new playground includes an extra wide stainless-steel slide, clock, musical chimes, mountain ramp, rope net climber and double swings.
“I’m delighted to open this new playground,” Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said at the official opening attended by students from St Columba’s Primary School in Adamstown.
“The design, which was selected by the community, is versatile enough to suit toddlers up to primary school-aged children and makes for a great new addition to the suburb.
“Fletcher Street Reserve takes the total number of playgrounds replaced by the City in the past four years to 15 across 11 different suburbs, equating to more than $5 million worth of fun new facilities for the community.”
Under the annual renewal scheme, the City’s Parks and Projects teams completely overhaul outdated equipment, replacing them with more modern materials that meet rising standards and service expectations.
This opening follows the recent delivery of the South Stockton Active Hub, the Cressington Way playground in Wallsend and last year’s opening of Blackbutt’s Richley Reserve adventure playground.
“We look forward to rolling out more of these wonderful facilities for young families in the years to come,” Councillor Nelmes added.
The $150,000 facility, nestled away in a leafy part of the suburb, was opened yesterday by Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes as part of the City’s annual playground replacement program.
Located in a reserve also known as Laneway Park, the new playground includes an extra wide stainless-steel slide, clock, musical chimes, mountain ramp, rope net climber and double swings.
“I’m delighted to open this new playground,” Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said at the official opening attended by students from St Columba’s Primary School in Adamstown.
“The design, which was selected by the community, is versatile enough to suit toddlers up to primary school-aged children and makes for a great new addition to the suburb.
“Fletcher Street Reserve takes the total number of playgrounds replaced by the City in the past four years to 15 across 11 different suburbs, equating to more than $5 million worth of fun new facilities for the community.”
Under the annual renewal scheme, the City’s Parks and Projects teams completely overhaul outdated equipment, replacing them with more modern materials that meet rising standards and service expectations.
This opening follows the recent delivery of the South Stockton Active Hub, the Cressington Way playground in Wallsend and last year’s opening of Blackbutt’s Richley Reserve adventure playground.
“We look forward to rolling out more of these wonderful facilities for young families in the years to come,” Councillor Nelmes added.
Teacher charged over alleged sexual touching of student – Hunter region
A teacher has been charged over the alleged sexual touching of a student at a high school in the Hunter region.
In June 2019, detectives from the Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad commenced an investigation, following reports a 14-year-old girl had been sexually touched by a male teacher during a class.
Following extensive investigations, detectives arrested a 50-year-old man at a Newcastle home just before 2pm yesterday (Thursday 4 July 2019).
The man was taken to Waratah Police Station and charged with intentionally sexually touch child under 16 years.
Police will allege in court that the man sexually touched the girl, then aged 14, during a school class in April 2019.
He was granted strict conditional bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court today (Friday 5 July 2019).
The Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad is comprised of detectives who are specially trained to investigate matters against children and adults, including sexual assault, serious physical abuse, and extreme cases of neglect.
Anyone with concerns about suspected child abuse or exploitation should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
Information you provide will be treated in the strictest of confidence. People should not report crime information via our Facebook and Twitter pages.
Resident critical after house fire – Hunter region
A man remains in a critical condition after a house fire in the Hunter region overnight.
Emergency services were called to a home on Peewee Close, in the Maitland suburb of Woodberry, about 6.45pm (Wednesday 3 July 2019), after neighbours noticed the home alight.
The resident was evacuated from the home by neighbours.
Fire and Rescue NSW attended and extinguished the blaze, which had been contained to the kitchen.
Whilst speaking with firefighters, the resident has suffered a medical episode and CPR was performed until the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics.
The 84-year-old man was taken to John Hunter Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.
Officers from Port-Stephens Hunter Police District were notified, and initial inquiries suggest the fire is not suspicious.