THREE leading builders based in the Hunter region have been ranked among the largest residential builders in the nation, according to the HIA-COLORBOND® steel Housing 100 Report for 2024/25. The annual report ranks Australia’s top 100 builders by the number of homes commenced. Leading the way with a total of 2,898 starts in 2024/25, NEX […]
Hunter union welcomes government’s 2035 emissions target
TO help drive the transition to net zero, the Australian Government has set a target to reduce emissions to 62-70 percent below 2005 levels by 2035. It is a step up on Australia’s 2030 target – to reduce emissions to 43 percent below 2005 levels by 2030. The government says it represents a “credible contribution […]
Green growth brings risk of bloat and pulpy kidney
LOCAL Land Services (LLS) is encouraging livestock producers to take steps to reduce the risk of bloat and pulpy kidney as Spring arrives. Pulpy kidney, also known as enterotoxaemia, can cause sudden death in sheep, goats and cattle on high carbohydrate, energy-rich feed, with fat, healthy livestock in prime condition particularly susceptible. “Pulpy kidney is […]
Funding available for community projects in Gloucester
COMMUNITY groups in Gloucester, Stroud and the surrounding district are being encouraged to apply for funding in the next round of Stratford Coal’s Community Support Program. The 2026 Community Support Program is funded by Yancoal Australia and provides financial assistance to local groups working in the areas of health, community, environment, arts, culture, education and […]
Changes to government payments and deeming rates
A NUMBER of changes to social security payments, rates, and limits will commence from 20 September 2025. People receiving the full single rate of Age Pension, Disability Support Pension or Carer Payment will see a $29.70 boost to their fortnightly payment. People receiving Commonwealth Rent Assistance, JobSeeker, ABSTUDY (aged 22 and over), and Parenting Payment […]
‘Natural capital’ program extended by state government
THE State Government is investing an additional $3 million to support farmers to develop “natural capital” projects. The funding will extend the Government’s Natural Capital Support Services program for another year, which provides tailored advice and support for landholders to explore natural capital and environmental market opportunities. In farming, natural capital refers to the stock […]
Pod housing available for flood-affected farmers
ELIGIBLE primary producers impacted by the May floods can now apply for a “self-contained pod” on their property. Offered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority and the Commonwealth Government, the pods are designed for use in rural environments, and are equipped with generators and water tanks, allowing them to operate independently of existing utilities and infrastructure. […]
Digital readiness workshop on offer in Stroud
A FREE digital readiness workshop will be held in Stroud in September, through a collaboration between nbn, MidCoast Council and The Business Centre Newcastle. The workshop is suited to small businesses seeking ways to enhance their digital skills and capabilities. Workshops are designed to provide small business owners with expert guidance and practical advice on […]
Date set for planned Thunderbolts Way reopening
THUNDERBOLTS Way is set for reopening on Monday 11 August, according to a statement from MidCoast Council. The main highway that connects the MidCoast with the New England region has been closed since the devastating May floods. Council crews have been working tirelessly over the past two months to repair extensive flood damage on the […]
State Government delivers funding boost for Hunter projects
A NEW maritime facility will be built in Newcastle to attract servicing of international super yachts and new saleyards infrastructure will be delivered in Singleton. The State Government is investing $8.73 million into the two Hunter projects through its Regional Economic Development and Community Investment Program. With co-contributions from the two successful applicants, the projects […]