A significant fire at a waste management facility in Singleton sent plumes of smoke drifting across the Hunter region on New Year's Eve, prompting emergency response and community alerts.
The incident occurred at the Singleton waste management facility on December 31, 2025. Firefighters from the Rural Fire Service (RFS) NSW were quickly dispatched to the scene to tackle the blaze involving rubbish at the tip.
Emergency Response and Smoke Hazard
RFS NSW crews worked to contain the fire as smoke from the burning waste began to spread over a wide area. The situation was serious enough for the Newcastle Herald to initiate live coverage of the event, providing real-time updates for residents.
The live blog, a service the Herald provides for breaking incidents, weather, and traffic, was made freely accessible to all readers for this event. The coverage aimed to keep the public informed about the fire's progression and any associated safety warnings as the smoke cloud moved.
Community Impact and Broader News Context
The fire added a disruptive note to New Year's Eve celebrations in the region, with authorities likely urging caution for those with respiratory conditions due to the poor air quality. The incident shared the news spotlight on the Herald's platform with other major stories from the day.
These included a concerning alleged incident where a man reportedly threatened a driver with a meat cleaver, New Year's Eve fireworks safety preparations, and a local mayor's criticism of a property firm over a dispute concerning Denman Park.
The Herald's news team also reminded the community that they could submit news tips, photos, or videos via email and engage in discussion in the comments section of their live blog.
Staying Informed with Local News
The Newcastle Herald continues to be a primary source for comprehensive local news across Newcastle and the Hunter. Their digital offerings include various newsletters covering daily headlines, sport, property, and travel, ensuring residents stay connected to what's happening in their community.
While the live blog for the fire was open access, the Herald noted that some linked articles might require a subscription, highlighting their model for supporting in-depth local journalism.
