A potential $300 billion merger between Rio Tinto and Glencore could see Rio return to the Hunter Valley Operations coal mine, with significant implications for jobs and the project's scaled-back expansion plans. Read the latest analysis.
An independent review warns the WA department created to manage the energy transition could actually slow the move from coal. Read the critical findings and government response.
Newcastle ratepayers demand answers as council CEO's $608k package exceeds the Premier's pay. Former councillor reveals how Hunter coal mines triggered a 'relativity' salary spiral across local government.
Western Australia's teams face tough competition at the Australian Country Cricket Championships in Busselton-Margaret River. Get the latest scores, standout players, and updates from junior country week in Perth.
A visionary plan to repurpose disused Upper Hunter mining pits into interconnected lakes gains momentum, promising water security, tourism, and jobs. Read about the innovative solution.
As a severe heatwave looms, we revisit the Hunter's 1939 furnace that killed scores, halted work, and left a tragic mark on local records. Discover the history to understand the present.
A major fire at Singleton's Waste Management Facility continues to burn, forcing its closure. Council urges residents to never put batteries or gas bottles in kerbside bins. Read the latest updates.
Firefighters contained a significant blaze at Tower Lodge in Pokolbin on Sunday morning. All guests were evacuated safely from the luxury Hunter Valley estate, with no injuries reported.
Two teenage boys, aged 12 and 14, have been arrested and charged following an alleged break-in at Muswellbrook Fair Shopping Centre that caused thousands in damage. Read the latest on the police investigation.
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.
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.
Discover how a Lochinvar couple turned lockdown curiosity into Phoenix Distilling Co, crafting award-winning gin, whisky, and unique liqueurs in Rutherford. Book a tasting today.
Police have released CCTV footage after firearms were stolen from a Blandford property. Two people are charged, with more arrests expected. The 78-year-old firearm owner also faces charges.
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.
Western Mines Group has intersected a huge 900m nickel sulphide zone in WA's Eastern Goldfields, revealing a globally significant system with up to 55% nickel. Read more.
Two major NSW coal mine extensions have been referred for approval just days after the state's Net Zero Commission warned against them, sparking criticism from environmental groups.
Perth's Mt Ridley Mines will ship ore samples to a top US national lab for processing studies, advancing its role in allied critical mineral supply chains. Read the full story.
Belle Property's head office has taken direct control of its Hunter Valley operations, pledging new safety measures and support for staff and clients after a distressing period. Read the full statement.
A 23-year-old man is assisting police after a dramatic pursuit through Cessnock's wine country, involving road spikes and a police dog squad. Read the full details of the incident.
Pokolbin's EXP. Restaurant, led by chef Frank Fawkner, celebrates a landmark year with two Good Food Guide hats and the prestigious Regional Restaurant of the Year title for 2025. Discover the decade-long journey.
Mining services giant Macmahon Holdings secures a major $792 million contract extension at the Dawson metallurgical coal mine in Queensland, boosting its order book and workforce. Read the full story.
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.
The iconic Mulletfest grand final returned to Kurri Kurri, crowning Daniel Cooper as the best overall mullet. See photos and meet the winners of Australia's premier celebration of the infamous haircut.
Gloucester dairy farmer Mark Harris, hit by record floods in May, now battles drought. He's spending thousands on feed and repairs as the Hunter faces a rapid dry spell. Read his story.
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!
Abermain singer-songwriter Mackenzie Lee, 19, is a finalist for the prestigious 2026 Starmaker competition at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, following a journey that began with busking at age 11.
Police have increased the reward to $500,000 for information on the 2005 death of 21-month-old Jordan Thompson in Singleton. Detectives believe people in the Hunter community hold vital clues.
Muswellbrook Shire Council seeks a 29% rate increase exclusively on mining land to safeguard services as coal revenue declines. Public consultation is now open.