Sonia Hornery MP in Wallsend, New South Wales | Local service

Sonia Hornery MP

Locality: Wallsend, New South Wales

Phone: +61 2 4950 0955

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25.01.2022 STORM WARNING DAMAGING WINDS AND LARGE HAIL ASSOCIATED WITH THUNDERSTORMS IN THE SOUTHERN INLAND The Bureau of Meteorology have issued a warning that severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging, locally destructive winds and large, possibly giant hailstones in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Newcastle.... The NSW SES advises that people should: * Move your car under cover or away from trees. * Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony. * Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences. * Report fallen power lines to Ausgrid (131 388). * Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall. * Unplug computers and appliances. * Avoid using the phone during the storm. * Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well. * Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires. * For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.

25.01.2022 ASSAULT - MARYLAND Newcastle City Police District are appealing to the public for information to assist with investigations in relation to an Assault outside Maryland Shopping Centre. At 5.45pm on Monday the 30 November 2020, a young female was assaulted. Investigations reveal the offender was travelling in a black Mazda with other people who were holding baseball bats. ... If you have information or video footage please call Newcastle Police on 49290999 or Crime Stoppers on 1800333000, and quote report number E77331066.

24.01.2022 We have so many talented young people in the Wallsend electorate and local students Cooper Ivory, Curtis Jubb and Jayson Mills from Merewether High School are no exception. Recently they submitted a video in the Australian National Videos for Change competition. They chose Men's Mental Health as the core focus of thier 1-minute video as we are passionate about raising awareness on the issue. ... Their video has now been named in the finlaists and they need your help. Click on the link below and vote for their video then share it with friends, family and work colleagues. It is an important issue and deserves to be front and centre. http://bit.ly/Men-talHealthVideosForChange Every single day in Australia, 6 men take their own lives. Countless others battle mental health illnesses, including depression and anxiety. 2020 has only made things worse for those affected. Voting closes on Sunday so get voting.

24.01.2022 The NSW Upper House the NSW Legislative Council has this afternoon taken the serious step of referring the Premier to the Independent Commission Against Corruption. The motion was carried 22 votes to 15. The matter will now be considered in the NSW Legislative Assembly next week.... UPDATE - The motion was defeated in the Legislative Assembly 43-35

24.01.2022 It’s going to get hot out there today and tomorrow. Look after your double pluggers Some tips here from NSW Health on how to beat the heat: Keep yourself cool... Wear loose fitting clothing Stay out of the sun Try to be indoors during the hottest part of the day. Close windows and doors to keep the heat out. Curtains with light-coloured lining can help to reflect heat. Use air conditioning if you have it. Fans can also be effective Stay hydrated by drinking water Avoid alcoholic, hot or sugary drinks including tea and coffee (they can make dehydration worse) If you go outside, carry a bottle of water with you Look out for each other Keep in contact with elderly friends, neighbours and relatives during a heat wave in case you or they need any help.

23.01.2022 FUNNEL-WEB SPIDER WARNING Local residents are being warned that due to recent rain and hot temperatures, deadly funnel-web spiders are seeking refuge in suburban homes and swimming pools. Residents should be on the lookout for the deadly spiders as males venture outside their burrows into backyards and even indoors looking for a mate.... They’re most likely to be found in cool and damp places around the home. This spider was pulled out of a pool last year at Fletcher. It's a good reminder that funnel-web spiders can survive underwater for up to 24 hours and people should check their pool and filter every day before letting the kids in. Photos from Haley Bella Rogue of Bella Rouge Newborn Photography Newcastle. Make sure you are checking your pool. Have you found any this year?

23.01.2022 It was great to see Bernie Sanders in Wallsend this afternoon. But Bernie, mate, you need to dress for the conditions. It’s 33 degrees Celsius not Fahrenheit. Call me next time and I will give you the heads up. ... Have you seen Bernie anywhere else today? https://bernie-sits.herokuapp.com/

23.01.2022 TUNE IN 4PM THIS AFTERNOON This afternoon at 4pm, I will join with Tim Crakanthorp MP, Jodie Harrison MP and our Shadow Minister Jo Haylen to debate a petition of more than 10,000 signatures calling for Newcastle seniors to receive the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card. I launched the petition earlier this year with my colleagues because the State Government refused to classify the Newcastle Local Government Area as regional, meaning seniors do not receive the $250 Region...al Seniors Travel Card. We will continue to seek to have this decision reversed. The majority of seniors in the Wallsend electorate who could really use this kind of support, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, have missed out. The Petition will now be debated in the NSW Parliament on Thursday, 15 October, at 4pm. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions visitors cannot attend the Parliament, however the debate will be streamed live on the Parliament’s website. View the debate here: https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=263555181650980&id=458866624147384&fs=5&focus_composer=0

22.01.2022 TOLL REBATE NOW OPEN The Large Towed Recreational Vehicle Rebate Scheme is now open and motorists can claim tolls back to 1 June 2020. The scheme will provide rebates on tolls for large caravans, boat trailers and horse floats with a combined length of car and towed vehicle greater than 12.5 metres long or more than 2.8 metres high. ... The scheme applies to all of Sydney's toll roads, with the exception of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Harbour Tunnel which has a single toll for all vehicles. The scheme will also apply to motorways that will open to traffic in coming months, including NorthConnex and the WestConnex M5 East/M8. For the last 12 months, I have been campaigning for the reclassification of vehicles towing a boat, caravan or trailer after Transurbanreclassified these vehicle category B which meant the toll increased to the same levels as fully laden semi-trailers. I called on the Roads Minister, Andrew Constance MP, to use Ministerial Regulations to reclassify these vehicles back to category A, which would have kept them at the same rate they had paid since the beginning of tolls on these roads. Instead, the Minister introduced the Large Towed Recreational Vehicle Rebate Scheme, which sees NSW taxpayers reimburse drivers across NSW the difference between Category B and Category A tolls, which on the M2 and M7 can be as much as $31 per vehicle per trip. Sadly, sees NSW taxpayers will now reimburse drivers across NSW the difference between Category B and Category A tolls, which on the M2 and M7 can be as much as $31 per vehicle per trip. To register for the scheme, motorists will need to go to their toll tag provider’s internet page, select Register for the Large Towed Recreation Vehicle Toll Rebate and follow the prompts to complete their registration. Caravan & Camping NSW Caravan and Camping NSW Caravan and Camping Hire Australia Caravan & Camping Australia AustralianDirect.com.au - 12V, 4WD, Caravan and Camping Australian Caravan Club Limited

22.01.2022 FURTHER CHANGES TO RESTRICTIONS NSW Health have advised there were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the 24 hours to 8pm last night, with an additional 7 cases in returned travellers in hotel quarantine. This brings the total number of COVID-19 cases in NSW to 4,717 since the beginning of the pandemic. Further cases have been diagnosed since last night and will be updated when details come to hand....Continue reading

22.01.2022 Today in the Parliament of NSW, our Shadow Minister Daniel Mookhey MLC was successful in convincing the Government to establish the state's first ever dust disease register to fight silicosis, a deadly lung disease threatening the lives of the state's tunnellers and stonemasons. New South Wales now has tougher laws to fight the silicosis epidemic. Together, we will keep campaigning until NSW has all the laws we need to halt the spread of silicosis.

21.01.2022 For the 2500 eligible residents in the Wallsend electorate, you will be able to claim your 2021 $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card from 18 January through Service NSW https://www.service.nsw.gov.au//apply-regional-seniors-tra For the 12,000 residents in the Wallsend electorate who were ruled ineligible because the Minister excluded parts of suburbs like Rankin Park, Elermore Vale, Black Hill, and suburbs like Beresfield and Tarro which are further from the Newcastle CBD tha...n other eligible suburbs, this is the Minister who made the decision to exclude you. Feel free to let MInister Paul Toole MP know how you feel about parts of the Wallsend electorate being eligible and other parts not. Residents should be given the right to apply in 2021.

19.01.2022 BEWARE OF RENTAL SCAMS Please be careful of rental scams where there has been an increase of 76% this year with lowlifes using the COVID-19 pandemic as a tactic. These scams target people seeking new rental accommodation by offering fake rental properties to convince people into handing over money or personal information.... Scammers are offering reduced rents due to COVID-19 and using the government restrictions to trick people into transferring money without inspecting the property, according to the ACCC Consumer Rights. Make sure you view a property in person before paying any bond or rent money to landlords or real estate agents. Scammers often rely on email communications to avoid identification, so do an independent search for a phone number and speak to the property manager over the phone or arrange a meeting in person. For more information see https://www.accc.gov.au//rental-scams-targeting-more-austr

19.01.2022 Today is Allied Health Professionals Day! Allied Health Professional's Day is celebrated annually on the 14th October. It is an international event that was started 2018 by two clinicians in the UK to celebrate who allied health professionals are, what they do and why they are valuable. Thank you to all our Allied Health Professionals for the work you do, especially during these unprecedented times.... In the wake of the 0.3% wages decision, it's more important than ever that we come together to empower health workers and fight for a fairer health system. HSU NSW HSU Northern NSW HSU NSW & ACT Private Health Division

19.01.2022 CAN YOU HELP POLICE The NSW Police Force are appealing for public assistance to find a "stocky" man with a sedan following a stabbing during a home invasion in Newcastle earlier this year. About 10.30pm on Tuesday July 15, emergency services were called to a unit on Blue Gum Road, Jesmond, following reports a man had been stabbed.... On arrival, Newcastle City Police District located a 29-year-old man with multiple stab wounds. He was taken to John Hunter Hospital for treatment but has since been released from hospital. Newcastle City police investigations continue and detectives are hoping to speak to a man who may be able to assist with their inquiries. He's described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 170cm and 175cm tall, with a stocky build, wearing dark clothing and had his face covered. It's believed the man left in a vehicle, described only as a light coloured four-door sedan which was waiting nearby. Anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious between 10pm and 11pm on Tuesday July 15, or who may have nearby dashcam or CCTV footage is urged to contact Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

18.01.2022 DONATE BLOOD TODAY The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood regularly have the mobile blood bus out and about in local areas, but you can still make an appointment at Newcastle Donor Centre. Newcastle Donor Centre is located at Unit 1, 165, Lambton Road, Broadmeadow.... I am a regular donor and always mange to squeeze in a visit when Parliament is not sitting. They offer : Corporate Club and Team Donations Courtesy bus available to group bookings Parking available Plasma collection Platelet collection Whole Blood Collection Book at appointment on Monday between 11:00am and 7:00pm, Tuesday to Wednesday between 7:00am and 7:00pm, Thursday between 11:00am and 7:00pm, Friday to Saturday between 7:00am and 4:00pm, and Sunday between 8:00am and 1:00pm. Are you a donor?

18.01.2022 UPDATE: GREAT NEWS! A boy missing from the Hunter region has been located safe and well. Police would like to thank the public and media for your assistance. 'NSW Police Force are appealing for public assistance to locate a missing boy from the Hunter region. Connor Fitzsimmons, aged 12, was last seen leaving a home and riding his scooter on Kookaburra Street, Woodberry, about 11.10am yesterday (Monday 12 October 2020).... Officers from Port Stephens Hunter Police District were contacted and have commenced inquiries into his whereabouts. Police and family hold concerns for his welfare due to his age and a medical condition. He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 140cm tall, with a thin build and dark brown faded hair. He was last seen wearing a camouflage cap, a grey hooded jumper, black jeans and black ‘Nike’ runners. He is known to frequent the Wallsend and Newcastle areas. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged to contact police immediately. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

18.01.2022 MISSING PERSON May have travelled to Newcastle. Appeal to locate girl missing from Orange... NSW Police Force are appealing for public assistance to locate a girl missing from the state’s Central West. Tahlia Hinchcliffe, aged 11, was reported missing after she was last seen in Orange on Monday (19 October 2020). Police have received information that she was in the Strawberry Hills area of Sydney on Tuesday morning (20 October 2020), and is also believed to have travelled to the Hamilton area, Newcastle; however, she has not yet been located. Tahlia is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait appearance, with a medium build, 150cm160cm tall, with brown hair. Officers attached to Central West Police District are appealing for public assistance as they hold concerns for Tahlia’s welfare due to her young age. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.

17.01.2022 Have you seen Patrick Thaidy? Lake Macquarie Police District are appealing for assistance to help locate a missing 60-year-old Macquarie Hills man. Patrick Thaidy was last seen at his home in Delasala Drive, Macquarie Hills about 12am on Sunday. Patrick has dementia and diabetes so may appear disoriented to members of the public.... Patrick was reported missing to police by members of his family. Officers from Lake Macquarie have conducted a canvas of the local area but he has not been located. Patrick is described as being 180cm tall, slim build, thin grey coloured hair and a short grey beard. He walks with a stoop and is frail. Patrick was last seen wearing grey Everlast track pants, blue Everlast long sleeve t-shirt, black shoes. His black/grey hair is cut short in a crew cut style and he is unshaven having black/grey facial hair. Patrick left home without his dentures so his appearance will vary from the attached image. Anyone who has seen Patrick or knows of his whereabouts is urged to contact NSW Police Force. Call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/

15.01.2022 WANT TO KEEP YOUR MONEY? Make sure you read this. If you can, then you can read your speedo and the speed signs. The NSW Police Force will be enforcing double demerits from midnight tonight, up until midnight on Tuesday 26 January inclusive.... So if you don’t want to make a forced donation to the NSW Government coffers, make sure you slow down and arrive home safely from holidays. If you don’t speed, you will get to keep all of your money. Newcastle City Police District, Lake Macquarie Police District and Port Stephens Hunter Police District will be on our local roads and highways making sure people are complying. You have been warned. The double demerit point scheme applies to the following types of offences: Speeding Illegal use of mobile phones Not wearing a seatbelt Riding without a helmet

15.01.2022 BEWARE OF DRINK SPIKING INCIDENTS Both females and males can fall victim to drink spiking it is important for EVERYONE to be diligent and consider the following safety tips Never leave drinks unattended... Buy your own drinks Watch your drink service closely Don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know Recognise out of character behaviour and report suspicious behaviour Refuse strong tasting drinks Don’t drink or taste other people’s drinks Tell someone where you are going and who with If you feel strange tell a friend and go to a safe place If you feel strange don’t leave the premise with people you don’t trust MOST IMPORTANTLY! Look after your friends and monitor their behaviour! If you suspect someone is a victim of drink spiking Seek medical attention and ask for a urine test Report the matter to the NSW Police Force, it can be an official report or just for intelligence purposes Talk to someone or seek counselling REMEMBER: If you see something, say something. Newcastle City Police District Lake Macquarie Police District Port Stephens Hunter Police District

15.01.2022 POWER OUTAGES Ausgrid is reporting a couple of outages in the electorate. Could be a busy night for linesmen with the southerly on its way. Beresfield, Rankin Park and Cardiff Heights are out and without an estimated time for restoration. ... Will update as I get reports.

15.01.2022 BREAKING NEWS ON RESTRICTIONS The NSW Government and NSW Health have announced that from Friday 16 October, restrictions at cafes, restaurants, pubs and clubs will be eased to allow one patron for every two square metres in outdoor areas (previously one person per four square metres). This hospitality venues can open to more patrons but only in outdoor spaces. This does not apply to indoor spaces.... Any business wishing to take advantage of the relaxed restrictions must use electronic methods, like QR codes, to record and keep contact details. The Government also announced changes effective immediately to allow up to 500 people to attend outdoor seated music performances and rehearsals, subject to the four square metre rule and people being seated. Further details to come........

14.01.2022 BEWARE OF FLOOD WATERS - HEAVY RAIN WARNING The Bureau of Meteorology have issued a warning for heavy rain and damaging winds for Newcastle and the Hunter. NSW SES are asking residents to prepare for localised flooding on local roads and drains..... During these sustained periods of wet weather, one of the key safety messages is simple: don’t drive through floodwaters. Doing so will likely severely damage your vehicle and could also put your life at risk. A typical car will lose power in depths greater than 15cm as water enters the exhaust and washes into the air intake, causing it to float once flood levels exceed 30cm. Modern cars with electrically powered windows and locks are almost impossible to escape from once water finds its way into wiring and motors, disabling switch-gear and pressing on bodywork. The simple rules are: Never drive, ride, walk or travel through floodwater Never let children play in floodwater Stay indoors, clear of windows Stay clear of creeks, drains, causeways, gutters, streams, fallen trees, power lines and damaged buildings If driving, put your hazard lights on and pull over to the side of the road keeping clear of drains, causeways, streams, creeks, trees and power lines If outdoors, seek secure shelter away from drains, causeways, streams, creeks, trees and power lines Listen to ABC Newcastle and other media for information, updates and advice Contact NSW SES - City of Newcastle , NSW SES Lake Macquarie Unit of Hunter NSW SES for assistance

14.01.2022 PREPARE FOR STORM ACTIVITY Thunderstorm activity is expected to develop over the east of the state from today, with possible severe storms becoming widespread across the Hunter. Whilst no warnings are current at this stage, thunderstorm warnings are likely to be issued throughout this period, particularly on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.... You can prepare your home by doing General home maintenance and checking your insurance. Maintain your yard and balcony. Secure or store items that could blow around in strong winds. Clean your gutters, down pipes and drains regularly to prevent blockages. Trim trees and branches that could potentially fall on your home or property. Fix any damage to your roof, including broken or missing tiles. Check your insurance policy is current and adequate. Make a Home Emergency Plan for your family that outlines what you would do in an emergency. Prepare an emergency kit with essential items in case you lose power or need to leave home in an emergency. Listen to your local radio station and other media for weather warnings. For more simple things you can do to prepare for storms visit the NSW SES website https://bit.ly/37rMJea NSW SES - City of Newcastle NSW SES Lake Macquarie Unit Hunter NSW SES

14.01.2022 FIRE BAN TOMORROW Very hot and windy conditions, ahead of a cold front, are generating elevated fire dangers in parts of NSW For Sunday 29 November:... Severe Fire Danger is forecast for the following Greater Hunter. The NSW Rural Fire Service advises you to: Action your Bushfire Survival Plan now. Monitor the fire and weather situation through your local radio station, www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and www.bom.gov.au. Call 000 (Triple Zero) in an emergency. Spare a thought for our own Fire And Rescue NSW Station 454 Tarro Fire and Rescue NSW Station 377 Minmi Fire and Rescue NSW Station 484 Wallsend Fire and Rescue NSW Station 251 Cardiff Fire and Rescue NSW Station 357 Lambton

14.01.2022 COVID-19 UPDATE 31/12/2020 NSW Health has recorded 10 locally acquired cases of COVID-19 in the 24 hours to 8pm last night, with an additional seven cases in returned travellers in hotel quarantine. This brings the total number of COVID-19 cases in NSW to 4,734 since the beginning of the pandemic. There were 27,894 tests reported to 8pm last night, compared with the previous day’s total of 17,267. Wsell done to everyone in the community for coming forward and I urge peo...Continue reading

12.01.2022 SIGN THE ONLINE PETITION Our Deputy Leader Yasmin Catley MP has launched an online petition calling on the Government to give local workers and businesses the opportunity to make things locally Sign the e-petition online and pass it along to your friends and family: ... https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au//Pages/ePetition-details

12.01.2022 Apparently this is ‘world class’ according to Paul Toole MP

12.01.2022 TRAILER THEFT In the past two weeks there has been an increase in trailer theft within the Newcastle City Police District. There are no clear trends, such as time or suburb, but on some of these incidents restraining chains were cut from trailers parked on the street. Parking off street or investing in a trailer lock may reduce the risk of theft.... Please contact police if you see anyone acting suspiciously around trailers, particularly with bolt cutters or smilar items. Waratah Police Station: 4926 6599 Newcastle Police Staton: 4929 0999 Crimestoppers: 1800 333 000 Police Assistance Line: 131 444 Emergency: 000

12.01.2022 Who loves a good beer? Well one of our local businesses., Maltnhops Brewhaus, at Beresfield has 7 beers that recently won medals at the Independent Brewers Association Awards. MaltNHops Brewhaus took out 4 silver and 3 bronzes medals.... Congratulations to dedicated Brewer Dan Lindon and the awesome team on a great outcome. The beers that picked up medals were: Red Ale - Silver Lemon Myrtle - Silver NIEPA - Silver IPA - Silver Coffee Stout - Bronze Pilsner - Bronze Session Ale - Bronze Drop in and check them out, remember to Go Local First. #golocalfirst

12.01.2022 BREAKING NEWS - VICTORIA TO CLOSE BORDER TO NSW The Victorian Government has just announced that from 11.59pm on Friday 1 January, 2021 it's border with NSW will be closed. Any Victorians currently in what they call the NSW 'green zone' will have until that time to return, while Victorians in the Greater Sydney area will still need to apply for a permit. All returning Victorians also need to be tested for COVID-19 and quarantine for 14 days.... Provisions will be put in place for border communities. You can read the Acting Premier's full statement here: https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/statement-acting-premier

11.01.2022 This afternoon, I joined Tim Crakanthorp MP, Jodie Harrison MP and our wonderful Shadow Minister Jo Haylen to debate the more than 10,000 signatures on the Regional Seniors Travel Card Petition. Sadly as you can see from the video, the Government has no idea about the Wallsend electorate, nor the second rate public transport system that we have to cover our area. Most disappointing was the complete lack of respect shown by the Minister for regional Transport, Paul Toole MP, ...who failed to turn up and speak to the debate in reply, like other Ministers have done in petition debates. The 12,000 residents in the Wallsend electorate will continue to be ineligble to apply for the $250 card. I will keep fighting for our fair share and will never give up on this issue.

11.01.2022 ROADWORKS THIS WEEK Transport for NSW have advised that night roadworks will take place between Shearwater Drive at Shortland and Vale Street at Birmingham Gardens to carry out maintenance work on Shearwater Drive Bridge over the Newcastle Inner City Bypass. Transport for NSW will carry out the work, including minor joint works, concrete repairs, installing reflectors on the bridge and line marking.... To reduce impact to motorists, work will be carried out between 7pm and 5am on Monday 30 November and Tuesday 1 December and is expected to be completed in two night shifts, weather permitting. Lane closures and a 40km/h speed limit will be in place during work hours and may affect travel times. Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions, and follow the directions of signs and traffic control. Hunter Accident And Road Closure Reports

11.01.2022 PHONE CHARGER WARNING We are all guilty of it, coming home, plugging the phone into the charger and throwing it on the bed, or falling asleep with the phone under the pillow. That's exactly what the owner of this mobile phone did.... With nowhere for the heat to go, it can quickly lead to a fire. A reminder from Fire and Rescue NSW to always leave it on a flat surface. Fire And Rescue NSW Station 454 Tarro Fire and Rescue NSW Station 377 Minmi Fire and Rescue NSW Station 484 Wallsend Fire and Rescue NSW Station 357 Lambton Fire and Rescue NSW Station 251 Cardiff

09.01.2022 Who is your pick for the NRL - National Rugby League Grand Final? Penrith Panthers or Melbourne Storm

09.01.2022 COVID-19 UPDATE - 10/01/2021 NSW Health has advised there were 3 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 in the 24 hours to 8pm last night. 3 cases were also recorded in returned travellers, bringing the total number of COVID-19 cases in NSW since the beginning of the pandemic to 4,818.... There were 23,763 tests reported to 8pm last night. Of the three locally acquired cases to 8pm last night: 1 is linked to the Avalon cluster, and is a close contact of a previously reported case. There are now 150 cases associated with the Avalon cluster. 2 are linked to the Berala cluster, and are close contacts of a previously reported case. There are now 23 cases associated with the Berala cluster. Stay-at-home restrictions on residents of the northern zone of the Northern Beaches have now ended. People must continue to observe the restrictions in place for Greater Sydney and urge everyone to come forward for testing if even the mildest of symptoms that could signal COVID-19 develop. There are more than 350 COVID-19 testing locations across NSW, many of which are open seven days a week. To find your nearest clinic visit https://www.nsw.gov.au//how-to-protect-yourself-an/clinics or contact your GP. NSW Health is treating 109 COVID-19 cases, none of whom are in intensive care. Most cases (99 per cent) are being treated in non-acute, out-of-hospital care, including returned travellers in the Special Health Accommodation.

08.01.2022 POWER OUTAGE Ausgrid have advised there is a power outage in Beresfield and Tarro. Crews are working in very wet condition to reconnect power. ... Estimated time for restoration is 11pm Updates to follow. 10:25pm update: Power has been restored to all homes

08.01.2022 Yesterday the Premiers staff admitted that they shredded and destroyed all documents relating to the $252 million Stronger Communities Fund. 95% of the money went to Government herald seats and now they have no documentations to show how they justified where the money went. This stinks.... No documents. No accountability. No idea.

08.01.2022 IT’S GAME DAY!!!! My beloved Newcastle Jets kick off their A-League season against our arch rivals, the Central Coast Mariners. Like Roy O’Donovan, I am just a little bit excited. It has been a long off season.... For all the Newcastle Jets Supporters heading down to the game, please be COVID safe, remember to wear a mask and sanitise your hands regularly. I would 8-2 see you come back with something other than the 3 points tonight. Who else is excited?

07.01.2022 HELP NEEDED Anna-Maria and her amazing team at Survivor's R Us Incorporated at 57 Pendlebury Rd, Cardiff, was broken into last night. They are a charity that supports survivor's of domestic violence, and homeless clients.... Below is a list of some of the smaller items that were stolen, please keep any eye out for anyone trying to offload the stuff. They also lost: Lenovo laptops Gold Apple iPad - current model Telstra Gillette Razors Mach 3 & Fusion Proshield... Rimmel makeup White moving trolleys Can you also keep an eye out for any Milwaukee tools as per the list in the photo They were stolen from the adjoining warehouse and that's not right either!! Any assistance will be very much appreciated. Please let me, Survivor’s R Us or Lake Macquarie Police District know.

07.01.2022 Every day in Parliament, I take important local issues and raise them with Ministers to try to get the best outcomes possible for our local community. If you ever wanted to see how little this Government cares about local issues, yesterday was the perfect example. Earlier this year I raised an issue on behalf of local parents from the New Lambton Public School P & C.... Yesterday my original Motion was due to be debated but instead the Government dismissed the issue and amended it to give themselves a pat on the back instead of debating the original issues. Shame on the Education Minister Sarah Mitchell MLC and those in the NSW Government who showed yesterday how little the care about locals. Thank you to our Shadow Minister for Education Prue Car MP, Jodie Harrison MP and David Harris MP who all spoke about the issues and showed they care about local issues. This Government has shown how stale it has become. You can read the full transcript here: https://soniahornery.com.au//12-November-2020-New-Lambton-

06.01.2022 2020 has been a difficult year for so many. It was also a year where we all learnt to cope with change. Whether working from home, learning from home or coping with new technologies. We have ask seen some extraordinary examples of community spirit with people delivering food and providing without question for those who have struggled. ... I want to thank the people of the Wallsend Electorate for everything you have done this year, especially those who have gone above and beyond. Thank you for all the support this year. I hope you can take some positives out of this year into 2021. What was your memorable moment of 2020?

06.01.2022 #ROCKS TRUMP KOALAS After all the incredibly hard work by the community and our Shadow Environment Minister, Kate Washington MP to Save Port Stephens Koalas, today Federal Environment Minster Sussan Ley MP gave the go ahead to bulldoze 52 hectares of Koala habitat at Brandy Hill. Shame on the Premier Gladys Berejiklian and the Prime Minister Scott Morrison (ScoMo) for allowing this to happen.... It's unbelievable how little they care, meanwhile our koalas continue on the path towards extinction. Thank you Kate for fighting for what is right.

06.01.2022 Disgraceful scenes at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) over the last couple of days with the Indian Cricket Team subjected to racial abuse by members of the crowd. Whether it's on Facebook or in the supermarket; whether it's on the football field or on the street, there is no place for racism, ever. I hope the people involved are given life bans from attending games. There is no place for such acts.... This cartoon in today’s Newcastle Herald by Peter Broelman sums it up perfectly.

05.01.2022 WARNING DOG BAITING - LAMBTON I have received some messages about potential dog baiting in Lambton, around Orlando Road. One dog sadly died overnight and the vet suspects he was poisoned.... A police report was filed, but please keep a close eye on your pets. Report any suspicious activity to Newcastle City Police District.

05.01.2022 WIN A $1000 FUEL VOUCHER it has been a challenging 2020, with the COVID-19 pandemic, floods and bushfires. Local businesses are doing it tough and we need to support them by remembering to Go Local First.... Go Local First are giving away a $1000 fuel voucher this weekend and all you have to do it have a Local Legends’ Lunch, between 4 6 December, and post a photo to be in the running. To enter, all you need to do is: 1. Contact family and friends to hold Local Legends’ Lunch between Friday 4 Sunday 6 December. 2. Purchase food, drinks and supplies from local small businesses. 3. Take a photo of the lunch spread or hamper, tagging or listing the small businesses where the supplies are purchased from, and posting it on Facebook or Instagram using #golocalfirst and #locallegendslunch. 4. The photo of the best Local Legends’ Lunch in each state at territory will win a $1000 fuel voucher. So get out and support our local small businesses and post your photo

04.01.2022 GASTRO OUTBREAK ACROSS HUNTER A gastro bug has hit parts of Hunter hard, particularly in local childcare centres. Almost 70 local childcare centres have been affected since the beginning of the outbreak in October. About 50 childcare centres within Hunter are still battling outbreaks, with public health officials warning people with symptoms to stay home until 48 hours after sympt oms have passed. A few parents have contacted me over the weekend to let me know.... HNE Health have advised it is as bad a season as we've seen in a long time. Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain, headache and muscle aches. If COVID-19 has taught us one thing, it’s that hand-washing is incredibly important, as is cleaning surfaces with bleach, and wearing gloves and masks when cleaning up any spills and vomit. This could help prevent the spread of the virus. Read more in the Newcastle Herald here: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au//gastro-rife-in-hunte/

04.01.2022 HALLOWEEN COVID-19 RULES I have received a few messages emails about how Halloween can operate in the COVID-19 environment this year. This is an information post. If you dont like Halloween, good for you, feel free to keep your opinion to yourself. IIf you dont like the rules or restrictions, live with it and keep your opinion to yourself.... Any Halloween activities will need to be conducted within the Public Health Orders. It's possible these may change in the meantime, but under the current rules gatherings in public cannot have more than 20 people, and no more than 20 people can visit your home at one time. If you plan to stay home and hand out treats NSW Health advises: If you have any symptoms of COVID-19, stay at home, don’t have visitors and get tested immediately If you are self-isolating, don’t answer the door to trick-or-treaters, maybe even put out a sign. Make it a front-yard event, not at the front-door of your house. Keep your celebrations outdoors and get creative in decorating the front yard Only hand out individually wrapped treats Don’t use a communal lollie bowl. Consider other ways of distributing treats such as hanging them individually on your fence, front gate or up your driveway. Offer hand sanitiser at your front gate or fence Put up a sign if you don't want people knocking on your door If you plan to trick or treat NSW Health recommends: If you have any symptoms of COVID-19 this Halloween, stay home and give trick-or-treating a miss this year. Get tested immediately Keep it local by staying in your suburb rather than going to well-known treat streets that attract crowds Celebrate outside, don’t go to people’s front door Stay in small household groups (for example a supervising adult and children from the same household) rather than groups of young people together. Stay 1.5 metres away from people you don’t live with where possible Only take treats that are individually wrapped Use a disposable bag to collect your treats, and dispose of it appropriately afterwards Don’t share your treats with others from different households Don’t share costumes or costume face masks Carry hand sanitiser with you and use it often, especially after touching common surfaces. photo credit Daily Telegraph

04.01.2022 WHO WANTS FREE TICKETS? These are the tactics scammers use to sucker you in. This is the latest scam that I received via email, claiming to be from Qantas.... The email address and the website are obviously fake. Be aware of these emails, texts or calls that are simply too good to be true. Make sure you report any scam to www.scamwatch.gov.au and if you do fall victim to one, contact NSW Police Force immediately.

03.01.2022 6:15am update: Preparations are taking place to resume some services on the Trainlink network. Updates will follow once services have been confirmed. Flow on delays and some disruptions may still impact TrainLink services throughout the day.... 5:30am: Transport for NSW have advised that due to industrial action, trains on the Newcastle-Central Coast Line are not running today, Friday 27/11/2020. This is because the new InnerCity Trains, bought and built overseas are unsafe and the drivers Would have been forced to test them on the tracks today. Our Railway workers refuse to put themselves, their workmates, and passengers at risk by allowing these unsafe trains on the tracks. Well done to Rail, Tram and Bus Union NSW Branch for putting the safety of workers and the public first.

03.01.2022 It's the first day of summer and from today, NSW Health have eased some restrictions to increase numbers at home and in hospitality venues. From Tuesday 1 December the following restrictions have been eased: Small hospitality venues, up to 200 square metres in size, can use the 1 person per 2 square metre rule. Visitors to your home will increase from 20 to 50 if outdoors in your front or backyard or 30 if indoors.... Public gatherings in parks and outdoor spaces can increase from 30 to 50 people. See more

03.01.2022 SEVERE STORM WARNING Severe thunderstorms are already occurring for parts of central NSW. Further severe thunderstorm development is likely throughout this afternoon and evening in populated areas between #Kempsey and #PointPerpendicular. Heavy rainfall, damaging winds and large hail are all possible. Register now to receive SMS alerts when severe storms may impact you. ... For Emergency help, call #NSWSES on 132 500.

02.01.2022 ASSISTANCE NEEDED NSW Police Force are seeking your assistance following this horror incident of a cyclist being hit by a car on the Newcastle Inner CIty Bypass near Jesmond. The incident occured on Saturday 28 November between 7:45am and 8am and anyone with information or footage of the incident are asked to contact Newcastle City Police District or call Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

02.01.2022 Looking for a Santa photo with a difference? Mel and Simon from Heroes and More have again set up their world famous Christmas display. Unfortunately due to the covid restrictions this year they are unable to hold the normal event but it will still go ahead with a slight difference. ... Santa’s sleigh has been setup for you to sit in with Blue the dinosaur replacing the reindeer’s. Lots of other super heroes and characters are on display in the Christmas setting. The area will be setup for the whole month of December and open for photos during our trading hours. So bring your camera and get a shot. A gold coin donation for a photo with all proceeds going to an awesome local charity Fight for Connar. So get in and get a photo and support a great local business that is always giving back to the community. Pick up some presents while you are there and remember to always Go Local First.

02.01.2022 Today is Jane McGrath Day at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) Test between the Australian Men's Cricket Team and the Indian Cricket Team. But this year due to COVID-19, crowds are restricted and that makes it difficult for the McGrath Foundation to fundraise. So they have come up with a virtual way to raise funds.... For $20 you can buy a virtual seat and help to fund McGrath Breast Care Nurses who provide invaluable support and care to women and men experiencing breast cancer. From diagnosis right throughout treatment, McGrath Breast Care Nurses are available to help individuals and their families for free and with no referral. You can buy your virtual seat at www.pinktest.com.au. Have you got yours? Post your photo below

02.01.2022 The most important game of the State of Origin series is being played today, with the NSW Blues women’s team taking on the Queensland Maroons women’s team. Wallsend will be well represented tonight with locals Melanie Howard and Hannah Southwell taking to the field for the Blues. This week I had the opportunity to speak about Melanie and wish her all the best for tonight. Melanie, or Howie as she is known to friends, pulled on the boots again this year, this time for the Syd...ney Roosters NRL Women's team. Melanie was part of the Central Coast Roosters team in the NSW Women's Premiership. The team took out the Minor Premiership and went on to win the Grand Final 16-10 over the North Sydney Bears. This was back to back Premierships for Melanie who also won in 2019 with the CRL Newcastle team. Following that success, Melanie then went on to steer the Sydney Roosters NRL Women’s team in to the NRLW Grand Final where, despite scoring a superb solo try, they went down to the Brisbane Bronco’s 24-16. Melanie topped off a successful 2020 by having a burger, The Big Malonie, named in her honour by local café, Drop In Espresso Bar. She also gained selection in the NSW Women's State of Origin side. Congratulations Melanie. Good luck in the upcoming State of Origin game. I know you will continue to do us proud. https://soniahornery.com.au//10-November-2020-Melanie-Howa

02.01.2022 Sad to see our new fleet of ferries arriving from overseas on a ship, even worse they now have to receive a "fit-out" locally before they can be used. The new ferries have been plagued with a raft of problems, and contained asbestos on arrival. Passengers will also be forced to sit inside when the ferries travel under certain bridges, because the vessels are too tall.... If you insist on buying the cheapest boats in the world then you’re going to see corners cut like this. We have the skills and ability to Build them here. It is time to back local workers.

02.01.2022 There is always a first time for everything. Today, for one time only, the Hunter will be backing the Sydney Roosters NRL - National Rugby League Women’s team. Why, I hear you say.... Because the team is bristling with players from the Hunter, including Wallsend’s very own Melanie Howard. The team also includes former Newcastle Jets player, Hannah Southwell. Hunter women, Brydie Parker and Yasmin Meakes are also in the side. Good luck to our local women who are taking on the Brisbane Broncos Women in the NRL Women's Rugby League Grand Final. I look forward to seeing a Newcastle Knights Women’s side so that I never have to cheer on the Roosters again. Good luck Mel, Hannah, Yasmin and Brydie.

02.01.2022 VERY WARM CONDITIONS EXPECTED It’s going to get hot out there over the next 3 or 4 days. Look after your double pluggers, they are not easily replaced. Temperatures are expected to hit the high 30's or low 40's in some parts.... NSW Health have some tips on how to stay safe in the heat. So make sure you: Keep yourself cool Wear loose fitting clothing Stay out of the sun Try to be indoors during the hottest part of the day. Close windows and doors to keep the heat out. Curtains with light-coloured lining can help to reflect heat. Use air conditioning if you have it. Fans can also be effective Take care of your animals, keep them off the very hot ground. You dont want their feet ending up like these double pluggers. Stay hydrated by drinking water Avoid excessive alcoholic, hot or sugary drinks including tea and coffee (they can make dehydration worse) If you go outside, carry a bottle of water with you Look out for each other Keep in contact with elderly friends, neighbours and relatives during a heat wave in case you or they need any help. If you are out and about during office hours, feel free to drop into my office to cool down in the air conditioning and grab a cold water. Stay safe.

02.01.2022 STOLEN TRAILER This video shows how easy trailers are being stolen around the Wallsend electorate at the moment. This was in Steel St, Jesmond, rego TB51LN.... If you know the person in the video or saw anything, or see the trailer, please contact Newcastle City Police District immediatley on 131444.

02.01.2022 Today is #Day3 of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence. Call it out when it is safe to do so. One in four Australian women experience physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner. Domestic and family violence is rarely experienced as a single incident. Many people experience multiple forms of violence, abuse and neglect, either co-occurring or at different stages across their life.... If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, help is available. You can call NSW DV Line on 1800 65 64 63 or the Men’s Referral service on 1300 766 491. 16 Days of Activism to End Violence against Women Newcastle UN Women Men's Referral Service #16DaysofActivism #NotoViolence #MensReferralService #RespectWomenCallitOut

01.01.2022 FREE FIRST AID COURSE This Friday is World Restart a Heart Day To celebrate, Hunter Heart Safe will be running free training sessions all throughout the day to prepare you be a real lifesaver.... They will be running 2 free, interactive online CPR training sessions on zoom at 10:00-10:30am and 6:00-6:30pm These 30-minute session will be run by local emergency doctors, nurses and paramedics volunteering their time to turn you into lean, mean lifesaving machines. While all are welcome, these online sessions are designed with simple, accessible information and demonstration and are perfect for people who have little or no previous CPR training experience. To register, or for more information please get in touch with them either by clicking on the link below, sending them a private message or emailing to [email protected]. Help us build a stronger, safer community on world restart a heart day. https://www.facebook.com/events/5136193463073357/ https://www.facebook.com/events/336657930743228/

01.01.2022 BIG FINES FOR TOSSERS Smokers are being urged to think twice before discarding of their cigarette butts as the warmer weather intensifies the risk of sparking fires. Firefighters have warned that incorrect disposal can not only risk bush and grass fires, but also lead to devastation in the home.... The penalty for ignoring the rules, too, can be severe. It is vital that cigarette smokers acted responsibly. It is an ignition source, it is a big risk and can easily ignite fires on the side of the road when tossed out the window. The penalty for a driver caught tossing a lit cigarette out the window of a vehicle in NSW is up to an $11,000 fine and 10 demerit points during a Total Fire Ban, or more than $600 and five demerit points on a regular day. Heavy fines also apply to passengers. Those who spot a driver committing the offence are urged report the incident via the NSW Rural Fire Service's 'report a cigarette butt tosser' website. A form on the website asks for details such as the tosser's vehicle make, model and registration, as well as the location of where the incident took place, who threw the butt, the direction of travel and nearest town. Reports must be made within 14 days of the incident occurring, and road users are reminded to only make the report when they are no longer driving. https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/cigarette-form