Lake Macquarie and Central Coast councils issue warnings over red algae blooms, which can cause skin irritation. Swimmers and pet owners urged to avoid affected waters as a severe heatwave grips the Hunter region.
Lake Macquarie City Council reveals a draft $80 million capital works plan for 2026-27, with over half earmarked for its fire-damaged Speers Point administration building. Discover the community projects set to benefit.
A 23-year-old man suffered a serious shoulder injury after jumping into a popular Illawarra swimming hole. Emergency services conducted a complex bush rescue on January 7.
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.
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.
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.
Two men were seriously injured in a stabbing on Lygon Street, Carlton, on New Year's Eve. Police are investigating the targeted attack and seeking witnesses.
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.
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.
Townsville sees a dramatic 40% fall in property crime victims, credited to a targeted police operation. Discover how Operation Uniform North is making the community safer.
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.
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.
Lake Macquarie City Council awards Daracon Group the contract to expand the Awaba Waste Management Facility, adding over a decade of capacity for 220,000 residents. Construction starts 2026.
Prominent WA Labor figure Tim Picton is fighting for life after an alleged assault in Northbridge. A 26-year-old man has been charged. Read the latest on this shocking incident.
Delta Electricity faces a $1 million fine after a court found it guilty of causing a 2022 fish kill at Mannering Park. The ruling follows a major EPA prosecution.
A quick-thinking parent and corrections officer tackled a pitch invader who knocked down an umpire during a junior cricket match in Port Macquarie. Read the full story of the dramatic incident.
Exclusive data reveals a 15% spike in Cairns crime from 2024 to 2025. Police highlight trends in theft, property damage, and public order offences. Read the full analysis.