Novocastrians celebrated Christmas early with carols, rides, and fireworks at Lambton Park. The free community event, organised by Hunter Bible Church, brought families together for a festive evening.
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.
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.
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.
Plans for a new 79-place Montessori childcare centre on church land in Lake Heights have been submitted to Wollongong City Council. The development includes a shared underground car park and church upgrades. Read the full details.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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'.
A Hamilton minister shares his experience of being assaulted twice in six months, calling for a 'net-zero policy for violence' to revive Beaumont Street.
A controversial six-storey apartment development is proposed next to North Adelaide's heritage-listed St Cyprian's Church. Six businesses face demolition. Read the full story.
Newcastle police seek public assistance to locate Sunny, 30, last seen at John Hunter Hospital. Follow live updates and contact authorities with information.
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.
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.
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.
A man and woman face over 30 drug supply charges after police found cocaine, magic mushrooms and cash in an Albion Park vehicle. Read the latest on the Strike Force Alamillio investigation.
Hunter New England Health requires financial bailouts as Grattan Institute reveals hospitals are 'held back by bogus budgets'. Discover the systemic funding issues affecting patient care.
A major five-building residential complex has been approved for the Illawarra Leagues Club site in Wollongong, adding 204 apartments to the city centre after Land and Environment Court decision.
New polling reveals 72% of Hunter residents support government investment in renewable energy for manufacturing. Discover how this could save jobs at Tomago Aluminium.
New ABS data reveals Scone and Merewether lead Hunter's income surge. Explore the economic trends reshaping the region's wealth distribution.
The Rural Fire Service has declared an 'extreme' fire danger rating for the Greater Hunter on November 17, 2025. Stay informed with live updates from the Newcastle Herald.
Discover the untold story of Hunter Valley's coal-mining pit horses and their lasting legacy through public art, from Scotland's Kelpies to local sculptures.
Kathryn Knaggs reveals alleged sexual abuse by senior Geelong Revival Centre figure. Read her courageous story and the ongoing legal battle.
Moriac Uniting Church holds final service after 162 years, marking the end of an era for the local community. Read about its legacy and future plans.
Hunter New England faces a diabetes emergency with 90,000 cases. Experts advocate telehealth solutions and new medications to combat what's called humanity's biggest epidemic.
Newcastle residents clash over e-bike safety and climate protests as letters reveal deep divisions on transport, housing and environmental policy in the Hunter region.