State Matters - 17 August 2026
- Dave Layzell MP
- Aug 17
- 8 min read
TELSTRA UPGRADE
CASSILIS residents are being advised there will be temporary disruptions next week whilst the local Telstra mobile base station is upgraded as part of improvements to 4G and 5G services.
Work commences on site from Monday, 24 August, for a period of five days with the site to be switched off for periods of up to 48 hours to safely complete the upgrades.
Telstra mobile customers will receive an SMS advising of the temporary disruptions during the upcoming work.
If the Telstra mobile network is unavailable, compatible mobile phones will automatically attempt to connect to Triple Zero (000) via another available mobile network through emergency "camp on".
If your first attempt doesn't connect within around five seconds, hang up and try again immediately, on subsequent attempts, stay on the line for up to 60 seconds to give your phone the best chance to access another available network and connect your call.
Some medical and personal safety devices, including fall detection systems, in-room monitors, alarm pendants and health monitoring devices, may be impacted if they rely on the Telstra mobile network.
Customers who use the devices should contact their service provider or manufacturer to understand any potential impacts and whether alternative connectivity options, such as Wi‑Fi, are available.
The works will not impact NBN, Satellite internet services, PSTN landline services, or mobile coverage from other providers.
Further information on the outage is available at: https://www.telstra.com.au/outages
FIREARMS TAKEBACK
The NSW Nationals are calling on Premier Chris Minns to stop and listen to the people most impacted by the State Labor Government’s firearms buyback scheme.
Nationals MPs have been out at gun clubs, with farmers and with the people who are trying to do the right thing because we believe their voices deserve to be heard.
Nationals Leader Gurmesh Singh says it’s disingenuous to call this a buyback, because that implies Labor are buying the firearms, when they are just taking the firearms – it is not a buyback, it’s a takeback.
The unintended consequences will be huge with no fair value, no accessories and no other states involved that is why the Nationals voted against NSW Labor’s rushed laws in December last year.
NSW Nationals will support practical reforms that improve public safety, will continue to hold Labor accountable and ensure its laws are workable, properly funded and do not unfairly punish law-abiding citizens.
NEW FACILITIES
The recently completed Community Health space which is part of the Muswellbrook Hospital Stage 3 Redevelopment is now ready for use.
Clinical services will move from their existing location in the Weidmann Wing with the new space opening to the community on Wednesday, 19 August.
Provision of Community Health services will not be interrupted by the staff move to the new location.
Access to the space is via the lift near reception in the main entry of Muswellbrook Hospital.
Staff will benefit from a more integrated facility and contemporary workspace, and patients will experience care in modern spaces.
The result is expected to be improved outcomes for patients and a health service that will meet the current and future health needs of the Upper Hunter community.
WEEKEND TRACKWORK
Rail commuters are advised to check their travel plans for this weekend with a shutdown of the North Coast and Hunter Valley rail lines.
Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) is undertaking trackwork between Hamilton and Maitland and from Telarah to Brisbane during Saturday, 22 August, to Monday, 24 August.
Buses replace Hunter Line trains between Scone, Dungog and Newcastle Interchange as well as on the Newcastle-Central Coast Line.
NSW TrainLink North-West Xplorer services are replaced by road coaches between Sydney and Muswellbrook, whilst North Coast XPT services are replaced by coaches for the entire journey.
Plan your travel at: https://Transportnsw.info or call: 13 22 32.
Motorists and pedestrians are reminded to follow signs, obey road rules and take extra care around level crossings while rail works are underway.
For road closures and diversions, visit: www.livetraffic.com
WARBIRDS AWARD CONTENDER
Congratulations to Paul Bennet Airshows for making the 2026 finalists for the
Australian Event Awards.
Warbirds over Scone finds itself among illustrious company on a finalist list which includes the Deni Ute Muster, Canberra’s Floriade, the Moomba Festival in Melbourne and Vivid Sydney.
Warbirds was held at Scone Airport in late-March featuring an airshow that showcased some unique former military aircraft and skilled aviators.
The Australian Event Awards winners will be announced on 21 October at Coffs Harbour.
DUNGOG TO SAY, WELCOME!
Preparations gather momentum this week with Dungog about to join the Welcome Experience for NSW Government essential workers.
The Welcome Experience is a free state government service supporting essential workers
and their families to relocate to regional NSW.
Planning workshops are being held on Wednesday, 19 August, 10am-12pm, and then 5-7pm at Dungog Memorial RSL Club.
It’s an opportunity to join local organisations for the workshop to share local knowledge, strengthen partnerships and help create a welcoming and connected community for new residents of Dungog shire.
Book your place, at: https://www.trybooking.com/DOQPJ and for more on the Welcome Experience, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/regional-and-primary-industries/makethemove/welcome-experience
RENTAL FORUM
Registrations are open for a Renters’ Forum being held in Newcastle on Wednesday evening, 26 August, from 5.30pm.
NSW Rental Commissioner, Trina Jones, will be one of the speakers for the event being held at the Q Building, 16B Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle.
Participants will learn about the NSW Government rental reforms, including limiting rent increases to once per year, fee-free ways to pay rent, keeping pets, removing no-grounds evictions, and support for victims of domestic and family violence.
Smart Rental Bonds, the Rent Check tool, privacy and data protection, and dispute resolution pathways are also on the agenda.
The Hunter Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service will be there to answer questions about renting and tenancy support.
Secure your seat by registering at:
REZ GRANTS
Organisations in the Upper Hunter Shire local government area are encouraged to apply for Round 2 of the ACEREZ Community Grants Program.
Almost $1.9 million is available for local community organisations and projects working to enhance public amenity, health, agriculture, education, sport and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
The program funds innovative and impactful projects for small community grants ranging from $3,000 to $50,000 and significant grants of $50,000 up to $1 million.
Applications for Round 2 close on Friday 18 September with more about the program and eligibility criteria to be found at: www.acerez.com/community, by emailing: cwo.community@acerez-acjv.com.au or call 1800 298 379.
REPLACEMENT PROGRAM
The NSW Government Washing Machine Exchange Program has resumed with another 6,000 discounted machines now available.
Part of the NSW Water Efficiency Program, the exchange is leading the state government’s
efforts to reduce water waste, strengthen water security and help households keep more money in their pockets.
The initiative allows eligible pensioners, veterans, social housing tenants, and low-income households to trade their top-loader for a brand new 8-kilogram water and energy-efficient front-loader for $250.
This subsidised package for eligible concession card holders includes delivery to anywhere in NSW, installation, a two-year warranty and the removal of the old machine for recycling.
To check eligibility to apply, visit https://www.water.dcceew.nsw.gov.au/our-work/projects-and-programs/water-efficiency-program/washing-machine-exchange-program
TELCOS IN SPOTLIGHT
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO) is hosting a free webinar on the regional telco experience on Thursday, 27 August, from 12pm.
It follows the Ombudsman’s recent release of the report ‘Left Behind: Experiences of telco consumers living in regional, rural and remote Australia.’
The report draws on insights from close to 28,000 complaints received over the past two financial years, a close review of 2,000 of the complaints, and conversations with telcos, government, consumers and consumer groups.
The webinar will explore the findings from the report as the TIO calls on the Australian Government to overhaul rules governing telecommunications, so that everyone - no matter where they live - has access to the services they need.
To read the TIO report: www.tio.com.au/data-and-reports/left-behind-experiences-of-telco-consumers-living-in-regional-rural-and-remote-australia
Interested participants can register for the webinar, at: https://tio-au.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_m7u-2HlYTeKah9g3OdMgGQ#/registration
VIRTUAL PATHWAY
NSW Ambulance is helping thousands of patients avoid a trip to an emergency department by using its Virtual Clinical Care Centre (VCCC).
Through secondary triage, virtual assessment and clinical advice, the VCCC enables patients to be safely referred to alternative care options when an ambulance or hospital visit is not required.
This ensures patients receive adequate and appropriate treatment while ensuring ambulance resources remain available for serious and life-threatening emergencies.
The Virtual Clinical Care Centre diverted 14,800 patients from hospitals in 2024, more than 17,000 patients in 2025 and more than 9,100 patients in the first half of this year.
While the VCCC may assist some patients who have called Triple Zero (000), the community are encouraged to access free health advice and be connected to care virtually or close to home by calling Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
A registered nurse will assess your condition and refer you to the most appropriate service depending on your clinical need.
If your situation or condition is life-threatening, always call Triple Zero (000) and NSW Ambulance will respond.
FUEL FEEDBACK
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) is currently reviewing the state’s E10 fuel market.
E10 is a widely available petrol blend of 9 to 10 percent ethanol and around 90 percent regular unleaded U91 petrol.
The IPART review will examine the factors influencing E10 sales and the operation of the ethanol market in NSW.
Preliminary findings suggest that E10 continues to be the lowest-priced fuel option for consumers, however recent market data suggests that the cost of supplying E10 has increased relative to regular unleaded petrol.
IPART is seeking feedback on the reasons for these trends, including the factors that influence consumer demand for E10, and the commercial and operational considerations involved in producing, wholesaling and retailing it.
Have your say by 30 September, at: www.nsw.gov.au/have-your-say/e10-retail-market-monitoring
UNI COORDINATOR
The University of Newcastle has appointed Claire Quigley as Outreach and Partnerships Coordinator for the Upper Hunter.
A long-time Scone resident, Claire brings a strong background in innovation, regional development and workforce transformation to the new role.
Her focus will be on building partnerships between schools, TAFE, industry, government and community organisations to help ensure Upper Hunter students and communities are ready to participate in the jobs, industries and opportunities of tomorrow.
The appointment reflects the University's commitment to supporting the region through the energy transition and ensuring local people can see themselves in its future.
Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Engagement and Equity, Nathan Towney, said with over 400 students enrolled in the University who live in the Upper Hunter, this provides an opportunity to connect education, industry and community to ensure local students and communities can benefit from the industries and careers emerging in the years ahead.
SENIORS CONCERTS 2027
Group ticket applications are now open for the Premier's Gala Concerts in Sydney during March next year.
The free concerts to celebrate NSW seniors will be held at the Entertainment Centre, Darling Harbour on Wednesday, 10 March and Thursday, 11 March, at 10.30am and 2.15pm both days, featuring performances by some of Australian’s leading entertainers.
Groups of 10 or more people from retirement villages, aged care facilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups, culturally and linguistically diverse community groups, groups supporting seniors with disability, community housing groups and social groups can apply through the Group Ticket Portal until Friday, 11 September: www.nsw.gov.au/arts-and-culture/seniors-festival/whats-on/premiers-concert/premiers-gala-concerts-group-bookings
Individual ticket registrations will open on 2 December through Ticketek, when you can register to be on the waitlist for a chance to book up to four free tickets.
For Seniors Festival updates, check: www.nsw.gov.au/arts-and-culture/seniors-festival
DUNGOG SURVEY
Dungog Shire Council has teamed up with Dungog Regional Tourism and the Dungog District Chamber of Commerce to better understand what the local community wants to see from tourism in the years ahead.
The survey covers everything from events and visitor experiences to accommodation, local food, nature-based activities and the infrastructure needed to support a thriving visitor economy.
Whether you are a local resident, business owner, tourism operator, or simply someone who loves the Dungog region, the survey organisers want to hear your ideas.
The feedback will help guide future tourism initiatives and inform a Tourism Round Table, where local residents, businesses and community groups will come together to explore ideas and opportunities for the region.The survey only takes a few minutes to complete, and every response counts: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PWYWHQ2
BARRINGTONS AMBASSADORS
The success of Aussie Ark, Barrington Tops is spreading across the nation with Tasmanian Devils heading north, south and west.
Twenty Devils aged between two and four years have travelled across the continent in recent months as part of an ambassador program, helping raise awareness about their species.
They joined new homes in wildlife facilities are far afield as Hobart Zoo and Aquarium in Tasmania, Caversham Wildlife Park in Western Australia and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Queensland.
All twenty Devil ambassadors were born and raised in the breeding and re-wilding program and are reportedly in excellent health and settling well into their new homes.
Contact:
Email address: upperhunter@parliament.nsw.gov.au;
New Address: 94 John Street Singleton 2330
Postal Address: PO Box 60 Singleton NSW 2330
Ph: 6543 1065
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