THE CSIRO has officially launched the $3 million upgrade of the Renewable Energy Integration Facility (REIF) at its Energy Centre in Newcastle. The national science agency says the upgrade will significantly expand Australia’s capability to test, validate and commercialise technologies needed for a more sustainable, reliable and secure electricity system. The expanded facility includes a […]
New recruits for state’s transport and roads agency
SEVENTY-ONE new apprentices and trainees are kicking off their careers at Transport for NSW worksites this month. From filling potholes to rebuilding flood‑damaged roads, planning major works and maintaining heavy vehicles, the new Roads Maintenance and Resilience recruits will join and support frontline teams strengthening the state’s transport network. Following group inductions in Wollongong, Newcastle […]
Russell and Monica from Tea Gardens Post Office with Diane and Harry from BT’s. Photo: Tea Gardens Post Office.
End of era for local fashion retailer
AN ERA has ended for a major local business, with BTs for Fashion closing its doors for the last time at Tea Gardens’ Myall Quays shopping centre. Nearly 20 years ago, Harry, Diane, Nicole, Adam, and their families, who hailed from Townsville in Queensland, brought a new outlet for fashion and accessories to Tea Gardens, […]
Australian Wildlife Conservancy calls for Stroud landholders to join new Conservation Precinct
AUSTRALIAN Wildlife Conservancy (AWC) is calling on private landholders in the Stroud district to join a proposed large-scale conservation precinct. The initiative aims to strengthen habitat connectivity across the region and increase protection for threatened species, including the koala and greater glider. One AWC project is the 3871-hectare Waulinbakh Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Stroud, which […]
Ian Napier was slugged with five years' worth of land taxes after diversifying his winery business. Photo: Peter Stoop/AAP PHOTOS.
Wine and taxes: only one certainty for small producers
UNDER the shade of a weeping willow on the banks of a sparkling dam, wine lovers can look out across a sprawling national park while sipping chilled Chardonnay. Members of the Wombat Crossing Vineyard, in the heart of the NSW Hunter Valley wine region, can also stay in a cosy lodge with a fireplace, aptly […]
Finalists will be recognised and winners announced at the Hunter Manufacturing Awards Gala on Thursday 30 October at the Newcastle Exhibition & Convention Centre.
Finalists named in 2025 Hunter Manufacturing Awards
THE finalists of the Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMA) have been announced for 2025, recognising the breadth and capability of the manufacturing sector across the Hunter, Central Coast, Mid North Coast and surrounding regions. A record number of entries were received this year, reflecting a strong mix of first-time entrants, emerging start-ups and established industry leaders. […]
Expanded terminal officially opens at Newcastle Airport
NEWCASTLE Airport officially opened its new international terminal last Thursday evening, 25 September. Around 300 guests including dignitaries, industry leaders and community representatives gathered to celebrate the expanded terminal. The evening opened with a spectacular RAAF flyby, followed by a Welcome to Country from Worimi Elder Uncle John Ridgeway and a Smoking Ceremony led by […]
EnergyCo is now working across five major projects in the Hunter and Central Coast. Photo: EnergyCo.
Energy reference group expands as Hunter projects ramp up
HUNTER region residents have the chance to shape five renewable energy-related projects in their area. EnergyCo is expanding the Hunter Transmission Project’s Regional Reference Group (RRG) into a broader Hunter-Central Coast RRG. “This change reflects the portfolio of EnergyCo projects in the Hunter and will ensure the region’s voice will continue to inform future energy […]
Tea Gardens’ Original Ferry steams ahead into new season
The Original Ferry Crew for 2025. Photos: Original Tea Gardens Ferry. Deckhand Monika with Kerrie. Christmas in July cruise guests wait to get onboard. WINTER wet and chill have not dampened the spirits of the Original Tea Gardens Ferry, with the owner and crew finalists for two major regional business awards. The Original Tea Gardens […]
Urgent action sought at North Arm Cove hoon hotspot
THE North Arm Cove Community Association (NACCAi) continues to push MidCoast Council for action on an infamous hoon hotspot, with council recently deciding against the installation of CCTV surveillance at the site. The intersection of Gooreengi Road and Somerset Avenue, North Arm Cove has been the site of ongoing anti-social behaviour, illegal burnout gatherings […]
