Newcastle's Most-Read Sport Stories of 2025 Revealed
From Jesse Southwell's shock NRLW exit to a life-saving stadium drama, discover the Newcastle Herald's top 10 most-read sport stories that captivated the Hunter in 2025.
Category : Search result: Hunter sports
Hunter population to near 1 million by 2041
State projections reveal the Hunter Region is set to grow by over 184,500 people in two decades, nearing a million residents. Local leaders warn housing and infrastructure must keep pace.
Glider Crash Lands in Hunter Valley, Man Airlifted
A man in his 60s was flown to John Hunter Hospital with chest and back injuries after a glider crash near Ravensworth. Emergency services, including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, responded to the incident.
Hunter's 2025 Sports Awards: Knights Woes, Jets Joy & Bizarre Moments
A rollercoaster year for Hunter sport gets its own awards. From the Knights' wooden spoon to the Jets' Cup win and Kalyn Ponga's bizarre endorsement, we recap the highs, lows and wacky moments of 2025.
Three Critical Issues Shaping the Hunter's Path to 2050
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.
Firefighter injured in Hunter Valley bushfire
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.
Coulsons Creek Road reopens after five-year closure
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.
Hunter REZ to create 600 jobs, construction starts 2026
Construction on the $600m Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone begins early 2026, creating nearly 600 jobs and connecting 1.8GW of clean power. Read about the region's energy future.
Australian sports presenter Duncan McKenzie-McHarg dies at 41
Popular Australian sports presenter Duncan McKenzie-McHarg has died in Los Angeles aged 41. Tributes flow for the former Triple M, Channel 7, and Stan Sport broadcaster.
Hunter $4bn Renewable Energy Zone construction starts 2026
Construction on the $4 billion Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone will begin early 2026, creating nearly 600 jobs and connecting 1.8GW of clean power. Read more about this major NSW project.
Meet Illawarra's 56 Rising Sports Stars for 2025
The Illawarra Mercury unveils its exclusive list of 56 standout young athletes set to dominate courts, fields, pools, and slopes in 2025. Discover the region's future champions.
Record 28 awards at 47th Newcastle CONDA ceremony
Newcastle's vibrant theatre community celebrated a record-breaking 47th CONDA Awards, with Opera Hunter's 'Sweeney Todd' and local talents taking top honours. Discover all the winners.
Major milestone for Belmont desalination plant as barge arrives
A jack-up barge has positioned itself off Nine Mile Beach, signalling the start of complex offshore works for the Belmont Desalination Plant. The project will secure the Lower Hunter's water future.
Gas crisis endangers Hunter jobs, industries: report
A new report warns NSW faces a critical gas shortage, threatening Hunter industries and jobs. Urgent investment in alternatives like biomethane is needed to secure the state's economic future.
$14.2 Million Unclaimed in Hunter Region
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.
Serious Truck Crash on New England Highway at Belford
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.
Justin Langer: Use Data, Not Gut Feel, to Find Young Talent
Cricket legend Justin Langer argues parents and coaches must replace gut feelings with data to identify true sporting talent in children. Discover his evidence-based approach.
Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular 2025 Guide
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!
NSW housing commitment ignored in Hunter's Broadmeadow plan
Hunter community demands NSW government apply its 30% social housing pledge to Broadmeadow Precinct, as families remain separated due to the crisis. Join the call for action.
Stockton ferry service halted, both vessels out of action
Newcastle's Stockton ferry service is suspended indefinitely after mechanical failures. Residents face long bus commutes as Transport for NSW investigates. Read the full story.
Hunter hospital parking fees surge 52%, generating $6m
Parking revenue at Hunter New England health facilities jumped to over $6 million last financial year. The NSW Opposition criticises the increase as a 'cash grab' on patients and staff.
Extreme Fire Danger Warning Issued in Hunter
Hunter Region faces extreme fire danger on summer's first day. Stay updated on weather alerts, hospital wait times, and local news affecting Newcastle communities.
Hunter's job gap: 37,000 positions needed for growth
The Hunter region faces a critical jobs shortage despite low unemployment. Professor Phillip O'Neill reveals why generating 37,000 new positions is essential to avoid becoming another 'place left behind'.
Hunter Sports High Year 12 Formal Celebrates Students
Hunter Sports High School students dazzled at their Year 12 formal in Newcastle. After photos at Civic Park, 80 students celebrated at Merewether Surfhouse, marking the end of their schooling journey.
Port Stephens Bids for Basketball Stadium
Port Stephens Council launches a last-minute bid to host the Hunter Indoor Sports Centre as Newcastle faces community opposition. Could this resolve the stadium standoff?
Missing Person Sunny: Newcastle Search Continues
Newcastle police seek public assistance to locate Sunny, 30, last seen at John Hunter Hospital. Follow live updates and contact authorities with information.
Hunter coal crucial amid record global demand
NSW Minerals Council CEO argues Hunter coal mining remains vital for regional economy as global demand hits record 8.8 billion tonnes. Learn why supply restrictions would backfire.
Hunter clean energy project slammed for biodiversity loss
Key environment group slams Hunter Transmission Project route, warning of irreversible impacts on 66 threatened species. Read the full analysis of this critical NSW energy debate.
Hunter Photography Prize 2026: Entries Now Open
Newcastle Herald's Hunter Photography Prize is back for 2026. Open to amateur photographers in the Hunter Region. Enter by January 20, 2026 for your chance to win.
Townsville Sportstar Awards 2024 Winners Revealed
Townsville celebrates its sporting elite at record-breaking Sportstar Awards. Discover all the winners from this prestigious community event that honours local athletic excellence.
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