Our Customer Service Centre is temporarily located at Speers Point Library opposite Council's Administration Building As part of ongoing efforts to improve parking and traffic flow in Charlestown we will soon be implementing a new area-based approach to timed parking This change is designed to make it easier for motorists to understand and comply with parking regulations by replacing small individual timed parking signs with larger The new signage is an action identified in the Charlestown Transport Management Plan adopted by Council in 2021 The changes to timed parking were adopted by Council on 22 July 2024 following consideration by Council's Traffic Facilities Committee and further community consultation The aim of this initiative is to streamline parking regulations with minimal changes to the actual timed parking areas Installation of the new signage is expected to be completed by 11 November 2024 there will be a two-week transition period before Council Rangers begin surveillance to ensure smooth compliance While these changes are primarily about simplifying the parking experience the impact on existing timed parking areas will be minimal See the map below for more detailed information on where the new signage will apply Council has previously consulted with the community and local businesses regarding these changes We'll continue to provide updates on this project through our website Stay tuned for more information as the project progresses We remember and respect the Ancestors who cared for and nurtured this Country It is in their footsteps that we travel these lands and waters Lake Macquarie City Council acknowledges the Awabakal people and Elders past Telephone Interpreting Service 131 450 National Relay Service 133 677 Thank you for completing the form, here is your download: "+jQuery("body").attr("docName")+" Thank you for completing the form, here is the link to your on-demand webinar: On-Demand Webinar Link Our team is our most important and valued asset Police leadership is undergoing a major shift departments face rising public expectations intense scrutiny and complex challenges that demand more than traditional approaches These pressures create unique opportunities for young chiefs to step up This article explores how young police leaders can navigate today’s landscape and build strong future-ready departments rooted in trust and innovation In the traditional model of police leadership years of service equaled readiness to command But as policing evolves to meet modern challenges more young chiefs are stepping into leadership roles with fresh ideas and forward-thinking tactics They understand that success today requires more than enforcement expertise and time in the field — it demands flexibility and the ability to lead diverse teams effectively Perhaps the greatest power of a young chief is the ability to transform Questioning past practices and enacting progressive policies can revitalize a department and signal to the community and officers that we can do better This transparency is necessary in an era when policing is often criticized and openness is requested — and demanded — by those we serve the cultural norm in law enforcement was to resist change But today’s new generation of officers welcomes — and expects — growth and innovation we’ve completely redefined the traditional model of police administration We actively invite officers to pitch new ideas propose changes and offer recommendations — and we often challenge them to take the lead in implementing those changes we’ve embraced a more open-minded approach and operate with an unwritten rule: we never turn down a good idea especially if it makes us better officers and better people What every team needs to see each time they walk out of the station to serve the first 100 days are important — but for a young chief of police they can define the entire course of the department over the next several years and conversations with your officers can create significant change These are the critical first steps in learning what is and isn’t working — both in external relationships and within your team Improving your active listening skills is just the start Actionable gains — whether through clear and unambiguous communication regarding policy or a noticeable presence working shifts alongside officers — emphasize a leadership style driven by transparency you must be willing to sacrifice as your officers sacrifice You must show them they’re not alone in this career and that you’ll always be standing beside them but our main focus this year after taking over has been that my assistant chief and I have shared the street schedule with our officers and getting yelled at — right alongside our officers When someone needs time off for an emergency we cover their shifts and make the sacrifices so they can take care of their families and personal lives The great thing about building trust is that it doesn’t cost the department a penny — it takes time and selfless service Our first 100 days were spent implementing drastic changes recommended by our officers A department can only be as good as the service its team provides one of the most essential leadership traits is creating an environment where officers feel appreciated and supported and work-life balance are no longer optional — they are a necessity A department with high morale is more efficient — and far better prepared for the rigors of modern-day policing Officers should feel that their voices are heard and that their leadership is committed to their growth and safety — not just as officers and maintaining a culture where mistakes are treated as learning opportunities rather than career-defining failures The leadership team must instill accountability at the highest levels and always lead by example Recruitment teams should no longer be the focus of law enforcement leadership Leaders in 2024 and beyond should concentrate on building retention teams — groups of officers focused on keeping the ones we already have When we shift focus from recruitment to retention If we go above and beyond to retain our people officers will stay — and the recruitment problem will start to solve itself Leaders cannot afford to treat officers poorly and expect to keep them We must take a hard look at ourselves as leaders and ask “Am I doing everything I can to keep our officers?” Modern police leadership should be deeply rooted in community relationships and engagement A young chief’s ability to connect with the public — especially in communities historically wary of law enforcement — can redefine a department’s credibility and authentic participation in community activities go a long way in humanizing the badge and building trust A significant part of being a young leader involves embracing new approaches to community engagement That means going beyond traditional norms to invest in community policing programs and support initiatives that allow officers to mentor or volunteer It also means ensuring that community feedback isn’t just heard — it’s acted upon The average person believes police departments are fully staffed and that officers spend their time idly — as if we’re all sitting on the square playing checkers It’s time we start showing what we actually do and how hard our officers work That kind of transparency helps the community see us as part of them — not apart from them Technology plays an expanding role in police investigations — from ALPRs and artificial intelligence to facial recognition software and body-worn camera systems A chief’s leadership vision must integrate these tools while recognizing their potential to improve accountability Using data — including ALPRs — to locate criminals can help officers find and apprehend suspects quickly keeping them from remaining at large in the public A young chief must ensure that technology supports officers — not isolate them from the communities they serve Creating training programs focused on the responsible use of technology ensures officers can use it effectively and ethically This allows agencies to benefit from innovation without compromising integrity or human connection Being a young leader in a police department can be both challenging and demanding Taking charge at an early stage in your career means you must lead with authenticity — staying true to yourself and to what you know is morally right Authenticity is especially important when proving yourself to older generations of officers who may not have had the same opportunities we must prioritize the needs of our officers if we want to build a well-functioning The wisdom to admit when you’re wrong — and the humility to do so openly — goes a long way with both veteran and younger officers The credibility of a department depends on integrity A young chief must demonstrate these values daily — both in words and in actions That includes being transparent in decision-making holding officers accountable for misconduct and maintaining a deep commitment to ethical standards I make it a point to own my mistakes and take accountability for them in front of my officers Doing so breaks down the wall of vulnerability that many of us carry as cops When accountability becomes a daily practice across the department you start to see the community change and grow with you When a community sees its police department holding itself to high standards Developing internal systems that encourage accountability at all levels is essential When the entire department embraces that mindset One of the final — and most important — steps in modern police leadership is recognizing that success lies in developing the next generation Chiefs should focus not only on leading themselves but also on building leadership capacity throughout the department and workshops are tools that prepare everyone for future challenges Chiefs should train every team member to be ready to take over their responsibilities at a moment’s notice flexible approach — one that maintains public safety and service while staying open-minded and connected to both officers and the community you can build a legacy that endures long after the uniform is set aside The truth isn’t always easy — and it may not bring instant rewards — but it builds a foundation of integrity no one can take away from you or your department I moved from working the patrol schedule into the office with a proactive mindset focused on change One of our first actions this year was encouraging officers to attend outside training — and we approved 99% of the requests Every officer attended at least one external training course This generation of officers thrives on self-improvement We believe in the value of education and training and we support our people in seeking it out every day to grow both professionally and personally Leadership today demands a blend of courage Young chiefs face the dual challenge of leading with fewer years of experience while meeting the growing expectations of modern society and holding themselves and their teams to high ethical standards A young chief can create lasting change by living out these principles the most successful police leaders will be those who embrace a vision that goes beyond policing — one rooted in justice young chiefs can shape not only their departments Chief Eric Kruse has dedicated over a decade to the Charlestown (Indiana) Police Department beginning his career in 2013 as both a police dispatcher and a part-time reserve officer he served in the patrol division and later became a field training officer he was promoted to Lieutenant and training commander he was appointed Chief of Police by the Mayor of Charlestown where he continues to serve the department and community with dedication and vision Learn more about the Charlestown Police Department Copyright © 2025 Lexipol. All rights reserved.Do Not Sell My Personal Information Charlestown’s Noah Levin found solace in a Lake Macquarie charity for grieving kids he’s finally getting the chance to give back to the organisation which helped him through the traumatic time Noah has always had a passion for the local community serving as captain in both primary and high school his father Matthew Levin was diagnosed with stage four head and neck cancer he sadly passed away in 2015 leaving behind a 10-year-old Noah and his older brother Joshua nobody else in our school had lost a parent at that time,” Noah told the Newcastle Weekly it was a really isolating experience growing up for my brother and me “We just felt so different from the other kids.” Their mother was highly involved within the school community and could see the boys’ struggle It wasn’t until a family member suggested she take her sons to a local camp that everything changed which provides early intervention programs for children aged seven to 18 who are experiencing pain and isolation due to the death of a parent “They teach you how to articulate your emotions and identify the emotions that you may be going through at that time,” Noah explained “It let us know that we weren’t alone in such an ultimately scary and lonely place.” Noah said the charity taught him vital lessons on how to process his grief while also providing a community of children going through similar losses but we learnt at least one-in-20 kids will lose a parent before the age of 18,” he explained “That’s basically one in every classroom.” January marked the 10-year anniversary of Matthew’s passing has set out to give back to Feel The Magic by partaking in a fundraising initiative for the organisation local members of the community have orchestrated a cross-country bike ride to raise money for the charity Noah will become the first Camp Magic participant to join in on the ride He and the crew will travel a total of 500km throughout the Yass Valley on the south coast of NSW over the span of four days Noah himself hopes to raise a total of $10,000 for the charity as a way to commemorate the 10 years since the loss of his father The ride will take place from 13-16 November with at least a dozen riders expected to take on the challenge Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here Click through to read our latest Issue of Newcastle Weekly Healthcare Asia Magazine website works best with Javascript enabled Please enable your javascript and reload the page Ramsay Health Care has announced the upcoming opening of Ramsay Surgical Centre Charlestown The centre is designed for short-stay surgical care and will feature three treatment rooms It will provide services including endoscopy For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link] We responded to over 150,000 incidents in 2023-24 The incidents displayed below are note-worthy incidents that have been published as media releases or tweets Details about incidents may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice North Parramatta | The fire at Dunlop Street, North Parramatta has been contained but is expected to smoulder through the morning. Because there may be smoke in the area, residents and businesses in the vicinity are advised to keep doors, windows, and vents closed. View on X [external link] Fire and Rescue NSW acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders Find out how to vote has announced that a Dutton Liberal Government will commit $1.2 million towards the construction of the Charlestown to Whitebridge Shared Pathway off-road walking and cycling route for local residents.  will provide an essential pedestrian and cycling link between Charlestown’s CBD and the Fernleigh Track Ms King announced the funding in Charlestown alongside Deputy Liberal Leader Sussan Ley and Senator Maria Kovacic reaffirming the Liberal Party’s commitment to delivering practical infrastructure that strengthens local communities.  “The Charlestown to Whitebridge Shared Pathway will be a game-changer for pedestrians and cyclists more accessible route between two key areas of our region,” Ms King said.  “Families in Shortland deserve better places to come together and to enjoy our fantastic local community,” Ms King said.  Deputy Liberal Leader Sussan Ley said the project was an example of the Coalition’s commitment to investing in local infrastructure that makes a difference.  “This is exactly the kind of infrastructure local communities need – practical projects that make it easier for people to stay active The people of Shortland have been neglected for far too long by this Labor Government It’s time we got Shortland back on track,” Ms Ley said.  Senator Maria Kovacic said the investment was part of the Liberal Party’s vision for a stronger “The Coalition is committed to delivering real community-driven projects that enhance quality of life The Charlestown to Whitebridge Shared Pathway is exactly that – a project that will benefit students Emma King understands the importance of this investment and she will be a strong voice for Shortland,” Senator Kovacic said.  Emma King will be a champion for Shortland ensuring the region gets the investment it deserves.  “Whether it’s students walking to school or commuters choosing an active transport option this will make a real difference in improving safety “I know just how important this is to our community and I’m proud to be delivering a real commitment to making it happen,” Ms King concluded.  To read more about how the Liberals will get Australia back on track visit https://nswliberal.org.au/our-plan.  Donations by individuals to registered political parties of between $2 and $1,500 in a financial year are tax deductible. Phone: 02 8356 0300 Privacy Policy Authorised by Chris StoneLiberal Party of Australia 131 Macquarie StreetSydney NSW 2000Phone: (02) 8356 0300 Privacy Policy 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 areaContinueThe $13.5 million 12-bed clinic is the first publicly-funded service of its kind in NSW Suitable for people aged 16 and over with a diagnosed eating disorder the centre will provide evidence-based interventions in a "nurturing NSW Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson said the centre "represents a massive step forward in how we support people living with eating disorders" The two-storey residential centre will be named "Baiyangbaiyaang" an Aboriginal word meaning "butterfly - the one who flutters" The centre will provide an intensive treatment option for "people who are medically stable" and could not recover through community-based treatment and support Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison said the clinic was "an important addition to the support available to people living with eating disorders in Charlestown and Newcastle" "It presents a next step for them on the road to independence and improved wellbeing," Ms Harrison said The clinic was designed to "bridge the gap between community-based care and hospital admission" It will provide a "personalised service for those ready to take an active role in their recovery" Residents can stay at the centre for up to three months They will receive support from a team including psychiatrists A range of support and daily wellness activities will help residents increase their independence cooking classes and gentle movement sessions The Butterfly Foundation estimated in 2023 that almost 50,000 people in the Hunter New England and Central Coast health network had an eating disorder less than a quarter of these people received treatment or support Funding for the 12-bed clinic is part of a $63 million federal commitment to provide seven eating disorder care centres nationally will begin at the clinic in the coming weeks Referrals must come from a health practitioner with admissions based on clinical presentation and need revealed in 2023 that she once had an eating disorder "Facilities like this can have a lasting positive impact and I'm very proud to see increased support for people with eating disorders," Ms Suvaal said "Baiyanbaiyaang will offer life-saving support to people in a calm Hunter New England Health's Anand Swamy said the centre would "complement existing services" These included the "statewide Eating Disorders Day Program and community-based services" the district's mental health services director Butterfly Foundation CEO Jim Hungerford said people with eating disorders in NSW had "struggled to access the specialised care they need for too long" "The Butterfly Foundation will continue to share our learnings and insights with the service." The foundation previously revealed there had been a four-fold increase in prevention and education programs for eating disorders in schools and the community from 2019 to 2022 Of those with an eating disorder in the Hunter region's health network it was estimated that 31,000 are females and 17,600 are males About 23,100 of these people had binge eating disorder A further 18,700 were listed as having EDNOS [eating disorder not otherwise specified] Health and medicine, science, research, nutrition. Email: dcronshaw@newcastleherald.com.au Newsletters & AlertsView allDaily Today's top stories curated by our news team Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters Don't miss your weekly Knights update Get the latest property and development news here tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Your digital replica of Today's Paper Test your skills with interactive crosswords In a commitment to support personal services Teachers Mutual Bank has opened the doors to a new-look branch at Charlestown Square which has been “home” for more than a decade The member-based financial provider will co-brand the premises Teachers Mutual Bank and Health Professionals Bank – both divisions of Teachers Mutual Bank Limited which also operates Firefighters Mutual Bank and UniBank It offers a modern banking experience and improved accessibility that will better service customers across all the company’s divisions Newcastle branch manager Kylie Cosgrove said the relocation reinforced the bank’s promise to maintaining branches to support individual needs “Hamilton served us well for the past 16 years,” she explained moving to one of the region’s most prominent shopping centres is more convenient for our members and significantly increases our bank’s visibility “Opening a branch contrary to what is happening in the banking sector “We believe branches remain critically important to help us do this “Applying for a home loan or car loan is one of the biggest financial decisions a person will make “We want our members to be able to sit down in a modern face-to-face conversations with someone they trust.” modern branch has been designed to enhance the experience by featuring improved technology to streamline services; a self-serve kiosk for quick banking requirements; an on-site ATM for added convenience; and dedicated meeting spaces for in-depth “I think it’ll appeal to teachers and healthcare professionals two vital workforces in the region,” Ms Cosgrove said “Hunter New England Health is the largest employer while thousands of teachers work in public and private schools across Newcastle and the Hunter “Our locally-based team understands the financial needs of these essential workers “We know how their pay structures work and take this into consideration when preparing reviewing a loan application “We’ve helped many educators and healthcare professionals successfully apply for a home loan “The response from the team – including two member service officers and a mobile lender – has been fantastic “They are looking forward to building awareness strengthening relationships within the teaching and healthcare sectors and helping more customers with a full suite of banking products and services tailored to their needs.” Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here An innovative learn to swim program for international women is making waves at Charlestown Swim Centre The Splash of Colour Swimming program offers a free culturally sensitive course for recruits of all ages many of whom have never had the opportunity to swim they’re the first people in their family who can swim,” Splash of Colour Swimming Founder and Program Lead Ennia Jones said “It is an empowering experience to do something no one else in your family has been able to do Our participants go from fearful to confident.” The Splash of Colour Swimming concept kicked off in February 2023 and has expanded to include classes in Lake Macquarie Nine nationalities are represented in the current Charlestown Swim Centre course “The response has been absolutely amazing,” Mrs Jones said but one consistent piece of feedback we get is their increased confidence in and around water.” “Swimming is not just a recreational activity but a vital life skill that enhances safety social integration and cultural empowerment for CALD adults.” Lake Macquarie City Council Coordinator Leisure Operations Paul Stone said demand was growing across all of Lake Mac’s learn to swim programs Total attendance at learn to swim classes increased from 51,370 in 2022-2023 to 60,142 in 2023-2024 “You’re never too old to learn,” Mr Stone said “We offer a range of programs to overcome any barriers to learning to swim people with disability and private lessons.” “We’re really proud to have partnered with Splash of Colour Swimming to target the CALD community and the positive feedback and excellent results speak for themselves.” Find out more about learn to swim classes and enrolments at swim.lakemac.com.au will run the space "in response to the alarming demand for accessible care" Director Craig Sparrow said the charity "aimed to fill gaps in the mental health system" people in our community have been slipping through the cracks," Mr Sparrow said Health data shows 1552 people took their lives in Hunter New England from 2011 to 2022 The Hunter district's rate of suicides was 14.9 per 100,000 people above the state rate of 10.8 and national rate of 12.3 Mr Sparrow said suicide deaths were "often triggered by life crises such as financial pressures relationship breakdowns or poor health outcomes" "These stressors can build up and amplify anxiety especially when people feel there are no other hopeful options." said the safe space would help "people who are really suffering find some peace and equilibrium" "Being alongside someone in their darkest hour and showing them there's hope is the whole idea," he said better family connection and good things for the community" Mr Boyd said everyone's experiences in life "Sometimes the pits and lows can be longer than others "Hope is contagious and pivotal for our communities Mr Boyd said everyone was "unique and beautiful in their own right" and "kindness "I'm still yet to meet a perfect or normal person will operate on Mondays from 5.30pm to 9.30pm as an after-hours The next addition will be a Tuesday night," Mr Sparrow said "We're committed to making this a long-term initiative." He said it was crucial to have "an alternative to hospital emergency departments every night of the week" It was also "astonishing" that two-thirds of mental health presentations at emergency departments were turned away "often because the system is overwhelmed or lacks the capacity to help" At Hunter New England hospital emergency departments alone more than 15,000 people presented for mental health-related issues in 2022-23 run by suicide prevention and mental health peer workers is open from Friday to Sunday from 4pm to 9pm A parliamentary inquiry into mental health care in NSW recommended the Safe Haven program be made a 24/7 service The Minns government is evaluating Safe Havens Mr Sparrow said his organisation's safe space would complement the government's Safe Haven at Hamilton had provided a $20,000 grant for the safe space but an additional $35,000 was needed to fully fund its first year Healing Path to Wellness is moving from Pelican to Hilltop Arcade in Charlestown for a more central location It will open from Monday to Wednesday from 10am to 4pm and Thursdays from 12pm to 7pm "This safe space is a natural extension of the support we've been offering since our inception five years ago," Mr Sparrow said Lake Macquarie and Newcastle residents will now have access to a new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (MUCC) in Charlestown Located centrally at Charlestown Medical & Dental Centre No appointment’s required to access the services with patients only needing their Medicare card The Charlestown MUCC is set to relieve pressures on John Hunter Hospital by redirecting people with non-life-threatening conditions away from the emergency department (ED) It comes as a much-needed solution to extended wait times with more than 35% of ED presentations at John Hunter being semi- or non-urgent conditions in 2022/23 Shortland MP Pat Conroy said it would significantly help those who were in life-threatening conditions I’ve spent hours waiting in there,” he explained “I’ve seen a lot of people who if they had access to a doctor or GP would’ve gone there instead I’m so delighted that this clinic is now open and servicing the community “The Albanese government is making sure people in our community can access free high-quality medical care when you need it – during the day without having to wait for an appointment or travel far.” The team at Charlestown is highly-trained with nurses and doctors equipped to treat a range of conditions and injuries which need urgent attention but aren’t critical the clinic has already seen nearly 200 people walk through its doors almost half of the presentations in the state are outside business hours meaning facilities like these are filling an important gap in services Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon admitted it was the best Christmas present Novocastrians could have received “Everybody needs to be able to access affordable high-quality primary health care,” she said “That’s what keeps people out of hospitals “When they are presenting at the ED with conditions that really shouldn’t be there we need those people to be able to come to centres like this to be able to get that quality primary healthcare they need “We know there is still more work to do… and we are working hard every day to plug healthcare gaps across Newcastle and the Hunter.” Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here Subscribe to Newcastle Weekly. News, Community, Lifestyle, Property delivered direct to your inbox! 100% Local, 100% Free. Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe offender cannot be named in order to protect his sibling victim's identity Matt (not his real name) is hoping the non-publication order That would mean going public - losing the protection the court order afforded him But, he told the Newcastle Herald. he is willing to be named to raise awareness of the circumstances of his brother's potential return to the community, and give others a chance to object, "I've come to terms with the fact that, in order for me to have this thing known, and hopefully for them to reject his application to the parole board, the general public will need to know," Matt said. "I have grave concerns that my entire career and studies may be derailed if he is released. "It makes me angry and frustrated that I am once again, having my life influenced by his actions and imminent release." Matt's brother was 27 when he was jailed for 17 years and nine months in 2012, after pleading guilty to 19 charges. He was given a non-parole period of 14 years. At the time of sentencing, Judge Gregory Hosking went through the details of the offences which included the possession of child pornography. The nature of that material ranged in seriousness from the least offensive to the very worst kind, Judge Hosking said. While he aired details of some of the 40,000 images recovered by the Australian Federal Police during their search of the man's home, he stopped short of describing the worst of them. ''Some of the descriptions are so disgusting that I am not even prepared to state them in a public hearing like this,'' Judge Hosking said. The collection included 450 images of the man's younger brother and 380 images of the other boy. The sex offences he committed on the boys, between the ages of four and 13, included rape. Judge Hosking described the offender as criminally selfish, caring little or nothing for the feelings of the boys he abused and the psychological damage he was causing them. The message needed to be sent to abusers that if convicted, their punishment would be severe, he said People who accessed child pornography for their own perverted pleasure seemed to think it less serious because the images already existed, or the children in them were anonymous and somehow less real, Judge Hosking said. ''These people are wrong,'' he said. ''Accessing this material further degrades these children who had no choice.'' Now, taking into account the time the offender spent in custody when he was arrested in 2011, his non-parole period is up; however, his release is not automatic. His parole hearing listed for February 27. Members of the community can make a submission to the NSW Parole Board. It is understood the NSW Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong is seeking legal advice as to whether there are grounds to oppose parole in the matter. "If there are grounds to oppose parole in this matter the Minister will make a submission," a spokesperson for the minister said. A state submission, if lodged, forms one part of the State Parole Authority's considerations, the spokesperson said. It must also take into account Community Corrections reports, input from the Serious Offenders Review Council, and "importantly", any registered victim submissions. Matt said that while he'd come to terms with and understands that at some point, in this lifetime, his brother would be released, this was a crucial and pivotal point in his life, and his recovery, and he needed more time. "It's taken me until now to realise the dates of his release and where I would be in my life," Matt said. "If I was settled into a job and a career it would be a lot easier to get through." He is working 70-80 hours per week to put himself through school - studying full-time, six full study days per fortnight. He didn't have anything left over, Matt said. Critically, it would be very difficult to find the time to attend regular appointments to support his continued recovery, he said. "I'm aware that up until now I was the only one who knew," he said. "Hopefully more people will write in to object." They might include teachers from Whitebridge High School who knew him, fellow students, and family members who understood and witnessed how his life was turned upside down as a young teenager. "Old teachers who knew the kid that I was before all of this sort of happened," he said. "They knew how bright I was and how determined I was to do something and be something. If they grasp and understand the gravity of the situation and where I am at, this turning point in my life and in my recovery, they might object as well." Matt was about a quarter of the way through year 10 when search warrants were issued. He left school and it had taken "some time" to get to where he is now, working different jobs and doing other training before settling into his third and final year of his paramedical degree. "I just don't want my career to be derailed again because I know, with his release, it will affect me even more than it did in the past," he said. Going public might be enough to provide a forum for family members to speak out too, he said. This is the second time he has made objections in relation to his older brother's release after he applied for day release last year. It was not until Matt became involved that his release was blocked because there were children living at the address he planned to visit. "But somehow he had been granted release to go to that address," he said. "I wrote to the Minister for Corrections and MP Jodie Harrison to let them know the kids' mothers live there, and two days later it was revoked." people with eating disorders in NSW have struggled to access the specialised care they need That was the sentiment of Butterfly Foundation CEO Dr Jim Hungerford following the opening of a new $13.5 million Residential Eating Disorders Centre (REDC) in Charlestown this week an Aboriginal word meaning “butterfly – the one who flutters” 12-bed facility is the first publicly-funded service of its kind in NSW Suitable for people aged 16 and older with a diagnosed eating disorder the REDC provides evidence-based interventions in a nurturing It’s designed to bridge the gap between community-based care and hospital admission offering personalised treatment for those who are ready to take an active role in their recovery and enhance their quality of life Butterfly Foundation is the national charity for anyone in Australia impacted by eating disorders and body image issues “We’re delighted to see the REDC come to fruition,” Dr Hungerford said “This centre represents a massive step forward in how we support people living with eating disorders we will continue to share our learnings and insights with the service.” Residents may stay at the REDC for up to three months They will receive individualised assistance from a multi-disciplinary team of specialists including psychiatrists A range of support and daily wellness activities will also help them increase their independence and continue their recovery journey at home “Baiyangbaiyaang is an important addition to aid people living with eating disorders in Charlestown and the Newcastle area,” Charlestown Jodie Harrison MP said “It presents a next stage for them on the road to independence and improved wellbeing “It’s a great example of all levels of governments working together on important health issues in our communities.” The funding is part of a $63 million Commonwealth commitment to deliver seven REDC nationally Residential care will begin in the coming weeks helping provide support for people across NSW All referrals to the facility must be completed online by a treating practitioner Admissions will be based on clinical presentation and need The REDC is expected to complement other eating disorder services across NSW including local health district day programs and community-based therapies Residents and their families travelling long distances to the centre may also be eligible for travel and accommodation subsidies under the IPTAAS scheme is experiencing an eating disorder or body image concerns contact the Butterfly Foundation National Helpline on 1800 33 4673 (ED HOPE) or visit the Butterfly Foundation’s website Driving on the Pacific Highway from Merewether to Marks Point the trip takes half an hour at an average speed of 32kmh Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAnd your car or ute is one of thousands per hour that pummel Charlestown The traffic density obstructs crossing the highway on foot and deters people from loitering near it But that drive could take nine minutes at an average of 90-100kmh involve no traffic lights and affect almost no one's home or business It could if the state government cared enough about Newcastle to revive a plan for a high-capacity road east of the highway Almost all the land for that road is still there But don't expect to see it in the forthcoming Hunter region transportation plan from Transport for NSW If the draft released in 2022 is anything to go by this will be a trivial document - a brochure full of waffle lots of talk about bicycles and none about road planning The cover of the draft plan showed people on bikes on Nobbys breakwater it depicted not transportation but recreation How unserious can a government transport agency get The officials who drew the route for a big fast road from Merewether to Marks Point in the 1940s were serious working under instructions from a Labor government that insisted on long-term planning Their road was supposed to be part of the link to Sydney When the interurban route was shifted to the west of Lake Macquarie the plan for the road on the eastern side fell into abeyance From the days when a Labor government was serious about Newcastle's roads: a 1950 planning map showing the Newcastle Inner City Bypass (still incomplete today) and the abandoned East Charlestown Bypass.Nonetheless the corridor reservation survived under the name "East Charlestown Bypass" until 2006 Greater Newcastle has suffered from many reckless decisions to abandon precious transportation corridors Yet it's not too late to recover the corridor of the East Charlestown Bypass The main obstruction is a new housing development on the corridor where it passes Whitebridge shops The government should promptly issue resumption notices on the homes and switch zoning for the whole corridor back to "road reservation" People with plenty of nearby trees wouldn't want to lose some for the benefit of everyone else And no NSW government has much interest in spending heavily on Newcastle or even promising to do so. Every politician knows that Newcastle has an almost unlimited tolerance for neglect. It doesn't complain But this road issue on the eastern side of the lake is big and unavoidable will north-south movement forever be concentrated on an increasingly congested arterial road that ruins 16 kilometres of local amenity Or will the state solve the problem by building the fast six-lane motorway-standard replacement whose land is almost all ready to go Hardly any of the East Charlestown Bypass route is next to houses and in those places it could be given noise barriers and hidden behind trees It departs the Pacific Highway west of the intersection with Scenic Drive then runs alongside Kahibah which could be moved east a little to preserve its beauty the route meets the Newcastle Inner City Bypass Then it must cross the Belmont Wetlands State Park It rejoins the Pacific Highway at the intersection with Marks Point Road So the East Charlestown Bypass bypasses a lot more than Charlestown. I have previously suggested a new name for it, 'East Lake Motorway' (because we should also be planning for a West Lake Motorway from Wallsend to Teralba The East Charlestown Bypass would have probably five interchanges Traffic to and from all those places would be diverted from the Pacific Highway and local sub-arterial roads So would through-traffic between inner Newcastle and the Swansea area and beyond but it would be much less busy than it is now And we would be able to get around more easily An important result would be promoting medium-density housing along the route you put more pressure on other parts of it So we could expect more traffic into and through Newcastle city centre But we will eventually need a solution for the problem of a major route crossing Parry and Hunter streets And the northern end of the East Charlestown Bypass could be arranged to distribute traffic on to Northcott Drive whose corridor is wide enough for more lanes the Pacific Highway down to Lake Entrance needs to become a motorway which could be designed to ease foot access between Blacksmiths and Pelican The original plan took the route into central Swansea but a later version avoided that problem with a big bridge over Lake Entrance and Black Neds Bay But we are so badly neglected that we should not hesitate to demand to have this road Bradley Perrett is a regular ACM columnist with a focus on Australia's relationship with China, covering defence, strategy, trade, economics and domestic policy. He was based in Beijing as a journalist from 2004 to 2020. Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. Love footy? We've got all the action covered. The latest news, results & expert analysis. Follow the Newcastle Knights in the NRL? Don't miss your weekly Knights update. Get the latest property and development news here. Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily! Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAmy Webb and her nine-year-old daughter Isla Webb fronted the Charlestown National Disability Insurance (NDIS) office a week ago (February 10) after struggling for months to cope when Isla was excluded from school They do not have access to enough NDIS funding to pay for a 2:1 ratio of staff to work with Isla, as required by most service providers, Ms Webb said. The little girl's diagnoses include non-verbal Level 3 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Nine-year-old girl with autism sedated and removed from Uniting NDIS officeThey were supported to attend the NDIS office by Kristi Eastman, director of Live your Best Life disability supports. The trio was told to go down the road to the offices of Uniting which coordinates the delivery of NDIS-related supports in the Hunter. Once there the nine-year-old became agitated, pacing, verbalising, and lashing out. "She didn't want to be there," Ms Webb said. "I didn't want to be there either but I didn't know where else to go, I was at the end of the road and I have been for months." Staff at Uniting became alarmed at the girl's presentation, which included throwing things, scratching and biting herself and others. One staff member suggested, and then insisted, that the child was suffering "an underlying medical condition", Ms Webb and Mrs Eastman said. Police and ambulance were called without her knowledge, Ms Webb said. "My whole point of going there was because I was at the end of the road," Ms Webb said. "She's severely underfunded, and they all agreed. "These people sit behind their desks and write reports. They don't come and meet the kids and the families. They have no idea what we're going through. "They write up a plan, pump out $50,000, and it's not enough. You have to get face-to-face with these kids." Ms Webb said Uniting staff insisted Isla needed "a full medical review". Mrs Eastman said that when police arrived, Uniting staff suggested allowing police to physically restrain the nine-year-old child. That was refused, and Mrs Eastman suggested that they (herself, and Ms Webb together with the group of uniting staff present) manage the situation in the same way that was expected of Isla's mother, as well as disability support staff, one-on-one. Nine-year-old girl with autism sedated and removed from Uniting NDIS office"This is Isla 90 per cent of the time," Mrs Eastman said. "It takes her 40 to 45 minutes to calm down after transitioning from one environment to another." When ambulance officers arrived the child was sedated and taken to John Hunter Hospital's emergency department. Once there, the doctor questioned Ms Webb as to what the medical issue was. "The doctor said 'why do you want a full medical review - this is very inappropriate'," Ms Webb said. Isla's discharge summary said her behaviour was "consistent with usual pattern [sic] of ASD when in new environment" and listed the diagnosis as "behaviour outburst". "No acute medical intervention required - unclear why referred from NDIS ??" says the letter, which was signed off by a senior staff specialist. The discharge destination was home, in the care of her mother. Isla had most recently seen her pediatrician on January 20, Ms Webb said. "They just wanted us out," Ms Webb said of Uniting's response. "They actually just witnessed what we go through - a child with heightened behaviours." Ms Webb said she felt as though she couldn't refuse to let her daughter go with the ambulance Uniting called because she'd be seen to have refused medical care. Mrs Eastman said they were put in a position that if they did not agree to allow the child to go with paramedics, they were being neglectful. A spokesperson for Uniting NSW/ACT said the organisation was aware of the incident. "Our highest priority is always the wellbeing and safety of our participants, their families and staff," a Uniting spokesperson said. "We are currently working through this matter with the NDIA and the child's parent. Due to privacy reasons, Uniting said it was unable to comment further, and directed inquiries to the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). An NDIA spokesperson said the agency "places the highest priority on ensuring the safety and wellbeing of participants, partners and our staff". "Questions about the actions taken by health and emergency services should be directed to those services." Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueHealth Minister Mark Butler announced the move in an election commitment on Tuesday morning extra funding for the clinics is expected to enable them to employ a second doctor Mr Butler said the Charlestown and Lake Haven clinics were "some of the busiest in the country" so they can boost their capacity and see more patients at once," Mr Butler said He said "only Labor will strengthen Medicare" with more urgent care clinics Shortland MP Pat Conroy said the Charlestown clinic had been "a game changer for our community" Mr Conroy said he knew many families who had used the clinic they would have been "stuck waiting for hours at the John Hunter," he said Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon said the funding commitment was "a direct response to increasing demand" for the clinics "With more resources and expanded capacity these clinics will continue to complement our GP Access After Hours services offering accessible care when it matters most." the government funds urgent care clinics with about $1.2 million a year for one doctor Since the Charlestown clinic opened in November it has treated 5100 patients - an average of about 50 people a day The Lake Haven clinic on the Central Coast has treated more than 17,500 people since it opened - an average of about 45 people a day Patients wait an average of one to two hours at the clinics but the wait can be less or more depending on demand After long waits of several hours occurred at the Charlestown clinic some patients faced being referred to hospitals such as John Hunter The Charlestown clinic extended its operating hours from 8am-8pm to 8am-10pm in February said in January that funding a second doctor at existing urgent care clinics would make sense You don't want to overstaff them because then you are taking away from GP clinics in the area," he said He said a second doctor would not require an extra $1.2 million but about $750,000 a year due to economies of scale Some GPs believe federal funding would be better spent raising the Medicare rebate to ease cost pressures on clinics and patients The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) said last month that urgent care clinics were "five times more expensive than a standard GP consult" "Their value in addressing Australia's patient care challenges remains unclear," an RACGP statement said RACGP president Michael Wright cited an interim evaluation report on the clinics "Urgent care clinics are an expensive model of care," Dr Wright said He said the money could be "better and more efficiently delivered through existing general practices" the interim report said "patients appreciated avoiding extended waits in emergency departments and having access to bulk-billed care" 7 February 2025 6:01 am · Hunter News · Ian Crouch Police are appealing for public help to locate a missing woman last located at Charlestown was last seen at Charlestown Square in Pearson Street yesterday afternoon Police and family hold concerns for her welfare She’s being described as of Caucasian appearance large build with long black hair and brown eyes Anyone with information is being asked to contact Crime Stoppers 2NUR FM acknowledges Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures 4 April 2025 7:10 am · Hunter News · Ian Crouch People living with eating disorders will now be able to access a new specialist residential care facility in Charlestown The 12-bed centre is the first of its kind in NSW and will open today The funding is part of a $63 million dollar Federal Government fund to deliver clinics nationally Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon says the facility will provide a compassionate and understanding environment State Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison says it’s an important addition to support services The local team joined forces with swimmers from Wests Auburn and Lane Cove clubs to help run an end-of-year swim meet for the NSW Branch of Masters Swimming at Charlestown Pool Five Myall Masters members performed official or timekeeping duties “The Charlestown pool surprised us,” Myall Head Coach Sharon Taylor said “Despite not having all the technical improvements of a modern pool all swimmers commented on the ease of swimming at the facility and raced some improved times in their favourite events “Jackie Bower knocked off a whopping seven seconds for her 50m Freestyle time showing the effort in her training over winter “Wayne Bower continues to go from strength to strength in the 200metres Freestyle Christopher Lock and Sharon Taylor both wiped almost 4 seconds from their recent 100m races Chris in Backstroke and Sharon in Freestyle “This is clear evidence that our committed squad is returning to fitness since recommencing training in October,” Sharon said The Myall Masters will host a local carnival on 15 February 2025 “The Myall carnival is held in high regard as a well-run and many staying the weekend to enjoy a mini-break in Hawks Nest/Tea Gardens.” The club welcomes new swimmers of all shapes Call in to Tea Gardens pool and collect a flyer watch training on a Monday or Friday afternoon and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" A much-loved member of the Central Newcastle Butcher Boys has been acknowledged for her contribution to regional sport Liz Day was this week named Charlestown’s Local Woman of the Year gear steward and manager to the ladies’ league tag team her unofficial commitments to the organisation go much deeper “Community clubs can’t run without volunteers… and I know many people are ‘time-poor’ thesedays,” she said “We are all like a ‘family’ at the Central Newcastle Rugby League Club I’d love to invite anyone who is looking for something to fill their days Ms Day is just as busy away from the footy field She’s also immersed in organising community outreach events such as last year’s Outdoor Movie Night for Christmas Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison said Ms Day was a well-deserved winner “The Local Woman of the Year awards are an opportunity to highlight the achievements of people from Charlestown,” she explained the Central Newcastle Rugby League Club and the ladies’ league tagTeam proves her dedication and commitment are second-to-none “I have experienced and witnessed her multiple volunteer hats in action many and am continually impressed by her passion and desire to improve thisalready amazing community of a club “Liz is always stepping in and stepping up to make sure every job is done “I am thrilled to be able to recognise her contribution as Charlestown’s Local Woman of the Year energy and heart to the Central Newcastle Butcher Boys in so many ways “Her dedication to the club and the wider community is inspiring.” A truck ripped down a utility pole early Wednesday in Boston's Charlestown neighborhood creating a traffic backup during the morning commute Officials on scene told NBC10 Boston that the pole with alive wires was down across Rutherford Ave Both lanes going into and out of Boston were initially shutdown and video from the scene showed there was heavy traffic in the area around 6 a.m Get updates on what's happening in Boston to your inbox with our News Headlines newsletter Eversource responded and worked quickly to get traffic moving again Both sides were open and traffic was flowing again by 7 a.m Michael Barber has partnered with Australasia’s largest real estate group to open Ray White Charlestown building on his extensive experience in the local market has joined forces with Ray White to enhance his service offering in the growing Newcastle and Lake Macquarie region brings her financial planning and business management expertise to the team having successfully launched and managed the property management division “The real estate landscape is always evolving and to keep delivering the best service to our clients we needed to partner with a brand that could provide us with the tools and technology to excel,” Mr Barber said “Ray White’s reputation is unmatched and being part of the biggest network in the country will allow us to leverage the strength of the group giving our clients the best possible service.” positioned as the heart of the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie region has experienced significant population growth since the pandemic attracting Sydney residents seeking an affordable lifestyle “Charlestown is an amazing place to live From first homebuyers to families looking for a big house people can stay here for life,” Mr Barber said Ms Barber said they were commitment to client service:  “A lot of our business comes from repeat clients and referrals which speaks to the strength of our relationships and the trust we’ve built over the years.” The team aims to expand their presence while maintaining their community involvement including their sponsorship of local soccer teams Ray White New South Wales CEO Tim Snell welcomed the addition to the network “Michael and Angela are focused on providing exceptional service backed by the extensive resources and experience that come with being part of one of the country’s most respected real estate brands,” Mr Snell said News Sitemap Some volunteers hard at work at the Charlestown Organic Community Garden as they prepare for the new season. Mary McIntyre, Breda Doyle and Vera Turner have invested a huge amount of time and energy in planting and installing a large variety of vegetables in the polytunnel and also in some of the raised outside beds. These include spinach, peas, strawberries, tomatoes, garlic, red and white onions and potatoes. Paddy Casey and Willie Doyle have nine out of the 14 raised beds set in place at the moment which is testimony to their dedication and volunteerism as they continue to make the place look its best for the approaching summer season. Caroline Friel and Alison Doohan help out with the watering in the polytunnel, which is another big plus as the garden continues to attract new members in big numbers.  The garden is open every Wednesday and Saturday at 2.30pm and the committee are always on the lookout for new volunteers. The committee would also like to thank everyone for supporting the GoFundMe online page. Your donations are very welcome. Charlestown Sarsfields GAA Club held a very successful Retro Jersey Day in their dressing rooms on Easter Monday, April 21st last.  There were jerseys on display from the 1990s and the 2000s and onwards and they were snapped up by eager young players, parents and supporters alike as people came from all corners of the community to have a look and check out the design of the Sarsfields jersey that many a great player was proud to wear and display during all of our epic successes in the above time period.  People gathered early to have a look at the jerseys that were being exhibited and it didn't take them long to choose their favourite ones as the demand for the jerseys reached fever pitch with all stocks pretty much cleaned out within an hour. All jerseys were given away for free and I'm sure they're gone to good homes with the youngsters today proud to wear and display their club colours every day of the week.  It was a great idea the club came up with and one they are keen to go with again as there are plenty of old sets of jerseys that have to be tracked down and if the success of Easter Monday is anything to go by then the next Retro Jersey Day will be just as successful and popular as the club continue to broaden their membership and appeal across all strands and facets of the community. The death took place recently of Kathleen Regan (nee Galvin) Derrikinlough, Doocastle. Deepest sympathies are tendered to the bereaved. The Sarsfields travel to Hollymount on Tuesday (this evening), April 29th, to take on Hollymount/Carramore in Division 4 of the County Minor League with the throw-in timed for 7pm. The Sarsfields travel to Newport to take on Burrishoole on Wednesday, April 30th, in the Mayo U-12 Spring League with the throw-in timed for 7pm. It would have been remiss of me not to give a mention to an old friend of many in the town namely Michael Maloney or Fr Mike as he used to be known, who recently joined the 50 Club with a quiet family celebration in Brighton, England. Michael, or Mick as he was affectionately known to many, still retains many strong friendships in and around the town and while this news will come like a bolt out of the blue, it's no lie as the great man has joined some illustrious colleagues in graduating to a very exclusive club that has claimed some scalps in recent times.  Michael won many a distinguished honour with the Sarsfields club in his time on the books so to speak, most notably county and Connacht senior club championships in 2001, just two of the many medals he has stashed away in his safe from his time donning the Green and White. He was a passionate performer who tended to rattle a few cages from time to time as he loved a challenge and to make his considerable presence felt in and around the training paddock.  He was always at peak levels of fitness and was one of the few who could serve it up to Ginger when it came to the old post-to-posts in Fr O'Hara Park as the great Sarsfields captain tended to burn off anyone who attempted to keep pace with him. Mike was one of the few who managed to get within a few lengths of the red man and this was a badge of honour for the pocket rocket and one he took great pride in sharing with everyone.  He continues to take a keen interest in fitness and the gym and lives something of a monastic lifestyle as his dedication to good health and taking care of the family are his two twin priorities. I'm sure there was a cake unveiled to commemorate the occasion but it was devoid of all sugar, cream and chocolate toppings as Mick remains committed to his fruit and veg dietary intake.  I can't quite confirm if there were 50 candles occupying the summit but suffice to say he can't deny the truth or halt the passage of time as one of our favourite former residents joins the quinquagenarian club complete with its trappings and benefits.  I'm sure he'll enjoy this little script and I look forward to a reprisal of some sort in the very near future but here's wishing Mick continuing good health and happiness for many more years in the future and many more celebrations of this nature in the years ahead. Charlestown Sarsfields Under-14 team are motoring very well at the moment in Division 3 of the Mayo Under-14 league as they made it three from three in the division with a whopping 7-9 to 1-11 victory over Kiltimagh in round three played at Gilmartin Park, Kiltimagh recently.  The Sarsfields are really blazing a trail through the division with this latest victory once again owing much to their ability to score goals as they added another seven to the nine they hit previously in their round two victory over Shrule/Glencorrib.  Kiltimagh struggled to keep a lid on a lethal Sarsfields forward line with Liam Giblin once again very much to the fore as he bagged another three to maintain his rich vein of scoring form. The other goalscorers on a good night for the Sarsfields were Tom Naughton, Alex Pugaciov, Sean Cassidy and Jack Brennan as the Sarsfields go into their next outing with fellow table-toppers Tourmakeady in rude health in a winner-takes-all game where one winning record will fall. Entries for Colm Horkan Memorial Run now open Entries for the 2025 Colm Horkan Memorial Run are now open with the East Mayo Athletic Club once again the main driver behind what will be the fifth annual run as it continues to grow and evolve and become one of the mainstays in the club and town's recreational calendar.  This year's event takes place on Sunday, May 18th, with all proceeds going to the East Mayo Athletics Club to help with the development of their new athletics track which will be a fantastic asset to the town and an amenity that will provide all our young people with another facility with which to develop their athletic prowess.  All details regarding entry and the races that are available to participate in can be found by logging onto the East Mayo Athletics Club Facebook page. Enter on the link early to avoid disappointment as there are a limited number of t-shirts available. This is a day to showcase everything that is good about our town and community so please get out there and support it if you can. The Sarsfields host Ballina Stephenites in Round 4 of the Mayo Senior League on Saturday, May 10th, with the throw-in timed for 7pm (check sports pages for details and confirmation). Athletics starts back on Thursday, May 1st. Limited numbers for new members and log onto the East Mayo Athletics Facebook page and follow the link to avoid disappointment. Charlestown Sarsfields had a comprehensive 6-14 to 2-1 victory over Kilmovee Shamrocks in their latest outing in the Mayo Under-14 Development League played at Canon Gibbons Park, Kilmovee recently. The Sarsfields bossed the game from the throw-in and were in control in all the key pressure points with the forward line possessing a real goal threat as evidenced from the score line. The Sarsfields were well ahead at half-time with a couple of quick-fire goals taking the game away from the hosts who were game and honest in everything they did but didn't have the calibre or quality of the Sarsfields hence they were left with a mountain to climb at the start of the second half. The Green and White lads went about their work very capably in the second half and continued to hold their opponents at arm's length with a couple of goals maintaining their big cushion. The outcome, truth to tell, was never in doubt as the Sarsfields coasted to the final whistle to maintain their good start to the season with plenty of lads getting exposure and game time in the club colours which is the whole point of the exercise really.  The Sarsfields had a number of big performers on the night but none shone brighter than young MJ Donohue who netted a hat-trick on a night to remember for the young man and his family. At the April meeting of the Mayo Genealogy Group held at the Museum of Country Life, Turlough, Robyn Cheeseman of Tesco, Castlebar, presented the group with a cheque for €681, the proceeds of the Blue Token Community Fund campaign.  The group would like to thank Tesco, the supporters who chose the Mayo Genealogy Group and the members of the group who organised the initiative. The Mayo Genealogy Group offered sincere sympathy to group member Teresa Filan and her family on the death of her brother Michael O'Brien of Watersville, Pontoon Road, Castlebar and formerly of Knockatemple, Ballyvary.  The Genealogy Group are currently organising a two-night, three-day trip to Newry, Co Down from May 27 to 29 respectively. The trip will include bus transport from Castlebar, a visit to the Ulster American Folk Museum on the first day, followed by a trip to Belfast on day two and to Armagh on day three. The total cost is €265 with €30 extra per night for single supplement.  Further details are available from Mary at 086-1280338. There was no winner of the Charlestown Sarsfields GAA Lotto jackpot of €16,400 in the weekly draw held on Sunday night, April 20th, when the numbers drawn were 9, 22, 32 and 33. The winners of the two €50 weekly prizes were Sharon Kenny and Ann Sheehan. The latest draw took place on Sunday night last for a jackpot of €16,500. Tickets are on sale in a number of outlets in the town and are also available online at the Smart Lotto website or the club's Facebook page. The club would like to thank all who support the weekly lotto and congratulate all who won the weekly prizes. Re-Turn bins are now in place at Fr O'Hara Park. The Sarsfields GAA Club have installed two Re-Turn bins located at the front of the CBD Sports Complex for all plastic bottles that can be recycled under the Deposit Return Scheme.  All monies raised from the donations will go directly to the Charlestown Sarsfields underage teams and the Charlestown Ladies Gaelic Football Association. All support is greatly appreciated.  Please note only cans/bottles with the Re-turn logo can be deposited in these new orange bins. Please do not deposit glass or other rubbish thank you. Sarsfields' trio part of Mayo Mayo-U16 team  The Charlestown Sarsfields LGFA club are well represented on the Mayo U-16 team as three of their finest talents - Siofra McGuinness, Sophie Tiernan and Mikayla McLoughlin - all lined out in Mayo's rout of Sligo in Round 3 of the Connacht U-16 Championship played appropriately enough at the Colm Horkan Memorial Pitch in Charlestown on Easter Monday last.  A proud day for the families of the three girls and for the club with the facilities in tip-top shape and the surface of the Colm Horkan Memorial Pitch coming in for much favourable comments and plaudits.  Mayo looked primed to have another assault on the Connacht title with the three girls very keen to add to their medal collection with this Mayo team a very powerful unit indeed, underpinned by a strong Sarsfields presence. A Community Coffee Morning takes place on Friday, May 2nd, from 11am to 1pm in the Arts Centre. Lift access available. All welcome for a cuppa and a chat. Free Adult English Conversation Classes for Parents take place at St Joseph's Community College, Charlestown on Thursday mornings 9.40 to 10.30am, beginning on May 1st. All welcome. To register, email teresacoleman@msletb.ie or text 085-8453717. There was a good turnout at the weekly bridge game held in Walsh's Bar, Charlestown on Wednesday, April 9th, and the following were the winners: 1st, Carmel Moffitt and Hilary McCrohan; 2nd, Hilary McDonag and Tom Ginty; 3rd, Noelle Spellman and Ruth Connor; 4th, Paddy and Patricia Colleran  The weekly game continues on Wednesday nights at 8pm in Walsh's Bar with new members most welcome. The winners of the 25 Card Drive held in the Yeats County Inn, Curry on Tuesday night, April 22nd, were: 1st, Darby and Breege Leonard; 2nd, Miko Sheridan and Vera Scally. The raffle winners were Mary Costello, Breege Leonard and Darby Leonard. The gme takes place every Tuesday night at 9pm and all are welcome. Activator Pole and Chair Exercise Class takes place in the Charlestown Arts Centre from 12 noon to 1pm on Friday, May 2nd. Charlestown Sarsfields recorded a comprehensive 3-11 to 1-8 victory over neighbours Swinford in round one of the Mayo Under-16 Development League played recently. The Sarsfields lads played very well on the night and seized control of the game from an early stage with a couple of first-half goals giving them the impetus to drive on and this they duly did as they never looked like ceding control at any stage. A fine start to the campaign for the team and management and one they will be looking to build on as the challenges ramp up in the coming weeks. The two semi-finals in the 2025 Honour of the Village darts competition hosted by Walsh's Bar in Charlestown are expected to take place in the coming week.  The last four are very much there on merit with reigning champions Glann/Sinolane being perhaps the form team in the competition as they have been very impressive in getting to this stage of the competition. They are expected to face a stern test however against a very good and well-balanced Lowpark side skippered by the veteran Padraig Kivlehan who knows a thing or two about setting out a team having won the competition numerous times back in the halcyon days of the 1980s and 1990s.  Lowpark have been very much the dark horses of the competition to date and they are quietly confident of causing an upset with all the smart money still being on Glann/Sinolane to make it through to the finals. The other semi-final also has plenty of intrigue and interest around it as Hagfield (2) powered by the Duke comes face to face with another team with a long and proud tradition in the competition, Lavey Beg, who have also rolled back the years and become a force once again in the competition as one harks back to the days when the late Pat Caulfield used to manage the team and inspire them to past successes.  This is a difficult game to call with Lowpark, perhaps, holding a slight edge but it could go either way hence the great excitement being felt by players and supporters of both teams who march to the ochie with big expectations of qualifying for the final proper with large crowds expected to descend on the splendidly appointed venue for two games that promise much in the way of drama and tension.  There will be a full report in next week's issue of results and a date for the final as all darts enthusiasts gear up for some emotional rollercoaster during the next week or so. Life after bereavement can feel very lonely. Trained facilitators conduct a weekly bereavement support meeting at the Family Centre, Knock Shrine, each Wednesday at 11am. There is also a special meeting for bereaved partners /spouses on the first Thursday of each month at 11am. No appointment needed. Further information from Monica Morley at 094-9375320. Well done to Annie and Katie Maye, c/o Gary Maye, who scooped the Curry GAA lotto jackpot of €3,600 in the weekly draw held on Monday night, April 21st, when the numbers drawn were 2, 4, 20 and 24. The winners of the three €20 weekly prizes were Patricia Duffy, Malachy Maher and Enda Walsh. Next week's jackpot will revert to €2,000 and the draw will take place on Monday night, April 28th. Tickets can be bought in a number of local outlets or via the club's Facebook page. Would you like to run, walk or jog in the Mayo.ie Western People Women's Mini-Marathon in Castlebar on Sunday, May 4th, or the VHI Women's Mini-Marathon in Dublin on Sunday, June 1st?  If so, Mayo-Roscommon Hospice would love to hear from you. Please help those living with life-limiting illnesses in your community. Call 094-9388666 or email info@hospice.ie. There was a good turnout at the weekly darts competition held in Walsh's Bar, Charlestown, on Easter Sunday night, April 20th. The Dynamo and the Egg fought it out in another intriguing instalment of the weekly classic. Governor Gus was the referee par excellence and did a fine job ensuring both men adhered to the code of behaviour as laid down by the PDC.  The Egg blasted out of the blocks and took the first set in breakneck fashion, reeling off three legs on the bounce to surge into a one-set lead. He backed this up in set two as he continued to pummel the treble twenty bed with unerring accuracy and it didn't take him long to stretch his lead to two sets as the Dynamo struggled to match the levels being displayed by his opponent.  The third set was a much more even contest as the Dynamo began to find some semblance of form. The Egg's level remained high however, so much so they shared the first four legs, which resulted in a fifth leg decider with everything on the line in terms of defeat and victory.  The Egg paused before striding to the ochie as he weighed up a finish of 116 with a number of different options available to him on how to finish and thus close out the match. He went the scenic route, firing his first two darts into the treble eighteen and treble eight beds respectively to leave one dart at double ten as the crowd roared in approval.  He fixed that steely glare on the double as he released his final dart in the direction of the elusive double ten. It never wavered from its intended flight path as it landed plum in the middle of the bed to set off emotional scenes as Casey fell to the floor in delight with his supporters in full voice as they chanted their hero's name to the high heavens.  The Dynamo, while disappointed, was first on the premises to offer a congratulatory hand as the Egg celebrated his second victory of the season and one which meant an awful lot to him judging by the manner of his long and much-deserved celebrations. A fitting end to a good contest with the Egg's victory moving him up one place in the rankings to number seven. Western news delivered directly to your inbox A Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (Medicare UCC) is set to open its doors in Lake Macquarie this month in a bid to ease pressure on John Hunter Hospital Following an Expression of Interest (EOI) process led by the Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network the facility will be operational at the Charlestown Medical and Dental Centre from late November It’ll provide treatment for serious but non-life-threatening conditions “Many people in my electorate have made it clear that access to affordable good quality healthcare is their number one priority,” Shortland MP Pat Conroy said “The Charlestown Medicare UCC will address gaps in the health services available locally “Residents in our community will be able to access fully bulk-billed medical care at the clinic without needing to make an appointment “Through saving the Hunter’s GP Access After Hours (GPAAH) service expanding the number of GPs who can practice here and establishing Medicare Urgent Care Clinics the Albanese government is demonstrating its commitment to improving everyone’s health outcomes.” The Charlestown Medicare UCC – which will be open extended hours seven days a week – is predicted to lessen the burden at the neighbouring John Hunter Hospital more than 35% of visits to the hospital were for semi-urgent or non-urgent conditions “There have been almost 140,000 presentations to the 20 existing Medicare UCCs in New South Wales since the first clinics opened in the state in July 2023,” federal Minister for Health Mark Butler said “Almost a third of these visits were on a weekend… and 20% were after 5pm on a weekday “People living in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie will be able to get the care they need from doctors and nurses without having to wait at the John Hunter “The Charlestown Medicare Urgent Care Clinic will make a significant difference to the local community accessible care outside of normal GP hours without having to reach for your wallet.” Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon admitted the government was proud to address healthcare gaps in the region “We’ve already restored GP Access After Hours at the John Hunter Hospital to its full operational hours and reopened the clinic at the Calvary Mater Hospital,” she said Novocastrians will have even more access to free where the only card you need is your Medicare card.” “This latest facility will help reduce stress on our struggling public hospital system at the moment,” he said “I know the clinic in Cessnock has had more than 10,000 visits in the first 12 months the people around the Lake Macquarie part of the Hunter electorate will now have another choice.” A Charlestown woman is kick-starting 2025 in the best possible fashion she’s vowed to live life to the fullest and soak up the “little things” after discovering she’d won $100,000 in the Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot draw this week The Lake Macquarie resident held the first prize winning entry in draw 10915 When an official from The Lott revealed her bounty the local experienced an outpouring of joyful emotions confessing she couldn’t hold back the tears “I never thought I’d win anything like this “This means so much… I’m shaking like crazy “I’m home alone with my two dogs right now “I’ve got to ring my husband and tell him the news “I was having a great morning before you called… and this has just topped it off “We’re going to do all the little things now Her winning entry of 10 random numbers was purchased at Nextra Kotara in Garden City Westfield Manager Lori Hofman shared she was over the moon to hear her outlet had sold another major dividend “It was only two weeks ago that we sold a division one winning ticket in Saturday Lotto “After owning our outlet for more than 20 years but nothing like the two we’ve had in the past fortnight “Let’s hope the winning tickets keep coming.” The Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot prize is now $4.12 million for draw 1695 while the Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot prize is $9.86 million for draw 10916 Summer Bruce and Maddison Chicken have all played development league this season Picture by Jonathan CarrollThey won't be playing finals this weekend but Rob Thomas believes Charlestown District Cricket Club's development teams have struck a winning formula Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThomas is the manager of Charlestown's two sides playing development league which replaced fifth grade and is used as an introduction to the Newcastle District Cricket Association (NDCA) grade system He is determined to debunk the perception that the development league is only for fathers and sons and has made a concerted effort to get more women and girls involved this season 'It's for the fathers and sons'," Thomas said We got a team together last season and we prioritised people being included and having fun rather than aiming for a win we had a vacancy which was at last minute and I turned to my daughter and said "Then it grew from there as people heard about other girls being involved." A mix of Charlestown District Cricket Club development league players Picture by Jonathan CarrollCharlestown fielded one development league side last summer they expanded to two teams in the 12-side competition Thomas was proud to have Charlestown set a club record of four women and girls playing development league in one round "My vision has been to actually change the thinking that it's a development league which includes everyone and shifting the language from people inadvertently calling it fathers and sons to actually this is development league so this includes women as well," Thomas said "Then it has really positive effects that stretch beyond the game The positive effects of the dinner-time conversations when Amy is absolutely thrilled that she caught someone off her brother's bowling "That breaks down those little barriers of my sister is just my little sister she's actually now your teammate who has just got you a wicket Thomas hopes Charlestown will have three teams to be able to offer more women and girls the opportunity to also develop their games "Our philosophy has been getting the girls to be part of it in a meaningful way and what's been really encouraging is seeing both teams being enthusiastic about girls and women playing and taking that as a serious commitment to them being included in the sport," Thomas said Picture by Jonathan CarrollCharlestown are not the only club calling on women and girls to play in what has traditionally been a male-dominated space but Thomas wants to see numbers keep growing "I'm hoping that we can collectively use development league that it will just be a more common space for young women to consider and to enter and to be seen as equals," Thomas said "I think it is a great opportunity that is sitting there for not just Charlestown but for the whole of the district." Pene Thomas's introduction to cricket came when daughter Amy and son Michael "I came into this as a mum about three or four years ago," Pene said Then Rob took over as manager for the dev league and also as the equipment officer for Charlestown junior cricket they were involved in cricket the whole week and I started getting a bit irritated that I was scoring and not actually having fun Pene now plays for Wallsend in the NDCA's midweek T20 women's competition which gave her the opportunity to team up with both Amy and Michael "It's been extremely supportive and Rob's been really pushing to include the women and the girls and the emphasis in the team is about everybody having a go but we try to make sure that everybody has the chance to play." who will line up for Charlestown in the Newcastle Junior Cricket Association (NJCA) stage 2 girls under-13 semi-finals this weekend has enjoyed the challenge of playing in a senior competition "It definitely challenges you because you're not used to playing with boys who are also quite a few levels higher than you," Amy said described it as and "eye-opening experience" but one that has helped develop her game "It's definitely improved my skills," Bruce said It's a great way to spend your Saturday afternoon." Bruce and Chicken play for Charlestown Junior Cricket Club in an all-girls under-14 team in the NJCA under-13 division 2 mixed competition They finished fourth and will play another Charlestown side in this weekend's semi-finals There is not yet an established stage three (over 13) all-girls competition in NJCA or as part of an all-girls team in a mixed competition The development league has offered the girls another opportunity to play and to strengthen their skill set "It's been a really fun and good experience," Cutro said "I reckon it's a good experience for girls in general because it gets them in front of a different ball and different competition "But it's just all-round really chill and really fun and if you drop a ball or bowl a wide Renee Valentine is a sports journalist with more than 20 years of experience in Newcastle. She is passionate about increasing the visibility of sportswomen in the media. Got a sports story, email Renee at r.valentine@newcastleherald.com.au More from SportNewsletters & AlertsView allDaily A .boston.gov website belongs to an official government organization in the City of Boston was recently released to share progress the City has made in the neighborhood Read about three of the projects featured in the report In February 2025, the PAC released Progress Report: Charlestown an interactive storymap highlighting the status of major public investments the City is making in the neighborhood.  The projects highlighted in the report are informed by PLAN: Charlestown a comprehensive neighborhood plan published in September 2023 following four years of community engagement The storymap features eight sections: Mobility we’re excited to spotlight three of the many city investments included in the storymap Ryan Playground has been a staple of the Charlestown community for over a century due to its unique waterfront location on the Mystic River this community treasure is particularly vulnerable to flooding and contributes to a greater flood pathway for the rest of the neighborhood the City launched the $25 million Ryan Playground improvement project to mitigate climate risk and ensure the playground can serve generations of Charlestown families to come The project is supported by both the City’s capital budget and the Charlestown Community Impact Fund “We’re excited that the Ryan Playground renovations reflect the priorities and vision of the Charlestown community,” said Liza Meyer “Residents emphasized the need for both active and passive recreation and preserving waterfront views of the Mystic River—priorities that are at the heart of this design From new multi-use fields and a revitalized hockey rink to shaded seating and a waterfront promenade We look forward to delivering a park that will serve Charlestown for generations to come.” The project’s design was supported and shaped by community feedback from numerous local organizations including the Charlestown Youth Sports Association and the Mystic River Watershed Association.   The anticipated park opening is fall 2026.  The City of Boston is working closely with the MBTA to improve bus service through targeted transit priority measures These efforts aim to make bus travel faster and more consistent—especially in areas where riders face the worst delays By focusing on key corridors and high-ridership routes the City and MBTA are creating a more dignified and dependable experience for bus passengers.   One example is the new Bill Russell Bridge, a critical gateway into Charlestown. The new bridge’s design includes an inbound bus lane as a dedicated transit priority feature. With construction scheduled to be completed in spring 2025, this long-planned improvement will soon provide dedicated space for buses enhancing travel time reliability for thousands of riders commuting into downtown Boston These mobility improvements are in line with PLAN: Charlestown which replaced the North Washington Street Bridge earned its name in October 2024 in honor of civil rights activist and Celtics legend William Felton ‘Bill’ Russell Russell’s achievements didn’t stop on the court he participated in the first player boycott of a game as a civil rights protest after two of his teammates were refused service at a restaurant Russell went on to become an active member of the Civil Rights Movement attending the March on Washington and supporting the creation of an integrated basketball camp in Mississippi.  “As this bridge plays a vital role in connecting communities and literally bringing people together it is fitting that it is named after Bill Russell a man who did those very things throughout his life,” said Monica Tibbits-Nutt “Our hope is that the thousands of people who cross this bridge on a daily basis are reminded of the indelible legacy that he left behind not only in the city of Boston but across the country The City is making a major investment in renovating BCYF Clougherty Pool a public pool operated by Boston Centers for Youth & Families the renovations prioritized the facility’s modernization and increased accessibility The pool reopened in summer 2024 and renovations on the bathhouse and roof terrace will be complete in summer 2025.   “The beloved BCYF Clougherty Pool is a vital community resource that has been serving Charlestown families for generations and connect with neighbors,” said Marta Rivera “The recent renovations demonstrate Mayor Wu’s commitment to investing in our neighborhoods and creating spaces where families can thrive." The renovations to Clougherty Pool are part of a larger investment the City is making in modernizing the 18 city-owned pools. The Mayor is committed not only to ensuring Boston’s youth have access to pools, but increasing access to free swim lessons through Swim Safe so they can enjoy the City's pools and coastlines safely To read more from the Planning Advisory Council click here.  Getting treatment for an illness or injury when your GP is closed has traditionally meant a trip to emergency. But the Hunter is about to get a second Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, as part of government efforts to give families more options and ease pressure on hospitals. Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueFirefighters say it is unclear what caused a pile of cardboard boxes to ignite in a store around 4.30pm sparking an evacuation call throughout the shopping centre and the activation of internal sprinklers Emergency crews were called to the first-level store as the centre's internal suppression sprinklers drenched the fire Around six trucks carrying 22 firefighters responded to the call but found the blaze was extinguished on arrival There were reports of light smoke in the area as shoppers and employees were evacuated The game was called off five minutes later as both players laid on the pitch receiving attention while waiting for ambulances Callen had a cut near his eye treated and scans revealing the fractures but he was discharged that night with no further issues "He's got concussion but nothing more major than that thankfully," Weston president Rod Henderson said on Monday will stand him down for at least two games I'd say She's very cautious and did a great job there yesterday." Charlestown led 1-0 when the referee called time on a match crucial for both sides Weston are ninth on 22 points and need victory to keep their slim finals hopes afloat if 75 per cent or more of normal time has been played then the score at the time of abandonment may stand The collision came 63 and a half minutes in meaning 70.55 per cent of regulation time had passed play can resume from the point of the stoppage at a later date with the same line-ups That was the case in 2022 when Weston keeper Stuart Plant suffered a neck injury against Broadmeadow in the 46th minute Northern NSW Football has "absolute discretion" on how the game will be handled and clubs were awaiting official word on Monday Maitland can go clear at the top of the NPL women's competition with a result against Charlestown at Lisle Carr Oval on Tuesday (8pm) The Magpies are equal with Newcastle Olympic on 37 points and ahead on goals scored only Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInCHARLESTOWN, Ind. (WAVE) -A fire at a warehouse in Charlestown, Indiana, shut down several roads and caused significant damage. The fire broke out on Tuesday, April 22, around 1 p.m. The business is called Pace Transport Services. Several roads in the area were shut down to keep people safe. Tri-Township Fire & Rescue said no one was injured in the fire. Just after 5:30, the department said all units had been cleared from the scene. All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueScott Thomas Burns who was "lucky" not to have been shot by police who found him hiding in a backyard at Hamilton North wanted by police and had been bingeing on methamphetamine for a week when he went on a wild crime spree in June View +8 PhotosPolice had been looking for Burns since June 1 after he went to the house of a rival at Edgeworth revved the engine of his motorbike and did a burnout on the front lawn before returning a short time later armed with a shotgun A man inside came out armed with a metal pole and confronted Burns Burns pointed the shotgun directly at the victim and the pair yelled and gestured aggressively at each other while Burns pumped the shotgun and discharged rounds onto the ground but police were called and launched an investigation when Burns blew through a red light on the Pacific Highway at Charlestown in full view of a marked police vehicle triggering a pursuit around Charlestown before Burns jumped from the car and took off on foot Police gave chase and followed him to Frederick Street near the entrance to the carpark of Charlestown Square With a number of cars stopped at the intersection or lined up to enter or leave the shopping centre, Burns began frantically racing around, jumping on the hood of a car, pointing a black pistol at motorists and police and smashing windscreens. "F--- off or I'll shoot ya," Burns repeatedly told police who screamed at him to get on the ground and drop the gun. After two unsuccessful carjacking attempts, which were captured on video by other motorists, Burns fled into the shopping centre and up a stairwell, telling police chasing after him "I'll f---ing shoot" before they lost sight of him. Burns disappeared and police searched the shopping centre before receiving a call from security that three people had been carjacked at gunpoint in the carpark on level 3. A few minutes after he had given police the slip, Burns raced towards the group, who had been at the shopping centre to celebrate a birthday, pointed a gun at them and screamed "get out of the car, get out of the car now". Petrified, the trio backed away and Burns took off, stealing the car and a handbag and phone inside. Burns then crashed into another car that was waiting in line at the exit and then drove through a boom gate, causing it to snap off. He escaped the shopping centre, but police began looking for him and received information that he had been hanging out at a unit at Acacia Avenue, North Lambton. Two days after the carjackings, a surveillance team spotted Burns at the unit but he left before police could get specialist tactical officers in place. He was followed to a house at Emerald Street, Hamilton North, where the specialist police arrived and surrounded the building. But Burns jumped the fence into the backyard of a home in Clyde Street and it was there that he was found by police crouched down in a narrow space between the fence and a garage. He was clutching a loaded shotgun that he raised and pointed at police who again told him to "drop the gun and get on the ground". It wasn't until police hit him repeatedly with bean bag rounds that Burns fell to the ground and dropped the gun. Police moved in, grabbing the gun and arresting Burns before they found the black pistol, an imitation firearm, hidden in his pants. When asked if the shotgun he had just pointed at police was loaded, Burns replied: "Yeah, it's loaded but the safety is on". Burns is currently serving a revocation of parole until 2026 and on Friday, Judge Peter McGrath jailed him for a maximum of nine years, with a non-parole period of six years, making him eligible for parole in February, 2030. "In many ways he is lucky that he is alive to face sentencing rather than being the subject of a coronial inquiry into his shooting death by police," Judge McGrath said. We care about the protection of your data. Read our Privacy Policy. Pictures by Jonathan CarrollElla Joyce launched an early rocket and produced a late wonder goal as Charlestown Azzurri secured their first NPLW Northern NSW championship with a spectacular 3-2 win over Newcastle Olympic in testing conditions at Darling Street Oval on Sunday Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe five-goal thriller was played from end to end in at times torrential rain and cyclonic winds The game was only six minutes old when Joyce beat two Olympic defenders to the ball and unleashed a heat-seeker from the edge of the 18-yard box that rocketed into the top left corner of the net who had finished third and beat defending champions Broadmeadow then premiers Maitland in do-or-die finals to book a maiden grand final appearance had Olympic under early pressure with a high press Both goalkeepers made clutch saves before Olympic found an equaliser through Marion Dunbabin on the stroke of half-time with a neat finish at the back post after Sophie Walmsley had muscled her way into the box and played a pinpoint pass a last-minute signing by Olympic this season made a goal line save in the second minute and denied Joyce from point-blank range in the 32nd minute backing up from half a game in reserve grade blocked Elodie Dagg in the 18th minute then Dunbabin in the 23rd minute who finished the season second to Maitland by goal difference and were playing in their fourth straight grand final came out of the sheds much sharper and captain Jemma House had Blanch leaping high to punch a long-range shot over the crossbar in the 54th minute the rain was sheeting down sideways and the game was an arm wrestle who along with Jets veteran Gema Simon joined Azzurri in a huge mid-season boost headed in off a corner in the 63rd minute to restore Charlestown's one-goal lead House had the chance to equalise from the penalty spot in the 71st minute after defender Chloe Martin clipped Dunbabin in the area but the former A-League striker put her shot agonisingly just wide of the left post House was booked for a challenge on Simon then Joyce for a sliding tackle on centre-back Jess Evans who was playing in 100th first-grade game for Olympic as both sides played desperately for the win Joyce then gave Azzurri a 3-1 lead with 12 minutes remaining when she produced a stunning outside-of-the-foot shot that curled in off the left post after a tireless Jess Gentle had pressured defender Georgia Cook into turning over the ball just outside her own 18-yard box Ayres almost had another goal in the 86th minute with an acrobatic bicycle kick that was struck with venom into the arms of Whitton and had the crowd in raptures Sophie McDonald pulled a goal back for Olympic with two minutes remaining with a low shot through several sets of legs from the top of Azzurri's box but the hosts could not find another to send the game into extra-time Joyce earned the inaugural Joey Peters Medal for player of the final and then with the heart," Azzurri coach Heath Whyte said of the championship-winning performance "I said to the girls in February: 'We can do this.' Our objective was to disrupt this competition and the girls have certainly achieved that a key to our success has been [strength and conditioning coach] Colin Sanctuary changing our style of play a little and working on that strength and conditioning piece "That was our philosophy and it's paid off today." Whyte acknowledged the lethal efforts of Joyce Ayres and Gentle up front but was also full of praise for what was a solid defensive display led by the experienced centre-back pairing of Simon and Kirstyn Pearce "We've ground out probably three really good wins in this final series," Whyte said We've defended the hell out of this finals series and defence is just as important as putting that ball in the back of the net Joyce was one of several new faces in Charlestown's squad this season as Whyte took the first-grade reins that's when it matters and it's unreal to get those goals tonight," Joyce said post-match "We didn't think it was possible at the start of the season especially with the mid-season slump that we had but I'm so proud of the girls and how we got here who turns 22 this week and scored 33 goals in first grade this campaign travels up from Castle Hill to play with Azzurri "I was just looking for something different so it's a commitment but it's been definitely worth it for me," Joyce said The 21-year-old has relished playing alongside the likes of Ayres "They're such good role models for the young players and to have someone of that talent is experience is great to learn from." It was another heart-breaking loss for Olympic who caused plenty of headaches for Azzurri with penetrating runs down both wings and balls into the box Olympic have played in every grand final since joining the competition in 2020 "Azzurri came out of the blocks pretty early and got that early goal," Olympic coach Craig Atkins said "We were obviously very nervous and lacked a bit of composure early their fightback was phenomenal and we had a number of chances there "We could've been up at half-time to be honest I thought the momentum was with us at half-time and we started playing quite well There were a few key moments in that second half but full credit to the girls to keep fighting unavailabilities and skeleton numbers at times It's just a shame we couldn't go one better tonight." CENTRAL Nwecastle coach Adam Bettridge thought he was looking at a pack of ghosts in the sheds at half-time of the Newcastle Rugby League qualifying semi-final against South Newcastle Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLeft with only two players on the bench after serious injuries to winger Ty Fletcher (hamstring) and Tom Madden (knee) Now the Butcher Boys are a win away from playing in a grand final Central stormed home over the top of Souths 26-10 at Townson Oval despite playing the second half with 15 fit players and a makeshift right edge "They showed plenty of ticker when there were a heap of reasons to go the other way," Bettridge said they are a good group of mates off the field They have more of a purpose on the field than just being a footy team I came in the sheds and it was like they were a pack of ghosts We challenged them to dig deep and make it a famous victory for the club." Central will take on minor premiers Maitland in the major semi-final at Maitland Sportsground on Saturday second-rower Ethan Campbell was put on report for a high tackle on Reeve Howard and centre Tyron Neane will also face scrutiny for a lifting tackle "We have to adopt a next-man-up mentality," Bettridge said "Our reserve grade are in the semis so someone will get a chance there "I don't think we have too much to worry about re the players on report We will see how that plays out and reassess on Tuesday "We will have to be better again to beat Maitland We gave away too many six-agains and let them come out of yardage way to easily We have to be better at that and we need to sharpen up our attack "You can't give Maitland anything otherwise they will really make you pay." Front-rower Frank-Paul Nu'uausala was put on report for a crusher tackle who did most of the play-making with Sam Clune (broken arm) sidelined The five-eighth was sent to the sinbin for a slinging tackle on Isaiah Olsen which resulted in the Central halfback landing on his neck and shoulder Two minutes later Olsen held up a ball for Campbell to crash over for his second try and a 20-10 lead Tyler Doney iced the win in the 77th minute Ritter and Doney were strong up front for the Butcher Boys Souths missed Clune's direction and kicking game His replacement max Altus started on the bench Without a genuine No.7 they failed to nail the end of their sets and were tackled on the last at least four times before Altus was introduced just before the break James Gardiner, chief football and rugby writer at the Newcastle Herald. Picture Sproule Sports FocusCharlestown Azzurri are through to their first NPLW Northern NSW grand final after beating premiers Maitland 1-0 at Cooks Square Park on Saturday Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Magpies were attempting to reach their first championship decider as well but went behind early in the preliminary final and could not find an equaliser had not beaten Maitland this year and the breakthrough victory came after they had also defeated defending premiers Broadmeadow in the elimination semi-final for the first time in 2024 we've got four grades in grand finals next week - 13s ressies and first grade," Azzurri coach Heath Whyte said We felt we could've rolled them a couple of times and just gave it away cheaply in key moments We had a plan and they executed it brilliantly." Waiting in the grand final at Darling Street Oval on September 15 (5pm) are Newcastle Olympic who have played in every championship decider since joining the competition in 2020 It has been an at times up and down campaign for Azzurri but they have hit their straps at the right time "It's something that you've got to bring together at the right time the fitness strength and conditioning piece is something we started at the beginning but today was all about execution of strategy I think our fitness prevailed in the end and that gave us the engine to get set quickly in defence and keep them out." The midseason additions of A-League players Melina Ayres and Gema Simon have proven a boost and both had impact on Saturday assisted the goal when she skilfully evaded Maitland's defence with an outside-of-the-foot flick then crossed into the box and the path of an unmarked Ella Joyce to finish at the back post with a volley in the 13th minute The goal took Joyce's tally to 31 this season and proved the matchwinner "Both teams had their chances but I thought we defended really well," Whyte said "The girls stuck to our strategy and definitely our composure in defence and getting organised quickly disrupted Maitland's go-forward." but were unable to find the back of the net for just the second time this season after succumbing 1-0 to Olympic in the qualifying final Shot-stopper Annabella Thornton diffused an Azzurri opportunity in the 32nd minute with Joyce charging towards her after being played in behind the defence then tipped a shot of Ayres' out in the 36th minute and denied the Jets' sharpshooter again in 60th minute Maitland centre-back Alesha Clifford headed into the arms of Malli Blanch off a corner in the 35th minute The NPLW's leading scorer Bronte Peel returned for the Magpies after being unable to play the qualification final through illness The 22-year-old had a long-range shot tipped into the bar by Blanch in the 40th minute hit the woodwork again in the 78th minute and put another over the goals in the latter stages Paige Kingston-Hogg glanced a shot just wide of the right post two minutes before half-time after a great ball from Peel found the former national league midfielder on the edge of the 18-yard box "I thought we played really well and I was very proud of what the players delivered," Maitland coach Keelan Hamilton said "Charlestown were a threat on the transition moment throughout but I thought we did a good job of limiting that and largely controlled the fixture We hit the crossbar three times and missed a one-on-one Maitland claimed the premiership by goal difference from Olympic The Magpies also claimed the Charity Shield and League Cup this year "Everyone's a little bit disappointed now but give them 24 hours or so and I think they'll be able to look back and realise that we've actually had an outstanding season and the way that the fixtures backended for us maybe just caught up with us at the last end of it our performances the last two weeks have been really solid We can be really proud of ourselves and as a coach I'm extremely proud of the playing group We've had a fantastic season and they can look back with a lot of pride." is opening the doors to its new Charlestown Square store next week the Swedish multinational clothing retailer will welcome shoppers into its updated 1,522 square-metre store a space it says is in keeping with its “global store program” 3,000 sq/m space within Charlestown Square less than a decade ago in July 2016 It opted to shut the doors on this site on 22 June 2023 dispersing its team members to other locations in the interim It has since moved to a new location on Level 2 the fresh store will include open window displays and self-checkout facilities It follows a move by sporting retailer Rebel which opened the doors to its newly-refurbished store on 14 December 2023 The space was transformed into the brand’s rCX model focusing on “in-store customer experience” including in-store basketball and soccer experience zones The pair join more than 280 stores that lease retail space at the GPT site Charlestown Square has undergone several upgrades in its 45-year tenure The Pearson Street address is the largest shopping and entertainment destination in the Newcastle and Hunter region The structure fits within Lake Macquarie City Council’s vision for Charlestown as the LGA’s ‘city’ – a hub for retail Its plans for Charlestown include The Charlestown Multi-Purpose Centre other community buildings and parkland within a walkable distance to the commercial centre The postcode will also include a new $240 million aged care facility near the commercial precinct Michael Penn says he is facing eviction from his Charlestown apartment because the property manager claims his dog barks too loudly and too much Demerius Calhoun says he too is being threatened with eviction in the same complex known as The Graphic Lofts — because he allegedly caused flooding in the apartments below by leaving a window partly open The two residents — both Black men who’ve spent time in prison — deny the allegations they say they are being targeted because of the color of their skin and time behind bars “They want me out,” Penn told GBH News recently “It sucks when I move into a situation where I’m happy to be and for no reason other than the fact that I’m Black or I have a record or Penn and Calhoun join a handful of formerly incarcerated residents who say they are unfairly being forced out of their homes at the Graphic Lofts an upscale complex that bills itself online as “sophisticated luxury,’’ with a fitness center The property managers would not speak about any individual case but said they only take action against tenants that are disruptive or cause damage a nonprofit that helps formerly incarcerated people in the Boston area says the property was previously willing to house people with criminal records She says Justice 4 Housing has placed about a dozen people in the complex over the last two years or so aided by city and state subsidized vouchers her clients are getting warnings and eviction notices based on unfair allegations like smoking in the building or speaking aggressively to staff so far have all been people with darker skin “Everybody that Justice 4 Housing put in [Graphic Lofts] is getting these letters that are saying that they’re being terrible tenants They’re just making things up,” Credle said It’s anything and everything they can put their hands on and they bombard them with legal letters.” The property is owned by a limited liability company called GWL Direct 32 Cambridge LLC and managed by Willow Bridge Property Company a Texas-based company that touts itself as one of the largest multifamily property managers in the country Officials for the companies did not respond to requests for an interview In a written statement sent via their law firm Turk and Milone management said it is “committed to providing its residents with safe “when a resident fails to comply with their lease and interferes with the other resident’s basic rights to peacefully live in their apartments Graphic Lofts is required to respond to support the community This includes “when residents smoke in their apartments or cause significant damage to the property,’’ according to the statement provided by attorney Jeffrey Turk “While management provides residents with warnings and opportunities to resolve lease violations when residents continue to refuse to comply with basic lease obligations and infringe on the rights of other community members at times legal actions must unfortunately be taken to protect the rights and safety of our community.” Penn says he received a letter in January from the building’s lawyers saying his lease was being cancelled in part because the dog has been “barking very loudly throughout the day and night and has caused various noise disturbances on the property.” He also was accused of being aggressive toward staff members He denies the allegations and filed a complaint with the mayor’s fair housing office and another with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination “I believe [Willow Bridge] discriminated against me on the basis of my race by treating me more harshly than other White tenants and threatening to take away my emotional support animal,” he wrote in the commission complaint a GBH News reporter knocked on the door of Penn’s apartment and was welcomed inside Penn’s dog Sasha was lying in a cage across the room — not barking Calhoun says is also being threatened with eviction because he left a window partly open in his living room one night when he was gone this led to frozen pipes in his kitchen about 20 feet away causing a damaging flood in the apartments below GBH News saw no water damage in the apartment Calhoun said the landlord broke down the door to get in and punched several holes in the walls Calhoun says he could not use his apartment for several days and the shower was broken for weeks Property management did not respond to GBH’s questions about Calhoun’s apartment Calhoun says that until recently he had a job where he was “working 60 70 hours a week.” That made him “the perfect tenant because you get your money on time and you never see me when the property manager changed staffing in the building Now his kitchen table is piled with threatening letters cease and desist orders and eviction warnings “These people are stressing me out,” he said who asked that GBH News not use his name for fear of losing his housing said the management company has peppered him with letters accusing him of smoking in his apartment — although he doesn’t smoke He claims company inspectors conducted an unannounced visit “I was in the apartment sleeping and they just barged right in,” he said “They came right into my apartment without knocking.” “I don’t really want to push the issue because I don’t want them to harass me any more.” He said he also doesn’t want to move out Another client Credle helped house is Tyrone Clark a Black man who was wrongfully convicted and spent 47 years in prison He was released in 2021 and moved into the Graphic Lofts in 2024 Clark received notice from the management that his lease would be terminated because of alleged inappropriate behavior by him and unnamed guests Clark has filed a counter claim saying he has been targeted along with other formerly incarcerated tenants — but he has also moved out of the building Credle said Justice 4 Housing is trying to move many of its clients to other buildings if possible “They don’t want to stay there after being harassed and targeted,” she said Your essential daily newsletter delivering trusted news and can't miss programs from Boston and beyond Charlestown will be home to a new multi-million-dollar Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) station to better serve the needs of the community The NSW Government allocated $7.7m in the 2024/25 NSW State Budget to the Charles Street premises incorporating additional training facilities A long overdue project in the minds of many residents the design is scheduled to start in the upcoming financial year Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison admitted it was great news for local firefighters and the community “The existing station is almost 40 years old and has limited scope for expansion and modernisation,” she said “With local FRNSW personnel having the opportunity to provide feedback on the design I look forward to seeing the final building when it opens.” The state-of-the-art station will be designed to meet the demands of a modern firefighting workforce and adhere to FRNSW’s Clean Firefighter policy Funding is part of a $96.9 million capital investment in the Fire and Rescue NSW network in 2024-25 including other facilities at Badgerys Creek and Byron Bay “A new fire station at Charlestown is important for our operational readiness,” Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said “We are dedicated to improving our infrastructure to assist our members in the Lake Macquarie district “This latest facility will not only replace the old station but also provide our firefighters with modern amenities to better serve the public.” The NSW Government has also committed an additional $189.5 million in the 2024-25 NSW State Budget to guarantee the positions of 286 permanent firefighters whose jobs were not previously funded on an ongoing basis “We are rebuilding essential services across the state ensuring Fire and Rescue NSW can respond to emergencies and restoring job security for firefighters,” Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said “This new fire station will provide a modern base for Charlestown firefighters who play a critical frontline role in keeping the local community safe.” a 40-year-old man was allegedly stabbed with a broken bottle and assaulted by two men in Griffith Avenue A witness came to the assistance of the victim The injured 40-year-old was taken to the John Hunter Hospital in a serious but stable condition a 22-year-old went to Charlestown Police Station where he was arrested and charged with grievous bodily harm to person with intent He has been refused bail to appear in Newcastle Local Court today Police are asking anyone who witnessed the incident to contact Charlestown Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe store will open on Thursday Spanning across 1522 square metres on one level the store will include self-checkouts and a dedicated play table in the kids' section The H&M Charlestown store closed in mid-2023. It first opened in 2016 to significant fanfare and large crowds, with customers lined up from 3am To celebrate the re-opening H&M members will get 15 per cent off storewide and there will be a gift for every purchase on opening day H&M country sales manager Anna Baldwin said the fashion giant was excited to return to Charlestown Square and offer "a shopping destination where fashion is at the forefront" "We are committed to providing our customers with a premium shopping environment which is evident in this store opening," Ms Baldwin said innovators and educators are set to converge on Lake Macquarie later this year for an Australian-first Fab Lab conference exploring innovation will consist of five events from October 8 to 19 bringing together enthusiasts and professionals in the digital fabrication STEM and maker communities from across Asia and beyond Lake Macquarie mayor Kay Fraser said the conference would cement the city's standing as a destination for innovation Lake Macquarie is fast becoming a hub of progressive forward-thinking ideas and projects," she said "We know how important it is to embrace these concepts harness technology and upskill our workforce to help the city thrive into the future." said the program would feature industry leaders and cutting-edge technology with workshops it's a celebration of making that brings together the brightest minds in the Fab Lab network and the maker community," she said "We're expecting more than 300 people to attend with many travelling from outside the area and from overseas so it will be a fantastic boost to our city's visitor economy." The conference events will include a challenge for teams to create prototype solutions to local issues and the a summit for participants to share ideas Hunter Means Business is a weekly column proudly flying the flag for the region's economic sector, published every Tuesday. Got a tip? Email jamieson.murphy@newcastleherald.com.au Picture by Marina NeilAn amazing shot from beyond halfway by Ty Cousins has all but sealed Charlestown an NPL men's top-five finals spot and killed off Weston's hopes had a chance to equalise in the 83rd minute when Nigel Boogaard fouled Angelo Calfo close to goal Yuta Konagaya took the penalty but Ben McNamara made a great save low down to his right Cousins won the ball and fired a shot from inside his half over keeper Gerard Roebuck taking Azzurri to 36 points - six clear of sixth-placed Valentine - with two rounds left They also hold a 10-goal edge on Valentine and are 12 goals ahead of fifth-placed Olympic (33 points) Coach James Pascoe said catching Roebuck off his line was talked about before the restart and he knew Cousins could produce a spectacular goal "We'd spoken about the fact that they would be absolutely pressing everything which would leave space open in their half and draw their goalkeeper out," Pascoe the head of sport at Hunter Sport High School "But it's one thing to see it and another thing to execute it He's an ex-Hunter Sports High student so I knew what I was getting with Ty and has that ability to score a spectacular goal He's not a huge goalscorer but a scorer of really good goals and that's why I play him in the front third." Pascoe was relieved to get away with the points in an intense clash and as much as you want to be calm and try to keep the ball and starve them of possession it was much the case of us constantly clearing line and getting the ball into the our half." Azzurri have been playing with finals intensity through recent draws with leaders Broadmeadow (49 points) and in-form Edgeworth (42) to rediscover their form after a mid-season slump They now host ninth-placed Maitland on Sunday and finish away to Valentine "We'll aim for fourth and to do that we've probably got to win both our games," Pascoe said We've done a really good job the last month once we've got back to a normal schedule." Luke Callen (eye socket fractures) and Kieran Hayes who needs scans on a recurring hamstring problem Callen was injured in the head clash which brought a halt the Weston game last month The loss leaves Weston five points outside the top five and only a mathematical hope of making finals Craig Kerry is a sports reporter for the Newcastle Herald.