Paul McFarlane speaks on the history of Newcastle Airport. Photo: Thomas O’Keefe. Paul McFarlane speaks on the history of Newcastle Airport. Photo: Thomas O’Keefe. RETURNING members of the popular Hawks Nest and District Probus Club were treated to a fascinating review of the recent upgrade of Newcastle Airport at their first meeting of 2026, held […]
MISERABLE grey skies in the morning, followed by daytime gloom, have joined the biting odour of smoke across the Myall Coast and regions nearby in the aftermath of the Nerong fires, lingering in place thanks to a natural meteorological pattern called the “inversion layer”. While ordinary atmospheric conditions usually see cooler air temperatures at higher […]
A representative photo of an offshore wind farm. Source: Austrade.
DEBATE over the merits of an offshore wind farm off the Port Stephens and Myall Coast has reintensified in the week since Climate and Energy Minister Chris Bowen opened applications for a Research and Demonstration licence. Supporters of the project, including the Hunter Jobs Alliance (JA), say those who want the declared wind zone withdrawn […]
NEW research, real-time tracking and expanded drone surveillance lead a $4.2 million NSW Government initiative to keep people safer in the water this summer. The investment follows an unprecedented number of attacks in recent weeks and the need for better education and community messaging on shark behaviour – particularly before and after weather events. Surf […]
Regional Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison, local MPs and project stakeholders at Tarro to celebrate the installation of the final bridge pilings. Photos: TfNSW and John Holland Group.
Regional Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison, local MPs and project stakeholders at Tarro to celebrate the installation of the final bridge pilings. Photos: TfNSW and John Holland Group. CREWS working on the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace have reached a significant construction milestone with the installation of the final bridge pile. “Piles are a […]
School students in need of digital devices for education. Photo: www.thesmithfamily.com.au
AS families across Australia prepare for the return to school, new research has revealed the growing pressure many households face simply trying to meet the basic costs of education. The latest Pulse Survey of families supported by The Smith Family shows that more than four out of five parents and carers are worried about being […]
Pasture dieback can start in small patches. Photo: DPI.
Pasture dieback can start in small patches. Photo: DPI. Pasture dieback can start in small patches. Photo: DPI. THE region’s producers are being urged to report any sign of pasture dieback this Summer to the Department of Primary Industries, following detections in the North Coast and Hunter. Pasture dieback is a destructive condition that targets […]
The Point Plomer campground in Limeburners Creek National Park. Photo: NPWS.
The Point Plomer campground in Limeburners Creek National Park. Photo: NPWS. Kayaking in the Barrington River. Photo: NPWS. WITH an alarming number of drownings already this season and visitors still flocking to the region’s stunning beaches, rivers, and waterholes, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is urging everyone to stay vigilant and safe. National […]
The report identifies near-term priority emissions abatement measures for industry subsectors. Photo: Leanda Connor.
THE NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) has released a report to help farmers and primary industries reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while maintaining or enhancing productivity and sustainability. The NSW Land and Primary Industries Low Emissions Options Report identifies near-term priority emissions abatement measures for industry subsectors including livestock production, […]
The CSIRO’s patented neckbands use GPS and wireless sensors to control cattle movements. Photo: CSIRO.
CATTLE and dairy farmers have welcomed the government’s decision to legalise virtual stock fencing, which involves using GPS collars to control the animals through audio cues and electric shocks. The move is expected to reduce physical fencing costs, improve rotational grazing systems, and provide remote access to data on the welfare of herds. Minister for […]
