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NSW Government unveils innovative flood and storm intelligence project

In a nation-leading trial that could help protect communities during severe weather events, the NSW Government is testing technology that harnesses artificial intelligence (AI) and the mobile phone network to predict the possible impacts of flooding.

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has partnered with researchers from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and TPG Telecom to develop and test network sensing technology, which extracts localised weather information including rainfall, water levels and river flows using signals transmitted on the communications network.

Real-time weather information is combined with historical Bureau of Meteorology data and flood information, with a 4D visualisation made possible through the NSW Spatial Digital Twin (SDT) to demonstrate changes to the landscape and built environment.

The SDT allows for large amounts of data to be visualised in 3D and 4D models and to understand and analyse the data through detailed analytics.

Artificial intelligence could then be used to predict risks to infrastructure and communities, paving the way for the NSW SES to potentially use the data for the rapid dissemination of information to affected communities through targeted alerts.

While still in development, the technology could be transformational for emergency services.

Currently, accurate real-time information can be challenging to obtain due to the number of flood sensors, sensor network coverage and network outages during weather events.

In addition to rainfall and water levels, real-time environmental data including wind and landslide information, can be combined with historical flood information to better predict the risk of floods and storms to communities.

Testing of the technology is underway along Sydney’s Parramatta and Georges Rivers and will continue as the centrepiece project of UTS and TPG’s new Network Sensing Lab.

The Flood and Storm Intelligence Sensing project is funded through Transport for NSW’s Smart Places Acceleration Program, a special reservation of the Digital Restart Fund, administered by the Department of Customer Service.

The project builds on cross-agency work on improving flood warnings, and the State Disaster Mitigation Plan which flags early warning systems as a priority for the NSW Government.

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

“Researching this technology is an opportunity to pioneer a new era of flood and storm intelligence.

“This work represents a significant step in the NSW Government’s efforts to combat risks to lives and properties during severe weather events.

“As we face increasingly severe weather influenced by climate change, we are supporting the NSW State Emergency Service with technology that could help communities access important storm and flood information quicker.

“The new technology will improve data-driven decision-making for first responders, filling an information gap that could make an important difference in emergency situations.

“This work will build on our investment in early warning systems and work to ensure communities are better prepared before disasters strike.”

NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York APM said:

“This innovative research project has the potential to make all the difference in protecting people’s homes and keeping people safe during major flood and storm events.

“Intelligence forms the basis for decision-making during emergency responses for the SES, so it is critical we have access to timely and accurate information.

“This technology could give the SES access to real-time flood and storm intelligence data, potentially changing the way we are able to respond to disasters.

“The real-time delivery of localised data from this new technology, and its capability to visualise the impacts of floods, could be applied to decisions relating to deployment of assets and personnel, warnings, evacuations, property protection, resupply and the provision of information and advice to community members.

“This is a really exciting partnership for the NSW State Emergency Service, and I look forward to seeing how this groundbreaking research program unfolds.”

University of Technology Sydney Vice-Chancellor Professor Andrew Parfitt said:

“This project is a manifestation of UTS’s mission to translate research into societal impacts, contributing to NSW and Australia’s economic sustainability, prosperity and community resilience.

“Thanks to NSW Government support, our world-leading wireless research team, led by
Distinguished Professor Jay Guo, can build on 6 years of research establishing the foundation for the flood and storm intelligence sensing system now in development.

“Network sensing can potentially transform the way our emergency personnel manage and mitigate flood and storm risks, but there are other applications for the technology that also will be explored in the new TPG-UTS Network Sensing Lab.

“This landmark partnership between UTS, TPG Telecom, NSW SES and the NSW Government has the potential to place NSW and Australia at the forefront of how new telecommunication technologies can help in addressing climate challenges and saving lives.”

Mal Lanyon APM to lead NSW Reconstruction Authority

NSW Police Force Deputy Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM has been appointed to act as the Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

Simon Draper PSM will cease his responsibilities at the Reconstruction Authority to solely focus on leading the public service as Secretary of Premier’s Department.

Deputy Commissioner Lanyon led flood recovery efforts in the Northern Rivers as the Northern NSW Recovery Coordinator in 2022 and has had an extensive career in the NSW Police Force.

Deputy Commissioner Lanyon will commence his role as Acting CEO from 8 April 2024.

Simon Draper commenced as Secretary of Premier’s Department on 1 September 2023 and has been undertaking both roles over the past 7 months.

This delivered continuity and certainty for the Reconstruction Authority across the summer bushfire season.

The Reconstruction Authority was established on 16 December 2022 to proactively reduce the impact of floods, fires and other major disasters, and to help communities across NSW recover from them faster.

Many NSW residents live in disaster-prone areas, with several communities across the state experiencing major disasters since 2019.

Following devastating floods in February and March 2022, the Northern Rivers region has continued to move forward with the recovery, repairing and rebuilding its communities. The floods were unprecedented and the recovery will be a long road for communities.

The Central West region was impacted by flooding events that started in August and September 2022 and extended through to early 2023.

The Reconstruction Authority is committed to standing by these communities on their recovery journey.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said:

“The Reconstruction Authority will be in safe hands with Deputy Commissioner Lanyon, an experienced and accomplished leader with extensive experience in working hand-in-hand with communities in both disaster response and recovery.

“I look forward to working closely with Deputy Commissioner Lanyon in the coming months.”

Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib said:

“When disaster strikes, our communities rely on the dedication and unflagging efforts of our frontline responders across the emergency services and NSW Police Force.

“I welcome the appointment of Deputy Commissioner Lanyon to lead the NSW Reconstruction Authority as it continues its essential work to build resilience in our communities.”

Janelle Saffin, Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery said:

“I worked alongside Mal following the devastating floods in the Northern Rivers and am thrilled to be working with him again.

“There is no better person to lead this organisation, to ensure our state is prepared for disasters, and to help NSW recover after they strike.

“I also take this opportunity to thank Simon Draper for establishing the NSW Reconstruction Authority, and for doing such a fantastic job of getting us to the stage where we now have a State Disaster Mitigation Plan and teams in locations across the state.

“Simon took over following the massive disaster in the Northern Rivers plus a series of other major disasters. He has pulled together a strong team to help NSW recover and respond when disasters happen.”

Shared community vision for the Coffs Jetty Precinct taking shape

The NSW Government is moving ahead with plans for the revitalisation of the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore Precinct started by the former Government.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper joined the Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh, to provide bipartisan support for the 20-year shared community vision to connect community with Country and to create a revitalised Coffs Harbour Foreshore precinct.

The masterplan has been informed by more than 3600 responses from the community and will create a self-sustaining, cost-neutral precinct that reinvests all proceeds into improving the foreshore’s public areas to create a family friendly area that everyone can enjoy, including renewal of parklands, and better recreational facilities.

Much of the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore Precinct is currently inaccessible for public enjoyment. While gravelled areas provide overflow parking, these do not reflect the potential of this foreshore land.

Community outcomes to be delivered by the revitalisation will include additional housing to address the housing crisis Coffs Harbour and the wider state is facing, as well as an expansion of tourism and hospitality offerings to support a thriving regional economy, increase in quality public open space and deliver more and better parking.

Our work in Coffs Harbour is strengthened by extensive engagement, including with the Aboriginal community, shaping the masterplan with broad perspectives that respects and celebrates the unique Gumbaynggirr culture and its profound connection to Country.

Coffs Harbour is a key regional city for the North Coast and, with the arrival of the Coffs Bypass in 2027, there is a need to reimagine its future direction. The Coffs foreshore has unlimited community potential but much of it is currently inaccessible and without the proper infrastructure needed for public use and enjoyment.

Find out more about the Coffs Jetty Harbour Foreshore Precinct Revitalisation

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“The NSW Government is standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh to deliver this once-in-a-generation opportunity for this great regional city.

“We will not develop any foreshore land here for profit, and all funds generated will be reinvested into the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore Precinct to revitalise the land to create a family-friendly precinct with a focus on parks and places that are attractive, safe and lively.

“Revitalising the foreshore will benefit locals and deliver more jobs, economic and tourism benefits for Coffs Harbour together with much-needed housing.”

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said:

“Coffs Harbour has undergone significant change over the years. As a regional city, there is a need to reimagine its future direction.

“The majority of people in Coffs Harbour want to see this current site transformed into a thriving destination that attracts tourists, supports local jobs and businesses, addresses housing needs and makes us all proud.”

Man dies after ATV crash – Lake Macquarie

A man has died after an ATV rolled in the Lake Macquarie area.

About 7pm yesterday (Sunday 31 March 2024), emergency services were called to a fire trail on Crown Land in Cooranbong, following reports a two-seater ATV had crashed.

The passenger – a 35-year-old man – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, he died at the scene.

The driver a – 30-year-old man – was taken to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition.

Officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District established a crime scene which was forensically examined by specialist police form the Crash Investigation Unit.

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

Inquiries are ongoing.

Easter 2024

Easter is a time of hope and renewal.

For Christians here and across the world, it’s a moment to reflect on the resurrection.

Celebrations and services across the country remind us of the importance of forgiveness, grace and kindness to those in need.

Qualities that are so much a part of the compassion and virtue of this, the greatest country on earth.

And as many of us take this chance to catch-up with family and friends, we think of everyone working through the long weekend. Thank you for what you do.

Finally, to everyone on the roads, please drive safely and take care.

You can view and download the Prime Minister’s Easter 2024 message here.

Appeal to locate man missing from Newcastle

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

Nathan Dargin, aged 25, was last seen on Beaumont Street, Hamilton, Friday evening (Friday 29 March 2024).

When he failed to return and could not be located or contacted, officers from Newcastle City Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for Nathan’s welfare as he lives with several conditions that require medical treatment.

Nathan is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, about 185 – 190 cm tall, thin build, shaved brown hair and brown eyes.

He is known to frequent the Hamilton and Newcastle CBD areas.

Anyone who may have seen Nathan or has information on his whereabouts is urged to contact Newcastle Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Appeal to locate girl missing from Newcastle

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

Lily Renyard, aged 12, was last seen when she was dropped off at school on Oakland Street, Glendale, about 9am on Thursday (28 March 2024).

When she could not be located later that morning, officers attached to Newcastle City Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.

Police and family hold serious concerns for her welfare due to her young age.

Lily is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 160cm tall, of a slim build, with long brown hair, blue eyes and a nose piercing.

She was last seen wearing a black ‘Caterpillar’ hooded jumper, shorts, black and white sneakers and carrying a black backpack.

Lily is known to frequent the Newcastle suburbs of Charlestown and Jesmond, Nobby’s Beach, Cardiff and Glendale areas.

Anyone with information into her whereabouts is urged to call Newcastle Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Surge in public art cement’s Newcastle’s reputation as a cultural destination

Newcastle’s reputation as an arts and cultural destination continues to grow thanks to an array of significant public art projects bringing colour to the city’s streets.

City of Newcastle’s (CN) Public Art Reference Group (PARG) considered six public art proposals relating to major private developments in Newcastle West and Adamstown during the past 12 months. An example of work approved by PARG is the Awabakal-inspired artworks on a recently constructed prominent commercial building on Hunter Street.

Councillor and PARG Chair Carol Duncan with PARG member Nikolas Orr in front of Fintan Magee’s mural in Civic Lane, Newcastle.

The projects were included in PARG’s 2023 Annual Report tabled at this week’s Council meeting, which also highlighted a range of community art proposals, CN related works and festivals partially funded by CN’s Special Business Rates program.

The proposals included murals, statues, video art, temporary artworks, chalk art, sculptures and suspended artwork.

Councillor Carol Duncan, who Chairs the group, said the last 12 months had seen major growth for both Newcastle’s public art collection and Newcastle’s reputation as a city that embraces the arts.

“Newcastle’s dynamic landscape has literally become a diverse and brightly coloured canvas for public art,” Cr Duncan said.

“The public art panel have continued to come together to consult on all aspects of Newcastle’s public art, from advising on the commissioning of new proposals associated with large developments in the city, to supporting community murals.

“The much-loved Paul McCartney mural by local artist Mitch Revs has been one such project that has brought colour and vibrancy to a prominent location in the city in 2023.”

PARG acts as an advisory committee to CN, providing guidance and advice to developers, artists, curators, CN staff and the community regarding public art in the private and public domain.

The group also worked with applicants and artists to ensure proposed artworks were inclusive, culturally appropriate and added value to the city.

Its membership includes three Councillors and external community members specialising in art, design and heritage, as well as local Indigenous cultural representatives.

PARG panel member Cr Peta Winney-Baartz said the calibre of public art in Newcastle is of the highest standard.

“Newcastle boasts a proud public art scene which is not surprising when you consider that this city is home to the highest concentration of artists in Australia,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.

“Our public art consultation and approval process at City of Newcastle, reflected by the incredible art that adorns our city streets, has become the goal of many other local governments.

“Public art does not just beautify our city scapes; its positive effect on the entire community sparks connection and proves that art does not just belong inside a gallery.”

Fellow PARG member, Cr John Mackenzie, said the panel has continued to raise the bar on public art in Newcastle.

“Our role has always been to help businesses incorporate relevant artworks that are reflective of Newcastle’s culture and heritage,” Cr Mackenzie said.

“We also provide opportunities for local artists to work and connect with appropriate projects that ultimately leads to creative visual artworks that both residents and visitors enjoy.

“The addition of local artists and creatives who joined the group in 2022 have added a wealth of expertise to our decision-making that has further enhanced our processes and outcomes for public art in Newcastle.”

Man charged over alleged fatal stabbing – Lake Macquarie

A man has appeared in court charged with murder after the death of a man at Lake Macquarie yesterday.

Just before 4.30pm yesterday (Friday 29 March 2024), emergency services were called to a home on Kankool Way, Windale, following reports of an assault.

Prior to their arrival, a 40-year-old man suffering stab wounds to his chest was driven to Belmont Hospital.

Officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District attended and established a crime scene. Police were told the man was allegedly stabbed during a physical altercation in which a knife was produced.

As part of inquiries, police arrested a 21-year-old man on Cherry Street, Windale, just before 5pm.

He was taken to Belmont Police Station and detectives commenced an investigation under Strike Force Clent.

The injured man was transferred to John Hunter Hospital where he underwent surgery; however, police were later notified that the man had died.

The younger man was subsequently charged with murder.

He appeared at Newcastle Local Court today (30 March 2024), where he was formally refused bail to appear at the same court on Wednesday 3 April 2024.

City of Newcastle facilitates vital emergency response training

Newcastle’s Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) has tested the city’s preparedness for a major emergency while also familiarising themselves with City of Newcastle’s purpose-built emergency operations centre (EOC).

Conducted by NSW Police, the annual LEMC training simulation was attended by a variety of emergency service organisations including the SES, Fire and Rescue and NSW Ambulance, as well as utility providers such as Hunter Water, Telstra and Ausgrid.

Lake Macquarie Police Acting Superintendent Lisa Jones, City of Newcastle Executive Director Corporate Services David Clarke, Fire and Rescue Superintendent Garry Tye, Newcastle Police Superintendent Kylie Endemi and NSW SES Superintendent Ian Robinson attend the annual Local Emergency Management Committee training simulation at City of Newcastle’s purpose-built emergency operations centre.Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said it was vital for the city to be ready for any natural disaster or major hazard that can impact our community.

“Newcastle is no stranger to natural disasters having experienced the 1989 earthquake and the Pasha Bulker storm in 2007, so it’s important to be prepared for any emergency scenario,” Cr Nelmes said.

“We’re committed to working with emergency services to ensure an integrated and coordinated approach in order to provide the best support to our community in an emergency.”

CEO Jeremy Bath said creating the EOC was an important part of City of Newcastle’s move to the Administration Centre on Stewart Avenue in Newcastle West in 2020.

“Our emergency operations centre is the perfect place to conduct these simulations as it provides a fully equipped space for emergency services and welfare agency personnel to manage responses to natural disasters,” Mr Bath said.

“The EOC features screens with live-stream capabilities, a 32-seat room and a commercial kitchen capable of providing meals, all in a central location with access to backup power on site via diesel-powered generators.

“This ensures CN is able to deliver critical business functions if a major incident causes disruption in Newcastle.”

Police Superintendent Kylie Endemi said these types of training exercises are vital to ensuring agencies are always prepared.

“We conduct emergency operations training annually, covering a different crisis each year, from earthquakes to floods and tsunamis,” Supt Endemi said.

“In the face of overwhelming pressure, it’s important for every agency and utility provider to know what resources they have, what they might need and how they can best work within a coordinated response.”

It’s a busy time for the local SES as it prepares to move from its current base at Tighes Hill to a new home at the Steel River Industrial Estate at Mayfield West.

The new premises have been facilitated by CN under the State Emergency Service (SES) Act 1989, which requires Councils to provide accommodation for the SES in its local government area, including suitable training facilities, storage and office accommodation.