Strike Force Keavall formed to investigate death of woman near Cessnock

Police investigating the death of a woman near Cessnock overnight are seeking to speak with a man they believe can assist with inquiries.

Emergency services were called to a home on Ellalong Street, Kearsley, just after 7.30pm (Friday 31 October 2025), responding to reports of a domestic violence-related incident.

Inside the house police located the body of a woman.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District established a crime scene overnight, which is being examined by specialist forensic officers.

Local detectives, assisted by State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad, have established Strike Force Keavall to investigate the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death.

Hunter Valley Police District Commander, Superintendent Steve Laksa, said detectives wish to speak with 37-year-old Christopher James McLoughney, as they believe he has information that may assist investigators.

“Based on information provided to investigators, we are warning anyone who sees this man to not approach him but to call Triple Zero (000) immediately,” Supt Laksa said.

“He is described as being of Caucasian appearance with short red hair, a thin build and 175cm to 178cm tall. It’s not known what he is wearing; however, he may be in possession of a firearm.

“It’s believed he may be driving a 2008-model black Hyundai Tuscon SUV with NSW registration, DK75HP.

“It is very important that people do not approach this man.

“We are appealing to anyone with information about this man’s whereabouts contact Cessnock Police or Crime Stoppers as soon as possible as we believe he may have information crucial to the investigation,” he said.

Supt Laksa said a child, who is believed to have lived at the home, is being cared for by his extended family.

“At this time, investigators are investigating this as a domestic and family violence-related incident.

“A post-mortem examination will be conducted in coming days to establish identity and determine cause of death; however, I can confirm a firearm was discharged at the premises.”

Supt Laksa said the incident will have a significant impact on the families of those involved.

“The community of Cessnock – and the Hunter Valley as a whole – will be affected by the tragic death of this young mother, but I know there will be support for those involved.

“I appeal to anyone in the area who has information which can assist investigators to call police immediately,” Supt Laksa said.

Travel to Malaysia for ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, will this weekend represent Australia at the 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Malaysia.

ASEAN sits at the core of Australia’s vision for a peaceful, stable and prosperous region, where all countries – large and small – are free to exercise their sovereignty.

Through the ADMM-Plus, defence ministers from across the region come together to pursue dialogue and cooperation in support of these fundamental principles. 

While in Kuala Lumpar, the Deputy Prime Minister will also hold a series of bilateral and multilateral meetings with his counterparts.  

Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

“The ADMM-Plus is the region’s premier defence forum, bringing together a critical group of states to pursue the dialogue and cooperation that is a pre-requisite for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region. 

“Australia strongly supports a regional order with ASEAN at its centre, providing an essential stabilising influence.

“I look forward to the opportunity to engage with my counterparts this weekend as we continue to look at opportunities to advance our defence and security cooperation.”

Minister Rae celebrates Aged Care profits while older Australians pay more

From today, Labor’s new Aged Care Act comes into force, meaning older Australians will pay more for essential care, including up to $50 just for help with a shower, and some will have to forgo care altogether.

This week, Labor’s Minister for Aged Care, Sam Rae, celebrated rising aged care provider profits in an interview with the ABC. To celebrate rising profits for providers while introducing big new co-payments is a slap in the face to older Australians.

The Greens were the only party to vote against the financialisation of care when the bill moved through the Parliament last year, and have called on Labor to reconsider, reverse the care-for-profit system and instead focus on ensuring every Australian can get the care they need at the time that they need it.

Home care co-payments risk losing care

Under the new Support at Home program, new co-payments mean that older Australians will be forced to pay pay up to $50/hour for help with showers, meals, and basic care at home, based on Department of Health data.

While participants in the old program prior to last September were promised they would be no worse off, but in practice older Australians are facing increased prices and fees resulting in lower levels of service. There is no limit on the amount providers can charge for home care fees until 1 July 2026. Aged care economic advisor StewartBrown has advised providers to increase their fees by between 30 and 38 per cent.

Residential care costs increase while inequity rises

Under the new Act, half of all older Australians will pay more to enter residential aged care, including 3 in 10 full pensioners and 75% of part-pensioners. 

Labor have already raised a cap on residential aged care deposits from $550,000 to $750,000, which has driven up prices overnight. Providers can also now keep up to 10% of a residents so called ‘Refundable’ Accommodation Deposit

As Uniting NSW & ACT has warned, aged care residents who can afford this increased upfront deposit (usually from selling their family home) may be worth twice as much in revenue to an aged care facility as an older person who is living week to week, meaning older renters and poor people will find it harder to access care.

Waitlist continues to grow

In last Senate Estimates, it was revealed that as at the end of September, the waitlist for aged care only continues to grow. 

The total combined number of people waiting for care (either for an assessment, or for an aged care package) is up from approx 217,000 in June-July to 238,248 at the end of September. Just 63,000 new packages will be released between 1 November and the end of the financial year.

The only reason for a shortage in the availability of home care is that the government chooses to release fewer home care packages than the community needs each year. The Greens-led Senate inquiry, as well as the Royal Commission, recommended ended the ‘rationing’ of care and instead moving to a ‘demand driven’ system, but Labor have rejected this in favour of enforced shortages.

Senator Penny Allman-Payne, Greens spokesperson for Older People:

“Under Labor’s new Aged Care Act, the worse your health, the more you’ll pay for care.

“From today, a tsunami of co-payments will break on older Australians.”

“Minister Rae is celebrating increased profits for aged care providers, while under Labor’s plan 1 in 3 people on a full pension are paying more for residential care, and others will be charged up to $50 every time they need help with a shower. That’s shameful.”

“Our parents and grandparents deserve to be looked after in their old age, not forced to choose between a shower each day and a meal.”

“Aged care should not be for profit.” 

“While 1 in 3 big corporations pay no tax, but older Australians can’t get basic help they need, something is seriously wrong.”

“The Greens will fight to reverse care for profit, to end the shortage of care, and to make sure every older person in this country can get the help they need at the time they need it.”

NACC puts out the trash but keeps its Commissioner – for now

The NACC has announced that Commissioner Brereton will no longer participate in consideration of Defence referrals. They did this in a statement on its website on the afternoon of Friday 31 October announcing that Commissioner Brereton “has decided that he will not participate in consideration of any referrals which involve the interests of any Defence or ADF individual or unit that is or comes before the Commission, regardless of whether it might reasonably be perceived to involve a conflict”. 

The NACC goes on to say “The Commissioner is taking this step, although it is unnecessary from the perspective of properly managing actual or apparent conflicts, solely in an endeavour to recentre the focus on our important operational and educational work.” 

Senator David Shoebridge, Greens Justice and Defence Spokesperson said:

“This is a ‘major-general’ backdown from Commissioner Brereton who, up until now, tried to stare down the growing public revolt over the conflicts of interest.

“In a show of contempt for transparency the NACC only disclosed this major development with a website post put up after 5pm on Friday night. There’s a name for this, it’s called, “putting out the trash.”

“This announcement leaves so many unanswered questions:

– Why is Commissioner Brereton still a Major-General in the ADF?

– What happens to all the defence referrals he has been working on, and making decisions on, until now?

– Why is Commissioner Brereton being paid over $800k a year not to work on defence referrals?

“Defence, which is embroiled in a series of multi-million dollar procurement scandals, is one of the largest customers for the NACC which had over 120 Defence referrals as at April this year. 

“It is not just that the NACC’s statement came late on a Friday night, so too did the Government’s tabling of the NACC Annual Report which was over two weeks late.

“Astoundingly, given the serial failures of the NACC Commissioner Brereton to deal with conflicts of interest in his own role, the NACC says conflicts of interest is one of its three main corruption prevention themes.

“Corruption complaints concerning conflicts of interest are also identified in the NACC annual report as major elements of its ongoing work.

“It remains untenable for Commission Brereton to stay as the NACC Commissioner given his repeated failure to deal with his own conflicts of interest.  

“This latest step only highlights the damage he has done to the NACC’s public standing.

“Anti-corruption agencies should be modelling best practice, not cynically making significant announcements late on Friday afternoons.

“The Albanese Government needs to act and, if Commissioner Brereton will not leave of his accord, bring the matter before the Parliament for a decision on his future,” Senator Shoebridge said.

Southern Star Research takes out top prize at NSW Export Awards

A Sydney-based company helping to accelerate clinical trials and bring new medical products to market has been named Exporter of the Year at the NSW Export Awards.

Southern Star Research received the honour at a gala ceremony last night alongside a win in the International Health Category.  

As an Australian Contract Research Organisation, Southern Star Research works with biotech and pharmaceutical companies to manage trials, track results and gain regulatory approvals for their clients’ treatments. 

The Minns Labor Government has backed Southern Star Research through its Going Global Export Programs for the last two years, bringing their expertise and services to the competitive Greater China, South Korea and US markets.  

The business took part in the Going Global Health to USA Program in 2023, supported by InvestmentNSW’s trade representatives with pitch coaching, business matching and introductions to US partners.  

Southern Star Research’s success is a testament to the strength of the NSW healthcare sector, which contributes $60 billion to the state’s economy. It also highlights the positive impact of the NSW Government’s export programs and how local businesses are being supported to achieve international growth objectives.  

This support will grow even stronger as the NSW Government continues to implement its Trade and Investment Strategy. More than 30 Going Global Export Programs and Going Global Trade Missions will be delivered over the next year, supporting up to 350 NSW businesses to thrive in the international marketplace.  

Southern Star Research was among 18 other NSW businesses from a diverse range of industries including agribusiness, food and beverages, resources and energy and manufacturing and advanced materials that were celebrated at the NSW Export Awards last night.  

Now in its 63rd year, the Awards celebrate the contribution exporters make to NSW through diversification, job creation and increased economic prosperity.  

For a full list of the 2025 NSW Export Award winners, visit the Export Council of Australia.   

The winners in the 14 national categories will now progress as finalists for the Australian Export Awards, to be held in Canberra on Wednesday 26 November 2025.  

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said: 

“I want to congratulate Southern Star Research for taking out the top prize of NSW Exporter of the Year – the Minns Labor Government is proud to have supported their exporting journey, helping them expand into new markets and create jobs here at home. 

“Success stories like Southern Star Research reinforce that we are delivering on our NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, a first-of-its-kind push with clear targets to increase the value of NSW exports. 

“We know that exporters generate high revenues, provide more jobs and drive innovation, so that’s why we are excited to help their opportunities grow. 

“With quality programs, and a strong network of trade representatives in NSW and around the world, the NSW Government is committed to ensuring our state’s businesses remain competitive and connected on the global stage.” 

Minister for Medical Research David Harris said: 

“Southern Star Research is just the latest in a long list of outstanding home-grown businesses driving innovation across our state’s medical research sector, and I commend them on their win.  

“NSW businesses continue to show that our state is home to world-class products, services and talent in the health technology industry.  

“We are proud to see our researchers and developers forging new paths in international markets, setting benchmarks for excellence, and producing technologies that will help millions of Australians.”    

Southern Star Research Managing Director and Founder David Lloyd said:  

“We’re deeply honoured to receive both the International Health Award for NSW and the NSW Exporter of the Year title.  

“These awards reflect the dedication of our team and our commitment to advancing global health through high-quality clinical research. As a proud NSW-based organisation, we’re passionate about showcasing the strength of our local talent and the impact NSW’s innovation can have on the world stage.  

Chair of the Export Council of Australia Dianne Tipping said:  

“As Chair of the Export Council of Australia, I’m thrilled to congratulate all the exceptional finalists and winners of the 2025 NSW Export Awards.  

“This year’s cohort reflects the remarkable diversity, resilience, and innovation that define NSW exporters—from regional trailblazers to global industry leaders. Their achievements not only strengthen our economy but also showcase the world-class capabilities that NSW brings to international markets.  

“We’re proud to celebrate their success and the vital role they play in shaping NSW’s future on the global stage.” 

Central Darling Shire to have first Council in 12 years

The people of Central Darling Shire have their first Council in 12 years, with the Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig today confirming the three people to serve as appointed councillors alongside the councillors elected by the community.

The new Rural and Remote Council model will enable the Council to draw on a wide range of expertise to ensure that it can address the challenges of service provision in a remote location.

Central Darling will have an equal mix of elected and appointed councillors to ensure strong local representation while maintaining stable governance.

This new model was introduced by the Minns Labor Government to address the unique challenges of larger remote councils and to provide a pathway back to democratic representation for Central Darling Shire after 12 years of administration.

Following the election for the Council’s three wards, Peter Sullivan was elected to Ward A, Max Bradley to Ward B, and Daniel Fusi was declared elected uncontested in Ward C.

The three appointed councillors were determined by the Minister after the election results were declared, to ensure their skills and experience will complement those of the elected councillors.

The appointed councillors are:

  • Robert (Bob) Stewart – Mr Stewart has served as the Administrator of Central Darling Shire Council since 2019, conducting day to day business during this challenging time which has included fish kills, drought, and floods. Bob has over 40 years of local government experience and understands the specific financial, socioeconomic and environmental challenges for the region.
  • Fiona Kelly – Ms Kelly is a proud Barkindji/Ngiyampaa woman and Executive Principal of Menindee Central School which she also attended as a student. Ms Kelly has dedicated herself to culture and community, and her leadership at Menindee Central has seen a number of positive changes.
  • The Hon. Barbara Perry – Ms Perry is a former Auburn Councillor, served 13 years in NSW Parliament as the Member for Auburn and served in several Ministerial roles including Minister for Local Government from 2008-2011. She has a legal background and has significant experience in governance and interaction with the State government.

Bob Stewart has been named as the Chairperson for the new Central Darling Shire Council and will continue to provide strategic direction. The Council can elect a Deputy Chair at its first meeting in December.

All councillors will undergo an induction program to ensure they are ready and equipped to serve the people of Central Darling effectively.

The NSW Government is also providing $6 million in funding to support the Council’s financial stability as it transitions out of administration. This funding, with the agreed program of expenditure, will help the Council address immediate infrastructure priorities, build capacity and deliver local government services across the Shire.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“Returning democratic representation to Central Darling Shire after 12 years under administration was a key priority for the Minns Labor Government and I’m very proud that we’ve reached this point.

“I congratulate both the elected and appointed councillors of Central Darling Shire and I wish them well in their new roles serving this community.

“Central Darling Shire faces unique challenges. The government will continue to work closely with the Council to ensure it has the support it needs.

“I expect all councillors to work together to serve the community, and I look forward to seeing them get down to the business of running the Council.”

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said:

“This is an important day for the communities of Central Darling Shire and means the Council can finally get on with the job. After over a decade in administration this will be just the first step toward the post-administration era.

“The Rural and Remote model, consisting of a mixture of elected and appointed members, was developed in consultation with me and many other local stakeholders to get Central Darling back on the path of having an elected local government. There is scope for changing that model after it gets up and running.

“We want to see all our new councillors succeed, and I look forward to working together with them to deliver for the people of Central Darling.”

Key Health Worker Accommodation boost for Lismore

Communities in Lismore are set to benefit from new Key Health Worker Accommodation, which will help attract and retain essential healthcare staff to the region.

Lismore is one of more than 20 Key Health Worker Accommodation projects in rural, regional and remote NSW across nine local health districts, as part of the Minns Labor Government’s $200.1 million program.

The investment will support the building of new accommodation, refurbishment of existing homes, and the purchase of suitable properties such as residential units, with Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) now seeking development partners.

The new accommodation is planned to include between 10 and 20 self-contained, flood-resilient, studio apartments close to Lismore Base Hospital, ensuring healthcare workers have access to fit-for-purpose, comfortable and convenient accommodation.

NNSWLHD received $34.2 million as part of the program to deliver key health worker accommodation projects in Lismore as well as Grafton and Tweed.

Interested parties can access the Request for Information through the BuyNSW platform.

The new Lismore Key Health Worker Accommodation is expected to be completed by mid-2028.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“The Minns Government is committed to ensuring regional health services have the workforce and infrastructure they need to provide quality care.

“By providing fit-for-purpose, flood-resilient housing in Lismore, we’re removing one of the major barriers to attracting and keeping skilled health professionals in the region.

“This investment will make a real difference to the sustainability of local health services and the community’s access to care.”

NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey:

“NNSWLHD is looking forward to working with potential development partners to deliver high-quality and affordable accommodation.

“We’re seeking innovative and community-minded partners to help us create modern, well-located housing to support our staff.

“We know access to suitable accommodation can make all the difference in recruiting and retaining skilled staff, particularly in regional and remote areas.

“We recognise the importance of this project to our staff and the broader community, and we’ll continue to provide updates as it progresses.”

Fatal motorcycle crash – Kurri Kurri

A man has died following a single-vehicle crash on the state’s Hunter Valley area.

About 5.20pm yesterday (Friday 31 October 2025), emergency services were called to Neilly Street, Kurri Kurri, following reports a motorcycle had hit a parked car, causing the rider to come off the motorcycle and hit the road surface.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District commenced CPR on the rider – a man believed to be aged in his 20s – before he was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, he died at the scene.

Police established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the crash.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

As inquiries continue, anyone with information into the crash or dashcam footage is urged to contact police or Crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Scholarship to continue legacy of Councillor Sinead Francis-Coan

Applications have now opened for a new annual scholarship established to honour former Councillor Sinead Francis-Coan’s lifelong commitment to the environment and climate justice.

Cr Francis-Coan was partway through her first term as a Ward 3 Councillor when she passed away suddenly in June this year.

The scholarship was established through a unanimous notice of motion by the elected Council, to be funded by City of Newcastle and administered by Women’s Environmental Leadership Australia (WELA) for the next three years.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to participate in WELA’s transformative leadership programs, which equip emerging changemakers with the skills to transform Australia’s response to environmental and climate challenges.

Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said the scholarship program ensures Cr Francis-Coan’s inspiring legacy will continue to support future leaders in the years to come.

“Councillor Francis-Coan was a passionate advocate for our climate and environment, equity, feminism and the union movement,” Cr McCabe said.

“This scholarship celebrates her compassionate leadership and remarkable contributions, empowering women and gender-diverse leaders to carry forward her work in creating positive change.”

Before being elected to Council in 2024, Cr Francis-Coan worked as a union organiser and was deeply involved in grassroots movements focused on workers’ rights, environmental protection and gender equity. Since joining the Newcastle Greens in 2014, she has been a role model and mentor to young people and individuals with a disability or experiencing marginalisation.

Lyndall Coan said her daughter’s vision and energy inspired those around her both personally and professionally and hopes this scholarship will empower women and gender-diverse people to develop their leadership potential.

“There are so many gaps Sinead has left behind. These gaps can become pathways for committed, passionate activists with the skills to make a real difference to continue the work that Sinead started,” Ms Coan said.  

“I hope that those inspired by Sinead’s unwavering commitment, tenacity and courage will seize this opportunity to grow as leaders. The scholarship is not just financial support, it’s a torch passed forward, inviting women and gender-diverse people to rise, lead, and continue the work Sinead began.” 

The Sinead Francis-Coan Scholarship is open to women and gender-diverse changemakers living or working in the Newcastle local government area or who have a meaningful connection to the city.

Scholarship applications will close on 1 February 2026. The scholarship will cover the full program cost of completing the WELA National Leadership Program.

Members of the public who wish to support additional scholarships in memory of Cr Francis-Coan can donate via the WELA website, which has already received more than $3,000 in contributions. 

To apply for the scholarship, go to the Scholarships page and scroll to the bottom of the page.

Shine a light on Newcastle’s local legends for 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards

City of Newcastle is providing the opportunity to honour the hard work of outstanding Novocastrians as part of the 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards. 

Nominations are now open for the prestigious annual awards, celebrating those who have made a significant impact in Newcastle’s community. 

Award categories include Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year and Community Group of the Year. 

Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said these awards are a chance to recognise people who make Newcastle a better place to live. 

“These awards shine a light on the everyday heroes who go above and beyond to support others, often without recognition,” Cr McCabe said.

“Whether it’s through volunteering, advocacy or simply lending a hand, these contributions strengthen our community and deserve to be celebrated.”

In 2025, the Community Group of the Year title was awarded to The Unforgettables, a choir dedicated to supporting people living with dementia and their carers.

Image: Associate Professors Michelle Kelly and Helen English, alongside the Unforgettables choir for people living with dementia, accepting the 2025 Community Group of the Year title at this year’s ceremony. The group meet every Saturday afternoon at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, providing a welcoming space where participants can engage with music.

Co-founder Associate Professor Helen English said the award meant a lot to everyone involved in the Unforgettables. 

“The choir was very proud to have been recognised as the Community Group of the Year, as recognition is so important when you are vulnerable and marginalised due to such an insidious disease,” Dr English said.

“As a result of the award the choir has been asked to sing at more events than it can possibly manage and has become an important icon for the University of Newcastle, singled out in our new Arts and Culture Strategy publication and performing as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations. 

“Dementia inclusive choirs are important for many reasons, including the social connections, joy in music and normalising through an accessible activity.

“Recognising our choir reinforces how vital these activities are for both cared-for and care-partners, and we thank City of Newcastle and the wider community.”  

Last year’s recipients also included Bailey Myers, who received the Citizen of the Year Award for his 4,500km journey across Australia on foot to raise funds for Indigenous literacy.

Sixteen-year-old Khuslen Batmandakh was named young Citizen of the Year for her dedication to improving literacy through the establishment of the book nook in Jesmond, providing free books to local families.

Nominations are now open online at newcastle.nsw.gov.au/citizenoftheyear and close on 11 December 2025.

A selection panel including the Deputy Lord Mayor, CEO, councillors and the 2025 Award recipients will determine the award winners, who will be announced at a ceremony early in 2026.