As the Hunter Region looks towards 2050, three critical issues—coal mining's legacy, unchecked urban sprawl, and lagging education—will define its future success. Explore the cumulative impacts.
A NSW Rural Fire Service volunteer was hospitalised after a stick lodged near his eye while fighting the Hollydeen blaze. He has since been released after surgery.
A dangerous bushfire is threatening towns southeast of Perth. Residents in Bannister, Ranford, and Boddington are urged to flee immediately. An evacuation centre is open in Williams.
A bushfire emergency warning is in place for parts of the Shire of Gingin, north of Perth, with residents told to leave immediately. The fire has burnt 150 hectares amid scorching 41.4C heat.
Residents in parts of the Shire of Gingin have been ordered to evacuate immediately as a dangerous bushfire threatens homes. The blaze has burnt 150 hectares amid scorching 41.4C heat. Read the latest emergency updates.
A major bushfire is threatening the Boddington gold mine and town south-east of Perth. An Emergency Warning is in place. It is too late to leave. Read the latest updates and survival advice.
An out-of-control bushfire near Boddington Gold Mine has triggered an Emergency Warning. Over 300 hectares burnt. Residents and workers urged to leave immediately. Latest updates and safety advice.
Upper Hunter farmers celebrate as the critical Coulsons Creek Road reopens just before Christmas, ending a costly five-year detour. The $60 million project fixes a botched council upgrade.
A 48-year-old man faces court after allegedly lighting fires in Sydney's Royal National Park during a high fire danger day. Police were alerted by public tip-offs.
Property owners near Townsville successfully defended their homes from a dangerous bushfire thanks to a pre-prepared fire management plan. See how preparation made the difference.
A bushfire emergency is unfolding in Perth's hills, threatening lives and homes. Residents in Jane Brook, Red Hill, and Swan View are urged to prepare to leave immediately as conditions worsen.
A 43-year-old Bertram man faces court accused of lighting three bushfires near Rockingham. Police allege the fires were deliberately lit, endangering the community.
A 59-year-old NPWS firefighter has died after being struck by a tree while checking on his team during the Bulahdelah bushfire. The veteran, a divisional commander, could not be saved despite immediate first aid.
A firefighter has died after being struck by a tree while battling a blaze at Bulahdelah, marking the first fatality of the Australian bushfire season. Authorities warn of a dangerous summer ahead.
Firefighters are gaining control of a bushfire at Redhead overnight. Key roads have reopened. Stay with the Newcastle Herald for live updates on the situation.
Hunter Valley residents could find a surprise cash boost, with over $14.2 million in unclaimed money held by Revenue NSW. Check now to see if you're owed funds.
A fast-moving bushfire has gutted homes in Koolewong, NSW. Over 250 firefighters battled the blaze as residents watched on in horror. Read the latest updates.
A dangerous bushfire near Redhead has burned over 40 hectares, threatening suburbs and a nursing home overnight. Residents in Dudley, Whitebridge, and Gateshead are urged to monitor conditions as the fire continues to burn. Read the latest updates.
Two truck drivers are in a serious condition after a crash on the New England Highway near Singleton. Police are investigating and appealing for dash-cam footage.
Experience over 4.5 million lights, new attractions, and festive fun at Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular from Nov 7, 2025 to Jan 26, 2026. Book tickets now!
A major bushfire near Bulahdelah has burned through 1400 hectares, closing the Pacific Highway. 70 firefighters are battling the blaze as conditions are expected to worsen. Residents urged to monitor warnings.
Muswellbrook Shire Council seeks a 29% rate increase exclusively on mining land to safeguard services as coal revenue declines. Public consultation is now open.
A devastating bushfire in West River has burnt over 4000 hectares and claimed the life of deputy shire president Mark Mudie. Firefighters are working overtime to bring the serious blaze under control. Read the latest updates.
Respected farmer and Shire of Ravensthorpe deputy president Mark Mudie has died while fighting a bushfire on his West River property. The community mourns a devastating loss.
The Gum Ball music festival announces its first line-up for its 21st anniversary in the Hunter Valley, featuring King Stingray, Megan Washington, and Don Walker. Tickets on sale now.
A local farmer in his 60s has tragically died while battling an out-of-control bushfire near Ravensthorpe on WA's south coast. The community mourns as investigations begin.
A man in his 60s has died while battling an out-of-control bushfire near Ravensthorpe. The fire has burnt 300ha. Read the latest updates and safety warnings.
A $171 million solar module factory is set for Black Hill, creating over 100 jobs and boosting Australia's renewable manufacturing under the Solar Sunshot program.
An emergency warning is in place for West River in WA's Ravensthorpe Shire as a dangerous bushfire burns out of control. Residents told to leave immediately. Latest updates.
Hunter Valley police are appealing for public help to locate a white Mazda 4WD following five suspicious grass fires in Buchanan and Sawyers Gully. No injuries reported.