New Year's Eve 2025 celebrations light up Newcastle
Thousands gathered on Newcastle's Foreshore to welcome 2026. Amidst the celebrations, police issued warnings about dangerous drugs and urged public safety. See the photos and stories.
Category : Search result: MDMA warning Hunter
Newcastle's New Year's Eve 2025 celebrations see crowds gather
Thousands celebrated New Year's Eve in Newcastle as families and visitors enjoyed the Foreshore festivities. NSW Police ran a major operation amid health warnings about dangerous drugs in circulation.
Newcastle's 2025: A Year of Headlines and Heartbreak
From a fatal beach shooting to devastating floods and a major health initiative, revisit the stories that defined the Hunter region in 2025. Read the full year in review.
Hunter population to near 1 million by 2041
State projections reveal the Hunter Region is set to grow by over 184,500 people in two decades, nearing a million residents. Local leaders warn housing and infrastructure must keep pace.
Flood warning for Tully River after heavy rainfall
A flood warning is in place for the Tully River in Far North Queensland as heavy rainfall causes water levels to rise rapidly. Residents are urged to stay informed and prepare now.
Glider Crash Lands in Hunter Valley, Man Airlifted
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.
Hunter's 2025 Sports Awards: Knights Woes, Jets Joy & Bizarre Moments
A rollercoaster year for Hunter sport gets its own awards. From the Knights' wooden spoon to the Jets' Cup win and Kalyn Ponga's bizarre endorsement, we recap the highs, lows and wacky moments of 2025.
Emergency Warning: Bushfire Threatens Lives in WA's South West
A fast-moving bushfire sparked by a vehicle fire is threatening lives and homes near Bunbury. Residents in the emergency zone are told it is too late to leave and must shelter immediately.
Three Critical Issues Shaping the Hunter's Path to 2050
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.
Severe Weather Warning for North Queensland Flooding
A severe weather warning is in place for Queensland's northwest and northeast, with intense rainfall and flash flooding expected. Residents urged to prepare now.
Flood Watch Issued for Far North QLD Amid Heavy Rain
Heavy monsoon rain and king tides have sparked flood watch warnings for Far North Queensland. Cairns and surrounding catchments on high alert. Stay informed.
Flood Watch for North QLD as Heavy Rain Settles In
A significant flood watch is active for parts of North Queensland, with the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting persistent, heavy rainfall. Residents urged to prepare and stay informed.
Firefighter injured in Hunter Valley bushfire
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.
Coulsons Creek Road reopens after five-year closure
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.
Hunter REZ to create 600 jobs, construction starts 2026
Construction on the $600m Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone begins early 2026, creating nearly 600 jobs and connecting 1.8GW of clean power. Read about the region's energy future.
Hunter $4bn Renewable Energy Zone construction starts 2026
Construction on the $4 billion Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone will begin early 2026, creating nearly 600 jobs and connecting 1.8GW of clean power. Read more about this major NSW project.
Cool change brings relief to Hunter after scorching heatwave
A three-day heatwave gripping the Hunter region is set to break with a cool change, bringing showers and potential severe thunderstorms. Get the latest BOM warnings and forecast details.
Record 28 awards at 47th Newcastle CONDA ceremony
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.
Major milestone for Belmont desalination plant as barge arrives
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.
Gas crisis endangers Hunter jobs, industries: report
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.
Severe heatwave warning issued for Illawarra region
A severe heatwave warning is in effect for the Illawarra, with temperatures predicted to reach 35 degrees Celsius. Learn the details, why it's classified as a heatwave, and how to stay safe.
Hazardous Surf Warning Issued for Newcastle
A hazardous surf warning is in place for Newcastle as cloudy weather sets in. Stay updated with live news, traffic, and weather from the Hunter Region.
$14.2 Million Unclaimed in Hunter Region
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.
Serious Truck Crash on New England Highway at Belford
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.
Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular 2025 Guide
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 Heatwave: Mid-40s Temps Spark Health, Fire Alerts
A severe heatwave is set to scorch NSW's Hunter region this weekend, with temperatures reaching the mid-40s. Health and emergency services issue urgent warnings to stay hydrated, check on vulnerable people, and prepare for extreme fire danger.
NSW housing commitment ignored in Hunter's Broadmeadow plan
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.
Stockton ferry service halted, both vessels out of 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.
Hunter hospital parking fees surge 52%, generating $6m
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.
NSW e-bike warning: fines, new 250w power limit
Parents buying e-bikes for Christmas are warned to check legality to avoid $818 fines. NSW power limits will drop to 250w soon. Police highlight dangers of modifications.
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