Centre of excellence: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New South Wales Premier Chris Minns officially announced a $60 million Net Zero Manufacturing TAFE Centre of Excellence in Newcastle on Tuesday. The centre will be located at the Tighes Hill TAFE campus, and it's hoped it will accelerate the development of a "higher apprenticeship" model to build the skills required for net-zero manufacturing. It will be jointly funded by the federal and state governments.
Caption: Anthony Albanese addresses a media conference in Newcastle on Tuesday. Image: ABC Newcastle/Robert Dillon
Earthquake insurance woes: New South Wales Premier Chris Minns says he's aware of community concerns in Muswellbrook that some insurance companies aren't paying damage claims resulting from recent earthquakes. A 4.7 magnitude earthquake struck the area in August with several aftershocks in the following weeks, along with another 4.5 magnitude earthquake in September. Some residents recorded damage to their properties but have been unsuccessful in having their insurance cover it.
Somewhere to go for REZ disputes: Landholders will soon be able to make complaints about renewable energy transmission infrastructure to an independent state agency. From December the Energy and Water Ombudsman New South Wales will establish an energy transition team to hear disputes about cables, towers and transformers in the state's Renewable Energy Zones. Ombudsman Janine Young says they want to engage with REZ communities to understand the issues they're facing, as well as informing them of their rights.
Spotlight on Hunter DV model: It's hoped a Hunter-based domestic violence early intervention model could be used as a blueprint for all support services across New South Wales. A study by the University of Newcastle evaluated the success of the Jenny's Place Newcastle Domestic Violence Resource Centre, which focuses on a "no criteria" approach. It means victims can access information before they've left a domestic violence relationship. Study author Professor Margaret Alston says women often don't leave until they've reached crisis point, but they should be able to access information sooner. People needing confidential information, counselling or support around domestic family and sexual violence issues can visit the 1800RESPECT website or phone 1800 737 732.
Housing, transport key local issues: Housing and transport will be a key focus for the region's local councils over the next four years, Singleton Council Mayor Sue Moore says. Cr Moore has been re-elected chair of the Hunter Joint Organisation, which involves the Hunter's 10 councils working together to advocate for the region. Port Stephens Council Mayor Leah Anderson has been elected as deputy chair.
Good news for grain harvest: Local agronomists are predicting an above-average harvest for grain-growers in the Upper Hunter. Rabobank forecasts New South Wales is on track for a 30 per cent increase in grain and oilseed yield this year compared to last, with northern New South Wales leading the way. Merriwa agronomist Tim Sawley says rainfall and minimal frost damage means above-average yields are likely for the region.
Focus on Tomaree Lodge's future: Six Port Stephens residents have been appointed to a working group to help determine the future of Tomaree Lodge. Tomaree Lodge Engagement Committee members were selected by the Department of Communities after an expression of interest process resulted in 25 applications. The New South Wales government says the committee will play an important role in providing advice on the future use of the site and formulating a master plan for it.
Airport boss resigns: Newcastle Airport chief executive Dr Peter Cock will leave the job after almost 10 years at the helm. Dr Cock led the airport through COVID-19 shutdowns and helped steer it towards its international ambitions, and says he'll be back to see the international terminal when its construction is completed next year. He will return to his home state of Western Australia to spend more time with family
Jets' exhilarating win: The Newcastle Jets secured its first win of the A-League season with an exhilarating 2-1 victory over the Macarthur Bulls on Friday night. The Jets trailed 1-nil at half time, but youngster Eli Adams scored two goals within three minutes to put the Jets in front after the break. Goalkeeper Ryan Scott successfully defended a penalty goal attempt to secure the win.
