The move is set to see the state’s educators go from being among the worst to the best paid in the country.

Under the agreement, endorsed by the Teachers Federation Council, starting salaries will increase from $75,791 to $85,000, and payments for those at the top of the scale increase from $113,042 to $122,100 from 9 October.

It’s the most significant uplift in teachers’ salaries seen in NSW in almost three decades.

A restructured pay scale will now include seven steps ensuring a more rapid progression.

The Chris Minns government is hoping the pay increase will take pressure off working families who need a reliable public education system.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said the agreement marked a step in the right direction.

“I am so proud that today we are able to give teachers the pay rise they so urgently deserve,” she said.

“Just over five months ago, the Labor was elected with a mandate to sit down and negotiate a new deal for our teachers, and that is exactly what we have achieved.

“The endorsement of this agreement marks an important step forward for teachers, as well as for students and families, as we work together to rebuild the state’s public education system.”

NSW Teachers Federation acting president Henry Rajendra said the wage increase would benefit education as a whole.

“This historic advance has been won by thousands of teachers who campaigned tirelessly,” he explained.

“They are passionate about the teaching profession and absolutely committed to giving all kids a decent shot at life.

“Teachers will benefit from this agreement which will immediately begin tackling the teacher shortage. The ultimate beneficiaries are our children. Investing in teachers is investing in the future.”

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Just after 11.30pm on Sunday 11 June, 10 people – Nadene and Kyah McBride, Andrew and Lynan Scott, Kane Symons, Rebecca Mullen, Darcy Bulman, Zach Bray, Tori Cowburn and Angus Craig – were killed when the vehicle they were travelling in rolled at the roundabout on Wine Country Drive, near the Hunter Expressway off ramp, at Greta.

Several others suffered extensive injuries.

The incident also touched the lives of countless Australians, not just local residents.

Afterwards, the driver of the bus was charged with numerous offences, which are currently before the court.

Now, three months later, the NSW Government, in partnership with Cessnock City Council and Singleton Council, will stage the Memorial Service at the Singleton Showground on Saturday 21 October from 11am.

Members of the community are encouraged to attend.

“This [service] will allow everyone to come together to grieve, support one another and pay tribute to those affected by this unimaginable tragedy,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.

“It’ll provide an opportunity to recognise the courage and resilience of the frontline emergency service workers who attended the scene and treated patients in our hospitals, too.”

A ticket is not required to attend, and the event will be live-streamed on the NSW Government website.

“The support that continues to be provided to our community since this tragedy has been overwhelming,” Singleton mayor Sue Moore said.

“Many people’s lives have been affected and it’s important that we stay strong.

“The memorial will be a chance for our tight-knit community to rally together and remember all those lost in the accident and support each other.”

It’s a sentiment shared by Cessnock City mayor Jay Suvaal.

“So many people from our communities have been affected by this tragedy,” he said.

“The support shown for the families and victims, not just from locals but all around the nation, has been greatly appreciated.

“A memorial will be an important step in the long healing process… and reminds our residents that they’ll never walk alone, as our community looks after one another.”

Following the service, a free communal barbecue in partnership with local charitable organisations will be hosted at the showground.

The Hunter Valley Bus Tragedy Fund, administered by Rotary, received overwhelming aid from generous donors raising close to $1.5 million.

For the most up-to-date information on the Memorial Service, visit nsw.gov.au/huntermemorial

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Hunter Workers will come together on Sunday 17 September in a powerful display of support for the Australian Government’s Voice to Parliament.

At the inaugural Walk For Yes, the union members are expected to partake in a mass singalong rendition of the Aussie music legend’s You’re the Voice.

Supporters will gather at Newcastle Museum at 10.30am before proudly walking alongside their Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sisters and brothers to Foreshore Park.

“You’re the Voice is a song all about harnessing our collective power and walking together towards a better future for all, making it the ultimate anthem for our cause of enshrining a Voice to Parliament in the constitution,” Hunter Workers secretary Leigh Shears said.

“We’re excited to walk alongside Hunter employees and sing as one in support of the Voice.

“As unionists, we believe everyone deserves to be consulted about decisions and changes that affect us.

“The Voice to Parliament is what Australia needs to work together towards a better future.”

And, if you don’t know the verses, don’t worry, said Shears.

“We’ll distribute 1,000 lyric sheets before the crowd breaks into chorus singing You’re the Voice in a remarkable demonstration of solidarity,” he added.

“Plus, supporters will hear from inspiring speakers including Tracey Hamshaw, from the Justice Aunties; Luke Russell, chair of the Guraki Aboriginal Advisory Committee; and Tara Dever, Mindaribba Local Aboriginal Land Council CEO.

“The classic Farnham track has become the poignant anthem for the Yes campaign following the musician’s first-ever approval for the song to be used in a commercial.”

The Walk For Yes takes place four weeks before Australians will decide on 14 October whether to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the constitution and enshrine a consultative body.

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The revered former president was this week acknowledged for her incredible involvement in Australian football at her club, as well as the Hunter Central Coast region.

Sadly, McBride and her daughter Kyah were among several Roosters – including Andrew and Lynan Scott, Rebecca Mullen, Zach Bray, Kane Symons and Tori Cowburn – who died in a bus crash at Greta in June.

Singleton was also awarded the Spirit of AFL plaudit.

Two player medals will be named after McBride and Andrew Scott, too.

AFL general manager of women’s football Nicole Livingstone paid tribute to the highly-respected sportswoman known affectionately as Nads.

“A special call out to the family and friends of Nadene McBride, as well as all those from the Singleton Roosters and the Hunter Central Coast region who knew her,” she said.

“Nads’ contribution to the game and community was clearly profound and we know the community would still be doing it tough.

“Our thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved Nadene.”

Established in 2021, the nationwide AFLW Community Ambassador program recognises members from the football community who have been instrumental in facilitating and nurturing the remarkable growth of women and girls’ football.

Each representative receives a $1,000 grant from the Women’s Football Fund to donate to the club of their choice.

For McBride, the endowment and opportunity will be presented to the Roosters on her behalf.

Livingstone said the growth in popularity of women and girls’ football had been driven by the assistance of so many.

“On behalf of the AFL, I want to thank the individuals who’ve been recognised as well as all the wonderful people who are the lifeblood of community footy across the country,” she added.

NSW/ACT AFLW Community Ambassador 2023 citation

Nadene McBride (in memory) – Singleton Roosters FC

Nadene was a driving force of women’s football, having played a pivotal role in starting a women’s team. She developed, coached and created a wholesome family environment that has nurtured so many at the Singleton Roosters Australian Football Club (AFC).

She was a mentor to so many young girls and members of the club, supporting, encouraging and developing talented sportswomen in their journey. She was the lifeblood of the club, the heart, and a part of everyone’s family.

Nadene also played a pivotal role as the women’s coordinator on the NSW Masters committee and was a key organiser and liaison between this social competition and the broader Masters’ program.

“Nads” managed the NSW team last year in Adelaide and played for NSW at every National Carnival since Geelong in 2017. Beyond that though, she made a massive contribution to footy in general, especially in the Hunter region, having been a club president and mentor, representative coach and coach in the Sydney Swans Academy.

For more community stories:

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The head coach’s all-conquering Maitland Pickers was scheduled to tackle Illawarra champions Thirroul Butchers at the Maitland Regional Sportsground on Saturday 16 September.

But, the Tooheys Newcastle Rugby League (Real NRL) club received notification on Monday that its South Coast opponents had forfeited the clash, meaning the back-to-back Denton Engineering Cup titleholders would progress directly to this month’s grand final.

Lantry said Thirroul’s decision was a tough pill to swallow.

“We’ve been told it’s due to player availability,” he explained.

“However, it’s hugely disappointing for the Pickers.

“We had a massive day planned.

“The Maitland Blacks, who took out the Hunter Rugby crown, and the Maitland Magpies Football Club were attending; and we were keen to engage the Maitland Mustangs and their premiership basketball side.

“We wanted to stage a real community event, involving several successful local sporting groups.

“Now, it’s been taken away from us.

“No doubt, we would’ve attracted our biggest crowd of the season… on the back of what we’ve achieved, winning the competition in such a dominant display.

“We could have come back out in front of our home fans for the last time this year and hosted a number of other organisations in our community.

“It was the perfect chance to showcase them as well, particularly the union players and basketballers.

“We’ve been robbed of that.

“So, it leaves a bit of a sour taste in our mouth.

“Unfortunately, we can’t control that now.

“We’ll just focus on what we need to do in a week-and-a-half’s time.”

Lantry admitted he questioned where the President’s Cup was headed after the Butchers’ desertion.

“I’m really worried about the longevity of it,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.

“I don’t feel like every area’s invested in the concept the way they should be.

“Maybe playing it between the winners of the Real NRL and Ron Massey Cup is the best way to go moving forward.

“A fortnight after each competition ends, to find out who’s the premier team in the state.

“With no disrespect to the Peter McDonald premiers, it’s unlikely they’ll compete.

“They might win one in every 10 (games)… however, it is just not the standard that Newcastle and Sydney are currently at.

“I’m all for supporting bush footy but I believe if we want to do something, it needs to be a better format that’s capable of catering for all levels.”

Lantry expressed his concern over the workload, or lack of, for his players in the lead-up to the decider, too.

“When you talk about [player] welfare, we’ll have played six matches in three months,” he said.

“We really needed a game this weekend.

“So far, we’ve played three in the past seven weeks, six in the past 12.

“We’re suffering from a complete lack of rugby league.

“Yeah, you can train, but as we know, there’s nothing better than playing week-to-week.

“It is a real delicate situation for us to manage over the next fortnight; however, we’ll get on with it.

“But, as I said, there needs to be some serious discussions between each representative of the NSWRL – Newcastle, Sydney, Central/Regional NSW and the Illawarra – and work out where this concept is heading because I fear that made it may not last.”

The Maitland Pickers will contest the President’s Cup on either 23 or 24 September.

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Struggling to utilise a downstairs space connecting a kitchenette and storage area, he contacted the owner of Ortenburg Interiors for advice. 

From her studio, Juli and her son Justin, an architecture graduate, classical musician, and seasoned sketcher, began creating a space she fondly refers to as ‘The Man Cave’. 

“Initially the client wanted only to upgrade the kitchenette and had not given much thought to the adjoining storage area,” says Juli. 

“I asked him what he intended to use the area for.  

“His response was a place to entertain friends and family visiting from Sydney.  

PLANNING 

Agreeing on the overall direction and budget for the man cave, Juli set about measuring the space and sketching a basic layout. 

The concept was modelled digitally in 3D while she ensured adequate storage remained priority. 

“This included display shelving for his collection of spirits, liqueurs, and memorabilia, cabinetry under the bar and a bar fridge, dishwasher, sink, and as much cupboard space as possible in the new repositioned kitchenette.” 

Final plans were completed in Computer Aided Design (CAD), including cabinetry drawings, lighting, plumbing, and electrical markings, before Juli organised each trade. 

PROBLEM SOLVING 

To utilise the space more effectively, Juli and her team had to add an extra 200mm to the storage area. 

She devised a plan, together with her go-to engineer, that included removing a wall and replacing it with a reinforced steel beam. 

“200mm doesn’t sound like much but can make a world of difference to the usability of a space,” Juli says. 

“We re-plasted the ceiling where needed, problem solved.” 

UNIQUENESS 

Juli’s next “a-ha” moment came when she spotted a recurring theme. 

“My client had several model vintage motorcycles along with a sign he had made that read ‘Dad’s Bar – again’,” she said.

“This prompted me to pursue this theme, using colour and texture to create a dark and moody vintage/industrial vibe. 

“At the completion of the project, taking pride of place in the centre of the bar, flanked by the floating shelves, is the ‘Dad’s Bar’ sign, a decidedly quirky finishing touch adding homely warmth and familiarity to the space.”  

COLOUR AND TEXTURE 

It was a feature on the cupboards that became a subtle nod to the linearity of machines, adding another texture to the man cave. 

Using Polytec’s Botanica as the choice of green added yet another layer of depth. 

“Wallpaper was also an effective way to introduce textures,” says Juli. 

“And, I simply couldn’t resist including a colour clothweave  which struck a balance between grunge and velvety elegance, while solid Tasmanian oak added a raw simplicity to the otherwise deep and rich palette.” 

UNITY 

Juli says repeating a feature in two separate areas is a clever way to unify the space. 

In this case she used the same engineered stone bench top in both the bar and kitchenette. 

“The kitchenette has a much sleeker silhouette, using dark wenge grain cabinetry and a smoky mirror splashback. However, there remain references to the adjoining space, including the matt black handles featuring the same lineal grooves as the under-bench cupboards in the bar.” 

ADVICE 

If you’re thinking about renovating, Juli suggests homeowners take the time to familiarise themselves with the house, coming to terms with likes and dislikes, what works and what doesn’t, before taking action. 

“Scrolling through Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration can be a great starting point, but the infinite options available might overwhelm you into a state of indecisiveness,” she warns. 

“It’s worth noting that not all styles or trends are going to work for your property, and an expert will help you narrow down the possibilities and find a direction that’s appropriate to the existing building.” 

With more than 25 years in the industry, Juli can offer fresh advice for any challenging spaces. 

“Having an experienced professional guiding you can be such a game changer, saving you so much expense and headache in the long term. 

“We can come up with solutions you may never have considered that add value to your property.” 

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LGA: Newcastle 

Part of Islington’s appeal is its diversity. 

The gentrified suburb that sits on the fringes of Hamilton and Wickham, is just a stone’s throw from Newcastle’s waterways and CBD, making it popular amongst a range of age groups. 

It is home to one of Newcastle’s largest parks, is nestled on the banks of Throsby Creek and boasts plenty of walking and cycling paths and a popular off-leash dog park. 

Food lovers are spoiled for choice too, with an array of cuisines on offer from every corner of the globe. 

Its shopping, services, bars and cafes make Islington a destination in itself. 

Its diversity also stretches to its real estate landscape, says Green St Property licensee Peter Aloupis. 

“I’d say its vibe can be described as ‘new renaisSance’. 

“As it becomes more popular, we’re seeing prices reaching up to $2 million and even $4 million.  

“We just sold a block for $495,000 and with so much going on in the way of development, it’s a suburb that continues to grow and attract new buyers.” 

Suburb Amenities: 

Suburb snapshot:  

Central to both Beaumont Street and Maitland Road, Islington is abuzz with shoppers and diners most days, and into the nights.   

It is home to new developments that will offer a range of housing options from basic townhouses to luxury apartments. 

“It’s getting a new flavour to it,” Aloupis says. 

“It’s exciting to see Islington progressing into an enviable suburb that is gaining attention from buyers near and far.” 

24 Fern Street, Islington 

Land size: 236 sqm 

$495,00 Sold at Auction on 15 July 2023 

Agent – Josh Mana 

4/113 Albert Street, Islington 

3 bed 3 bath 2 car Townhouse 

$1,074,500 Sold on 12 April 2023 

Agent – Josh Mana 

3/113 Albert Street, Islington 

3 bed 3 bath 1 car Townhouse 

Sold for $1,080,000 on 16 May 2023

Agent – Peter Aloupis 

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If you replied “yes”, you might need to check your entry again.

It’s possible a Hunter resident is oblivious to the fact he or she is $1 million richer.

The mystery player holds one of 10 division one winning entries in draw 4397, which took place on 9 September.

Unfortunately, the ticket is unregistered, meaning officials from The Lott have no way of contacting the winner to break the exciting news.

So, they’re waiting for the individual to come forward to claim their prize after the entry was purchased at Weston Discount Pharmacy in Station Street.

The chemist’s lottery manager, Lesley Lester, said she was excited to have a potential millionaire in their midst.

“This is the first time we’ve sold a division one winning entry since taking over the terminal in Weston,” she explained.

“What a memorable moment.

“We’re so happy for our customer and we hope it’s a local.

“But, regardless of who it is and where they’re from, we will be overjoyed for them.

“We recently sold a top prize-winning Instant Scratch-Its tickets to a local and they scored $50,000, which is wonderful.

“Congratulations to the mystery winner and we wish them all the best with their division one prize.

“We hope it makes life a little bit easier for them.”

The Lott spokesperson Anna Hobdell said she hoped the region’s latest division one winner would check their Saturday Lotto ticket and come forward soon.

“We were eager to reach out to this winner but unfortunately their Saturday Lotto ticket wasn’t registered to a player card or online account, meaning we don’t have their contact details,” she added.

“How exciting would it be to discover you’ve won $1 million on a Monday afternoon?

“It would be an unforgettable moment and an incredible way to start the spring season off.

“Make sure you check your tickets and, if you do discover that you are holding the winning ticket, contact The Lott on 131 868 to begin the process of claiming your prize.”

The winning numbers in Saturday Lotto draw 4397 were 11, 9, 14, 29, 7 and 15, with the supplementaries 17 and 23.

Across Australia, there were 10 division one winning entries in Saturday Lotto draw 4397 – four in New South Wales, three in Victoria, two in Queensland, and one in the Australian Capital Territory.

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The boon is thanks to the Broke Shared Pathway extension project, allowing better pedestrian access between popular tourism businesses and the Broke Village. 

Stage two of the Broke Shared Pathway project will welcome an additional 800 metres of path installed on Milbrodale Road from James Herbert Bridge to Hill Street. 

Singleton Council’s director infrastructure and planning services Justin Fitzpatrick-Barr said with over 300 local residents and thousands of tourists visiting the Broke village each year, the shared pathway would provide opportunity for recreational walking and cycling, as well as provide an integral link between vineyards and accommodation venues to McNamara Park, which is extremely popular for campers and community events, as well as Broke Skate Park and the village store. 

“The extension of the Broke shared pathway creates better links throughout the Broke village, and we are extremely pleased to have NSW Government Resources for Regions funding to enable this important project to be realised,” he said. 

“We know from the first stage of this project that simple community infrastructure like a shared pathway absolutely elevates the convenience, attractiveness, and overall liveability of the village not just for residents, but for visitors as well. 

“This is a great outcome for connectivity and amenity in the township of Broke and is a fantastic starting point in linking the beautiful cellar doors and accommodation businesses along the Broke Fordwich Wine Trail back to the village centre.” 

Broke Residents Community Association Inc worked closely with council on the successful Resources for Regions grant applications in round seven and round eight of the program to fund both stage one and two of the Broke Shared Pathway project.  

Group president Mick McCardle said the extension of the shared pathway represented a potential boost for local tourism. 

“The shared pathway connection opens up more opportunities for people to experience cultural attractions like our cellar doors, connecting accommodation venues off Milbrodale Road back to the village centre,” he said. 

“While stage one of the project was centred around village amenity and providing a transport link for kids and their parents to walk or ride safely, this next stage is equally important and exciting as it starts to connect key businesses on the Broke Fordwich Wine Trail and will allow visitors as well as locals to experience our village on foot or on two wheels.” 

The $740,210 Broke Shared Pathway extension project is expected to be completed by the end of October, weather permitting. 

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About 2.40am on Saturday 9 September, officers from Newcastle City Police District were patrolling the area.

They were flagged down by members of the public who provided information about two males who had allegedly broken into several cars nearby.

A short time later, police stopped two men on Minmi Road, Wallsend.

Following a search, they seized tools, coins, six mobile phones, keys, medication, syringes, a box of ammunition, ID documents, letters and two knives.

Officers will allege the items had been taken during the car break-ins.

The males were then taken to Waratah Police Station.

The younger man was charged with four counts of goods in personal custody suspected being stolen, larceny, enter vehicle or boat without consent of owner/occupier, enter enclosed land not prescribed premises without lawful excuse, possess housebreaking implements, and custody of knife in public place.

The older male was charged with goods in custody suspected being stolen, larceny, and enter vehicle or boat without consent of owner/occupier.

Both were refused bail to a appear before Newcastle Local Court on Monday 11 September.

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