Newcastle councillors defer $70m Civic Park plan
Newcastle councillors have deferred a major plan to revitalise Civic Park and surrounds, citing a $70 million price tag and more pressing community priorities like safer streets and drainage.
Newcastle councillors have deferred a major plan to revitalise Civic Park and surrounds, citing a $70 million price tag and more pressing community priorities like safer streets and drainage.
Code of conduct complaints at Newcastle City Council have doubled in two years, costing ratepayers over $62,000. Nine complaints were lodged, with four still pending. Read the full report.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
Townsville City Council is recruiting 30 new staff in a major 'back to basics' drive to improve core services like parks, roads, and waste. Mayor Troy Thompson leads the overhaul.
Cottesloe councillor Katy Mason has resigned and is moving to Nedlands. She is considering running in the upcoming Nedlands council election. Read the full story.
Newcastle Council approves changes to an eight-storey Hall Street development, swapping one-bedroom units for three-bedroom apartments in response to market demand. Read the full details.
Liberal councillors call for a ban on Rising Tide using public land after a weekend of protests in Newcastle Harbour led to over 140 arrests and significant economic disruption. Read the full story.
The WACA's CEO has formally requested a 10-year exemption from council rates, worth an estimated $2.5 million, to aid the historic ground's financial future. Read the full story.
Hunter United Diving Academy's season is in crisis after City of Newcastle closed Lambton pool's dive tower and boards following SafeWork NSW notices. The only diving facility in the Hunter is now severely limited.
Newcastle's harbour ferry service is suspended due to unplanned maintenance, with replacement buses running. Commuters face significant travel delays. Read more.
Discover Newcastle's best local businesses for Christmas 2025. Support community enterprises offering puddings, trees, markets and festive experiences while boosting the local economy.
Newcastle's light rail system faces chaos as unplanned maintenance causes widespread cancellations, leaving commuters stranded. Discover the full story behind the service breakdown.
Newcastle deputy lord mayor defends decision to delay Beaumont Street debate as MP calls it 'disappointing'. Read about the political clash over Hamilton's social issues.
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?
Newcastle residents demand council action on Beaumont Street anti-social behaviour. Read about the community's frustration and the debate over spending priorities in our latest report.
Recent council decisions show common sense in short supply as official petitions get sidelined. Discover how local governance is being undermined across Australia.
Newcastle chef Josh Gregory shares his summer vision for Thermidor with new menus featuring seafood, spritzes and approachable dining. Discover the harbourfront dining experience.
Hundreds of children experienced early Christmas magic at McDonald Jones Stadium during Variety's annual party, featuring Santa, gifts, and inclusive activities for all abilities.
Fort Scratchley's major fundraiser, the Music of the Guns concert, was unexpectedly cancelled, costing the historical society $2000 and disappointing ticket holders. The event is now rescheduled for February.
Audit reveals Douglas Shire Council paid former employee triple their wage as contractor. Investigation uncovers serious procurement breaches and governance failures.
Hunter writers are invited to enter the Newcastle Herald's annual short story competition. Inspired by local photographs, entries close December 22, 2025, with great prizes to be won.
Newcastle parking fine revenue hits $7.4 million despite state reforms slashing ticketless fines by 94%. Discover how council finances transformed.
City of Newcastle's executive manager Nick Kaiser responds to criticism of community consultation processes, explaining the principles behind transparent engagement.
Join Santa and his elves for Newcastle's magical Christmas tree lighting ceremony on November 28. Enjoy free family activities, festive treats, and live entertainment in Wheeler Place.
Joondalup residents face potential service cuts as the city council confronts a $20 million operational deficit. Learn how this budget crisis could impact your community.
The NSW coal industry has condemned an upcoming 'Paddle out for Palestine' protest in Newcastle Harbour, designed to highlight Australian coal exports to Israel. Read the full story.
Newcastle councillors clash over alleged false claims about 40km/h speed limits on Minmi Road as debate over road's future intensifies. Read the full story.
Maitland Council expresses disappointment as cruise ships cancel visits following Newcastle's approval of Rising Tide protest, costing local businesses millions.
Kiama's historic police residence faces severe deterioration with falling gutters and overgrown vegetation. Council unanimously backs motion seeking state government assistance for restoration.
Lake Macquarie City Council is recasting the tender for the $2 million Belmont Wharf upgrade after terminating the initial contract. Discover the project's new timeline and community impact.