Category: Newcastle News

A man has been charged with 12 offences following two alleged pursuits and a crash in Maitland.

About 3am on Sunday 22 December 2024, officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District attempted to stop a black Holden Commodore sedan leaving a hotel on Ferodale Road, Medowie.

When the vehicle failed to stop, a pursuit was initiated and continued to Abundance Road, Medowie, where the car crashed into a home and the driver ran from the scene on foot.

Following inquiries into the incident, about 10.30pm yesterday (Tuesday 31 December 2024), police attempted to stop a blue Holden Commodore travelling along Aberglasslyn Road, Rutherford.

The vehicle failed to stop, and a pursuit was initiated and continued through Rutherford, Lorn and Maitland, where the vehicle crashed into a fuel bowser at a service station on Ken Tubman Drive and the driver fled on foot.

Officers stopped the man a short distance away; however, he allegedly resisted arrest when OC spray was deployed.

The 37-year-old man was arrested and taken to Maitland Police Station, where he was charged with 12 offences including two counts of police pursuit – not stop – drive recklessly – 2nd+off-T2, two counts of drive motor vehicle during disqualification period – 2nd+off, possess prohibited drug, goods suspected stolen in/on premises (not m/v), and a number of traffic-related offences.

He was refused police bail to appear before Parramatta Bail Court today (Wednesday 1st January 2025).

Six teenagers have been charged following a pursuit in the state’s Hunter Valley Region overnight.

About 1.50am this morning (Wednesday 1 January 2025), officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District and Traffic and Highway Patrol Command were notified a Land Rover – reportedly stolen from a home in Valentine on Tuesday 31 December 2024 – was travelling along the Hunter Expressway after an earlier pursuit.

Officers attempted to stop the Land Rover; however, it failed to stop, and a pursuit was initiated, before being terminated due to safety concerns.

PolAir monitored the vehicle which is alleged to have reached speeds of up to 170km/h in a 100km/h marked speed zone.

As the Land Rover drove through Belford and Muswellbrook, road spikes were deployed on two occasions.

A short time later, the Land Rover came to a stop on the New England Highway, Muswellbrook, where some of the occupants allegedly attempted to run from the scene.

Officers arrested six teenagers – and they were taken to Muswellbrook Police Station.

Five teenagers – two boys aged 17, two girls aged 16 and a 16-year-old boy – were all charged with be carried in conveyance without consent of owner. They were refused bail to appear before a children’s court today 1 January 2025.

A 15-year-old girl was also charged and granted conditional bail to appear at a children’s court on Tuesday 11 February 2024.

Inquiries are continuing.

Two men have been charged after several vehicles were broken into in the state’s north today.

Between 5am and 6am (Tuesday 31 December 2024), police were told two men allegedly broke into several vehicles in Cameron Park and Edgeworth.

Following inquiries, officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District were patrolling Minmi Road, Edgeworth, and observed a white Ford utility. The vehicle was stopped by police and a 39-year-old man was arrested. He was taken to Toronto Police station and charged with:

• Destroy or damage property (three counts),
• Larceny (three counts),
• Enter vehicle without consent of owner (three counts),
• Goods in custody suspected of being stolen, and
• Possess housebreaking implements.

He was granted conditional bail to appear before Toronto Local Court on Tuesday 21 January 2025

Following further inquiries, a second man, aged 28, was arrested and taken to Toronto Police Station. He was charged with:

• Destroy or damage property (three counts),
• Larceny (three counts),
• Possess housebreaking implements,
• Goods in personal custody suspected of being stolen, and
• Possess prohibited drug.

He was granted conditional bail to appear before Toronto Local Court on Thursday 13 February 2025

City of Newcastle is inviting families to dive into a series of hands-on activities across its venues during January that will help create connections with the natural environment. 

From the secrets of marine life along Newcastle’s coast to the prehistoric wonders of the age of the dinosaurs, there’s plenty to keep every young explorer busy these school holidays.

CN staff member Eliza Hoyland and UoN PHD student, Hayden Swift stand alongside young participants of CN’s environmental event ‘Hidden Life of Sand’.Take a wander along Newcastle’s coastline guided by marine biologists to explore rock pools teeming with life or uncover intricate ecosystems in the sand as part of City of Newcastle’s popular Natural Connection program.

The Civic Theatre will also take audiences on a trip into the deep blue this January as British naturalist and wildlife presenter Steve Backshall brings the oceanic environment to life on stage with stunts, experiments, cutting-edge science and big screen footage from his two decades in TV. 

The prehistoric era will also roar to life on the Civic Theatre stage when TV’s favourite doctors Dr Chris and Dr Xand blend science and comedy with a Jurassic twist in their new show Operation Ouch – Jurassic Fart. 

Budding palaeontologists can continue their journey into the past at Newcastle Museum with an opportunity to craft, build, and dance their way through history. Experience the Brick-a-saurus LEGO challenge or enjoy dino-night adventure complete with a safari tour and silent disco, while young artists can get creative during a dino drawing workshop with Sam the Caricaturist. 

Art will meet nature at Newcastle Libraries as well, where children can design their own cactus rock gardens after exploring Jeannie Baker’s Desert Jungle exhibition or bring extinct animals to life with chalk art.

Children will have the chance to learn more about the diversity of animals at Blackbutt Reserve, where daily feeding sessions offer an up-close look at wombats, koalas, and birds, while animal encounters provide a unique opportunity to interact with some of Blackbutt’s most beloved inhabitants.

Summerhill Waste Management Centre will also make learning fun with their behind-the-scenes tour, which takes participants on an educational journey into the natural cycle of sustainability and waste management.

For more information about other fun activities on offer across Newcastle during the school holidays visit https://whatson.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/

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

Boguslaw Klukowski – also known as Bob – aged 73, was last seen in Mayfield, about 12.30pm yesterday (Wednesday 25 December 2024).

When he could not be located or contacted, officers from Newcastle City Police District were notified and commenced inquiries to locate him.

Family and police hold concerns for his welfare due to living with a number of medical conditions.

bob is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm tall and medium build.

He was last seen wearing navy blue suit with dark top and black shoes.

Bob is known to frequent the Mayfield, Adamstown and Waratah areas.

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

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from Boolaroo, about 20kms west of Newcastle.

Allan Fielding, aged 83, was last seen on Guest Street, Boolaroo, about 11.50am today (Monday 23 December 2024).

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

Family and police hold concerns for his welfare as he lives with dementia.

Allan is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175cm tall, of medium build, grey/white hair and unshaven. He has a large tattoo of popeye on his outer left forearm.

He was last seen wearing dark grey shorts, blue striped shirt and blue shoes.

Allan may be driving a white 2019 Subaru Impreza with NSW registration plates CS11EE.

He is known to frequent the Boolaroo, Cardiff and Valentine areas.

A body has been found in the search for a 37-year-old man reported missing to officers at Lake Macquarie Police District

The body is yet to be formally identified but is believed to be that of the 37-year-old man.

Initial inquiries suggest the man’s death is not being treated as suspicious.

Police will prepare a report for the information of the coroner.

A man has been charged with animal cruelty offences alleged to have occurred in the Hunter region. 

On Tuesday 8 October 2024, 98 dead kangaroos were found on Commonwealth land, along with an ammunition box and two cartridges.

These items were seized as officers from Hunter Valley Police District Rural Crime Prevention Team (RCPT) investigators commenced an investigation into the incident.

Following inquiries, officers attached to the Hunter Valley PD Rural Crime Prevention Team – assisted by officers from Port Stephens-Hunter PD – executed a Commonwealth Search Warrant about 8am Friday (20 December 2024), at a property in Williamtown.

Three firearms were seized from the Williamtown property and a 43-year-old man was arrested and taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station where he was charged with six offences,

• Commit an act of aggravated cruelty upon an animal
• Discharge firearm upon/over Commonwealth prohibited area
• Trespass onto commonwealth land
• Not keep firearm safely – not pistol/prohibited firearm
• Harm or attempt to harm a protected animal, and
• Holder of Category A or B licence not have approved storage.

Police have since seized a number of firearms from a second Hunter region property. A Firearms Suspension Notice has been issued.

The man was granted strict conditional bail to appear before Raymond Terrace Local Court on Monday 13 January 2025.

Record infrastructure investment, major sustainability milestones and significant cultural and community projects have capped off a successful year of collaboration and commitment to the community by City of Newcastle. 

Essential upgrades were rolled out across the community with a record $143.4 million capital works program, delivered on the back of a commitment to financial sustainability, ensuring long-term benefits for Newcastle residents. 

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge and City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath celebrate the end of another successful year with City of Newcastle staff.

City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath commended City of Newcastle staff and members of the community for their hard work, valuable feedback and dedication to delivering projects that enhance the city’s liveability, sustainability, and vibrancy. 

“This year has been an outstanding success, with transformative projects that are making a genuine difference in the lives of Novocastrians,” Mr Bath said. 

“From road resurfacing, footpath upgrades and stormwater improvements to new playgrounds, enhanced sportsgrounds and delivering incredible cultural experiences, these achievements reflect the hard work and passion of our team.

“This result is a testament to the exceptional people working at City of Newcastle and their shared pride in serving the Newcastle community.

“We’ve also appreciated the incredible contributions Novocastrians have made to our city, from their strategic input on consultative committees and community reference groups to their valuable feedback through the public exhibition process on key projects we’re delivering for our community. 

“This is just a snapshot of what we’ve delivered in 2024, but it highlights what’s possible when we work together and support each other.

“I want to thank everyone who played a role in reaching these milestones, and I look forward to continuing along this exciting journey next year.”

Looking ahead to 2025, Newcastle will continue to ride the momentum built during the past 12 months, with major projects like the Newcastle Art Gallery expansion and the western corridor road upgrades set to deliver transformational benefits for Newcastle residents and visitors alike. 

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge acknowledged the progress made this year and the positive outcomes delivered for the Newcastle community. 

“These achievements reflect the dedication of City of Newcastle staff, and I look forward to seeing continued efforts to deliver for the people of Newcastle in the year ahead,” Cr Kerridge said. 

“While I’m sure we’re all looking forward to a well-earned break and time with loved ones over the festive season, this is a great opportunity to reflect on everything staff achieved this year.” 

As with other Hunter councils, the opening hours and operation times of some City of Newcastle services and facilities will run on an updated schedule during the Christmas and New Year period.

The City Administration Centre will close at midday on Friday 20 December 2024 and reopen on Thursday 2 January 2025.

There will be no kerbside bin collections on Christmas Day. All services between Wednesday 25 December and Friday 27 December 2024 will take place one day later than usual.

All regular bin services will resume from Monday 30 December, with collections undertaken as usual on New Year’s Day.

Summerhill Waste Management Centre will be closed on Christmas Day only. Check out what can and can’t be recycled at Christmas time in this handy online guide.

City of Newcastle libraries will close at 12pm on Friday 20 December and regular hours will resume from Thursday 2 January. Returns chutes will be closed at all branches except Lambton, however, due dates will be extended beyond the closure period.

Lambton Library’s Open+ technology will provide access for library members aged 16 and up (and those aged under 16 accompanied by an adult or carer) anytime between 7am and 9pm, seven days a week through the holiday period.

Newcastle Museum will be closed on 20, 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January, but is open every other day during school holidays from 10am-5pm.

City of Newcastle lifeguards will maintain their regular patrol hours during the holiday period and will be on duty from 7am to 5.30pm at Bar, Dixon Park, Merewether, Newcastle, Nobbys and Stockton beaches. 

Swimmers are encouraged to stay between the red and yellow flags, read the safety signs before entering the water and ask a lifeguard if they are unsure about the conditions.

Lifeguard patrols will also operate at Merewether and Newcastle Ocean Baths from 9am to 5.30pm. The Baths will be closed on Wednesday at Newcastle and Thursday at Merewether for weekly cleaning.

For more information about CN’s services during this time, visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au. 

The Albanese Labor Government is restoring the Hunter Estuary Wetlands in Newcastle thanks to a $556,095 investment.

The funding is part of the Government’s $200 million Urban Rivers and Catchments Program which is restoring rivers and waterways in our suburbs to better protect communities and native species.

This project will address threats including hydrology and water quality impacts on threatened ecological communities and migratory shorebirds.

Important on-ground works to be delivered by the project include:

• Restoring a degraded freshwater wetland into an estuarine (saltwater) wetland, to improve habitat diversity and climate resilience.
• Improving water quality in two significant ponds at the Hunter Wetlands Centre, by increasing water circulation and aeration.
• Bush regeneration and vegetation management, which will be carried out over three years to improve the vegetation on site, tackle invasive weeds, and improve native vegetation.

The project will be delivered by Hunter Wetlands Centre Australia in partnership with City of Newcastle and support from Hunter Local Land Services and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

The Hunter Estuary Wetlands are internationally significant, recognised under the Ramsar convention for their importance to wetland conservation. The project will address significant threats impacting a sub-site within the wetlands.

Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek:

“We want to leave nature better off for our kids and grandkids – and that’s why we’re restoring rivers and waterways in our suburbs with a $200 million investment.

“Nearly half of all nationally listed threatened animals and a quarter of our threatened plants are in urban areas, home to 96 per cent of Australia’s population.

“And with so many native plants and animals reliant on our rivers, creeks, wetlands, and estuaries, protecting and restoring the health of our waterways is essential.

“This critical funding is good news for native wildlife and the community – improving the quality of the urban spaces that we all share and love.”

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“This funding is crucial to the restoration of significant sites within the Hunter Wetlands Centre and supporting the community’s efforts to protect the waterway and its habitats for the native species that depend on it.

“The $556,095 in grant funding from the Albanese Labor Government will help protect these internationally recognised wetlands, making sure our kids and future generations can continue to enjoy our unique plants, animals, habitats and places.”

Hunter Wetlands Centre General Manager James Willson:

“This grant represents a significant opportunity for the Hunter Wetlands Centre, with this funding we will be able to improve the native vegetation on site, improve the water quality and help show how wetlands can adapt to climate change and rising sea levels.

“This will directly impact the thousands of students who visit us each year to learn about our unique biodiversity.

“By restoring critical habitats and improving site resilience, we’re ensuring the Centre remains a thriving educational and ecological resource for future generations.

Partnerships like this demonstrate how collaborative efforts can secure the long-term health of our natural spaces.”