Category: Newcastle News

City of Newcastle is investing $2 million into footpaths this year as it takes the next step to make walking and active transport the preferred choice for short trips by 2034.

Councillors voted to adopt the Walking and Mobility Plan on Tuesday night, paving the way to implement a shared vision for enhanced pedestrian safety, accessibility and convenience across the city.

The plan includes a framework for determining how projects will be identified, prioritised, and scheduled.

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said the adoption of the 10-year plan reaffirms a commitment to building and supporting walkable neighbourhoods.

“Walking provides wide-ranging social, environmental and health benefits, and this plan ensures we’re taking the right steps so they can be enjoyed across the community,” Cr Kerridge said.

“One of the first unanimous resolutions of this elected Council was to commit to delivering at least 20 kilometres of new footpaths over this new term of Council, because we know that having the right pedestrian infrastructure is vital to realising our vision of a more walkable Newcastle.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager Transport & Regulation Ryan Tranter said almost $2 million has already been allocated this financial year for footpath projects, including Freyberg Street, New Lambton and Traise Street, Waratah, where works are underway.

“Some new projects will update and expand existing pathways, while others will provide missing links and new crossing infrastructure,” Mr Tranter said.

“It’s all about taking a systematic, data-driven approach to make sure we are focusing our resourcing in the most beneficial areas for the community.”

Twenty-four key actions will guide the delivery of the plan, focused around promoting the safety and prioritisation of pedestrians, building and maintaining walkable neighbours, supporting walking trips and destinations, and fostering and celebrating walking in our communities.

Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk, Chair of the Access Inclusion Standing Committee, said that when we refer to walking, we include all pedestrian movements, including mobility scooters, wheelchairs, and prams. 

“The adoption of this Walking and Mobility Plan will ensure pedestrians of all ages, abilities and mobilities, feel safe within the public road space,” Cr Adamczyk said.

“Social equity and inclusivity are at the heart of this plan, because we want to make sure the benefits of walking can be enjoyed by everyone. 

“Including accessibility and socio-demographic factors such as age and disability as essential considerations when prioritising new pedestrian infrastructure projects is important to ensure that what we deliver is accessible and safe for the whole community”. 

Actions in the plan were updated following feedback from its public exhibition earlier this year, to provide clarity around how accessibility will be improved.

It followed an extensive consultation process with the community and other relevant stakeholders to shape the plan.  

The Walking and Mobility Plan aligns with the main objectives of the Newcastle 2040 Community Strategic Plan, helping to make the city a more liveable, sustainable and creative place.

City of Newcastle is inviting the community to provide feedback on its long-term vision for the city, with the update of its Community Strategic Plan, Newcastle 2040, now on public exhibition.  

The Plan was adopted by Council in 2022, and this year underwent a review including community consultation to ensure it continues to align with Novocastrians’ shared vision for a liveable, sustainable, inclusive global city.  

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said the update of Newcastle 2040 is an important step in ensuring Newcastle remains aligned with the aspirations and priorities of the community.  

“Newcastle 2040 is a 10-year roadmap identifying where we are now, where we want to be in the future, and how we’ll get there,” Cr Kerridge said. 

“It’s a plan that represents the community’s shared vision for Newcastle, bringing together who we are, what we love, our challenges, and our opportunities. 

“Since its adoption, City of Newcastle has delivered projects that enhance liveability and inclusivity, including local centre upgrades, improved safety for pedestrians and cyclists, and investments in vital infrastructure such as sporting facilities and stormwater drainage. 

“We’ve also made strides in sustainability through climate action and initiatives to achieve net-zero emissions. The review process aims to ensure these efforts remain aligned with community expectations and contribute to the continued success of Newcastle.” 

The public exhibition period is now open and concludes on 30 January 2025. All residents, community members and interested stakeholders are encouraged to review the plan and provide feedback by visiting https://haveyoursay.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/newcastle-2040-csp-review

By getting involved, community members also have the chance to win a share of $1,500 in prizes. Community members can participate by completing the online survey or by creating and sharing what they love most about Newcastle with a text, photo or video submission.

The NSW Police Force is being commended for their exceptional bravery and dedication following the heroic actions of Constables Nathan Gray and Daniel Orwell at Shoal Bay Beach.

Around 11:55 pm on the evening of 27 November 2024, police were called to Shoal Bay Beach in response to reports of a swimmer in distress.

Constables Gray and Orwell immediately left the job they were attending and proceeded to Shoal Bay Beach, where witnesses indicated the location of the swimmer in distress.

Upon arrival, officers located a 24-year-old man approximately 30 metres offshore.

The man, who was severely fatigued, was flailing his arms and struggling to stay above water.

Demonstrating extraordinary courage, Constables Gray and Orwell proceeded to the beach area, where Constable Gray removed his uniform and entered the water.

Swimming approximately 50 metres to reach the distressed swimmer, Constable Gray observed the 24-year-old sink below the surface, as he was unable to stay afloat due to his state of exhaustion.

Constable Gray grabbed the man and brought him back to the surface before securing him in a rescue swimming hold to keep his head above water.

He then dragged the swimmer back to shore, where both officers worked together to pull him above the waterline and place him in the recovery position.

At this stage, the 24-year-old was unresponsive but still breathing.

Emergency services were on-site to provide immediate care, and the man was transported to the Mater Hospital for further treatment.

Following medical care, he made a full recovery and was released from the hospital on 28 November 2024.

NSW Police Force is proud of the swift and selfless actions of Constables Gray and Orwell, which undoubtedly saved a life in a challenging and dangerous situation.

This incident serves as a reminder of the vital role our police officers play in protecting the community and responding to emergencies.

The NSW Government continues to stand firmly behind our dedicated police officers, as demonstrated by the recent wage increase – the largest in a generation.

This commitment underscores the value placed on the extraordinary efforts of officers who go above and beyond in their duty to serve and protect the public.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley said:

“NSW Police Officers are the finest in Australia – highly trained, deeply committed, and unwavering in their dedication to protecting others. Both officers’ selfless decision to risk their own lives to save someone in need is nothing short of extraordinary.

“The NSW Government is immensely proud of our police officers, who face challenges and dangers every day with courage and resilience.

“This act of bravery is a powerful reminder of the heroism our officers display, putting the safety of others above their own without a moment’s hesitation.

“While most people instinctively move away from danger, police officers run toward it.

“The actions of both officers are powerful examples of the compassion and courage that define the NSW Police Force.”

Police are appealing for public assistance as they investigate two armed robbery incidents in the Hunter region this week.

Officers attached to Newcastle City Police District commenced an investigation following reports of two armed robberies at businesses in Adamstown and New Lambton areas,

About 5.40am on Tuesday (10 December 2024), a man – believed to be with a firearm – entered a business on Glebe Road, Adamstown, where he demanded cash. Police were told the man left empty-handed.
About 1.20am on Thursday (12 December 2024), a man – believed to be armed with a knife – entered a business on Turton Road, New Lambton, before he demanded cash. The man left the scene with a small amount of cash before police arrived.
Initial inquiries indicate the incidents are linked.

As a part of investigation, police are appealing for public assistance to speak to a man who they believe can assist with their inquiries.

The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance and when last seen he was wearing a hooded black jumper with his face covered, and black pants.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate two teenage girls missing from Muswellbrook.

Harper Pickett, aged 13, and Sharlotte Oldham, aged 14, were last seen in Muswellbrook about 6.45am today (Friday 13 December 2024).

When they were unable to be located or contacted, the girls were reported missing to officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District, who commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.

Police hold concerns for Harper and Sharlotte’s welfare due to their young age.

Harper is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm tall with a thin build, blonde hair and blue eyes.

She was last seen wearing a blue top, pink shorts with a black stripe and black sandals.

Sharlotte is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 140cm tall, with a thin build, blonde hair and blue eyes.

She was last seen wearing a black hooded jumper, red and black checkered shorts and was carrying a black bag at the time.

The girls are believed to have boarded a train from Muswellbrook to Newcastle. They may be on the Central Coast and attempting to make their way to Queensland.

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

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact 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.

A teacher has been charged over allegedly possessing child abuse material.

On Tuesday 3 December 2024, police attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District commenced an investigation into reports a 23-year-old male teacher was in possession of child abuse material.

On Wednesday 4 December 2024, police executed a search warrant at a school in Port Stephens and seized several devices for forensic examination.

On Friday 13 December 2024, the 23-year-old man was arrested at Maitland Police Station.

He was charged with possess child abuse material and was granted strict conditional bail to appear before Maitland Local Court on Wednesday 15 January 2025.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from the state’s north.

Adam Hynds,37, was last seen in Eveleen Street, Cardiff South about 4.15pm on Tuesday (10 December 2024).

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

Police and family hold serious concerns for his welfare due to a medical condition.

Adam is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 180cm, thin build, shaved brown hair and blue eyes. 

He was last seen wearing a white polo shirt, faded black pants and black sneakers.

Adam is known to frequent the Sydney Train Network.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to call Lake Macquarie Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 10 December 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions. 

Lord Mayoral Minutes  

Launch of new Mariyung fleet services

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously supported noting the historic launch of the new Mariyung fleet service from Newcastle Interchange to Sydney Terminal on December 3, 2024. The CEO will write to the Minister for Transport expressing Council’s congratulations and support and advocate for increased and quicker services between Sydney and Newcastle.

Mandatory track changes requirements for Council reports and policy documents

An amended Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously supported noting the commitment from the CEO that all reports and policy documents submitted to the Council Chamber will include a version with track changes or detailed commentary clearly showing all modifications, additions, and deletions from the previous version at the time of publication of the agenda papers.

World Stroke Day morning tea

An amended Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously adopted that called for City of Newcastle to continue its support of World Stroke Day and acknowledged and thanked former Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes for holding the inaugural World Stroke Day in 2016, and subsequent morning teas each year in collaboration with HMRI

Ordinary business 

Adoption of Council policies

Council voted to approve revised and updated Council Policies including the Investment and Borrowing Policy, Art Gallery Acquisition and Deaccessioning Policy, Media Policy and Social Media Policy.

Adoption of Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee’s Strategic Work Plan

Council voted unanimously to endorse the Strategic Work Plan of City of Newcastle’s Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee.

Adoption of the Walking and Mobility Plan

Council voted to adopt the Newcastle Walking and Mobility Plan, noting the summary engagement report from the recent public exhibition. The Plan is a 10-year framework that sets out the vision, objectives, and actions to support the community’s desire for Newcastle to be a city where walking is a safe, accessible, convenient and enjoyable part of people’s lives.

Draft Newcastle 2040 review

Council voted unanimously to place the draft revised Community Strategic Plan – Newcastle 2040 on public exhibition for a minimum of 28 days.

Demolition, alterations and additions to the No.1 Sportsground grandstand

Council voted unanimously to approve the development application for the demolition, alterations and additions to the No.1 Sportsground grandstand, with consent granted subject to compliance with the conditions set out in the Draft Schedule of Conditions.

14 Sunderland Street, Mayfield – adoption of heritage listing

Council voted unanimously to endorse the planning proposal prepared under Section 3.33 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 to amend Newcastle Local Environmental Plan 2012 to create a new heritage item at 14 Sunderland Street Mayfield. City of Newcastle will forward the planning proposal to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for finalisation.

22 Victoria Street, Mayfield – adoption of heritage listing

Council voted unanimously to endorse the planning proposal prepared under Section 3.33 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 to amend Newcastle Local Environmental Plan 2012 to create a new heritage item at 22 Victoria Street, Mayfield. City of Newcastle will forward the planning proposal to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for finalisation.

13 Section Street, Mayfield – adoption of heritage listing

Council voted unanimously to endorse the planning proposal prepared under Section 3.33 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 to amend Newcastle Local Environmental Plan 2012 to create a new heritage item at 13 Section Street, Mayfield. City of Newcastle will forward the planning proposal to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for finalisation.

115 Maryland Drive, Maryland – telecommunications facility

Council voted unanimously to approve the development application to erect a ‘telecommunications facility’, granting consent subject to compliance with conditions set out in the draft schedule of conditions.

Parkway Avenue, Hamilton South – roundabout safety improvements 

Council voted unanimously to approve roundabout safety improvements at two roundabouts on Parkway Avenue Hamilton South, at the intersections with National Park Street and Smith Street.

Code of Conduct annual statistics

Council noted City of Newcastle’s Code of Conduct Complaints Statistics Report for the period 1 September 2023 to 31 August 2024.

Response to questions regarding Newcastle Airport

Council approved City of Newcastle undertaking community engagement within the Newcastle local government area to better understand awareness and support for Astra Aerolab. The findings of this community engagement will be reported to the Council in 2025.

Tender report – purchase of Summerhill Waste Management Centre landfill compactor 

Council voted unanimously to accept a tender for the purchase of a Landfill Compactor for the Summerhill Waste Management Centre.

Rescinding of tender award – construction of operational area for recycled materials transfer at Summerhill Waste Management Centre

Council voted unanimously to rescind the tender for the construction of an operational area for recycled materials transfer at Summerhill Waste Management Centre.

Late Item

505 Minmi Road

Council voted for the Lord Mayor and the City of Newcastle considers any action necessary, including legal responses, to protect the planning powers of the democratically elected City of Newcastle Council, including its LEP and planning functions, with respect to 505 Minmi Road.

Notices of Motion 

Youth Mock Council 2024 and investigating the re-establishment of a dedicated youth space

Council unanimously supported an amended notice of motion that congratulated the Newcastle Youth Council on the Youth Mock Council held in July 2024 and reiterated its commitment to the Youth Council and quality civics engagement and education. City of Newcastle staff will engage with the Youth Council to assess the need, requirements and viability of a dedicated youth space. 

Investigating opportunities for new and upgraded sporting facilities in the Western Suburbs 

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion that acknowledged the growing need for new and upgraded sporting facilities in our city’s western suburbs and requested a report be provided to Councillors assessing the viability of new or upgraded facilities.

Citizenship Ceremonies 

Council supported an amended notice of motion that delegates the decision to schedule the January citizenship ceremony to the Lord Mayor, in his capacity as the Presiding Officer of Citizenship Ceremonies, and in line with the Lord Mayor’s existing delegations.

Lambton Pool

Council supported an amended notice of motion that included a request that staff consider, as part of the December quarterly budget review process, funding for the installation of a platform at Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre that would enable those with mobility issues to enter the 25m and 50m pools more easily and safely.

111 Beaumont Street, Hamilton – place activation

Council unanimously supported an amended notice of motion requesting that City of Newcastle staff engage with Hamilton Business Improvement Association to determine events throughout 2025 that the vacant spaces within 111 Beaumont Street could support and enters into short term licenses with the community groups best suited to support those events, for an appropriate period before and after events.

Commissioning an independent review of council processes, procedures and performance

Council unanimously adopted an amended notice of motion for an independent review of Council’s processes, procedures and performance to uphold public trust and ensure high governance.

City of Newcastle is investing $2 million into footpaths this year as it takes the next step to make walking and active transport the preferred choice for short trips by 2034.

Councillors voted to adopt the Walking and Mobility Plan on Tuesday night, paving the way to implement a shared vision for enhanced pedestrian safety, accessibility and convenience across the city.

The plan includes a framework for determining how projects will be identified, prioritised, and scheduled.

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said the adoption of the 10-year plan reaffirms a commitment to building and supporting walkable neighbourhoods.

“Walking provides wide-ranging social, environmental and health benefits, and this plan ensures we’re taking the right steps so they can be enjoyed across the community,” Cr Kerridge said.

“One of the first unanimous resolutions of this elected Council was to commit to delivering at least 20 kilometres of new footpaths over this new term of Council, because we know that having the right pedestrian infrastructure is vital to realising our vision of a more walkable Newcastle.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager Transport & Regulation Ryan Tranter said almost $2 million has already been allocated this financial year for footpath projects, including Freyberg Street, New Lambton and Traise Street, Waratah, where works are underway.

“Some new projects will update and expand existing pathways, while others will provide missing links and new crossing infrastructure,” Mr Tranter said.

“It’s all about taking a systematic, data-driven approach to make sure we are focusing our resourcing in the most beneficial areas for the community.”

Twenty-four key actions will guide the delivery of the plan, focused around promoting the safety and prioritisation of pedestrians, building and maintaining walkable neighbours, supporting walking trips and destinations, and fostering and celebrating walking in our communities.

Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk, Chair of the Access Inclusion Standing Committee, said that when we refer to walking, we include all pedestrian movements, including mobility scooters, wheelchairs, and prams. 

“The adoption of this Walking and Mobility Plan will ensure pedestrians of all ages, abilities and mobilities, feel safe within the public road space,” Cr Adamczyk said.

“Social equity and inclusivity are at the heart of this plan, because we want to make sure the benefits of walking can be enjoyed by everyone. 

“Including accessibility and socio-demographic factors such as age and disability as essential considerations when prioritising new pedestrian infrastructure projects is important to ensure that what we deliver is accessible and safe for the whole community”. 

Actions in the plan were updated following feedback from its public exhibition earlier this year, to provide clarity around how accessibility will be improved.

It followed an extensive consultation process with the community and other relevant stakeholders to shape the plan.  

The Walking and Mobility Plan aligns with the main objectives of the Newcastle 2040 Community Strategic Plan, helping to make the city a more liveable, sustainable and creative place.

A police officer – attached to North West Metropolitan region – has been charged following an investigation into alleged domestic violence related offences.

Officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District commenced an investigation after receiving a report of alleged breaches of an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order between Tuesday 3 and Tuesday 10 December 2024.

Following inquiries, police attended a Central Coast home about 6pm yesterday (Tuesday 10 December 2024) and arrested a 39-year-old woman, a senior Constable attached to a command in the North West Metropolitan region.

She was taken to Wyong Police Station where she was charged with two counts of breach AVO.

The woman was granted conditional bail to appear before Wyong Local Court on Thursday 16 January 2025.