Port Mac researcher honoured: A Hunter researcher has been awarded the Australian Society for Medical Research Medal. Professor Matt Dun has focused his work on combating the world's deadliest paediatric cancer — diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma or DIPG — after losing his four-year-old daughter Josephine to the aggressive brain cancer. Professor Dun (pictured above with Josie) addressed the National Press Club on Tuesday, sharing his personal journey. He says it's always difficult to tell his daughter's story but he's proud of what's been achieved.
More DV support needed in regional areas: A tailored approach is needed to help women facing domestic violence in regional areas, NSW Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison says. According to NSW Police data, the Port Stephens local government area had one of the highest number of apprehended violence orders granted overall in the past three years. Ms Harrison says there's a lack of privacy in smaller communities which may deter women from seeking help. People needing confidential information, counselling or support around domestic family and sexual violence issues can visit the 1800RESPECT website or phone 1800 737 732.
MP to retire: Nationals MP Dr David Gillespie has announced he won't recontest the seat of Lyne at next year's federal election after holding it since 2013. He was an early advocate for the Coalition's nuclear power plan, establishing and chairing the Parliamentary Friends of Nuclear Industries — a forum for parliamentarians to meet with nuclear stakeholders. Dr Gillespie says while his work advocating for nuclear energy will continue, spending time with family will be his priority.
Nuclear energy inquiry taking submissions: A federal parliamentary committee inquiring into nuclear energy is seeking public submissions. Committee chair and federal Hunter MP Dan Repacholi says the committee wants to hear from communities across Australia that would be affected by the opposition's nuclear energy plan. It will also consult experts on how nuclear energy could operate. The Coalition has proposed seven nuclear sites across Australia, including one at the old Liddell Power Station near Muswellbrook. Submissions close on November 15.
'Respectful republican' welcomes king: Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper says welcoming the King to the New South Wales Parliament was an honour. King Charles attended the parliament on Sunday to celebrate the bicentenary of the New South Wales legislative council. Mr Piper, who is also speaker of the house, is a self-described "respectful republican" and says he was honoured to be part of such an historic moment.
Call for defibrillators in homes: St John Ambulance wants automated external defibrillators to become as common as fire extinguishers in communities, workplaces and homes. New research released by the organisation shows 84 per cent of New South Wales adults think defibrillators are important to have in homes, but only one per cent have bought one themselves. St John Ambulance Cessnock paramedic Josh Anthony says automatic defibrillators can significantly improve the survival rate for sudden cardiac arrest patients.
Shoal Bay night life push: A group of Shoal Bay businesses have joined forces to advocate for the development of a night-time economy in the area. The Shoaly Collective wants to see the area host more evening events like music gigs and twilight markets and encourage some businesses to stay open later. Shoaly Collective member and cafe owner David Norup says he wants the area to be known for more than just a good beach.
Opening round loss for Jets: Newcastle Jets men's coach Rob Stanton says despite a frustrating loss at the weekend he thinks his team performed well for the home crowd. Melbourne City defeated the Jets 1-nil after scoring a goal in the first two minutes of the season opener on Saturday. The game at Hunter Stadium attracted more than 8,000 spectators, the most the Jets have seen for a round one game in five years. Stanton says he hopes the team did enough to bring the crowds back.
