A reflective ode to Canberra's summer charm and the evolution of Lake Burley Griffin, from its dusty beginnings to today's vibrant lakeside precincts. Discover why the capital is a work in progress worth celebrating.
Secure one of the final five places for a luxury Kimberley adventure in May 2026. Includes charter flights, Emma Gorge, Lake Argyle & an Ord River cruise. From $4499 pp.
Emergency crews freed a trapped driver after a single-vehicle crash on the M1 near Lake Macquarie. One lane remains closed, causing moderate traffic delays. Stay updated.
Two Lake Macquarie PCYC basketballers, Jared Hickson and Jarvis Watson, are set for a life-changing trip to the USA as part of a groundbreaking all-Indigenous squad. Read their inspiring story.
Police hold serious concerns for the welfare of 20-year-old Eghan Khun, last seen on King Street, Warrawong in the early hours of Tuesday. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
NSW Maritime's 'Operation Cool Your Jets' targeted jet ski safety over the weekend. While Lake Illawarra saw checks, the Shoalhaven recorded high offence rates. Read the full safety rules.
Peter Papadatos remains in John Hunter Hospital with severe injuries after a suspected hit-and-run on an e-scooter at Caves Beach. Police are investigating and urge witnesses to come forward.
A Lake Macquarie op shop raising funds for domestic violence victims was targeted in a 'pointless' break-in, with a thief smashing a $1000 door to steal valueless items. Police are investigating.
A severe storm cut short racing at the Australian Skiff Championships on Lake Macquarie, causing broken masts. Over 100 crews are competing this week. Read more.
Cairns Regional Council reaffirms Copperlode Dam's primary role as a water source, sparking debate over recreational access. Read the latest on the conflict.
A major NSW waterways safety operation found more than 20% of jet ski offences occurred at Lake Macquarie. Police urge riders to slow down and follow safety rules.
The historic Royal Crown Hotel in Dudley has been closed since May 2025 due to severe termite damage. Owner Michael Deer has lodged a DA for a three-stage restoration, aiming to reopen the beloved local in 2026. Read the full story.
Confronting 2025 data reveals Lake Macquarie had the state's second-worst road toll. Speed was the leading killer as NSW lost 355 lives. Read the full analysis and official pleas for safer driving.
Lake Macquarie police fined over 40 out-of-town visitors and made two arrests during a holiday crackdown on illegal fishing and anti-social behaviour on Swansea Bridge.
The Newcastle Herald's Hunter Photography Prize is back for 2026. Amateur photographers in the Hunter Region are invited to submit their best shots for a chance to win major camera gear vouchers. Enter by January 20.
ACT Police made more than a dozen arrests for assaults and dangerous driving during New Year's Eve celebrations. A 19-year-old was caught driving at 198km/h. Read the full report.
Newcastle and Hunter residents welcomed 2026 with good behaviour, police report. No major incidents marred celebrations, in stark contrast to Sydney's arrests. Read the full report.
Goodlife Church Toronto has lodged a DA to relocate to Grattoir Place, aiming to accommodate its expanding community with Sunday services for up to 100 people.
Canberra welcomed 2026 with its largest-ever New Year's Eve fireworks over Lake Burley Griffin. The $154,000 spectacle drew big crowds and marked the second year of a three-year contract. Read more about the dazzling show.
A key bridge on the Fernleigh Track near Whitebridge has been closed after vandals set it alight, marking the latest in a spate of destructive acts across Lake Macquarie. A detour is in place.
Lake Macquarie City Council navigated a pivotal 2025, marked by a CEO departure, a united front on housing, and emerging political shifts. Read our full review of the year's key events.
Canberra prepares for its biggest NYE fireworks over Lake Burley Griffin. Hotels with lake views are fully booked as a new $462k contract is signed. Free public transport and road closures announced.
NSW Police launch one of their largest annual operations to ensure safety at Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and Port Stephens New Year's Eve events. Plan your travel and stay safe.
As Newcastle reviews its public toilets, locals highlight the lack of soap and inadequate facilities for the ageing and disabled. Read why these basic amenities are a public health necessity.
An 18-year-old is recovering after a tow rope snapped on a lake south of Perth, causing serious injuries. He remains positive despite the ordeal.
Canberrans heading to NYE fireworks face a wet, stormy day with a high of 34C, but the Bureau of Meteorology forecasts clear skies for the midnight countdown. Plan your celebrations with our detailed weather guide.
A 16-year-old from Fassifern has landed a colossal 55cm bream on Christmas Day, believed to be one of the biggest ever caught in Lake Macquarie. Read the full story of this remarkable catch.
A $1 million Lotto prize from a ticket bought at Cameron Park Newsagency is still unclaimed. Meanwhile, a Wyong man wins nearly $1 million. Check your tickets now!
A small fire at The Shed Cafe in Watagan Park Central, Cooranbong, led to a temporary evacuation and closure on Sunday afternoon. Emergency services responded quickly, with no injuries reported.
Speers Point couple Tim Binns and Frances Beaumont forced to retire their yacht Titoki from the Sydney to Hobart due to multiple defects and a battery fire. Read their story and see how other local boats are faring.