Category: Newcastle News

City of Newcastle is looking to up the ante on its investment into major events, which have already injected more than $2.5 million into the local economy during the first two months of 2025. 

Councillors will vote next week to boost City of Newcastle’s annual major events budget from $450,000 to up to $2 million.  

Major events, such as Paul McCartney’s sold out show at McDonald Jones Stadium in 2023, are delivering significant benefits to the Newcastle economy.

It follows a successful start to 2025, which has seen five events delivered with support from City of Newcastle including the popular debut of the Howlin’ Country music festival last weekend. 

Almost 13,000 people, including more than 8000 visitors from outside of Newcastle, flocked to Foreshore Park for the first country music event, delivering a $1.6 million economic boost to the city. 

City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Creative and Community Services Alissa Jones said major events support significant visitation, investment and liveability outcomes. 

“City of Newcastle is committed to attracting, retaining and delivering events that provide immediate and ongoing benefits for the community and economy,” Ms Jones said. 

“This includes millions of dollars in direct expenditure alongside a range of associated benefits, from increased destination awareness and repeat tourism, to flow-on supply chain expenditure, skills development, capacity building, knowledge sharing and support for local jobs.” 

The strong start to 2025 follows on from a successful 2024, which saw 26 City of Newcastle-supported events deliver an $18 million economic boost, attracting approximately 86,000 local attendees, 53,000 day visitors, and 73,000 accommodation (bed) nights. 

Since 2022, more than half a million people have also injected around $65 million into the Newcastle economy thanks to a partnership between City of Newcastle and Venues NSW, which secured top tier live music and sporting events including Elton John, Paul McCartney and the 2024 Women’s State of Origin match at McDonald Jones Stadium. 

This will be boosted further by the upcoming Wallabies, Wallaroos and Matildas matches, as well as the Women’s State of Origin and NRLW Magic Round, which are all expected to attract tens of thousands of people to the city. 

Ms Jones said City of Newcastle has delivered on its ambition become a premier tourism and events destination, which is a key pillar of City of Newcastle’s Destination Management Plan. 

“However, with increasing competition between Australian cities, regions and states to host major events, we are seeking an endorsement by the Council up to $2 million of investment annually through City of Newcastle’s Strategic Event Partnership Program,” Ms Jones said. 

“This level of investment would enable us to pitch for major events that will drive economic impact, increased visitation and showcase Newcastle as a world-class destination.” 

Events supported by City of Newcastle to date this year include: 

• Beach 5s = $235,000 economic benefit  
• Girls Day Out – Women in Sport = $24,000 economic benefit 
• Island Triathlon Festival = $252,000 economic benefit 
• Shaw and Partners Iron Series = $412,000 economic benefit 
• Howlin’ Country = $1.6 million economic benefit 

A second teenage boy has been charged after two bus drivers were allegedly assaulted in separate incidents in Newcastle last week.

Police Transport Command officers commenced an investigation after the two drivers were allegedly assaulted on Thursday 13 February 2025.

Police were told three males were fighting on a bus when the driver stopped at New Lambton Heights and asked them to get off. When leaving the bus, the driver was allegedly assaulted by one of the males.

A short time later, the males boarded another bus and allegedly began causing a disturbance to passengers. The bus stopped in Glendale where all passengers got off; however, the three males allegedly forced open the rear door and assaulted the driver.

Both drivers suffered minor injuries but were not taken to hospital.

Police were notified and inquiries into both incidents commenced by the Police Transport Command’s Northern Satellite team.

Following extensive inquiries, police arrested a 14-year-old boy yesterday afternoon (Tuesday 18 February 2025).

He was taken to Belmont Police Station where he was charged with two counts of common assault, stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm, and hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty.

The boy was refused bail to appear before a children’s court today (Wednesday 19 February 2025), where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Monday 24 February 2025.

Following further inquiries, police arrested a second 14-year-old boy earlier today (Wednesday 19 February 2025).

He was taken to Cessnock Police Station where he was charged with common assault, and affray.

He was granted strict conditional bail to appear before a children’s court on Monday 24 March 2025.

Inquiries into the incident are ongoing.

A teenage boy has been charged after two bus drivers were allegedly assaulted in separate incidents in Newcastle last week.

Police Transport Command officers commenced an investigation after the two drivers were allegedly assaulted on Thursday 13 February 2025.

Police were told three males were fighting on a bus when the driver stopped at New Lambton Heights and asked them to get off.

When leaving the bus, the driver was allegedly assaulted by one of the males.

A short time later, the males boarded another bus and allegedly began causing a disturbance to passengers.

The bus stopped in Glendale where all passengers got off; however, the three males allegedly forced open the rear door and assaulted the driver.

Both drivers suffered minor injuries and were not taken to hospital.

Police were notified and inquiries into both incidents commenced by the Police Transport Command’s Northern Satellite team.

Following extensive inquiries, police arrested a 14-year-old boy yesterday afternoon (Tuesday 18 February 2025).

The boy allegedly resisted the arrest; however, the arrest was effected a short time later and he was taken to Belmont Police Station.

He was charged with two counts of common assault, stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm, and hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty.

The boy was refused bail to appear before a children’s court today (Wednesday 19 February 2025), where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Monday 24 February 2025.

Inquiries into the incident are ongoing.

Relationships Australia NSW (RANSW) is expanding its Men’s Behaviour Change Program (MBCP) to two new locations, thanks to an additional $1.6 million investment from the NSW Government. 

RANSW CEO Elisabeth Shaw said RANSW will be bringing its extensive experience in delivering MBCPs to the Blacktown and Maitland communities from February 2025.

“Relationship Australia NSW’s program supports men in taking responsibility for their abusive behaviour, while prioritising the safety and wellbeing of victim survivors,” Ms Shaw said. 

“Our MBCP provides men with a unique opportunity, outside of the criminal justice system, to interrupt destructive patterns of behaviour through intensive casework and an 18-week group program. 

“For those who engage and commit to the process, considerable change is possible, especially when they continue addressing their issues through our counselling and group work programs.”

“Through the program, women and children also separately receive vital education and support to strengthen their capacity to manage safety and wellbeing, ensuring a more holistic approach to addressing domestic and family violence.”

The funding will provide support to approximately 280 people per year.

“On behalf of RANSW, I’d like to thank the Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Jodie Harrison and the NSW Government for this investment in the safety of women and children across our state,” Ms Shaw said.  

Steven* joined RANSW’s Taking Responsibility Men’s Behaviour Change Program after his children stopped living with him due to safety concerns.  

“I see how my partner’s face has changed and when she looks at me, I see love instead of fear,” Steven said.  

“My children can now express themselves and I can help them with their big emotions instead of screaming at them and scaring them. I appreciate these relationships so much, and I was so close to losing all of them.”

Steven’s participation in the program brought significant changes. His children were reunited with him and his partner, and both Steven and his partner joined parenting support programs. Steven’s partner also attended RANSW’s Women’s Choice and Change workshop. 

RANSW’s MBCP is also available in the Sydney CBD, Illawarra, Hunter and online, with more than 400 people taking part in the program in 2024. 

*Name changed for privacy reasons. 

South Newcastle Skate Park will be launched onto the world stage when the Jackalope Block Party rolls into town in November with support from City of Newcastle’s Special Business Rate (SBR) funding.

Being held outside North America for the first time, the iconic festival will feature elite athletes competing for big prizes, skateboarding demonstrations, live DJ sets and food trucks.

But the free community event will also uncover local talent, giving Novocastrians the chance to win a trip to compete in the USA.

The Jackalope Block Party is one of 11 initiatives to share in the latest round of City Centre and Darby Street SBR funding, with almost $900,000 to be used for the promotion, beautification and development of the business precincts.

City of Newcastle Executive Manager Media Engagement Economy and Corporate Affairs Nick Kaiser said SBR funding is distributed through a competitive application process to the most creative and innovative proposals.

“These events are designed to bring people to the city and support local businesses by increasing visitation,” Mr Kaiser said.

“Having already proved to be popular drawcards, some initiatives are returning for another year, such as Shakespeare Under the Stars, Newcastle Food Month and the West Best Bloc Fest, which is held across nine venues, featuring more than 100 local musicians.”

Chair of the Community and Culture Strategic Advisory Committee Councillor Jenny Barrie said City of Newcastle is hoping new initiatives will prove just as popular.

“Some of the new events include the Darby Street Festival, which will feature live music, performers and family-friendly activities, while Bernie’s Bar will put on a celebration for the 100th anniversary of the Star Hotel,” Cr Barrie said.

“We’re also thrilled to be hosting the Jackalope Block Party at South Newcastle, which will bring international attention to this vibrant coastal facility. 

“If it proves successful, we’ll look to secure the tremendous four-day version of the festival, which would include more sports such as bouldering, BMX and surfing.”

Festival organiser Sally Hill from Canvas Events said they’re excited to see local talent take on some of the best in the world.

“Our block parties are run for the community, designed to find raw talent and give away Golden Tickets to the international arm of the Jackalope Festival,” Ms Hill said.

“This is the first time Jackalope will hold an event in Australia and we’re expecting up to 10,000 people to flock to the South Newcastle Beach Skate Park during the two-day festival.

“Jackalope’s social media accounts received more than three million views in 2023 alone so this event will truly showcase Newcastle to the world.

“These events inspire not only physical activity but also a commitment to sustainability by using eco-friendly practices and encouraging participants to embrace a healthy, active lifestyle.”

Founder and CEO Micah Desforges said Jackalope Block Party is all about discovering raw talent and providing opportunities for the next generation to shine.

“We’re thrilled to bring our first international event to Newcastle, a community that embodies creativity and passion,” Mr Desforges said.

“This is more than just a competition – it’s a chance for local talent to stand out and win a coveted spot at the Jackalope festival in Virginia Beach, USA. We couldn’t think of a better place to launch this exciting new chapter of our journey beyond the USA and Canada.”

Other successful projects supported by this round of City Centre/Darby Street funding include the Kindle Wellbeing Festival, WinterHeat CITYWIDE, the Conscious Couture Festival and ‘Acquist’ presented by Flipside Dance, a series of free professional performances in Civic Park.

SBR City Centre and Darby Street recipients

•    Newcastle Food Month 

Newcastle Food Month showcases Newcastle’s hospitality offerings through a collaborative event framework during the month of April.

•    Conscious Couture Festival

The Conscious Couture Festival is a celebration of vintage fashion, aimed at the Newcastle community and fashion enthusiasts, supporting local retailers and educating the public on the value of sustainable fashion. 

•    Acquist

A series of free professional dance performances in Civic Park, featuring First Nations performances acknowledging the land, as well as live music.

•    WinterHeat CITYWIDE! 

The annual winter calendar program of fun and engaging activations brings the city to life in the typically quieter Winter season.

•    100 Years of the Star Hotel

Bernies Bar will put on a celebration for the 100th anniversary of the Star Hotel with a three-day festival.

•    Kindle Wellbeing Festival

The Kindle Wellbeing Festival 2025 will be an expanded version of the successful 2024 event, bringing together artists, businesses, and well-being practitioners to deliver a series of events focused on creativity, mental health, and social connection.

•    Shakespeare Under the Stars

Whale Chorus will present their annual event Shakespeare Under the Stars Newcastle in summer 2025 and 2026.

•    Jackalope Block Party

The Jackalope Block Party is a Skate Festival incorporating demonstrations, competition, music, food and elite athlete appearances at the South Newcastle Skate Park.

•    West Best Bloc Fest

West Best Bloc Fest is an annual live music festival held in nine venues in Newcastle featuring more than 100 local musicians across 13 stages, and attracting more than 2,000 attendees. 

•    2025 Darby Street Festival

The Darby Street Festival is designed to unite local businesses and residents in a vibrant celebration, transforming the street with live music, performers, and family-friendly activities.

•    Reasons to visit Hunter Street Mall and Eastend Village

Ongoing support for City Centre promotions, program of loyalty voucher cards and scheduled events for 2025.

National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will undertake a hazard reduction burn with support from the Rural Fire Service (RFS) in Tomaree National Park on Wednesday 19 February, weather permitting.

The 3-hectare burn next to Boat Harbour Drive will take advantage of a small window of optimal weather conditions.

By reducing the risk of wildfire, the burn will help protect the Boat Harbour community as well as natural assets in Tomaree National Park.

Firefighters will conduct a low-intensity burn to minimise any impacts to the environment and threatened species, including koalas, which have previously been recorded in Tomaree National Park.

The burn will take place in bushland near Blanch Street, Andrew Close, Emerald Close and Harbour View, with close neighbours receiving written notification. The burn is expected to take a day, while smoke and ground patrols may continue for up to a week pending weather.

Boat Harbour residents should be aware that smoke could carry across most of the suburb

Any motorists using surrounding roads are reminded to be aware of potential smoke hazards, to drive to conditions, and obey traffic management that will be in place.

Public access to a small area of Tomaree National Park will be closed while the burn is underway and will remain closed until firefighters have ensured there are no embers or trees in danger of falling. Check the NPWS website’s Alerts page for updates.

NPWS may conduct more burns in the Port Stephens area in the coming weeks, weather permitting.

People with asthma or who are susceptible to respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors with the windows shut.

The NPWS hazard reduction program for 2025 is focused on essential burns to protect park neighbours, park and catchment assets and park values.

All burns across NSW are coordinated with the RFS and FRNSW to ensure any impacts to the community, including from smoke, are assessed at a regional level.

Details on specific burns will be made available in advance on the Rural Fire Service website, Hazards Near Me app, and on NPWS Alerts website.

For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit NSW Health or the Asthma Foundation. For up-to-date information on these, and other, planned hazard reduction activities, visit the Rural Fire Service.

A man has been charged following a crash in the Hunter region which resulted in seven people being taken to the John Hunter Hospital.

About 12.05am yesterday (Sunday 16 February 2025), emergency services were called to Bromage Road, Abermain, following reports of a crash involving multiple people.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District attended and were told a sedan was driving east when it hit two parked vehicles – another sedan and an SUV – causing the SUV to impact with a group of people.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated seven people at the scene, with one airlifted to John Hunter Hospital and the remainder taken by road ambulance.

• An eight-year-old girl remains in hospital with suspected internal injuries, while a 10-year-old girl was treated for minor injuries and released.
• Two women, aged 25 and 31, also remain in hospital, with the older woman being treated for a head injury.
• Two men, aged 24 and 25, were also taken to hospital; the younger man has a fractured leg while the older man was treated for a foot injury and released.
• The driver, an 18-year-old man, was treated for facial injuries and has since been released from hospital.

A crime scene was established, and specialist officers attached to the Crash Investigations Unit (CIU) commenced an investigation into the crash.

Officers spoke with the driver after he was discharged from hospital earlier today (Monday 17 February 2025).

Following inquiries, his license was suspended, and he was charged with six offences:

• Cause bodily harm by misconduct, in charge of motor vehicle (two counts)
• Dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm – drive manner dangerous
• Drive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerous
• Driver not wear seatbelt properly adjusted and fastened
• Use light vehicle not comply with tyres standard

He was issued a court attendance notice to appear before Kurri Kurri Local Court on Tuesday 29 April 2025.

Inquiries into the incident are ongoing.

Inquiries are continuing into a crash in the Hunter region which resulted in seven people being taken to John Hunter Hospital this morning.

Emergency services were called to Bromage Road, Abermain, shortly after midnight (Sunday 16 February 2025), following reports of a crash involving multiple people.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District attended and found a 2003-model blue Subaru Liberty AWD sedan was driving east when it hit two parked vehicles, a white LDV and a champagne-coloured Mazda 6. The AWD then struck a group of people.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated seven people at the scene, with one airlifted to John Hunter Hospital and the remainder taken by road ambulance.

• An eight-year-old girl remains in hospital with suspected internal injuries, while a 10-year-old girl has been treated for minor injuries and released.

• Two women, aged 25 and 31, also remain in hospital with the older woman being treated for a head injury.

• Two men, aged 24 and 25, were also taken to hospital; the younger man has a fractured leg while the older man has been treated for a foot injury and released.

• The driver, an 18-year-old man, is being treated for facial injuries and remains in hospital under police guard.

A crime scene was established and specialist officers attached to the Crash Investigations Unit (CIU) have commenced an investigation into the circumstances of the crash.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to call Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

An investigation has commenced following a pedestrian crash in the state’s Hunter Valley.

About 12.05am today (Sunday 16 February 2025), emergency services were called to Bromage Road, Abermain, following reports of a crash.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District attended and were told a vehicle was allegedly performing a burnout in front of a crowd when it lost control – crashed into a parked vehicle – which hit onlookers.

The driver, an 18-year-old man, suffered serious injuries and taken to hospital for further assessment where he remains under police guard.

Two children – aged 5 and 6 – were treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Five adults were also injured and were taken to hospital for further treatment.

A crime scene was established and Crash Investigations Unit have commenced an investigation into the circumstances of the crash.

A critical incident investigation is underway after a man was shot by police at Mayfield this afternoon.

About 4.10pm (Saturday 15 February 2025), police were called to Hanbury Street, Mayfield, following a concern for welfare.

Police attached to Newcastle City Police District attended when a man ran from a unit block towards police allegedly armed with a meat cleaver.

A Taser was deployed which was unsuccessful, and the man was shot by police.

Officers immediately rendered assistance to the man prior to the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics.

The man – believed to be aged in his 40s – was taken John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition.

There were no other reports of injuries.

A critical incident investigation team will now investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The investigation is also subject to an independent review.