Former NRL stars Andrew Fifita and Blake Austin will be trying to help the Woy Woy Roosters win back-to-back trophies at the second annual Brodie Pearson Memorial 9s tournament in NSW’s Hunter Valley on Saturday (12 October)
Almost 300 players from 16 teams – eight men’s and eight women’s – will take part at Maitland Sports Ground with the Roosters the defending champions along with the Steel City Elite women’s side
The event is proudly sponsored by Hunter Valley civil construction company
A-Plus Contracting and Poly-welding and pays tribute to Pearson (pictured below) – a young front rower with the Aberglasslyn Ants
who hurt his neck in a match in June 2023 and died later in hospital
“A group from the Aberglasslyn club wanted to pay their respects to Brodie by creating an annual event,” said one of the organisers Jack Kelly
“This year we are also honouring Blake Tisdell and Lynan Scott by having their names headline the men’s and women’s pool games.”
died after collapsing during a pre-season training session with his Aberglasslyn Ants teammates in February this year
was also connected with the club and was one of the 10 people killed in the Hunter Valley bus crash near Greta following a local wedding last year
“They all loved Rugby League and this is one way we can carry on their legacies each year,” Kelly said
There will be a Male and Female Player of the Tournament named at the end of competition
and all proceeds from the $5 entry fee and various raffles are going to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service
Current Knights NRL back-rower Brodie Jones
and Knights NRLW squad member and 2023 NSW Under 19s State of Origin hooker Leah Ollerton
will both be at the ground to talk with players and sign autographs
Click here for the Brodie Pearson Memorial 9s Facebook page.
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Picture suppliedMcKeachie's Corner cafe has been targeted by vandals who smashed the small business's door to enter the premises on Monday morning
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueCafe owner Tele Tauaisili said the break-in is a huge blow
and comes at a quiet time of year for the small business
He said it's the third time the Aberglasslyn cafe has been broken into
especially this time of the year is a very quiet time of the year for small business," he said
we try to make a living for ourselves and for our family
and to serve the community which is what's important for us
they are very upset as well because of what's happened
you leave the shop in the afternoon and you feel like what are we going to come into tomorrow morning and what's going to happen
Getting phone calls later on at night time or early in the morning to come in and you know sweep up the glass everywhere
Police were called to the cafe on McKeachies Drive at about 3.35am on Monday
January 13 after reports of a break and enter
police were told that the front door was smashed before unknown person/s entered the cafe
Police said inquiries are continuing to determine if anything was stolen during the incident
The offender/s left the scene prior to the arrival of Port Stephens-Hunter Police who attended a short time later
Mr Tauaisili said no money is kept on the premises
He said the repair bill is adding up to more than $10,000 with door repairs from this and previous break-ins
as well as replacing items that were stolen or damaged in previous break-ins
anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
Chloe Coleman is a journalist covering news in the Lower Hunter.
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Maitland residents are “fed up” their respective neighbourhoods are being treated as illegal “dumping grounds”
mattresses and even linen – have been strewn across land behind Weblands Street
it appears as though squatters also spent time residing there
said Maitland City Council staff needed to be more vigilant around the sites
“It’s disgusting and something must be done about it,” he told the Newcastle Weekly
“It isn’t just litter like paper and tin cans; it’s big-ticket goods
“The fridge was dumped with fish and prawns in it
imagine how that smells after a couple of days in the sun
doesn’t anyone have respect for areas like this
“Council’s been regenerating the back of Weblands Street and planting trees for a while
what’s the point in beautifying it when idiots just discard whatever they want without consequences
“We were told council was installing dumping surveillance cameras [here]… it clearly hasn’t happened yet.”
Two suburbs make up approximately 25% of Maitland’s population
there were 216 instances of illegal dumping documented via Report Illegal Dumping (RID) Online across the Local Government Area (LGA) over a 12-month period
20 of those were recorded at Weblands Street
Council’s coordinator regulatory compliance Gemma McMahon said late last year the 27.95-hectare site in Aberglasslyn had a “longstanding issue of illegal dumping and antisocial behaviour”
approximately 50 tonnes of various waste types – such as household rubbish
vehicle parts and industrial waste – have been illegally dumped at the site and removed by council,” she stated
“Weblands Street comprises bushland and unapproved 4WD and trial bike tracks
which contributes to people being able to drive in and dump their waste easily
“Offenders have taken advantage of the site’s accessibility and proximity to urban and industrial areas
while a lack of surveillance and enforcement have limited council’s ability to take action.”
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A MAN who shot and nearly killed Scott Papworth while he was being bashed outside his home at Aberglasslyn in 2021 claims he thought the career crook and drug dealer was "going for a weapon" and "blacked out" before pulling the trigger
Papworth was copping a "good hiding" from two men in the driveway of his home in Golden Whistler Avenue on the night of March 9
2021 when Dylan Gee suddenly appeared with a rifle
Gee had driven the two men - Jak Farmer and Dane Simms - from the Rutherford Hotel to Papworth's place about 9.40pm to confront him over Papworth intimidating a woman over a drug debt
Papworth had been punched and kicked on the ground
but regained his feet and was attempting to flee back inside when Gee shot him in the stomach
the bullet shattering in his abdomen and nearly claiming his life
Papworth was treated at the scene by paramedics before being flown to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition
He spent several weeks in an induced coma undergoing emergency surgery to repair organs damaged by the shattered bullet
"I felt like he was going for a weapon," Gee gave evidence in Newcastle District Court on Monday
"I was worried he was going to return with a weapon of his own and then either me or my mates would be shot."
Gee said he had tagged along with the other two men to "chat" to Papworth and there was no plan "for any serious violence"
"In the moment it happened I wasn't thinking clearly
before I realised what I had done I'd already shot Mr Papworth
I was fuelled by alcohol and drugs and it just happened
"And then I thought: 'shit what have I done'."
Police investigating the shooting of Scott Papworth in Aberglasslyn released these CCTV images looking for the gunman
who is now 31 and institutionalised after spending ten of the last 11 years behind bars
was on Monday jailed for a maximum of five years and six months
with a non-parole period of two years and nine months
including concurrently with a jail term Gee received for possession of other firearms
Police examining the scene of a shooting outside a home in Golden Whistler Avenue at Aberglasslyn in March, 2021. Gee - who was the subject of a manhunt before his arrest - had denied any involvement in the shooting and was expected to face a trial in August, 2024 on a number of serious firearm and assault charges.
But, after negotiations as part of the Newcastle District Court super callover, Gee pleaded guilty in November to firing a firearm in a public place and recklessly causing grievous bodily harm after prosecutors agreed to withdraw the more serious charges.
Police examining the scene of a shooting outside a home in Golden Whistler Avenue at Aberglasslyn in March, 2021. Farmer and Simms were in September, 2022 jailed for a maximum of two years and 10 months with non-parole periods that equated to time already served on remand.
Judge Roy Ellis said the pair had no idea Papworth was going to be shot
they concealed from police the identity of the shooter
who has survived being shot and set on fire
was earlier this year jailed for a maximum of four years for bashing another drug dealer in the head with a crowbar
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File pictureTHE RUGBY league community has been rocked by tragedy after a player collapsed and died while training in the Hunter
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAn Aberglasslyn Ants player was training at McKeachie's Sportsground on Tuesday when the emergency unfolded about 5.30pm
Paramedics and police rushed to the scene on Redgum Circuit after reports the 31-year-old man had collapsed
A NSW Rugby League (NSWRL) spokesperson told the Newcastle Herald the sporting code's community was mourning along with the man's loved ones
"The NSWRL expresses its deepest sympathy to the family of an Aberglasslyn Ants player who sadly passed away in Maitland Hospital on Tuesday night after collapsing at training at McKeachie's Oval," the spokesperson said
"We ask that the media respect the family's privacy during this incredibly traumatic time."
The spokesperson said authorities would now need to undertake important processes
who are preparing a report for the coroner on the man's sudden death
"The NSWRL is concentrating its efforts to provide full support for his family
and the local rugby league community," the spokesperson said
The Ants play in the Newcastle Hunter Rugby League competition
Police confirmed on February 14 that initial inquiries indicated there were no suspicious circumstances
which has lost two cherished members in eight months
The Aberglasslyn Ants banded together to support each other last year when a young man died after suffering a serious on-field injury during a game at Fingal Bay on the afternoon of June 17
was held at McKeachie's Sportsground later that month
A report is being prepared for the information of the Coroner after a trailbike rider died in a two-vehicle crash at Aberglasslyn on Friday night
emergency services were called to the intersection of McKeachie Drive and Oakhampton Road
It followed reports a motorcyclist had collided with another vehicle
Witnesses rendered first aid to the rider – a man believed to be aged in his 20s – before the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics
The driver and single occupant of the other vehicle
she was taken to Maitland Hospital for mandatory testing
Officers from the Port Stephens-Hunter Police District established a crime scene and started inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash
It’s the second such tragic accident to occur in the Hunter this week
A motorcyclist also died in a two-vehicle crash at Kurri Kurri about 12.55pm on Tuesday 7 March
Emergency services were called to the corner of Stanford and Deakin streets
Early reports revealed a collision occurred between a motorcycle and an SUV
despite the best efforts of NSW Ambulance paramedics
The 27-year-old male driver of the SUV was taken to John Hunter Hospital for treatment
Students at the nearby Kurri Kurri High School
NEARLY a year after a mystery man appeared from behind a wall during a brawl outside a house at Aberglasslyn and shot 34-year-old victim Scott Papworth in the stomach
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueStrike Force Pedvin investigators on Friday released CCTV images of a man wanted for questioning over the shooting in Golden Whistler Avenue at Aberglasslyn about 10.45pm on March 9 last year
The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance
with short dark cropped hair and distinctive tattoos on his neck
He was wearing a black t-shirt with printed logo on the front
The Newcastle Herald reported on the shooting earlier this week after two men, Jak Farmer and Dane Simms, who detectives allege were involved in the alleged assault on Mr Papworth, made failed bids for bail in Newcastle Local Court.
Police allege that Mr Farmer, 26, and Mr Simms, 34, were bashing Mr Papworth in the driveway of his home when another man "popped up" from behind a wall and shot Mr Papworth in the stomach, the bullet shattering in his abdomen and nearly claiming his life.
Mr Farmer and Mr Simms have been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company, damaging property by fire and causing grievous bodily harm with intent.
DEVELOPMENT: Detectives investigating a shooting at Aberglasslyn in March have released CCTV images of a man wanted for questioning. Both men applied for bail in Newcastle Local Court last week, their legal representatives taking aim at what they said was a weak prosecution case based on a joint criminal enterprise to shoot Mr Papworth that could not be established.
"On the evening of the alleged incident, police say Mr Simms was picked up by a third unknown male and he and Mr Farmer were driven to the house," defence barrister Tom Hughes, for Mr Simms, told Magistrate Michael Antrum.
"There was the alleged incident with Mr Papworth; that allegation of assault does not involve any allegation of a firearm. "A third man then appears from behind a wall and produces a firearm and discharges it and injures Mr Papworth. "As part of that there is a complete absence of evidence to suggest Mr Simms was aware that there was a weapon located in the vehicle, let alone that it would be produced and discharged. "That case would rely on a very weak circumstantial inference at best.
"There is no evidence to suggest there was any meeting of the minds, no telephone downloads, no witness statements, nothing to connect Mr Simms with any knowledge of this weapon. "On the Crown case the first time he becomes aware of the weapon is upon its production at the scene which is followed by it being fired by the unknown male."
Three men were seen fleeing the scene in a white Mitsubishi Magna which was later found on fire in Railway Parade at Telarah.
Mr Papworth was treated at the scene by paramedics before being flown to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition. He spent several days in a coma undergoing emergency surgery to repair organs damaged by the shattered bullet.
Mr Simms and Mr Farmer were arrested in April and May and have remained behind bars.
The mystery of who shot Mr Papworth has endured for the better part of a year, but detectives hope the CCTV images will lead to another arrest.
Anyone who may recognise the man in CCTV, or who may have additional information which could assist strike force detectives, is urged to contact Raymond Terrace police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
SHOOTING: Police examining the crime scene outside a home in Golden Whistler Avenue at Aberglasslyn in March last year. IN THE NEWS:
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Picture by Peter LorimerA grant funding of $83,000 will allow Maitland City Council to tackle illegal dumping at a site on Weblands Street in Aberglasslyn
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe 27.95 hectare site which has been identified as an illegal dumping hot spot
has led council to implement new measures to prevent
Maitland City Council regulatory compliance co-ordinator Gemma McMahon said the Aberglasslyn site had a longstanding issue of illegal dumping and antisocial behaviour
approximately 50 tonnes of various waste types
vehicle parts and industrial waste have been illegally dumped at the site and removed by council," she said
"The site comprises bush land and unapproved 4WD and trial bike tracks and is accessible via several entries
which contributes to people being able to drive in and dump their waste easily."
Ms McMahon said about ten percent of all reported illegal dumping instances within the Maitland local government area have occurred at the Aberglasslyn site
"The grant will primarily restrict access by installing fences and access gates and this is to really limit vehicle access to the site," she said
New "Report Illegal Dumping" signage is already in place at entry points to the site
cable fencing and access gates to be installed along a 550m stretch of the site's western perimeter next month
council will also install surveillance cameras to support illegal dumping investigations carried out by rangers
Ms McMahon said the funding would also aid the removal of ten tonnes of waste currently littering the site
safe and more sustainable Weblands Street site
enhancing the overall quality of life for the community and protecting the local environment," she said
Laura Rumbel is a journalist who has always called Maitland home. She has been with the Maitland Mercury since 2022, and is passionate about all areas of local news.
Newsletters & AlertsView allDaily
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All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAnd one of the region's most senior police officers has issued a warning to anyone found to be offering safe haven to three men on the run over the brazen attack
with investigators "exploring potential links" to outlaw bikies
Detectives have spoken with the 34-year-old man who was shot in the abdomen in the front yard of a home in Aberglasslyn
The man has undergone surgery and remains in a critical but stable condition in John Hunter Hospital
Police were called Golden Whistler Avenue about 10.45pm after reports of a shot fired
They found the 34-year-old man wounded at the scene - he was taken to Maitland Hospital before being airlifted to John Hunter Hospital
Police on Wednesday we're continuing to comb the crime scene at Aberglasslyn for clues
Port Stephens-Hunter Police District commander Detective Superintendent Chad Gillies said the attack was believed to have been targeted
Detective Superintendent Gillies said investigators were "exploring potential links to outlaw motorcycle gang members"
He said three men went to the Golden Whistler Avenue home and became involved in a "scuffle" with the 34-year-old
The trio fled the scene in a white Mitsubishi Magna
which was later found burnt-out at Railway Parade
Detective Superintendent Gillies said police believed they knew the identity of one of the men and were working to track him down on Wednesday
"My message to that individual and the other two males involved in the incident is to please hand yourself in at the local police station at the earliest opportunity," he said
"Anyone that has information and knowingly harbours these individuals is potentially committing a criminal offence."
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePolice believe the shooting on Tuesday night was targeted and were searching for three suspects as of Wednesday afternoon
One of the region's most senior police officers issued a warning on Wednesday to anyone found offering safe haven to the trio
with investigators "exploring potential links" between the brazen attack and outlaw bikies
Detectives have spoken with the 34-year-old
who suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen
The man has undergone surgery and remained in a critical but stable condition in John Hunter Hospital on Wednesday afternoon
Police and paramedics were called Golden Whistler Avenue about 10.45pm after reports of a shot fired
They found the wounded 34-year-old at the scene being helped by neighbours
He was taken to Maitland Hospital before being airlifted to John Hunter Hospital
Police on Wednesday were continuing to comb the crime scene for clues
Nearby residents told of hearing men yelling and screaming
followed by a single shot - which some believed sounded like a shotgun
who went out her front door to see what had caused the commotion
said she saw a group of men speed away from a nearby home in a car
"He was conscious but he was pretty crook," she told the Newcastle Herald
Another nearby resident described the gunshot as "very loud"
but would not comment on a possible motive
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Picture by Chloe ColemanGlen Lewis has loved trucks since he was just nine-years-old
and the addiction has only grown over time
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Aberglasslyn resident has just returned from a 41-day trip around Australia in his very unique motor home
Mr Lewis has converted a shipping container
placed on the back of his beloved T950 Kenworth truck 'Addiction IV'
It has everything you would find in a caravan; a mini kitchen
View +5 PhotosGlen Lewis' T950 Kenworth 'Addiction IV' was his home away from home for 41 days as he travelled around Australia
Pictures by Chloe ColemanThe trip was in celebration of his 60th birthday
Mr Lewis has previously done Variety bashes for his 40th and 50th birthdays
but decided to step it up a notch this time
"I just wanted to do something different for my 60th and I came up with this crazy idea of travelling around Australia," he said
"I was originally going to ride my Harley Davidson
but decided there were too many animals to worry about so I thought I'd take the thing with the bull bar
"And then it went from just taking the truck to taking the truck and the trailer (caravan)
and then building the container to go on the back."
The fit-out took about 12 months to complete
and travelled 15,558 kilometres in 41 days
staying at caravan parks and truck stops along the way
He spent 30 days driving and $12,200 in fuel which was less than he expected
friends and family joined him at different points along the way
Mr Lewis said the highlights of the trip were first of all actually completing it with no issues at all - not even a flat tyre
and being invited to the Kenworth factory in Victoria
"They invited me to the factory last week and I had a personal tour of the Kenworth factory
Mr Lewis has never been a professional truck driver - he just loves them
"I bought it nine years ago to go to truck shows," Mr Lewis said
I got addiction one in 1992 and on and off I've had a truck over the years."
Mr Lewis uses his truck to volunteer for charity hay runs through Need for Feed during fires
"I went up to Lismore and Casino when that flooded
carting it out from the back of Dubbo and wherever we could get hay," he said
Picture supplied.An Aberglasslyn man has transformed his home into a Christmas light spectacular to raise money and awareness for the rare condition his little cousin lives with
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBryson Myles' seven-year-old cousin Rory has SATB2 Associated Syndrome
a rare genetic condition affecting 30 families in Australia and 650 worldwide
SATB2 associated syndrome can cause severe speech anomalies
behavioural issues and bone and brain anomalies
Mr Myles spent two months putting up the extravagant display
and now he's ready to host Light up Christmas for Rory on Friday night
fundraising for the SATB2 Gene Foundation Australia
who is particular about who she likes and trusts
"She's so bubbly when she starts to have fun and laughs a lot when there's people being silly."
This is Mr Myles' first year raising money for SATB2
and said he made sure to pick a small charity
"With such a small little community of SATB2
there's a lower chance of people being educated on the SATB2 community," he said
"Just bringing awareness to the people that actually need it most as well - families that have little kids that struggle
Light up Christmas for Rory - Aberglasslyn lights help little girl with rare genetic conditionThe SATB2 Gene Foundation Australia helps those with the condition and their families through advocacy
December 16 from 6pm Mr Myles is hosting a fundraiser at his Christmas light display
Light up Christmas for Rory will raise money for the SATB2 Gene Foundation Australia
and Santa will be there as well as an ice cream truck
"The more we can raise the better," Mr Myles said
The fundraiser is on at 6 Friarbird Ridge
Donations can be made through a QR code, cash in person or on the Facebook fundraising page
It’s been an extremely difficult month for the Aberglasslyn Ants Rugby League Football Club
After losing former player Lynan Scott in the Greta coach accident on Sunday 11 June
the organisation was dealt a double blow just a week later when popular front-rower Brodie Pearson suffered a fatal injury in a local match
While both incidents were incredibly painful – and raw – for the small Ants fraternity
president Kirsty Robinson is determined to ensure the pair’s legacies never fade
Aberglasslyn will stage two special fundraisers in honour of Scott and Pearson on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 July respectively
but it’s definitely brought us together closer as a family,” Robinson said
“I think these moments test you and I believe
“She was a founding member of the Ants’ league tag team
who unfortunately lost her life – along with her husband Andrew – in the recent tragic bus crash
we really want to help support their family
“We’re dedicating our round 10 league tag encounter to her
and created the Lynan Scott Memorial Shield
which will take place annually against West Maitland
“We have already attracted a ton of sponsors
“We’ll also have grazing boxes by the amazing Lisa Graze Amaze
which are available for $35 pre-sale… the cut-off is Monday (10 July)
“They will feed three-to-four people and the proceeds from that are also going to Lynan’s family
we’re encouraging everyone to snuggle up on the sideline with the grazing boxes and watch the footy.”
Aberglasslyn tackles West Maitland at McKeachies Oval
for the Lynan Scott Memorial Shield before facing the Awabakal Eagles in women’s tackle at 5pm
which should be entertaining,” Robinson said
we currently have some ‘live’ auctions going
“We’ve also secured NSW star centre Isabelle Kelly’s game two State of Origin jersey
“That’s being auctioned through our Facebook page at the moment
“We’ll have a couple of other jumpers going ‘under the hammer’
in the next few days and plenty of raffles
which will be drawn on the day (15 July).”
we’re hoping to raise as much money as we can for Brodie’s family,” Robinson told the Newcastle Weekly
“There are also going to be signed NRL jerseys raffled off there… and other items
“There’s no way that we would’ve made it through this awful tragedy without the assistance of the community
“Even the league’s been directly here for us at every turn
there is just no way we would’ve been able to navigate the absolute trauma of this without it
we want to finish off the (Newcastle-Hunter) season as a family
“Just get back out on the field… and do what we can in Lynan’s memory and Brody’s memory… and just appreciate what we’ve got in each other.”
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The mother of a 12-year-old girl allegedly murdered by her stepfather following sustained physical abuse has been arrested over the schoolgirl's death
Detectives charged the 34-year-old woman with manslaughter on Thursday following an eight-month investigation into the girl's life in the lead-up to her violent death
Police block off the road at Redgum Circuit
It will be alleged the mother showed "gross negligence" by knowing that the girl was being continually physically abused before she was allegedly bashed by her stepfather and put to bed in the family home at Aberglasslyn
She was found dead at 5.45am the following morning
Forensic officers examine a home after the 12-year-old girl was found dead.Credit: Cath Bowen
Fairfax Media revealed she had missed large chunks of class in her last two years of primary school in Newcastle and Maitland
is still before the courts after being charged with murder
The mother faced Maitland Local Court on Thursday where she was granted conditional bail
She sat in the dock with her head in her hands as she waited for proceedings to begin
the police prosecutor ultimately argued that bail was not usually "in the ball park" for people facing charges under such serious circumstances
The prosecution also argued that the manslaughter charge had arisen "not so much from involvement but willful blindness"
Defense solicitor Joplin Higgins told the court that the woman was not a flight risk and bail would not present an unacceptable risk to the community or her other children
Ms Higgins said the woman was receiving treatment from a forensic psychologist
"It's my submission that my client has been a victim of abuse at the hands of the co-accused," she said
The woman's children are in the care of the Department of Family and Community Services
and she has been allowed a single two hour visit with them in a public park each month
The court registrar granted bail on several conditions
including that the woman surrender her passport and that she report to police each day
"It's incredibly unusual to consider granting bail in a matter this serious," he said
her daughter and the girl's stepfather are unable to be identified for legal reasons
She will appear in Newcastle Local Court on July 6
The Newcastle Herald
The mother of a 12-year-old girl allegedly murdered by her stepfather following sustained physical abuse has been arrested over the schoolgirl's death.
Detectives charged the 34-year-old woman with manslaughter on Thursday following an eight-month investigation into the girl's life in the lead-up to her violent death.
It will be alleged the mother showed \\\"gross negligence\\\" by knowing that the girl was being continually physically abused before she was allegedly bashed by her stepfather and put to bed in the family home at Aberglasslyn, near Newcastle in the Hunter region, last September.
She was found dead at 5.45am the following morning.
About a month after the girl's death, Fairfax Media revealed she had missed large chunks of class in her last two years of primary school in Newcastle and Maitland, and the first year of high school, in the lead-up to her death.
A 31-year-old man, the girl's stepfather, is still before the courts after being charged with murder.
The mother faced Maitland Local Court on Thursday where she was granted conditional bail. She sat in the dock with her head in her hands as she waited for proceedings to begin.
Despite making some concessions, the police prosecutor ultimately argued that bail was not usually \\\"in the ball park\\\" for people facing charges under such serious circumstances.
The prosecution also argued that the manslaughter charge had arisen \\\"not so much from involvement but willful blindness\\\".
Defense solicitor Joplin Higgins told the court that the woman was not a flight risk and bail would not present an unacceptable risk to the community or her other children.
Ms Higgins said the woman was receiving treatment from a forensic psychologist.
\\\"It's my submission that my client has been a victim of abuse at the hands of the co-accused,\\\" she said.
The woman's children are in the care of the Department of Family and Community Services, and she has been allowed a single two hour visit with them in a public park each month.
The court registrar granted bail on several conditions, including that the woman surrender her passport and that she report to police each day.
\\\"It's incredibly unusual to consider granting bail in a matter this serious,\\\" he said.
The woman, her daughter and the girl's stepfather are unable to be identified for legal reasons.
She will appear in Newcastle Local Court on July 6.
lose or draw the Aberglasslyn Ants are fiercely proud of having all three of their league teams in grand finals for the first time when they run out at Raymond Terrace in the Newcastle and Hunter Community Rugby League deciders on Saturday
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePremierships will be great but just getting the chance to run out each week and play footy with mates in a year ravaged by Covid-19 has been something neither club will forget
But a grand final is a grand final and Ants founding member Mick Akers admits to some pre-game nerves
The Ants Ladles League Tag and women's tackle teams both go into their respective grand finals as minor premiers
while the B-grade men have made the decider on the back of two sudden-death finals wins
Akers has been part of grand final day for the past four years
as coach of the remarkable Ants LLT team which is unbeaten in competition for four years and as a member of the men's B-grade team which lost to Tall Timbers last year
"Fourth year in the competition and to get all three league teams in the grand final and two minor premierships is incredible," Akers said
"The tag girls are back for their fourth grand final
the men came in three years ago and it's our second
The tackle girls started two years ago and after just missing out last year are into their first grand final this year."
The Ants LLT team face University for the fourth grand final in a row and an unbeaten season in which they scored 380 points and conceded just 14 sees them as red-hot favourites
"I probably didn't expect Uni to get to the grand final this year
but I think they picked up a few players mid season," Akers said
"That rivalry is really keen and this is their fifth grand final in a row so we are expecting them to be ready and fired up
I'm confident though we will get the job done."
Aberglasslyn face the power team of the women's tackle competition Berkeley Vale with two wins and a loss from their three games to date this season
including a 14-10 victory in the major semi-final
"The girls were the first team to beat Berkeley Vale since the competition started
Berkeley Vale won the first game this season but we beat them at home and then in the major semi-final," Akers said
View +8 PhotosPicture: Smart Artist"This year we've got the wood over them
we've got a fairly young side with some experience sprinkled in and they've gelled really well and worked really hard to get to the top."
The men face a talented Waratah Mayfield side guided around the field by halfback Jarom Haines
the former Kurri Kurri back who is signed with the Maitland Pickers in 2021
but our defence needs to be spot on as Jarom Haines is a real danger," said Akers who scored a hat-trick is last week's 42-22 win over Dudley in the preliminary final
"We pulled up a few injuries in the latter stages of the second half our fullback
half and a couple of forwards went down so we were a bit thin on the bench and probably let a couple of soft tries in at the end."
Akers said the Ants expected to be fully fit for Saturday's C-grade grand final and the plan to rest several players in a dead-rubber last round had paid dividends
"It helped us with injuries and niggles and come the semis we've been fit and firing," he said
11.30am WT: Aberglasslyn Ants v Berkeley Vale
1pm B-grade: Aberglasslyn Ants v Waratah Mayfield Cheetahs
McKeachies Run and Rutherford residents fear for their safety as a growing number of motorists abuse speed limits
drive recklessly and dice with death on a daily basis
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueComments posted on a local neighbourhood awareness page
has piqued the interest of Fairfax Media prompting a post asking members to elaborate on their concerns
The response was overwhelming with scores of comments ranging from reports of speeding motorists mounting footpaths
to burnouts in McKeachies Woolworths’ car park
Some residents said they shudder each night as they hear speeding cars, screeching brakes and fear cars will run into their homes
McKeachies Drive and Aberglasslyn Road were the three areas of most concern
They have appealed to police to step up patrols at the locations. Hunter Highway Patrol Cluster Supervisor Senior Sergeant Tony Grace said the area is now under close scrutiny by Maitland Highway Patrol
“Yes there are issues with speeding on those roads,” he said. “We are trying to address the issues up there.”
Snr Sgt Grace said highway patrol officers are deployed on the basis of road trauma as well as traffic complaints and said a balance has to be struck
“Yes there have been crashes in those locations mentioned but we also have crash and speeding complaints in other areas of the command
“We’re quite happy to receive feedback from residents and any information they give to us we will take into account when doing tasking and deployment
We are aware of the issues up there and cars are going up there to patrol on a regular basis,” he said
Aberglasslyn Road resident Saskia Sales said she lives across from the new Woolworths complex. “The speed they get up to starting at the roundabout heading towards the river is frightening,” she said. “This is happening day and night
I’m waiting for someone to lose control and end up in someone’s lounge room,” Ms Sales said
Kat Lewis lives near the roundabout that connects McKeachies Drive
“Getting out of my driveway is a joke and what I listen to at night is terrifying. “The burnouts
it won’t be long before a car ends up in someone’s bedroom,” she said
Leeanne Baker said at peak times there is often a line up on the highway from Rutherford Hotel to the Shell garage
She said impatient motorists to use Queen Street
as a rat run to dodge the red lights she said are not designed to take such a large volume of traffic
Rebecca Sadler said it is impossible to pull out of her driveway without getting abused by “impatient speeding people” on Denton Park Drive
“There are so many young kids around too.”
people travelling at the speed limit being overtaken and abused and motorists driving in the bike lane
The Ants will play West Maitland at McKeachies Oval on Saturday
Picture suppliedThe Aberglasslyn Ants will honour the memory of players Lynan Scott and Brodie Pearson this weekend
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueOn Saturday at McKeachies Oval
the Lynan Scott Memorial Shield will be played between the club's league tag side and West Maitland
The round will be used as a special fundraiser with proceeds going to the Scott family
the club will raise funds for the family of Brodie Pearson at the Bradford Hotel
Lynan and her husband Andrew were killed in the Hunter Valley bus tragedy on Sunday
Ms Scott was a founding member of the Ant's tag side
The round 10 game on Saturday against West Maitland will kick-off at 3.45pm followed by women's tackle at 5pm when the Ants take on Awabakal
The club is also holding silent auctions and raffles in the lead up to game day
NSW State of Origin star Isabelle Kelly has donated her jersey from game two of the 2023 series
The auction for the signed jersey ends on Saturday night
Newcastle and Hunter Community Rugby League secretary Nathan Errington and Aberglasslyn Ants president Kirsten Robinson with Brodie Pearson's number eight jersey.On Sunday the club will host a special gathering at the Bradford Hotel
Brodie Pearson played for the Ant's C-Grade men's side
The young rugby league front rower died after suffering a serious on-field injury during a game in Fingal on Saturday, June 17.
The fundraiser starts at 12pm and the event will feature live music
raffles and the auction of signed NRL jerseys
The club said they have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the rugby league community
including the donation of prizes all in the effort to raise money for Mr Pearson's beautiful family
Starting out as a reporter in Lightning Ridge in 2005, I returned to journalism in 2023 after 15 years spent in event production and technical services. Passionate about community news, contact me on ben.carr@austcommunitymedia.com.au or ph: 0484 524 000
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueA report to Tuesday night’s council meeting said current controls were not adequate to ensure that the curtilage of the state-listed heritage building was protected from incompatible development.
View +4 PhotosThe report said controls were necessary to prevent any further subdivision of the lots between Cockatoo Ridge and Aberglasslyn House and to ensure that any ancillary buildings were subject to a development application
Councillors will vote at the meeting on whether to forward a new planning proposal to the Minister for Planning requesting a gateway determination
The report said Aberglasslyn House was an important part of Maitland’s history and a change to the city’s local environmental plan several years ago introduced vulnerabilities to the protection of the property
stands proud on a sweeping bend above the Hunter River
Picture: Daniel JohnsonIt might not have been how they expected to win
but the mighty Aberglasslyn Ants have collected their fifth A-grade Ladies League Tag premierships in a row
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Ants were named premiers after finishing on top of the table before the NSW Rugby League's decision on Friday to abandon community competitions in Hunter
Under the NSWRL decision was made in consultation with Newcastle JRL
The ruling also saw the Group 21 competition cancelled
premiers and runners-up awards will be presented to the top two teams in each competition
The Ants took the main prize from the Maitland Pickers who finished second
Thornton Beresfield narrowly missed out on back-to-back A-grade men's premierships finishing runners-up one point behind Dora Creek who were beaten in last year's grand final by the Bears
Dudley won the B-grade men's title from Shortland
The C-grade title was won by Kotara from West Wallsend
West Maitland celebrated their return to All Age footy finishing third in D-grade equal on 23 points with runners-up Lakes United
Wangi were premiers finishing on top with 28 points
Maitland United sixth on 18 points and Cessnock 11th on six
Stroud won the Northern Conference by two points from Paterson
Hinton was the next best local team finishing sixth
Clarence Town were seventh and Morpeth ninth
The B-grade Ladies League Tag premiership was won by University from Fingal Bay
West Maitland was fourth and Dungog seventh
Clarence Town went through the season undefeated to claim the C-grade Ladies League premiership
Aberglasslyn eighth and Maitland United ninth
Central Newcastle won the A-grade women's tackle with Western Suburbs Rosellas runner-up
with Abermain third and Maitland United sixth
r/up Thornton Beresfield (Kurri Kurri 7th)
r/up West Wallsend (Woodberry Warriors 6th
Picture: Simone De PeakIt’s a sad state of affairs when residents are afraid of taking a few steps out their front door
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBut that’s the reality for a handful of Aberglasslyn and Rutherford residents who fear the frequency of speeding drivers has become so dangerous that there is an accident waiting to happen in their neighbourhood
The 50km/h speed zone in Denton Park Drive and McKeachies Drive
which stretches from the New England Highway to the McKeachie’s Run residential estate
Residents have spoken out after a near miss where a driver allegedly crossed to the wrong side of the road
and narrowly avoided a woman and her daughter who were travelling in a vehicle in the opposite direction
The close call has prompted vigorous discussion on social media this week
with many condemning the ongoing speeding problem
Fairfax Media reported today that some residents
refuse to let their children play in the front yard or ride their bikes down the street for fear that a wayward car will drag their family into a tragedy
“My kids want to ride their bikes to their school which is just around the corner but there’s now way I’ll let them,” she said
“I have to leave before 8.30am to get them to school to avoid the traffic
“The flow of traffic coming through Aberglasslyn has grown and I think it’s a lot of drivers trying to avoid the busy highway at that time of day
then again at five in the afternoon.”
Fairfax Media also understands that Central Hunter police keep a close eye on Denton Park Drive and conduct regular patrols in the area because of reports of speeding
The message is simple – and it’s not a new one: Speeding kills
If drivers are frequently flouting the speed limit by 30km/h or more
then it stands to reason that sooner or later someone is likely get hurt or lose their life
The idea that residents in a suburb can become hostages in their homes at certain times of day because of the careless
irresponsible and – frankly – stupid behaviour of some drivers who choose to do the wrong thing is unacceptable
deserve to feel safe in their own neighbourhood
- Picture by Stuart QuinnPURE instinct sent Tammy Matten flying after a home invader despite being nine months' pregnant
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe mother of two
found the intruder in her Aberglasslyn home about 4am yesterday when she woke to check on her children
Mrs Matten gave chase while screaming for help
"I don't know what I would have done anyway if I'd caught him," she said
"I couldn't open my hands from the adrenaline."
"I came back in to check on the little fellow [Axel] and he said 'Mummy chucked a Batman'."
who joined the chase when he heard his wife's screams
lost the man about 500 metres from the house
The couple spent yesterday reliving the terrifying moment on home security footage
shocked to find three men had been in and out of their house for over an hour
Footage shows the men apparently entering through a side door and spending about 20 minutes inside the house before exiting with Mrs Matten's handbag and what appears to be Mr Matten's mobile phone
examining the security cameras before re-entering the house
It was then that Mrs Matten discovered them
who knows how many times they might have come back," she said
Mr Matten said he was just glad his family was safe
believing the thieves had come back to take the incriminating video recordings
how can you spend that long in here," he said
"I don't think they went into the bedrooms
A pair of balled-up black gloves were also taken from the house
just metres from where Mr Matten's father Barry was sleeping in the living room
One of the intruders appears to be wearing the gloves on the tape when they return to the house a second time
that they went through what looked like a pair of socks," she said
Police yesterday conducted forensic tests on several items believed to have been left behind by the attackers
including shoes abandoned by one during the Mattens' foot chase
and anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe 62-12 result ensured the Ants finished on top with a 257 to 246 points differential advantage over second-placed Tall Timbers
The Morpeth Bulls are the B-grade minor premiers and Clarence Town Cobras claimed the Northern Conference minor title
Clarence Town finished the season undefeated with 14 wins and two draws but went perilously close to losing their final game
when they scored a try in the last 30 seconds against Kaurah
The Ants men join the team's Ladies League Tag team and A-3 netball team Rutherford Hotel in winning minor premiership
In a stellar year the club's open women's league tag team finished second at the end of the home and away season
They kick off their finals campaign in the qualifying final at Lakeside Oval in Raymond Terrrace on Saturday
Aberglasslyn's Ladies League Tag team claimed their third minor premiership in a row and have a week off before starting their campaign to win their third major premiership in a row
The Ants LLT team have a record of 12 wins from 15 games and defeated second-placed University of Newcastle 24-10 on Sunday
The Ants women's tag team finished the season with a 54-0 win against Maitland United and play Waratah Mayfield in the qualifying final at Waratah Oval at 12.40pm on Saturday
Teams from across the Maitland district are the neightbouring Dungog Shire are involved in the All-Age finals series which kick off at Lakeside Oval on Saturday
In C-grade Abermain takes on Morriset in the elimination final from 11.20am
Aberglasslyn kick off their campaign in the major semi-final the week after when they meet the winner of the qualifying final between Gloucester and Tall Timbers
In the Northern Conference the qualifying final is between Dungog and Stroud
with the winner to play Clarence Town in the major semi-final the week after
Hinton plays Tea Gardens in the elimination final
The winner plays the loser of the qualifying final in the minor semi-final
Maitland United play Clarence Town in the Ladies League Tag C-grade elimination final
Aberglasslyn will face the winner of Saturday's qualifying final between University and Fingal Bay
Picture by Simone De PeakJames Brennan has been creating 'funny' art since he was a kid
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSo when the Aberglasslyn resident discovered the Bald Archy Prize
Mr Brennan has entered the prize every year since 2004
and has won the competition four times in 2008
This year he has three paintings which have been named finalists in the prize
champion golfer Cameron Smith and Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins
His portrait of Pat Cummins Like taking Ashes from a Baby
looming over English cricketer Jonny Bairstow and presenter Piers Morgan as they 'spit the dummy'
and posted "I may have to buy this to stop some cocky Aussie putting it on their loo wall," on X (formerly Twitter) on February 4
Mr Brennan said he is drawn to the Bald Archy Prize because of the style of art it promotes
as a kid I loved cartoons and comic strips in the newspaper
and when I saw that there's a competition about it I thought I'd love to go in it and throw my hat in the ring," he said
James Brennan at home in Aberglasslyn with one of his past paintings of Cathy Freeman
Mr Brennan's portrait entries often feature sporting stars
In 2008 his winning painting was of the Danish royal family
in 2009 it was of horse trainer Bart Cummings
When coming up with inspiration for the Bald Archy
he said each painting starts with a funny idea
"Sometimes the idea just jumps out at you in your head from nowhere
and other times you might be painting something and you go no
so I guess initially you just come up with an idea that you think is funny
and then you put the pieces together how it might work," he said
He began working on the entries in November
The Bald Archy Prize is currently on display in Canberra
and the winner will be announced mid-March
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePolice
Compass Housing and Maitland Council joined NSW Departments of Education
Housing and Family and Community Services in a blitz across Rutherford
The issues covered spanned from public housing compliance to traffic
from school attendance to high risk crime offenders and everything in between
The operation was organised due to a high volume of crime in the area
which is also the largest holding of public housing in the Port Stephens-Hunter police district with 683 homes in total
Figures released to The Mercury on Tuesday revealed the operation resulted in charges of drug possession
hindering police and resisting arrest and three outstanding warrant arrests
Police also conducted six warrant inquiries
15 apprehended domestic violence order compliance checks
12 child protection register compliance checks, five person searches and six licensed premise inspections which led to two licencing breaches
nine random drug tests and a vehicle search were conducted
and police issued four vehicle defect notices
four other traffic infringements and a disqualified driver infringement
Maitland Police officer in charge Chief Inspector Glenn Blain said the idea was to address reports of crime and assist other agencies to improve community safety
Maitland Police officer in charge Chief Inspector Glenn Blain“We’re going to continue running these operations and respond as we need to,” he said
Eight Compass Housing inspections and 12 Department of Housing were conducted
resulting in the discovery of four unauthorised occupancies
four property care breaches and an unauthorised property alteration.
Ten home school liaison compliance visits were also organised along with a Department of Family and Community Services visit
police also received seven intelligence reports while they were out and about
The blitz follows similar operations held in Woodberry/Beresfield and Raymond Terrace earlier this year
Chief Inspector Blain said the operation was an example of the action being taken to combat problems in the community
“It’s a holistic government approach to various issues,” he said
“This is the sort of level we’ll go to in the areas that need attention.”
Chief Inspector Blain said police would be keeping a close eye on the crime statistics to determine the effectiveness of the operation
While you're with us, do you know the Maitland Mercury is now offering breaking news alerts and tri-weekly email newsletters? Keep up-to-date with all the local news - sign up here.
Sage Swinton is a news reporter who was born and bred in the Hunter. She has been with the Newcastle Herald since June 2020.
His devastated family and friends have been privately mourning the loss
but dozens of clubs from the Newcastle and Hunter Community Rugby League competition came together at McKeachie's Oval to pay tribute to Mr Pearson
Mr Pearson, aged in his 20s, has been remembered as loving father, brother, son, teammate, friend and colleague.
Aberglasslyn Ants president Kirsten Robinson said the club members
but this has just proven how much of a family this club is," she said
"This has proven to us more than ever how close we are
they had the player standing next to them to share some strength
The gathering on Friday was a chance for members of clubs across the Hunter to come together
"Nobody wishes this would ever happen to their football club," Ms Robinson said
"The overall feeling amongst our club is just being overwhelmed
how many people have expressed their love and support and condolences for Brodie's family
"It makes an extremely difficult situation that little bit more bearable."
Representatives from other rugby league clubs laid out their No.8 jerseys at Aberglasslyn last night. Pictures by Peter LorimerNewcastle and Hunter Community Rugby League secretary Nathan Errington reminded anyone affected by the tragedy to reach out for help
He said NSW Rugby League had counselling services available
and both organisations had been in constant contact with the Aberglasslyn Ants
All games in the Newcastle and Hunter community competition were called off this weekend
Aberglasslyn Ants teams have retired number eight jerseys for the rest of the season and some clubs in other competitions have also rested the jerseys for matches this weekend
Fundraisers for Mr Pearson's family have so far raised thousands of dollars
An Aberglasslyn Ants fundraiser will be held in July
and several competition games in July are set to be dedicated to Mr Pearson
Police and crime reporter at the Newcastle Herald. Email: afalkenmire@austcommunitymedia.com.au
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueA shortage of seats has meant Rhys Hughes regularly chooses to pass up his place on the bus to stay with the younger children and ensure they arrive at school safely
The St Joseph's Lochinvar student would rather be at school on time
studying for his Higher School Certificate
but he can't bear the thought of leaving the other children stranded on the path with no way to get to school
"[This was an issue] when I was in Year 7; McKeachies Run was a growing community and it has continued to grow," he said
"We're sick of it because we've dealt with it from Year 7 to now and it's becoming a matter where we need to know that we're safe going to and from school
"My school has been advocating for more buses because there's a growing amount of Year 7 students this year."
The school is aware of the bus shortage and a Transport for NSW spokesperson said the company
was currently undertaking a review of school bus services from Rutherford and Aberglasslyn to St Joseph’s College
St Patrick’s Primary School and Lochinvar Primary School
"The review will consider any changes in student numbers and travel patterns since the start of Term 1
and students and parents will be advised of any changes to bus services for Term 2," a Transport for NSW spokesperson said
"Transport for NSW and Hunter Valley Buses apologise for any inconvenience to students and parents."
Rhys' mother Jenny said the issue was impacting everyone involved and hoped it would be resolved soon
"Safety should be a top priority," she said
"One child's safety is as important as anybody's
"It's concerning for a parent to get that call
"Not all parents have transport to get their children to school so then they're at a loss to try to get them to school. It's affecting a lot of people's lives
it's not just the children not getting to school
In reference to a specific overcrowding incident last month
the Transport for NSW spokesperson said a subsequent bus was dispatched to pick up any students who were unable to board the service
"Transport for NSW is aware of an incident on the morning of February 20
where the designated bus was unavailable and an alternative bus with less capacity was redeployed at short notice."
It is an exciting time to be in the news industry as there are more ways than ever to reach our communities. Got a story? Email me at betina.hughes@austcommunitymedia.com.au
certainly struck a chord with hundreds of our readers
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueOur Facebook page was flooded with messages of support and some of outrage
six youths aged between 12 and 15 swore at Vicki and called her a whale and a fat cow
lazy and to "get out of your chair and walk." Then threw eggs at her
The incident occurred near Rutherford Skate Park after Vicki had left the adjacent Aldi store
At 10am today her story had been shared 144 times with 197 people leaving comments
Among those comments were calls for security guards at the skate park
for the installation of more CCTV and more police patrols
Police said they attended the scene in response to reports of the egging and spoke to two youths
one of whom was seen with a carton of eggs but disposed of it when they spotted police
The youths denied throwing eggs and were moved on from the scene
The officers searched the area and found empty egg cartons and smashed eggs on the ground
Maitland police officer in charge Inspector Rob Post said police were aware of ongoing antisocial behaviour near the skate park and patrolled the area on a regular basis
He said the patrols had led to several youth arrests in relation to various matters
Inspector Post said police would continue to monitor the area in relation to antisocial behaviour
He appealed for any witnesses who may be able to identify the egg throwers to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
Vicki said she has been overwhelmed with the support the community has shown for her
I feel so lucky to live in such a supportive community
it's just a shame we have those few bad eggs
I really hope they get proper punishment and learn that as a community we will not stand for that sort of behavior," she said
Maitland City Council's Manager Community and Recreation Laurie D'Angelo
said council is aware of the issue at the site and is currently working with key stakeholders to investigate options to improve safety and surveillance in the skate park area
The Rutherford shopping precinct is no stranger to anti-social behaviour
In September we reported how attacks and physical abuse against bus drivers in the precinct sparked a ban
The ban means drivers no longer service the shopping precinct after 5pm
It comes after a bus driver was punched in the face while outside their vehicle at the layover point at the shopping centre
Cessnock in May 2013.Plans to build a $60 million
1200-student school at Aberglasslyn are in limbo with negotiations between Maitland City Council and private educator St Philip’s Christian College at a standstill
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSt Philip’s Executive Principal
has told Fairfax Media he still wants to hold discussions with council over the purchase of council-owned land off Weblands Street
but said talks seem to have become “bogged down” with the ball firmly in council’s court
said council is working through the items outlined in a council resolution in November
“to ensure the best value to the community and to council is achieved”
Mr Irwin said St Philip’s is committed to building a school and possibly a zero-to-five-years early education centre in Maitland
He said the matter regarding the site at Aberglasslyn remained with council
“There seems to be no movement on that at all. This needs to be pushed along a bit because it’s a little bogged down
“I realise this is not a quick process but St Philip’s is now at the stage where it is looking at any land sites that would be suitable and large enough for us to build on in the Maitland Local Government Area.
“We can access grants for a new school and that makes this a very viable project,” Mr Irwin said
“The project would be a 15-year plan starting with a junior school from Kindergarten to Year 4
a middle school for Years 5 to 8 and a senior school for Years 9 to 12,” he said. The new school would employ about 150 staff
Fairfax Media recently reported that Hunter schools top NSW for overcrowding with Rutherford High School identified as having 15 demountable classrooms
indicating that local State schools are full or exceeding capacity
A demographic analysis conducted by McCrindle Research and commissioned by St Philip’s
indicated that the school-aged population in the Maitland Local Government Area will grow by 4267 extra students by 2031
the study indicated that there is a rising demand for independent education and that the current provision is not quite adequate,” Mr Irwin said
Gosford and Port Stephens with more than 4000 students
Picture by PERRY DUFFIN More than two months after the April super storm that lashed the Hunter
McKeachie’s Run residents Leisa and Lincoln Mudd are still picking up the pieces
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe couple moved into their new dream home in Aberglasslyn nearly two years ago
but for several weeks had been living in makeshift accommodation while tradespeople carried out a whopping $100,000 worth of storm damage repairs to their property
The full extent of the damage to their Paperbark Parade home was not realised until days after the April storm event when Leisa came home from work to find her lounge literally see-sawing on her hardwood lounge room floors
“There was a lot of moisture left in the house
90 per cent of which has timber floors,” Mrs Mudd said
“We knew the carpets were soaked but did not realise how much moisture the timber floors had taken onboard.”
Mr Mudd came off night shift the day of the storm
Leisa dropped their two daughters at school and headed off to work
“Lincoln called to say the house was flooding and I needed to come home,” Mrs Mudd said
“It took me two hours to get home from Pokolbin
dangerous and I was stressed and worried because phone lines were down and I couldn’t reach Lincoln.”
Located at the bottom of a hill the Mudds’ four-and-a-half-year-old house had copped the run-off from the rest of the street
“There was just no way the house and street drainage could cope with the sheer volume of water we experienced,” Mrs Mudd said
Water rose up the side of the house and through its weep holes
The couple said the smell in the house was putrid and gradually became worse as the days went on
A few days later Mrs Mudd came home from work to find speed humps throughout the house where the floors had popped up after swelling from excess moisture
the family has been relocated to The Grand Mecure at The Vintage
Builders are laying about 105 lineal metres of hardwood timber floors.”
The Master Builders Association has announced plans to establish a specialist storm disaster team of tradespeople to deal directly with home owners whose properties have been severely damaged as a result of natural disasters such as the April super storm which swept through Maitland and the Hunter
Master Builders Association regional manager Len Blakeney told the Mercury the plan is only in its infancy but the association is working on the idea to develop its own teams who can carry out storm repair work
“There just aren’t enough skilled workers out there,” Mr Blakeney said
“A lot of tradespeople have been brought into the area from other locations outside the Hunter to carry out storm damage work.”
He said the building market was very buoyant across the region from Lake Macquarie through to Maitland
“It’s an extremely busy time at the moment across all trades and if you need a tradesperson in the Maitland area you’ll probably be struggling,” Mr Blakeney said
He said the bulk of repairs local builders are carrying out as a result of the storm are around the $20,000 mark
The State Emergency Service has responded to a total statewide of 21,605 requests for emergency assistance
the largest number of emergency calls received
eclipsing the April 1999 Sydney hailstorm and the June long weekend Hunter floods and storms of 2007
Of the most recent requests for assistance
pictured at Rutherford Hotel at 3pm Tuesday showing traffic starting to build
Picture: Max Mason-Hubers.Maitland residents have again put the State Government on notice
this time for an improved and safer intersection at Aberglasslyn Road and the New England Highway, Rutherford before a life is lost
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe plea comes less than a week after the city’s cry for a west-bound flyover to be built
to ease chronic traffic congestion near Maitland Railway Station
New England Highway/Aberglasslyn Road intersection Rutherford on Tuesday at 3pm.Extraordinary residential and industrial development in the city’s west coupled with remote access and exit points to the Hunter Expressway (at Kurri and Buchanan) are said to be the catalysts for the increased traffic flow which was predicted to ease once the expressway opened
Not only is the highway often at gridlock during peak morning and afternoon times
the turning lane at the traffic lights into Aberglasslyn Road can no longer accommodate the amount of queuing vehicles
As a result, motorists come to a halt in the fast lane (sometimes as far back as Johnson Street) and are forced to wait for several light rotations before turning the hotel corner
Fairfax Media spoke to representatives of two businesses which flank the Aberglasslyn Road intersection and Maitland councillor Henry Meskasukas
The RMS will look into the matter and issue a response Friday
View +8 PhotosNick Quinn from The O’Hara Group which owns Rutherford Hotel, said the intersection is extremely dangerous especially of an afternoon. “With so much development along Aberglasslyn Road I think the problem will get worse,” he said. “I haven’t seen any accidents there but heard it is not uncommon.”
Mr Quinn said the build up of traffic has a “massive effect” on hotel trade regularly blocking access. “The fact you can’t turn right onto the highway makes it a hassle for bottleshop customers to drop in and continue on their way.”
who lives in Telarah and has worked for O’Neill’s Tyres 19 years
doesn’t believe the traffic has become worse. He said there are multiple ways to get into new sub-divisions in the west – along Alexandra Avenue
Denton Park Drive or through Oakhampton
“The right hand turn (from the highway) into South Street is a problem
I don’t think the traffic is any different to what it was 15 years ago but I do think there needs to be more entry and exit points linking Maitland to the Hunter Expressway,” Mr Akhurst said
Cr Meskauskas said the long term solution is a by pass linking Lochinvar with Green Hills – a plan he has flagged in the past. “Something has to be done before someone is seriously injured or killed.”
is calling on Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) to buy properties along the dangerous stretch of highway to widen the four lanes and have a no right turn coming out of South Street Telarah
“The RMS needs to buy properties on both sides of the highwaty to make proper intersections and the highway wide enough for four safe lanes and if you’re coming out of South Street it should be a left turn only
We also need other access points to the highway either via Walter or John streets to take pressure off Aberglasslyn Road,” Cr Meskauskas said
“Sure there are other ways to get onto the highway but it is human nature to go via the most convenient and fastest route.” He said the volume of traffic going through the lights at Rutherford Hotel has pushed more traffic onto back streets for rat runs.
“Aberglasslyn is still a work in progress with massive residential development and more land being released
We also have a huge residential development at Lochinvar which again will mean more traffic on the highway.”
Cr Meskauskas said other access points are at Brooks Street between Second Avenue and the highway and at Fourth Avenue which he said is too narrow in front of Highway Ford for access
Tell us your thoughts about the highway situation
Send your comments to maitland@fairfax.com.au
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Hunter Valley man has just returned from a 41-day trip around Australia in his very unique motor home
+1Glen Lewis' T950 Kenworth 'Addiction IV' was his home away from home for 41 days as he travelled around Australia
A scratch map of Glen's route.He spent 30 days driving and $12,200 in fuel which was less than he expected
"I went up to Lismore and Casino when that flooded, carting it out from the back of Dubbo and wherever we could get hay," he said.
Picture by Simone De Peak.Former West Ward councillor and Maitland Mayor Henry Meskauskas has had his more than half a century of community involvement recognised in this year's Australia Day Honours list
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueMr Meskauskas has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community of Maitland
The Aberglasslyn resident said to receive the medal is an honour and a privilege
I'm proud and chuffed and it brings tears to my eyes," he said
Mr Meskauskas has been serving his community since the 60s when he was a member of the Australian Army Reserve
not long after he was crowned Australia's butterfly champion (swimming) in 1963 and NSW state freestyle and butterfly champion (1960-1963)
he has been a member of and founded many other clubs and groups
Mr Meskauskas said he has dedicated his life to service to the Maitland community because he simply likes to help people
"When I see someone's not getting a fair deal or if they've been wronged
and I can see there is an avenue to help in some way
I'm usually the first one to jump in," he said
Mr Meskauskas was on Maitland City Council for 32 years
2010 and 2021) and councillor (1987-1997 and 2003-2021)
he spent time as chairperson on the Local Traffic Committee
Hall of Fame Committee and Rutherford Youth Crime Committee
Henry Meskauskas OAM at home in Aberglasslyn
Picture by Simone De Peak.In the sporting sphere
the swimming champion founded East Maitland Swimming Club in 1980
was president of Maitland District Schoolboys Rugby League from the late 1970s to 1980s and was president of Western Suburbs Schoolboys Rugby League
He has also been involved in Western Suburbs Cricket Club
Maitland Croquet Club and Woodberry Little Athletics Club
Aberglasslyn-Rutherford Neighbourhood Watch where he is chairperson
and Club Maitland City where he is a chairman
That's not all - he has also been a Justice of the Peace since 1972 and is a patron of the Maitland Federation of Justices of the Peace
This isn't the first time Mr Meskauskas' dedication to the community has been recognised with an award
He received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Hunter Valley District Council Returned and Services League of Australia in 2021
Local Government NSW in 2020 and the McKell Award from the NSW Labor Party in 2018
In 2017 Mr Meskauskas was inducted into the Maitland City Council Hall of Fame for services to sport
He doesn't know who nominated him for the OAM
"I'd like to thank the people who nominated me and thought I was deserving of it
and all the ones I've helped over the years," he said
so I thank everyone for their kind support and I'd do it again."
Picture: Michael HartshornThe Aberglasslyn Ants have been rewarded for their dominance of the Newcastle Hunter Rugby League competition with coach Mick Akers and five players named in the NHRL rep team
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe NHRL Ladies League Tag and Under-23 men’s sides host Central Coast and North Coast respectively at the Maitland Sportsground on Saturday
A big crowd is expected with the NHRL having a bye weekend for the Country Championship representative round
Ashlee Henry and Alex Munro will run out for Newcastle on Saturday
Fellow Ant Lynan Scott was forced to withdraw from the rep team because of injury
Akers said Central Coast would a tough challenge
especially as the squad had only limited preparation time together
he said he with five Ants players and seven University players in the squad there should be a strong understanding of each other’s games
“It’s great reward for the Ants and University girls to be picked in such large numbers as they have really been the best two teams in the competition,” he said
“I think we’re all looking forward to the challenge on Saturday and hopefully we can advancte
Aberglasslyn went through their debut season in 2017 undefeated to win the premiership and beat arch rivals University 18-16 last weekend in their A-grade encounter
Central Coast will have an experience advantage with a Ladies League Tag comp running several years in the region
a number of Ants players had previous experience from the Group 21 competition with Hayleigh Eveleigh claiming three premierships in three years with Scone before switching to Aberglasslyn
There are also four players from Maitland district teams in the Men’s Under-23 team including Kurtis Langdon (Raymond Terrace), Greg Morris (East Maitland), Leif Rhodes (Maitland United) and Jason Smith (Paterson River)
The NHRL Ladies League Tag game kicks off at 11am
followed by the Men’s Under-23 game at 12.30pm at Maitland Sportsground.
a husband and father of three – and when it comes to fun art
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAberglasslyn man James Brennan has just won the $10,000 first prize for the Bald Archy – the spoof version of the Archibald Prize – for the fourth time
This year’s winning entry was for his creative piece on television presenter
actor and artist Anh Do – a man Mr Brennan readily admits he admires
“He’s a comedian who does these wonderful caricatures of people while he’s interviewing them – and they’re emotional interviews too
Brennan won in 2016 for a work of beleaguered Test batsman David Warner – “lucky it wasn’t this year” - and he also won in 2008 and 2009 for works on Bart Cummings and a fun take on the Danish Royal Family – think breastfeeding mum
dad in his underpants and drinking a Carlsberg
and their other child on the potty
Certainly not you typical royal family image
Mr Brennan is the only artist to have won four times
And if that’s not enough he also does “serious” art and has had entries in the Archibald Prize
“I probably do about 50-50 on fun art and more serious stuff,” he says
A typical Bald Archie piece will take between three and four weeks and will usually carry a price tag of about $2500
I just fit the art in around my job on the railway
I pick up the brushes when I get a chance.
but like everyone I have to pay the bills – hence the shift work,” he says
after lightning struck the roof of a house
Pictures: Nick BielbyIt wasn’t until about 20 minutes after Peter Dow heard a loud crack and flash of light that he began to smell smoke
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThen
he could see fire “dripping” from the ceiling of his Aberglasslyn home
Emergency crews were called to the Nardoo Avenue residence just before 5.30pm on Sunday
after lightning struck the roof of a house and sparked a fire in the ceiling
Mr Dow was sitting only a few metres from the spot below the impact of the lightning strike
“I was sitting watching tele and the next thing
so I went out and turned the circuit board back on and everything came back on at that stage
“It was probably about 15 or 20 minutes later that I went to put some rubbish in the bin and I could smell smoke
I looked at the air conditioning duct and it was actually dripping fire from the roof to the table.”
Firefighters put out the blaze before it spread to the rest of the house
but Mr Dow said they had told him the fire was only minutes from taking hold and spreading rapidly to the rest of the building
“The firies got here and they found hot spots and pulled the ceiling down to get in there,” Mr Dow said
“We were standing out the front and all you could see was a little light
A NSW State Emergency Service spokesman said house fires started by lightning strikes were rare in the Hunter
Nick Bielby is a crime reporter who has worked as a journalist since 2011. Having joined the Newcastle Herald in 2017, he won a Walkley Award in 2019 with Donna Page for their investigation 'Dirty Deeds', which exposed the decades of illegal dumping of toxic material in and around a Hunter waterway.
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe driver of the car was uninjured. The 51-year-old male motorbike rider was treated by paramedics at the scene for shoulder and limb injuries and taken by Ambulance to John Hunter Hospital
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Hunter Valley man has just returned from a 41-day trip around Australia in his very unique motor home
View +4 PhotosGlen Lewis' T950 Kenworth 'Addiction IV' was his home away from home for 41 days as he travelled around Australia