Category: Newcastle News

City of Newcastle has been forced to change the way people enter Wallsend Library after 3pm weekdays following a series of ongoing threatening and violent attacks towards staff and the general public.

Visitors to the Library will need to scan their library cards to gain entry to the building on weekday afternoons after 3pm following the installation of technology known as OPEN+, which safely manages and monitors use of the space.

CEO Jeremy Bath said City of Newcastle implemented the changes in response to a series of anti-social behaviours, which had impacted the wellbeing of staff and visitors.

“As recently as a week ago a group of young people carrying hammers were attacking the windows of the library. Two weeks ago, a group of people blocked the entry to the library and refused to allow people to enter or leave,” Mr Bath said.

“For the past year we’ve had to employ a security guard to patrol Wallsend Library. We’re now at the point where we are exploring employing paid police to protect our staff and library patrons. 

“Earlier this month Wallsend Swimming Pool was broken into and trashed. It’s the third time this season the pool has been broken into and vandalised. 

“It goes without saying that this situation is unacceptable. We are regularly meeting with Police but this is not the solution.

“It’s clear that Wallsend needs help. It’s extraordinary that a local council should have to pay police to protect the local library, but that’s what we are now considering.”

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said City of Newcastle was committed to the safety of its staff and the community.

“Obviously it is disappointing that we need to take these measures, but the library needs to be a safe place for staff and visitors,” Cr Kerridge said.

“City of Newcastle already uses this technology at Lambton Library and it works very well for visitors.

“Importantly, visitors who have forgotten their cards or do not have a card, will be able to access the library by ‘buzzing’ the intercom at the front door. They will be assisted and supported by staff promptly.

“I will be visiting Wallsend Library in the coming weeks to talk to staff and visitors about these new arrangements.”

Director Museum Archive Libraries & Learning Julie Baird said libraries have always been a valuable resource for our community, offering a safe and welcoming space that provides opportunities for social connection, education and recreation.

“While the vast majority of visitors use the library respectfully, it’s disappointing that the troubling actions of a few within the community have necessitated this change,” Ms Baird said.

“We’ve worked with Police, who have previously responded to instances of anti-social behaviour at Wallsend Library, and they are supportive of this new arrangement.

“Our staff will remain on site during the afternoons and will be able to assist members who need help with the technology.

“We appreciate the support and patience of our library members while they adjust to this change, which will ensure safer access for library members while delivering a positive experience for all visitors and staff.”

Customers who may not have their membership details with them or other visitors to the site will still be able to access Wallsend Library by using an intercom located at the main entry to contact staff onsite.

No changes will occur to opening times, closing times and staffing hours and security will remain onsite during afternoon and evening hours to continue to provide friendly, helpful service to library customers and visitors.

Projects that support Newcastle’s social, cultural, environmental and economic development are set to benefit from almost $1 million from City of Newcastle.

Community and sporting groups, residents and businesses are being invited to apply for a share of the funding available through City of Newcastle’s annual grants, sponsorships and Special Business Rates programs.

Councillors Elizabeth Adamczyk, Jenny Barrie and Declan Clausen join Bianca Bartlett from The Full Circle Collective, who received City of Newcastle funding for a clothes swap event in Wallsend. Jade Perry from AMS Art Studio, the event location, is also pictured.City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Creative and Community Services, Alissa Jones, said successful projects deliver real and lasting benefits for the city and the community.

“City of Newcastle’s grants and sponsorship programs offer support across a broad range of areas from recreation facility improvements to community initiatives, events and creative projects,” Ms Jones said.

“Our Special Business Rates program is an important way of involving businesses and the community in the continued improvement of their local precincts.

“Funding is assessed across a range of criteria including economic impact, social cohesion, creativity and innovation, and is available to events and projects at all stages of development.”

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Community and Culture Strategic Advisory Committee Cr Jenny Barrie said the funding helped to deliver worthwhile initiatives for the community. 

“City of Newcastle invests in diverse initiatives across the city each year that enhance community wellbeing and deliver tangible impacts,” Cr Barrie said.

“These projects can help strengthen the community, improve the city’s identity and make Newcastle a better place in which to live, work, play and invest.”

Previous grant recipients include a diverse mix of initiatives such as Books at the Bowlo by Club Lambton, Summer Runway by Facon Models and projects creating culturally safe spaces for Aboriginal women through art and film.

Environmental initiatives have included wildlife habitat enhancement, invasive vine removal and storage infrastructure for community gardens.

Social inclusion programs have also been supported, such as mental health and wellness walks, youth outreach and health and wellbeing programs tailored for Afghan women and people experiencing homelessness.

The Full Circle Collective received Special Business Rates funding in 2024 to continue their Wallsend Op Shop Trail, delivering related events such as the community Clothes Swap, which took part in Wallsend today.   

The event promoted sustainable fashion and the reduction of textile waste by inviting participants to exchange pre-loved clothing, shoes and accessories.

Co-founder and Director of The Full Circle Collective Bianca Bartlett said the funding enabled her team to deliver hands-on, community-driven events, and highlight the important role op shops play in a sustainable future. 

“Support from the City of Newcastle’s Special Business Rate program has made it possible for us to create fun, inclusive and sustainable events like the clothes swap,” Ms Bartlett said. 

“Our goal is to empower the community to take simple steps toward reducing waste and embracing the circular economy. Initiatives like these help people see that environmental action doesn’t have to be overwhelming, it can be creative, practical and social.”

Applications for grants and sponsorship funding are open from 2 June and close 29 June.

Funding streams include Infrastructure Grants, Community Support Grants, Event Sponsorship, and Tourism and Economic Development Sponsorship.

To learn more or apply, visit https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/community/grants-and-sponsorships

Applications for City of Newcastle’s Special Business Rates program are invited for projects that support the promotion, beautification and economic development of the Wallsend and Hamilton business precincts.

Expressions of interest open on 26 May and close on 22 June. For more information visit https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/business/supporting-local-business-people/business-improvement-associations/special-business-rates-program 

A long-vacant aged care facility in Mount Hutton is now home to women over 55 experiencing homelessness, thanks to a groundbreaking project supported by the Minns Labor Government.

The former Anglicare site — sitting unused for years — has been converted into Lakeside Haven: 20 fully refurbished studio units offering safe, supported accommodation. Over the next five years, it’s expected to provide housing for up to 100 women in the Hunter.

The project is being delivered by Pacific Link Housing and Women’s Community Shelters, with more than $550,000 in funding from the NSW Government’s $100 million Homelessness Innovation Fund—helping to cover the costs to run the project, including fit-out and refurbishment, operating costs, and support staff.

Designed for women over 55, the property provides access to communal lounges, kitchens, laundry facilities, and gardens, and aims to help up to 100 women over its five-year lease term.

This is the first “meanwhile use” housing project in Lake Macquarie, part of a broader push by the NSW Labor Government to make better use of empty buildings and get people housed faster.

The Homelessness Innovation Fund is a key part of the Government’s historic $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW Program, which will build over 30,000 new and upgraded homes across the state – the largest investment ever in housing for NSW.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:

“Housing is a major concern for people in the Hunter – no one should have to worry about whether they’ll have a roof over their head.

“This new facility will provide women with the safety and stability of a home, surrounded by a supportive community of other women.

“I’m proud to be part of this announcement as we enhance the Hunter’s reputation as one of the best places in Australia to live, work and thrive.”

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“This is exactly what we should be doing — taking empty buildings and turning them into homes for people who desperately need them.”

“This aged care home sat unused for years. Now it’s a lifeline for women who would otherwise be sleeping rough or stuck in motel rooms.”

Minister for Women and Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

“This Homelessness Innovation Fund project represents a significant step forward in our collective commitment to supporting vulnerable women in our community, particularly those facing the harsh realities of homelessness and domestic and family violence.

“Lakeside Haven is a great example of what’s possible when the New South Wales Government partners with incredible organisations such as Pacific Link Housing, Women’s Community Shelters and Anglicare, all of whom bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and compassion to the table.

“It’s through this ongoing collaboration that Lakeside Haven has become a reality and a place to restore hope, dignity, and security to women in need.”

Pacific Link Housing Group CEO Ian Lynch said:

“Lakeside Haven represents a significant step towards our mission of providing safe, secure and affordable housing for those in need.

“This collaborative project demonstrates our commitment to not just address immediate housing crises but to also create sustainable housing outcomes.

“Thanks to the support from the Homelessness Innovation Fund and our work with Women’s Community Shelters and Anglican Care, Lakeside Haven is turning a temporary solution into long-term stability for older women facing homelessness.”

Annabelle Daniel OAM CEO Women’s Community Shelters said:

“Women’s Community Shelters is proud to be standing beside cherished partners in opening a new safe haven for older women at risk of homelessness, and to be working with the Lake Macquarie community for the first time. At ‘Lakeside Haven’, women will access safety, housing and critical supports they need for a secure future.

“Our long-established model of revitalising vacant properties and turning them into safe and supported housing brings together the best of collaboration between the NSW Government, community housing providers, Women’s Community Shelters, corporate partners and the local community.

“We thank the NSW Government for embracing our ‘meanwhile use’ housing model as a pragmatic and immediate response to NSW’s housing crisis, and we look forward to opening more of these life-changing homes for women, where they can thrive with the respect and care they deserve.

A woman has been critically injured after being hit while waiting at a bus stop in the state’s Hunter region.

About 4pm yesterday (Friday 16 May 2025), emergency services responded to reports that a car had crashed into a bus shelter along Main Road, Glendale.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated a 28-year-old woman at the scene before she was taken to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition.

The 25-year-old male driver of the Holden Commodore sedan was taken to the same hospital for mandatory testing.

Officers from Lake Macquarie Police District established a crime scene, which was examined by specialist police from the Crash Investigation Unit.

Police have been told that the woman was inside the bus shelter at the time of the crash.

A fourth man has been charged following an investigation into an alleged kidnapping at Muswellbrook earlier this year.

Shortly before 4am on Friday 21 March 2025, a 25-year-old man was allegedly forced to stop his vehicle on the New England Highway near Muswellbrook by a group of five males in a silver Subaru Impreza.

The man was allegedly removed from his vehicle before he was assaulted and forced into the Subaru, and driven to Tindale Street, Muswellbrook.

Police believe the Subaru remained on Tindale Street for some time, before travelling to the Denman or surrounding rural area.

A short time later, a 35-year-old man was stopped in his vehicle outside the same address in Tindale Street, Muswellbrook, when a Holden Commodore utility crashed into the front of his vehicle.

The 35-year-old man was allegedly approached and threatened by an occupant of the ute, before he drove away without injury. Police allege that the incidents are linked.

Police later found the 25-year-old man at Muswellbrook railway station with facial injuries. He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to John Hunter Hospital. He has since been released.

Detectives from Hunter Valley Police District were notified and established Strike Force Sanderston to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

Following extensive inquiries and a public appeal for information, officers executed search warrants at two homes in Scone and Muswellbrook yesterday (Wednesday 7 May 2025).

During the searches, police allegedly located a replica firearm, electronics, illegal tobacco products, prohibited drugs, and a range of property believed to be stolen.

Two men – aged 34 and 21 – were subsequently arrested and taken to Muswellbrook Police Station where they were charged.

On Monday 12 May 2025, detectives arrested a 38-year-old man at Muswellbrook. He was taken to in Muswellbrook police station where he was charged with take person in company with intent to commit a serious indictable offence, stalk/intimidate – intend fear physical etc harm (personal) and sexually touch another person without consent.

The three men remain before the Courts.

Following further inquiries, on Thursday 15 May 2025, Strike Force Sanderston detectives, with assistance from detectives from Robbery and Serious Crime Squad and officers from Raptor Squad, police arrested a 31-year-old man at a house in Springfield.

The man was taken to Gosford Police Station where he was charged with six offences – intimidation, take and detain person in company with intent to commit serious indictable offence, take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, police pursuit (two counts) and predatory driving.

The man was refused bail and will appear in Gosford Local Court tomorrow (Friday 16 May 2025).

The long-awaited restoration of the historic Newcastle Post Office has been given the green light by City of Newcastle following the approval of a modified development application.

The site is owned by Dr Jerry Schwartz, who purchased it in 2018 with a plan to invest more than $3.6 million into updating the treasured icon to include a state-of-the-art conference centre, retail shops, a café and an Aboriginal cultural centre.

The original proposal was approved by City of Newcastle in April 2021 before the Schwartz Family Company lodged a modification to the approved design in 2024, which included alterations and additions to the existing building, as well as an additional level and an onsite residence.

City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath acknowledged the complexity a heritage site creates but hoped the latest approval would see the project move forward.

“This is the second time City of Newcastle has approved the redevelopment of this iconic piece of Newcastle’s history,” Mr Bath said.

“The modification application was delayed due to the proposal of an additional level, which was then removed following feedback from City of Newcastle’s Urban Design Review Panel, City of Newcastle staff and the Heritage Council of NSW.

“We’re pleased to see the restoration begin to take shape ahead of the building being reopened to the public for the first time since 2001.”

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said he welcomed the approval of the development application and looked forward to returning to the cherished landmark, which has stood for more than 120 years. 

“The building in a great example of Federation architecture and was added to the NSW Heritage Register in December 2000,” Cr Kerridge said. 

“The architectural qualities provide an insight into Newcastle’s prosperity and confidence during the late 19th century coal boom. 

“I know the delays in activating the building since the sale by the Federal Government over 20 years ago has been enormously frustrating for the community. 

“I have had a number of constructive conversations with Dr Jerry Schwartz who owns the building. I know that he has some exciting plans and I look forward to seeing progress on these developments.”

City of Newcastle’s Executive Director Planning and Environment Michelle Bisson said the modification application has not substantially changed the original plans.

“There are a range of exciting features that form part of this development that will bring the building back to life,” Ms Bisson said.

“Original features such as columns, capitals, windows and doors are proposed to be repaired, with the existing western, southern and eastern arcades on the ground level to be restored. 

“The first floor will see the installation of a glass roof over the terrace and the restoration of two existing fireplaces in the proposed function room.

“Our team worked through potential issues with the modification application and are pleased to have been able to resolve these once the owner provided all the relevant information, with the approval now allowing plans for this site to be progressed.”

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a woman missing from the state’s Hunter region.

Meilee Chen, aged 68, was last seen in Martins Creek on Friday 2 May 2025.

When she could not be located or contacted, officers from Newcastle City Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for Meilee’s welfare as she lives with medical conditions that require medication.

Meilee is described as being of Asian appearance, about 150cm tall, of a thin build, with short black hair.

She is known to frequent the Martins Creek and Birmingham Gardens areas.

Anyone with information into Meilee’s whereabouts is urged to contact Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A third man has been charged as inquiries continue into an alleged kidnapping at Muswellbrook earlier this year.

Shortly before 4am on Friday 21 March 2025, a 25-year-old man was allegedly forced to stop his vehicle on the New England Highway near Muswellbrook by a group of five males in a silver Subaru Impreza.

The man was allegedly removed from his vehicle before he was assaulted and forced into the Subaru, and driven to Tindale Street, Muswellbrook.

Police believe the Subaru remained on Tindale Street for some time, before travelling to the Denman or surrounding rural area.

A short time later, a 35-year-old man was stopped in his vehicle outside the same address in Tindale Street, Muswellbrook, when a Holden Commodore utility crashed into the front of his vehicle.

The 35-year-old man was allegedly approached and threatened by an occupant of the ute, before he drove away without injury. Police will allege that the incidents are linked.

Police later found the 25-year-old man at Muswellbrook railway station with facial injuries. He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to John Hunter Hospital. He has since been released.

Detectives from Hunter Valley Police District were notified and established Strike Force Sanderston to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

Following extensive inquiries and a public appeal for information, officers executed search warrants at two homes in Scone and Muswellbrook yesterday (Wednesday 7 May 2025).

During the searches, police allegedly located a replica firearm, electronics, illegal tobacco products, prohibited drugs, and a range of property believed to be stolen.

Two men – aged 34 and 21 – were subsequently arrested and taken to Muswellbrook Police Station where they were charged. They remain before the Courts.

On Monday 12 May 2025, detectives arrested a 38-year-old man at Muswellbrook. He was taken to in Muswellbrook police station where he was charged with take person in company with intent to commit a serious indictable offence, stalk/intimidate – intend fear physical etc harm (personal) and sexually touch another person without consent.

He was refused bail to appear before Muswellbrook Local Court tomorrow (Tuesday 13 May 2025).

Inquiries into the incident continue under Strike Force Sanderston.

One of the Hunter’s most popular community assets will remain open to the public during vital maintenance work that will improve the safety, longevity and functionality of the Fernleigh Track tunnel.

Originally part of the railway line that transported coal from mines in Lake Macquarie to the port of Newcastle from 1892 to 1991, the tunnel became the highlight of the much-loved cycling and pedestrian path when it opened in 2003.

As part of annual engineering inspections, City of Newcastle identified the need for maintenance to ensure the safety of users and extend the life of the 181-metre-long curved tunnel. 

The renewal work will begin later this week and is expected to be finished by the end of June, weather permitting.

Steel mesh will be installed in parts of the tunnel while damaged mortar will be repaired to maintain the stability of the bricks. Weep holes will also be installed in the tunnel to allow for improved drainage.

City of Newcastle’s Acting Executive Director City Infrastructure Robert Dudgeon said the needs of the community have been at the forefront of planning for this project.

“We know how popular the Fernleigh Track and tunnel are with local cyclists, runners and pedestrians,” Mr Dudgeon said.

“The project will provide maintenance for the existing elements of the tunnel and help to reduce future renewal costs, however the biggest priority is to ensure the safety and longevity of the historic site for everyone to enjoy.

“The maintenance will take place between 6pm and 2am, Monday to Friday, to minimise disruptions to daytime users. Additional lighting and temporary fencing will be added to the work area and clear signage will be in place at both tunnel entrances.

“In order to minimise the disturbance to users and residents, access to the tunnel will be maintained, but the usual two-lane pathway will be reduced to a single shared lane within the work zone.

“Pedestrian pathways will be clearly marked 60 metres from the tunnel entrances in both directions and traffic controllers will be on site to safely manage pedestrian and cyclist movements.

“While some noise may be noticeable during work hours because of the use of machinery and equipment, we will make every effort to minimise disturbance throughout the project.”

Other features of the works include the removal of existing graffiti and the application of a new anti-graffiti coating.

For more information on the planned upgrades please visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/works

Davidson Business Advisory has confirmed in a Public Briefing to Councillors and the community that its independent review of City of Newcastle’s processes, procedures and performance has found no instances of fraud, corruption, breaches of legislation or maladministration.  

Rather, the review has found City of Newcastle to be a well-managed and high performing organisation, with numerous examples of best practice in the way that it operates and serves the community.  

Davidson outlined 20 recommendations arising from their review along with actions for improvement across the six themes of general and financial governance, compliance, major projects, engagement and organisational culture. 

The review was completed following a unanimous resolution of Councillors at the 10 December 2024 Ordinary Council meeting. 

More than 800 public submissions from 548 individuals were considered during the review, alongside around 260 internal City of Newcastle documents and numerous one-one-one interviews with staff, Councillors and community members. 

Davidson Business Advisory’s Colin Jensen, who served as the CEO of Brisbane City Council for more than a decade, said the report’s recommendations offer avenues for continued growth and excellence. 

“Davidson Business Advisory was engaged to provide an impartial evaluation of City of Newcastle’s current practices, aiming to enhance performance and maintain the highest standards of public service,” Mr Jensen said. 

“Every document and submission was considered by the reviewers, assessing them against City of Newcastle’s adopted policies, processes and procedures to identify where there was evidence of best practice or opportunities for better practice. 

“Overall, City of Newcastle was found to be a well-managed and high-performing organisation, with numerous examples of best practice highlighted in the repot. 

“The review includes 20 actionable recommendations designed to enhance City of Newcastle’s processes, ensure the organisation operates with the highest standards of transparency and accountability, and reinforce public trust in its ability to serve the community effectively.” 

City of Newcastle’s independent Audit Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) was consulted at each phase of the review and accepted the final report ahead of the public briefing. 

ARIC Chairman Stephen Coates highlighted the integrity of the process and praised City of Newcastle for its commitment to continuous improvement. 

“The City of Newcastle Audit Risk and Improvement Committee has overseen independent consultants, Davidson, who conducted a thorough governance review,” Mr Coates said. 

“The final report highlights many positive findings, confirming that City of Newcastle is a well-managed, high-performing organisation with several examples of best practice. Importantly, there were no issues related to fraud, corruption, legislative breaches, or maladministration.  

“While the report largely affirms the Council’s strong performance, it also includes 20 suggestions for improvement, aimed at building on the current success, rather than addressing any issues of failure.” 

The full report will be tabled to the Ordinary Council Meeting on 27 May for endorsement by Councillors. 

Davidson Business Advisory has worked with more than 100 local governments across Australia and are experienced in undertaking similar governance and performance reviews.

Full statement from ARIC Chair Stephen Coates

The City of Newcastle Audit Risk & Improvement Committee has overseen independent consultants, Davidson, who conducted a thorough governance review. 

The final report highlights many positive findings, confirming that City of Newcastle is a well-managed, high-performing organisation with several examples of best practice. 

Importantly, there were no issues related to fraud, corruption, legislative breaches, or maladministration. 

Specifically, the Audit Risk & Improvement Committee oversaw the initial scoping of the review, as well as again confirming the scope after submissions had been received. We have been involved in the draft version of the report, but only to the extent of suggesting wording adjustments to better reflect the intent of the commentary. 

When it comes to governance and City of Newcastle operations, there’s a strong focus on professionalism and adherence to protocols in Council meetings. Even when tackling contentious issues like media communications or councillor conduct no misuse of authority has been found. 

Financially, City of Newcastle remains in a solid position, with a diverse revenue base, competitive rates, and a high level of community investment. Debt and reserve management are both well managed, and service delivery is operating efficiently. The NSW Audit Office has raised no concerns in its latest external audit. 

City of Newcastle has also adopted best practice compliance and enforcement policies. This final report indicates conflict of interest processes are generally well-managed, and disclosures are made appropriately. There were no major or systemic compliance failures identified. 

Major projects are handled by a well-structured Project Management Office, which uses strong asset management and procurement policies. A “lessons learned” protocol helps improve future project delivery. 

There are strong examples of community engagement strategies in place. City of Newcastle offers consultation opportunities and maintains transparency through public reports and other available planning documents. Proactive releases under GIPA and other detailed reporting further demonstrate City of Newcastle’s commitment to transparency. 

Finally, the staff and executive culture is described as positive, professional, and high performing. 

While the report largely affirms the Council’s strong performance, it also includes 20 suggestions for improvement, aimed at building on the current success, rather than addressing any issues of failure.