Danielle Easey murder trial: Court told the accused hinted 'he did something bad'

The witness also told the court he feared for his own safety after being shown Danielle Easey's lifeless body at a home in Narara on the NSW Central Coast.

A committee set up to distribute the funds says $475,000 has been already transferred to the survivors and family members of the deceased, with more on the way.

As the National Disability Insurance Scheme marks 10 years, it's become apparent reform is needed. As the tussle to rein in costs intensifies, participants want the wider community to recognise the investment is life-saving and not a frivolous expense.

Every Monday night, homeless and vulnerable people from Gosford and beyond are guaranteed a hot, home-cooked meal under the stars.

Thousands take part in Yes vote events around the country as advocates lay out why Australia needs a Voice to Parliament.

There are fewer than 300 regent honeyeaters in the wild but after a concerning breeding season, conservationists are encouraged by recent sightings along the east coast.

"A lot of people, even people in the hospital don't know we're here," John Hunter Hospital School principal Amy Kurtz said.

Sixty young people from across the Hunter region are preparing to perform in Finding Nemo Jnr these school holidays.

NAIDOC Person of the Year: This year's National NAIDOC Person of the Year Dr Kelvin Kong says reducing ear disease among all young people in Australia needs greater focus. The Worimi man, who lives in the Hunter, dedicates his time to researching the cause of ear diseases and finding effective interventions. Indigenous children have a much higher rate of ear disease than non-Indigenous children, but Mr Kong says everyone should have access to quality ear care.

Dry June and fires: The NSW Rural Fire Service is beginning to see an increase in fire activity because of high fuel loads and drier-than-usual conditions. Newcastle had its equal second driest June on record, with 3.6mm of rain. It was also the second driest June on record for Paterson, which received 4.2mm. The RFS has responded to more than 850 fires since June 1.

DV incidents up: There are calls for the New South Wales government to shed light on its plan to address domestic violence, with recent statistics showing the problem is getting worse in parts of the Hunter. The latest Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research figures show DV assaults in Maitland increased by 43 per cent over the two years to March. There was an almost 14 per cent jump in Port Stephens.

Cashless gaming trial ends: A cashless gaming trial at Wests New Lambton has wrapped up. The trial, which began in October last year, involved the installation of technology on 144 machines which allowed players to transfer money directly from their smartphones onto gaming machines. A cyber security incident involving the trial is being investigated and a report will be finalised in the second half of this year.

HNEH split support: Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell is supporting a bid to split the Hunter New England Health District in two, despite warnings it could worsen staff shortages. He says the move would result in teams purely focused on regional areas. Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall is attempting to have the health district separated for a second time, but Hunter New England Health raised concerns the split would exacerbate staffing issues.

Regional papers closing: Country Press Australia says it expects small regional newspapers will continue to close because of rising costs. Australian Community Media has announced it will close five of its regional newspapers from July, including the Hunter Valley News. ACM management says the closures are the result of the rising cost of newsprint and distribution.

Bus tragedy fundraiser: Singleton resident and race car driver Ryan Gilroy hopes a fundraiser in the wake of the Hunter Valley bus crash is a chance to give back to his community. Mr Gilroy is working with Newcastle artist Jordan Lucky to create a street art bonnet honouring the 10 people who lost their lives in the tragedy near Greta last month. He'll race with the commemorative bonnet on his car at the Townsville 500 and during that time it'll be auctioned off.

New Annual line-up released: The line-up has been released for this year's New Annual festival – and it's jam-packed with diverse events. Australian star Kate Ceberano will perform with The George Ellis Orchestra, while Aussie indie-folk band Boy and Bear will play at the Civic Theatre for the first time. Newcastle's flagship arts and culture festival will run from September 22 to October 1.

Knights' record win: The Newcastle Knights recorded their biggest win in club history on Sunday against the Bulldogs. Newcastle smashed the home side 66-nil, running in 11 unanswered tries, and breaking a three-game losing streak. Captain Kalyn Ponga starred with three try assists and 11 conversions.

Origin call-up: Newcastle Knights centre Bradman Best will make his State of Origin debut for the Blues, as coach Brad Fittler shakes up his squad for game three on July 12. Best joins teammate Jacob Saifiti in the squad, which includes seven changes. Fellow Knight Tyson Frizell was dropped after playing in the first two games of the series.