2013 Hunter Investment Prospectus PDF

Hunter
INVESTMENT
PROSPECTUS
2013
RDA Hunter is the peak regional developme

Hunter region. Governed by a board of com
business people, RDA Hunter promotes the
business and industry to attract investment
Since its inception in 2009, RDA Hunter has:
• Lead over 55 projects that have contribute

economic growth
• Secured over $21 million in funding for the
RDA Hunter is the peak regional development organisation for the
Hunter region.
RDA Hunter Governed
is the by a board
peak regional of community
development members
organisation and
for the
Hunter region.
business people,Governed by a board
RDA Hunter of community
promotes the regionmembers and
to Government,
business people,
business RDA Hunter
and industry promotes
to attract the region
investment to Government,
into the region.
business and industry to attract investment into the region.
• Lead over 55 projects that have contributed to the region’s
• Led over 55growth
economic projects that have contributed to the region’s
• economic growth
Secured over $21 million in funding for the Hunters’ communities
• Secured over $21 million in funding for the Hunter's communities
For more information about RDA Hunter or to obtain a copy of
For more information about RDA Hunter or to obtain a copy of
the Regional Plan 2012 – 2022 visit www.rdahunter.org.au or call
the Regional
4908 7300. Plan 2012 – 2022 visit www.rdahunter.org.au or call
4908 7300.
HUNTER INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 2013
CONTENTS
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT WELCOME
Stronger regions make for a stronger Australia and this is why affordable housing for students and apprentices. In the
the Australian Government is committed to strengthening longer term this project will help to sustain the coal mining
the Regional Development Australia (RDA) network. We are and building industries by providing accommodation for
seeing the benefits through regional plans that are focused apprentices while they are studying. The ability to leverage
on diversification, sustainability and partnerships. over $3 million from other sources for the project is to be
commended.
The RDA Hunter Regional Plan 2012-22 is such a plan. It
outlines the vision of a vibrant region that is continuing to The growth in new business as a catalyst for renewal and
grow in a low-carbon environment. diversification, particularly in the creative industries, is also
contributing to the emergence of a renewed Hunter. The
The Australian Government, in partnership with the NSW ongoing rollout of the NBN, due to be completed in 2015,
Government, has provided funding to establish a regional will be a great boost in this regard.
clean technology hub in the Hunter. Acting as an interface
between government programs and services, university As we move further into the Asian Century, the opportunities
research facilities and the private sector, the hub will for Australia’s regions, including the Hunter, will increase.
optimise clean technology and energy opportunities. I am pleased to be able to contribute to this prospectus
which will foster ongoing relationships between government,
Innovation is the key to the future, and the Hunter continues business and community and
to be a regional leader. The CSIRO Solar Tower is ensuring help to deliver the RDA Hunter
that Australia remains at the cutting edge of solar thermal vision for the future.
technology. Other solar initiatives in the region – the
CSIRO National Solar Energy Centre, the Australian Solar
Institute, the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources
and the Smart Grid, Smart City Initiative – are assisting Simon Crean MP
in the transition to a new economy by linking business, Minister for Regional
government and research. Australia, Regional
Development and
RDA Hunter was awarded $2.7 million under Round Two Local Government,
of the Regional Development Australia Fund to construct Minister for the Arts
STATE GOVERNMENT WELCOME

The Hunter boasts a strong, vibrant and diverse economy The Hunter also has a proud history of large-scale defence
which is a tribute to the region’s ability to adapt to change projects for all arms of the defence forces, which directly
and face challenges head-on. employs significant numbers of people and continues to
grow. The region’s Williamtown RAAF base will undergo a
The region, more widely known for its traditional industries $500 million redevelopment to provide advanced facilities
of coal, equine and wine, has quickly gained a reputation for the introduction of the New Air Combat Capability JSF
for innovation, with industries diversifying and adapting to aircraft.
new technologies.
We look forward to working cooperatively with stakeholders
The NSW Government is committed to providing the and industry to unlock the region’s productive potential to
necessary infrastructure and services to support the build a broad based economy, thus ensuring a bright future
growth and development of these new industries while for the Hunter.
aiding the expansion of the Hunter’s traditional strengths.
The Hunter has rapidly become an emerging centre for
renewable energy and is well positioned to grow lucrative
new “green” industries.
Hon Andrew Stoner MLC
A great example of this is the CSIRO Energy Centre in NSW Deputy Premier
Newcastle, which has become a solar thermal research Minister for Trade and
hub and provides a focal point for energy research and Investment,
demonstration, working with Australian and overseas Minister for Regional
partners. Infrastructure and Services
3
INVESTMENT IN THE HUNTER’S FUTURE
“Amidst the continuing uncertainty and considerable investment strategies in the Hunter. Our Regional
challenges that beset large parts of the international Plan, setting out a vision and strategic priorities for
community, Australia and the Hunter continue to the region, is available on the RDA Hunter website.
grow.” HVRF, September 2012.
2013 will bring with it the finalisation of regional
The Hunter is the largest regional economy in Australia strategic plans for transport, economic and social
with outputs last year totalling almost $37 billion. infrastructure, land use and workforce development.
Forward orders and capital expenditure together 2013 will also be the year some major infrastructure
with ongoing investment in people, productivity, projects are realised, such as the Hunter Expressway
infrastructure and all forms of connectivity reflect the and fibre-connected high speed broadband. These
optimistic business climate of the region. developments will deliver a strong platform on which
to base public and private investment decisions for
Our 2013 Hunter Investment Prospectus presents the Hunter’s future.
the region’s advantages: our location on the eastern
seaboard with good connections to domestic and We welcome your interest in being part of the
international markets; a diverse economic base; Hunter’s future and encourage you to have a closer
a skilled and flexible workforce; a reputation for look at the benefits of investing in the Hunter.
innovation and creativity with burgeoning activity in
digital industries; world class research facilities; and For more information about how working together
an enviable choice of lifestyles. The Hunter has the can realise your goals and help to shape the Hunter’s
er Vision 2011 capacity to be home to many more people and to future, contact our office on 02 4908 7300 and visit
new businesses which contribute to regional growth our website: www.rdahunter.org.au
and wellbeing. RDA Hunter encourages investment
Newcastle Airport now has more than one million
egion is home to over 9% of the NSW
in the region. Since
d is the largest growth centre in NSW outside our establishment
passenger movements in 2009
per yearwemaking it the 10th
have led more than
asin. The Hunter offers steadily growing 50 regional
busiest airport in Australiaprojects
development
and investment andopportunities
secured over across$21
the million in funding
Newcastle is poisedfor
to regional
become a leading, globally
as a quality lifestyle. It is predicted
communities. We can that the provide support
competitive and for informed
sustainable city. Newcastle is
come home to a population of one million Australia’s
planning, liaison with all levels of seventh largest city
government andand as the regional
the next thirty to forty years. capital serving the Lower WeHunterare
and Upper Hunter and
engagement with regional communities. Gaye Hart AM
of the Hunter enjoys a number of strengths parts of the Central Coast, as well as the major city in
pleased to share
significant contribution to the Australian our insights and knowledge to Chair
the northern part of an integrated Greater Metropolitan
assist you to develop
region is rich in resources and underpinned Region. The transformation of the city isRDA
business growth plans and Hunter
evident in the
best quality coal, natural water resources, larger scale and efficient commercial, transport and
ctricity generation capacity, an innovative residential construction investment and the associated
g sector and a progressive business culture. improvements in productivity. Gaye Hart AM
boasts leading research and education The RDA network throughout Australia has been tasked Chair, RDA Hunter
d class wine and equine industries, vibrant to know where opportunities lie and to identify key
ourism opportunities and a quality lifestyle action priorities for their regions. The Hunter is a region
ion. that actively seeks economic growth and diversity and
positioning itself strongly as a world-class RDA Hunter works closely with regional partners and
re. The Hunter’s location on Australia’s all levels of government, to create opportunities that
ard, between Melbourne and Brisbane, and stimulate economic growth in the region and improve
ve from Sydney together with an impressive community well-being. Our vision is for the growth of
astructure gives the region a competitive a vibrant and sustainable regional economy in a carbon
sing Australian and international markets. constrained future. On behalf of the region I welcome
rt is experiencing continued strong trade your interest and invite you to talk to us about our
n 2009-2010 exceeded 100 million tonnes. future plans, and yours.
RDA Hunter is the peak regional development organisation for

Hunter region. Governed by a board of community members a
growth
business people, RDA Hunter promotes the region to Governm
business and industry to attract investment into the region.
4 Connecting its
Since the Hunter
inception in 2009, RDA Hunter has:
CONTENTS
Federal and State government Welcomes ........................................3
CONTENTS
Overview of the Hunter ...................................................................7
Introducing the region, geography, climate, population, Regional map

and history
Education & Training.......................................................................14

Covering the extensive services available and major organisations such
as the University of Newcastle, Hunter TAFE, Tocal College, Avondale
College and others
Economic Strength & Diversification...............................................17
The workforce, industrial relations, coal mining, power generation,

manufacturing, defence, aerospace, information & communication
technology, equine, agribusiness, tourism, film & TV, biotechnology,
health, business services and exporting
Infrastructure & Development.........................................................45

Major projects, transport & access to markets, the Port of Newcastle,
airports, utilities, industrial areas and commercial development
Innovation & Creativity....................................................................70

Covering innovation in the Hunter, the University of Newcastle,
Newcastle Innovation, Industry Development Centre (Hunter), CSIRO,
Hunter Medical Research Institute, Hunter Valley Research Foundation,
Hunter Innovation Festival, Hunter Founders Forum and environmental
sustainability research projects
Living in the Hunter........................................................................77

Covering community and lifestyle in the Hunter, including real estate,
health services, education, shopping, sporting recreation, entertainment,
dining out, transport and churches
Local Government Areas.................................................................83

Providing a snapshot of the 11 local government areas in the Hunter
Business Organisations..................................................................94
Government Assistance..................................................................98
5
OVERVIEW OF THE HUNTER
Covering an area of 28,997 sq km, the Hunter Region of congestion, low real estate prices and more available
NSW consists of 11 Local Government Areas, with the development sites compared to Sydney are also welcome.
City of Newcastle as the regional capital. It is the most The Hunter truly has it all – it’s a great investment and
populous regional area in Australia. With over 643,000 business location plus a great place to live.
people (30 June 2011 estimated resident population,
Australian Bureau of Statistics), the Hunter has
GEOGRAPHY

significantly more people than Tasmania, the Australian
The Hunter Region comprises eleven Local Government
Capital Territory or the Gold Coast.
Areas with a total land area of approximately 29,000 sq
km. The region is roughly located between latitudes 31.5°
The Hunter is undergoing an impressive period of sustained
and 33° south and longitudes 150° and 152° east.
economic growth, with a growing range of investors and
businesspeople recognising the powerful competitive
A wide variety of landscape and river systems are
advantages the region offers. An unprecedented amount
represented in the region including: the southern New
of investment is occurring in the region, with many billions
England tablelands, sub-alpine ranges of the Barrington
of dollars of projects being planned.
Tops, large temperate forests and rainforests, portions of a
number of river catchments that flow into the Hunter River,
Despite difficult global economic conditions in recent
estuarine areas, lake systems and the diverse coastline.
years, the Hunter Region has been largely unfazed and
continues to perform strongly, with a level of economic
activity that is the envy of most other Australian centres. CLIMATE
The Hunter Region is located in eastern New South Wales
This is largely due to the major transformation the local in the sub-tropical climatic zone.
economy has experienced over the past 15 years.
Although traditional industries are still major contributors, Climate statistics for the Newcastle (Lower Hunter) and
the local economy is now characterised by a much Singleton (Upper Hunter) areas are:
more diverse industry base. This diversity, combined
with high levels of investment, a “can do” attitude, an Newcastle Singleton
embracement of innovation and a variety of significant
competitive advantages provide the Hunter with a very Average Annual Rainfall 1,103 mm 723 mm
strong economic outlook.
Temperature –
27.2 °C 30.6 °C
With a rapidly growing industry base, the demand for January – avg. max
industrial land is being met by numerous industrial
land developments across the region. There are major January – avg. min 19.5 °C 17.7 °C
developments such as the 104 hectare Steel River
Industrial Estate and the 150 hectare Intertrade Industrial July - avg. max 17.2 °C 17.0 °C
Park within 15 minutes of the Newcastle CBD. But these
are only the tip of the iceberg, with a wide range of new July - avg. min 7.7 °C 5.2 °C
and existing industrial developments across the region
providing excellent opportunities for almost any type of
industry. POPULATION GROWTH AND DENSITY
According to the ABS, the estimated resident population
Although the global financial crisis resulted in a reduced of the Hunter Region on 30 June 2011 was 643,108, of
level of activity, commercial growth, particularly around which 55% were in the Lake Macquarie and Newcastle
the major centres, shows strong long-term growth. In LGAs.
Newcastle for instance, the demand continues to be
much stronger for A grade office space, whilst C and D Based on this data, all Hunter LGAs grew in population
grades have reduced in recent years. over the 12 months 30 June 2010 to 30 June 2011. The
ten year average growth rate is higher than that of Sydney
As well as providing an exceptional economic case, the or NSW.
Hunter also offers a quality of life that is hard to match.
Businesspeople relocating to the Hunter experience Population densities vary greatly across the Hunter’s LGAs.
an excellent lifestyle, with a combination of exceptional Using the 2011 data, Newcastle had a population density
natural assets and a high level of facilities and services. of 846.4 persons per sq km, Lake Macquarie 304.7
The Region offers very high levels of education and health persons per sq km and Maitland 177.7 persons per sq km.
services, as well as all the services you would expect from Gloucester and Upper Hunter LGAs each had population
a major population centre. Relatively low levels of traffic densities of around 1.8 persons per sq km.
7
‘Evoke Projects can design your office interior to accommodate an open plan environment,
activity based working and social and individual
space optimisation’
Call Evoke today for more information on 1300 720 692 or visit the Evoke
Projects website www.evokeprojects.com.au
ARE YOU A DEVELOPER LOOKING

Thousands of TO BUILD IN THE HUNTER?
industrious minds
You may need to speak with the
Mine Subsidence Board first!
The Mine Subsidence Board is an independent
body operating for the local community in areas
We understand the regions’ strengths of coal mining in NSW. We:
and opportunities because we live in
• Reduce the risk of damage by ensuring the
your communities design of new developments are compatible
with the risk of mine subsidence
With an integrated global network of
• Provide an advisory and technical service for Developers
more than 6500 people, our engineers, • Eliminate public and private danger from mine subsidence
architects, environmental consultants • Provide compensation if improvements are damaged by
and many of other professions work mine subsidence
together to: With offices located in Newcastle and Singleton we can assist with
information about designing for subsidence and our requirements
• create more liveable communities in the planning approval process.
• enhance economic outcomes for
business and government
• improve infrastructure delivery and
efficiency
• create clever solutions to everyday
problems
Let’s collaborate to foster growth in our
For further details please log on to our website
11192
community - discover more about our www.minesub.nsw.gov.au or telephone our Head Office
colony at www.ghd.com on 02 4908 4300 or outside Australia +61 2 4908 4300
Putting service and the needs of PeoPle first
8
AGE AND GENDER DISTRIBUTION
Hunter LGA Populations According to the 2011 Census, approximately 49.3%
(ABS June 30 2011 Estimated Resident Population) of the Hunter’s population was male and 50.7% female.
There was a greater proportion of males below 30 years
% of Pop
Annual Area of age; genders were roughly equal for 30 – 69 years; and
LGA Population
% growth
Hunter Density
population
(sq km)
(pers/sq km) there was a greater proportion of females for 70 years
and above.
Cessnock 52,493 1.9 8.2 1,966 26.7
Based on census data, between 2006 and 2011 the
Dungog 8,547 0.7 1.3 2,251 3.8
Hunter’s male population rose by around 4%, while the

Gloucester 4,974 0.8 0.8 2,952 1.7 female population rose by 4.7%. During this period, there
were very high growth rates in the “pre-retirement” age
Great Lakes 35,601 0.6 5.5 3,376 10.5 groups of 45 to 64 years as well as the 75 years plus
groups.
Lake Macquarie 195,909 0.3 30.5 643 304.7
Maitland 69,646 1.7 10.8 392 177.7
Muswellbrook 16,322 1.0 2.5 3,405 4.8

Population and age gender distribution and change
Newcastle 154,896 0.9 24.1 183 846.4 (ABS Census data)
Port Stephens 67,058 0.7 10.4 979 68.5

% Change
Singleton 23,456 0.4 3.6 4,893 4.8 Age group Males Females Total 2006 -
2011
Upper Hunter 14,206 1.2 2.2 8,071 1.8
(years) (%) (%) (%) (%)
Total Hunter 643,108 0.8 100 29,111 22.1
0-4 6.6 6.1 6.4 8.6
ETHNICITY 5 - 14 13.2 12.1 12.6 -2.2

Compared with other regions of NSW and Australia, the 15 - 19 6.8 6.3 6.6 1.5
Hunter has a low level of ethnic diversity.
20 - 24 6.5 6.2 6.4 7.2
According to the 2011 Census, over 85% of people in the 25 - 34 11.9 11.6 11.7 5.5
region were born in Australia compared with less than 69%
in NSW as a whole. 35 - 44 13.0 13.1 13.0 0.6
45 - 54 13.7 13.6 13.6 3.1
The 2011 Census indicated that 91.4% of Hunter residents
were Australian citizens compared to 85.5% for NSW. 55 - 64 12.6 12.6 12.6 11.8
Around 91.5% of Hunter residents spoke only English at 65 - 74 9.0 9.0 9.0 16.8
home, much higher than 72.5% for the state as a whole.
75 - 84 5.1 6.3 5.7 1.6
An indepth review of the Hunter Region is carried out every 85 and over 1.6 3.0 2.3 31.4
two years by the Hunter Valley Research Foundation. The
resulting publication, Newcastle and the Hunter Region, is
Total 100.0 100.0 100.0 10.6
available as a chapter-by-chapter, free download from the
Foundation’s website, www.hvrf.com.au
9
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WATAGANS OLNEY
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NP Awaba BELMONT
WATAGAN Martinsville LAKE MACQUARIE WETLANDS
OLNEY Lake 111 SP
SF SF Macquarie
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Cooranbong Creek Swansea
Tasman Sea
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OLNEY 111
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Morisset
SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN
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JILLIBY 1
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SCA MUNMORAH S C A
WYONG
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A PROUD HISTORY
The Hunter has a proud history of achievements in a wide infrastructure occurring, the Hunter is set to remain a
spectrum of business, sporting and community areas, leading coal exporter.
with many national firsts and world class achievements.
On a per capita basis, the Hunter’s accomplishments are In the 1850s, pioneers such as the Draytons, Tyrrells and
particularly impressive. Wilkinsons planted grapes in the foothills of the Hunter
Valley’s Brokenback Ranges. Their vision has led to
Much of the region’s success is due to qualities of international acclaim for Hunter Valley wines today.
ingenuity, community solidarity and hard work that
developed during its early days of settlement and remain In 1915, BHP established Australia’s first steel mill in
inherent in the region. Newcastle. As it grew to become a world leader, so the
local economy expanded too.
First discovered in 1797, just nine years after the First
Fleet arrived in Autralia, the Hunter Region was named World War II saw huge developments in Newcastle’s heavy
after the Governor of NSW at the time. industry including the establishment of a shipbuilding
sector. Williamtown Royal Australian Air Force Base and
Over the next 50 years the region grew. Towns were Singleton Army Barracks were also founded.
established at Maitland, Scone, Murrurundi and Dungog
to service a growing agricultural industry. A road linking The region’s expansion necessitated a local tertiary
Newcastle to Sydney was also built. education facility. In 1951, the Newcastle University
College of the University of New South Wales was
During this time an extensive list of national and established. After considerable local rallying, in 1965 the
international milestones began to evolve. fully autonomous University of Newcastle was founded.
In 1799, the Hunter produced Australia’s first export when In 1971, Liddell Power Station was built near Muswellbrook.
a shipment of coal was sent to Bengal. Since then, the This was followed by the construction of Eraring Power
coal mining industry in the Upper Hunter has underpinned Station on Lake Macquarie in 1977 and Bayswater Power
the region’s economy. Newcastle is one of the largest Station near Muswellbrook in 1985. The building of these
coal exporting ports in the world. With world demand power stations turned the Hunter into a major generator
showing no sign of waning and major expansion of local of electricity in Australia.
The Royal Newcastle Hospital

(late 19th century) - Newcastle’s
major hospital for nearly 190 years Honeysuckle Precinct
Busy Newcastle Harbour is visited by a wide range of vessels Official opening of Newcastle Post Office in 1903
12
Growth in the Hunter was temporarily halted by the 1980’s self-belief in the city and across the region.
world recession and BHP’s subsequent downsizing.
Employment levels at the Newcastle Steelworks fell from Severe storms hit the region in June 2007 causing
over 11,000 workers in 1982 to 2,800 in 1999 when hundreds of millions of dollars damage. The storms also
the closure of the Newcastle steelmaking operations resulted in Newcastle making worldwide headlines with
occurred. The multiplier effect of the loss of these jobs the grounding of the 225 metre, 40,000 tonne coal carrier
was enormous; however, the region recovered and Pasha Bulker on Nobby’s Beach.
continued to prosper.

The Global Financial Crisis and the subsequent global
This resilience again resurfaced in 1989 when the economic downturn of recent years has had only a
Newcastle earthquake damaged 10,000 buildings. relatively minor effect on the overall Hunter economy which
Damage in excess of one billion dollars saw government has continued to be one of the strongest performers in the
and business organisations unite to generate new country and arguably the strongest in NSW. Unemployment
investment in buildings and restoration. for example has regularly been below the state average.
In 1992, the NSW Government set up the Honeysuckle In December 2012, the NSW Government announced
Development Corporation to redevelop the Newcastle plans to cut the inner-city rail line and build a transport
Foreshore. This initiative has had a defining influence on interchange at Wickham. Linking the older part of
creating a new Newcastle. the Newcastle CBD with the harbour foreshore and
Honeysuckle, the decision is expected to act as a catalyst
The region has a strong sporting background, having for the redevelopment of Newcastle and result in a major
produced an array of world champions and national influx of investment.
sporting icons as well as having strong support levels.
The 1997 Australian Rugby League Grand Final victory Today, the Hunter is being increasingly recognised as a
by the Newcastle Knights' was ideal timing coming just source of economic prosperity, innovation and diversity.
months after the formal announcement of the closure The NSW Government’s strategy for the Lower Hunter
of BHP’s steelmaking operations and fears for the local which covers up to the year 2031 sets the scene for
economy. The Newcastle Knights win helped to reignite sustained growth, galvanising the Hunter’s place as one
the region’s can-do attitude and created a new pride and of Australia’s leading regions.
Show me the money!

Anonymously exchange and compare local salary
data via this region’s only online salary survey.
www.huntersalaries.com.au
13
EDUCATION & TRAINING
The Hunter Region has an increasingly strong emphasis Internationally, the Academic Ranking of World Universities
on education and training both at the personal and places Newcastle in the top four per cent of universities in
organisational levels. It is home to a wide range of quality the world, and the Times Higher Education World University
educational institutions and educational organisations. Rankings and QS World University Rankings place it in the
top three per cent. Both the Times Higher Education and
There is a widespread appreciation of the importance of QS also rank Newcastle in the top 50 universities in the
education training as an essential ingredient for economic world under the age of 50.
growth, particularly in the rapidly growing knowledge-based
industries.
A priority for the university is providing a high-quality learning

environment and producing first-rate graduates who are
Data from the 2011 Census demonstrate an increasingly ready to compete in the global arena. There are currently
skilled workforce with an increase in the number of Hunter 36,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled
people seeking higher qualifications. across five faculties: Business and Law, Education and Arts,
Engineering and Built Environment, Science and Information
Additionally, most employment growth has been in the Technology, and Health.
knowledge-based industries, and these new jobs require
employees with skills and higher qualification levels. Underpinned by quality teaching and research, the
university’s comprehensive suite of degree programs is
The University of Newcastle and TAFE NSW – Hunter enhanced through work-integrated learning. Embedded
Institute work closely with the business community to into more than 90 percent of the university’s courses,
develop customised courses to satisfy specific workplace work integrated learning provides a framework to support
needs. theoretical learning with valuable hands-on experience.
The education and training sector is also a major employer The university’s online postgraduate programs are provided
in the region, accounting for around 8% of the workforce. through the university-owned company Gradschool.com (www.
gradschool.com.au). A pioneer in the field of online postgraduate
University of Newcastle education, Gradschool.com delivers a flexible learning environment
The University of Newcastle is a world-class institution for students wanting to develop business-critical skills but are
delivering quality tertiary education and innovative research. unable to attend face-to-face learning.
Get the edge on your competition

TAlk To us AT HunTEr TAFE
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A comprehensive range of professional business and industry education and training will sustain its business into the future.
programs across the university’s five faculties is also available.
For more information on how Hunter TAFE can help with all
For more information about the University of Newcastle, visit your accreditation and training needs visit
www.newcastle.edu.au or phone (02) 4921 5000. www.hunter.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 225.
Hunter TAFE Tocal College

Hunter TAFE is committed to providing the Hunter Region and Tocal College is part of the Tocal Agricultural Centre within
Central Coast with a highly skilled workforce through programs the NSW Department of Primary Industries. It is a leader in

developed in close consultation with business and industry. agricultural and conservation land management education.
Tocal College offers full and part-time courses, short
Hunter TAFE operates 15 campuses from Scone in the Upper courses and distance education.
Hunter to Newcastle and to Gosford on the Central Coast.
It delivers highly sought after training, assessment and
The Institute is the largest regional vocational education and professional development programs for those entering and
training organisation in NSW with training delivered by highly working in agricultural industries.
qualified staff with industry experience.
For further information about Tocal College visit
Hunter TAFE prides itself on customising programs www.tocal.nsw.edu.au
according to specific student and customer needs.
Through discussions with industry and employers within Avondale College
our region, Hunter TAFE will continue to provide training Avondale is a private of higher education Institution offering a
that reflects ongoing changes in our economy, increased broad range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and vocational
labour mobility and advances in technology. courses. It is run by the Seventh-day Adventist Church,
but is open to all students. The main campus is located at
The change to TAFE programs this year balances the demand Cooranbong, with another in Sydney.
for training for industry in skill shortage areas while ensuring
the provision of the best possible education and training Avondale College offers undergraduate degrees in arts,
pathways for the community. business, science, education, nursing and theology.
Postgraduate courses are available in education, leadership
Hunter TAFE program delivery consists of full-time and part- and management, nursing, theology and PhD. Vocational
time options, short courses, evening classes, workplace studies are also provided in outdoor recreation.
delivery and online programs. Our programs are flexible
For more information visit www.avondale.edu.au
and accessible to meet student and customer needs.
Hunter Valley Training Company
With the continual blurring of the sectoral divide between
The region is also home to Australia’s oldest and largest
secondary school, university and TAFE, Hunter TAFE is Group Training Organisation, Hunter Valley Training
expanding programs of study for senior school students Company (HVTC). The Maitland company has 11 offices
(TVET subjects) and can now offer higher education or across NSW providing high quality, job ready apprentices
degree courses in niche discipline areas. and trainees to help business and the region prosper. The
company is unique in that it also has its own Registered
Hunter TAFE’s impeccable reputation as a provider of quality Training Organisation and Skills Centre (Hunter-V-Tec)
15
providing training for its own and other apprentices as well students are more actively engaged in their learning and
as specialised training for business. more focused on STEM careers.
HVTC recruits and employs apprentices and trainees direct, The ME Program also engages Hunter-based advanced
saving businesses time and money. Expert staff, high levels manufacturing companies and partners them with schools
of mentoring and long-term partnerships with quality host to provide students with information, tours, mentoring
employers is why HVTC has apprenticeship and traineeship and work experience. The ME Program website www.
completion rates well above the national average. meprogram.com.au provides interested students with career
opportunities and career information.
Since it started operations in 1981, HVTC has employed and
trained more than 18,000 people. Other training organisations
A large number of other accredited vocational training

ME Program and development companies specialising in occupational
The ME Program is a $2.9 million education program funded health and safety, management and leadership operate
by the federal government. The Hunter was one of three throughout the region.
regions across Australia awarded funding under the Federal
Government’s Defence Materiel Organisation to manage an Other leading training organisations include Advanced
Advanced Manufacturing Industry Schools Pathway Project. Careers College, Hunter Community College, Pegasus
The program is providing over 4000 high school students Training, Reach for Training and WEA Hunter.
per year with innovative experiences that engage them in the
key learning areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and
Mathematics (STEM). The award winning program achieves
its goals by introducing next generation manufacturing
technologies into schools and providing training opportunities
for teachers.
Participating schools provide and actively promote to

students a tailored program of core subjects which
are required in order to pursue careers in defence and
advanced manufacturing. The effect has been significant
increases in the uptake of STEM subjects for students'
HSC years and reporting from teachers indicating that
Employers
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16
ECONOMIC STRENGTH & DIVERSIFICATION
The Hunter Region has one of the strongest regional global environmental awareness to grow lucrative new
economies in Australia. Those not overly familiar with the “green” industries.
region are invariably surprised at the strength, vibrancy
and diversity of the Hunter economy which stretches far RDA Hunter’s CleanTech Project has established a hub for
beyond the traditional industries of coal and wine that are business, researchers and government programs to work
often associated with the region. together on progressing developments in this important
area of the Hunter’s future.
The BHP Steelworks was a major driver of the economy
from its opening in 1915 to its closure in 1999. In spite Industries in the Hunter are also characterised by a “can
of the many prophets of doom, the region faced this do” attitude that is fuelling sustained economic growth
challenge head-on. Since then, the Hunter has transformed and a secure future for the entire region. These factors,

its economy, building upon traditional strengths with the combined with the Hunter’s numerous other competitive
introduction of new industries and the expansion of existing advantages, have seen billions of dollars invested in recent
industries to form a broader based economy that is much years by a host of companies, including major national and
more resilient to external factors. international corporations.
The region is also rapidly gaining a reputation for innovation, A broad range of corporations have substantial operations
not only for the major research establishments based in the in the region. These include: Ampcontrol Group, Ausgrid,
Hunter, but also for the ability of local industries to develop BAE Systems, BHP Billiton, Boeing, Bradken, Centennial
unique solutions and sell these, often to markets around Coal, Downer, Fairfax Media, GPT Group, Hydro Kurri
the world. There are numerous businesses that are having Kurri, Inghams Enterprises, Johnson Property Group,
considerable success by serving niche markets. Lend Lease, Macquarie Generation, Mirvac, OneSteel,
Orica, Rio Tinto Australia, Smorgan Steel, Stockland
The Hunter is also an emerging centre for renewable Group, Telstra, Tomago Aluminium, Westfield Limited and
energy and is well-positioned to capitalise on increased Xstrata.
The Australian Industry Group

(Ai Group) is a peak industry
association in Australia which
along with its affiliates represents
the interests of more than 60,000
businesses in an expanding
range of sectors including:
manufacturing; engineering;
construction; automotive; food;
transport; information technology;
telecommunications; call centres;
labour hire; printing; defence; Ai GROUP
ServiceS
mining equipment and supplies;
airlines; and other industries.
The businesses which we represent
HUnteR BUsiness
employ more than 1 million
people nationally.
Contact our Hunter Office
E: [email protected] www.aigroup.com.au
T: 61 2 4925 8300
AIG12581
17
WORKFORCE
The Hunter has a reputation for a hard-working, reliable, EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY
and flexible workforce that’s skilled across a diverse
industrial base.
Hunter Australia
% of total % of total
With sustained growth over the last two decades,
the Hunter has experienced a strong upward trend in Agriculture, forestry and fishing 1.8 2.5
employment. Before this period, unemployment rates Mining 5.0 1.8
in the Hunter were usually several percentage points
Manufacturing 10.0 9.2
higher than state and national averages, which saw many
locals moving to Sydney and other major centres for Electricity, gas, water and waste 1.8 1.2
employment. The rate now moving is usually significantly services
lower than state and national averages and an increasing Construction 8.2 8.4
number of people are now moving to the Hunter for both

Wholesale trade 3.0 4.1
work and lifestyle reasons. For example, in December
2012, the Hunter's unemployment rate stood at 4.9% Retail trade 11.3 10.8
compared to 5.1% for NSW and 5.4% for Australia. Accommodation and food services 7.6 6.6
Surveys continually show that Hunter employers are Transport, postal and warehousing 4.3 4.9
amongst the most confident in Australia. According Information media and 0.9 1.8
to the Hudson Report: Employment Trends survey for telecommunications
December 2012, a net 23.2% of Newcastle employers Financial and insurance services 2.7 3.8
were intending to increase permanent staff levels over the
Rental, hiring and real estate ser- 1.6 1.6
following three months (net figure equals those intending vices
to increase staff levels less those planning to decrease).
This figure is significantly higher than both the national Professional, scientific and 5.5 7.4
technical services
figure of 9.1% and the NSW figure of 14.7%.
Administrative and support 3.1 3.3
The availability of labour in the Hunter is enhanced by an services
excellent road, rail and public transport network which Public administration and safety 6.3 7.0
gives employers access to a very large labour pool. In Education and training 7.9 8.2
addition, the adjacent Central Coast Region, with a
population of over 300,000, has the capacity to add Health care and social assistance 13.4 11.9
further to the Hunter’s labour pool. Arts and recreation services 1.2 1.5
Other services 4.4 3.8
A major area of economic growth in the Hunter is in
knowledge-based industries. The University of Newcastle Source: ABS 2011 Census
HUNTER LABOUR FORCE
Av.2008 Av.2009 Av.2010 Av.2011 Av.2012
Labour Force Total ‘000 309.2 308.9 334.8 333.8 331.5

- Males ‘000 170.9 172.9 183.8 183.4 183.7
- Females ‘000 138.3 136.0 151.0 150.4 147.8
Male Participation % 68.9 67.6 70.3 69.2 68.8
Female Participation % 53.9 51.5 55.9 54.9 53.5
Employed Persons Total ‘000 294.1 291.8 319.5 320.3 315.3
- Males ‘000 163.7 163.9 175.6 176.9 173.8
- Females ‘000 130.5 128.8 143.9 143.3 141.5
Unemployed Persons ‘000 15.1 17.1 13.7 12.7 16.2
Unemployed Rate Persons % 4.9 5.5 4.6 4.0 4.9
Source: ABS Monthly Labour Force Survey Data Cube/HVRF
18
and Hunter TAFE work closely with regional employers to
design courses that meet modern business and industry JOB CLASSIFICATIONS
needs.
Hunter Australia
% of total % of total
Absenteeism and staff turnover rates in the Hunter are low
compared with capital cities due to the region’s attractive Managers 10.5 13.1
way of life. This lifestyle also helps in attracting new Professionals 18.7 21.7
employees to the region and retaining them.
Technicians and trades workers 16.8 14.4
INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS Community and personal service

workers
10.2 9.8
The Hunter has a progressive, co-operative approach to Clerical and administrative workers 13.9 15.0
industrial relations and as a result the number of industrial Sales workers 10.1 9.5
disputes remains low.
Machinery operators and drivers 9.0 6.7

Unions are regularly involved at the highest levels of regional Labourers 10.7 9.6
planning and also in the operation of large industrial Source: ABS 2011 Census
projects. This cohesion ensures projects are delivered on-
time and on-budget.
While large employers tend to work closely with the unions,

many of the region’s small to medium enterprises have very
little contact with them.
The Hunter’s unions work together under the auspices

of the Newcastle Trades Hall Council and the Australian
Council of Trade Unions (ACTU).
Industrial relations support is provided through the two

major employer groups - Hunter Business Chamber and
Australian Industry Group (AiG) - as well as a number of
industrial advocates.
Local knowledge, global reach
With more than 20 years successful operation in the Hunter, Prosperity has grown to be an east coast financial advisory firm
with personal global connections. Our local team of 70 people delivers a portfolio of chartered accounting, wealth management
and salary packaging services to a range of clients.
Clients tap into Prosperity for strategies and techniques to minimise taxes, maximise profit and drive growth. We provide
services to a diverse client base and have specialist teams covering resources and mining, medical professionals and
in-bound investment including a well resourced ‘Asian Desk’ with multi-lingual capability.
One team, One plan, Smarter advice.
Sydney | Newcastle | Brisbane

www.prosperityadvisers.com.au
19
COAL MINING
Coal mining continues to form the bedrock of the Hunter's
economy, generating more than 11,000 direct jobs and
around 40,000 indirect jobs, with profound flow-on benefits
for the region. Approximately 72% of the coal mined in
NSW comes from the Newcastle, Hunter and north west
areas. In addition, the mining services industry plays an
important role in the region, ranging from professional
services, education, training and research to general
engineering and manufacturing, transport, construction,
WHS and employment services.
Coal mining in the Hunter is vital to the continued strength

of the state's economy, with royalties from the coal regions

forming a substantial part of the $8.5 billion in royalty
payments that the NSW Government expects to receive
from the minerals sector over the next three years. Demand
for coal, particularly from the developing economies of
China and India, as well continued growth in the traditional
markets has provided the stimulus for a number of new
projects and mine extensions in the region's coalfields in
spite of a recent downturn in export coal prices.
Significant coal mining operators in regioncoalfields include:
Anglo American Metallurgical Coal Pty Ltd operates the

Drayton open-cut coal mine near Muswellbrook, producing
approximately 5 Mtpa (million tonnes per annum) and
employing approximately 400 people. Anglo American Large scale coal mines in the Hunter
Coal is also developing the Drayton South Project which create billions of dollars of revenue each year
will be used as a replacement to the existing Drayton mine.
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BHP Billiton Hunter Valley Energy Coal operates the Mt Coal Mine near Cessnock and operates the joint venture
Arthur Coal Complex near Muswellbrook with approximately Ashton Coal Operations 12 km northwest of Singleton
1,000 permanent and contract employees. The mine is which includes an open cut and underground coal mine,
capable of producing up to 20 Mtpa of raw energy coal at a Coal Handling and Preparation Plant and a rail siding.
full production which is used domestically and for export It has a current production capacity of 3.9 Mtpa of semi-
power generation. The NSW Government has approved soft coking coal. Following the acquisition of Gloucester
the expansion of the Mt Arthur Coal Complex which will Coal, Yancoal now operates the Donaldson open cut, the
enable production from the mine of up to 36 Mtpa. Tasman and Abel underground mines and the Stratford
and Duralie open cut mines in the Gloucester basin north
Bloomfield Collieries Pty Ltd operates two open-cut of Newcastle.
coal mines in the Hunter Region, the Bloomfield Colliery
located near East Maitland and the Rix's Creek mine near The Port Of Newcastle

Singleton. Bloomfield also operates Coal Handling and The Hunter's coal mining industry is supported by the
Preparation Plants at both mine sites. Port of Newcastle, the world's largest high quality coal
exporting port, handling over 121 million tonnes of coal in
Centennial Coal Company Ltd is a major supplier to the the 2011-2012 financial year. This was a 12.6% increase
NSW energy industry, fuelling approximately 40% of the over the previous year.
state's coal-fired electricity. Centennial has six operating
underground coal mines in NSW including Mandalong and This level of exports was made possible following the
Myuna, both just south of the Hunter in the Lake Macquarie injection of over $2 billion by ARTC in increasing Hunter
area. Centennial is also developing the Mandalong Southern rail capacity and the continuing high level of investment in
Extension Project and the Newstan Lochiel Project along expanded port coal loading capacity by the two terminal
with other projects while its Mannering mine is on care and operators.
maintenance.
Port Waratah Coal Services is the owner and operator
Coal & Allied Industries Ltd (a member of the Rio Tinto of the Carrington and Kooragang coal terminals with a
Group) is one of the major coal producers in the region, combined coal loading capacity of 133 Mtpa. Its proposed
employing more than 3,000 people and producing Terminal 4 project when completed could add another 120
around 24 Mtpa across its three operations, Mt Thorley Mtpa capacity.
Warkworth, Hunter Valley Operations (HVO) and Bengalla.
Coal & Allied is also currently undertaking a number of new Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group's coal terminal has
projects including the Mount Pleasant Project, the Bengalla a current capacity of 53 Mtpa and when complete will be
Continuation Project and the Carrington West Wing. able to handle 60 Mtpa.
Idemitsu Australia Resources Pty Ltd owns and operates Within the next two years the Port's coal handling capacity
an open cut mine which can produce up to 1.8 Mtpa of is expected to be close to 200 Mtpa.
steaming coal. It is one of the oldest operating mines in
NSW with underground mining commencing in 1907. In 2012, the Port registered almost 4500 vessel movements
and handled over 40 commodities.
Peabody Energy Australia owns the Wambo coal
mine near Singleton, which produces around 5.4 Mtpa
of saleable thermal and pulverised coal injection coal a
year. The modern, productive combined open cut and
underground operation is one of Peabody's largest
amongst its 11 mines in Australia.
Vale operates the Integra Coal Operations which consist of

an underground mine, an open cut mine, a coal preparation
plant and rail loading infrastructure. The operations produce
coking coal (semi-hard coking coal, semi-soft coking coal)
and thermal coal.
Xstrata Coal Australia Pty Ltd is the world's largest

producer of export thermal coal and a significant producer
of premium-quality hard-coking coal. In the Hunter, Xstrata
operates a portfolio of coal mines including the Mt Owen
Complex, Ravensworth, Bulga, Liddell and Mangoola.
Yancoal Australia Pty Ltd is a wholly-owned subsidiary

of Yanzhou Coal Mining Company Limited which owns Coal being loaded at the Port of Newcastle –
and operates mines in China. Yancoal owns the Austar the world’s largest coal exporting port
21
POWER GENERATION
The Hunter’s power generation industry produces around The final planning approval process, fuel type decisions
60% of NSW electricity supply and employs approximately and construction timetable are yet to be determined.
2,200 people. NSW’s large coal-fired power stations
produce some of the cheapest electricity in Australia. The $900 million gas pipeline being built from Queensland
to the Hunter makes it feasible for a gas-fired power
Within the Hunter and adjacent Central Coast Region, station to be built in the Hunter. Santos also has plans to
four generating companies operate five coal-fired power build a $300 million gas pipeline to an export terminal in
stations supplying power to the National Electricity Newcastle that will have a lateral to the Bayswater power
Market. A gas-fired power station was officially opened station.
in December 2009 by Delta Electricity to help meet peak
demand. Eraring Power Station completed its $600 million upgrade
in 2012 increasing the final of its four 660 MW generators
These companies and their power generating capabilities to a capacity of 720 MW. This is in addition to the already
are as follows:
Power
Generator Type of Station Location Capacity
Station
Macquarie Generation Bayswater Coal-fired Muswellbrook/Singleton 2,640 MW
Macquarie Generation Liddell Coal-fired Muswellbrook/Singleton 2,000 MW
Eraring Energy Eraring Coal-fired Lake Macquarie 2,880 MW
Delta Electricity Vales Point Coal-fired Central Coast 1,320 MW
Delta Electricity Colongra Gas-fired Central Coast 660 MW
Redbank Redbank Coal-fired Singleton 145 MW
Macquarie Generation has planning approval for a gas- commissioned Coal Combustion Product project which
fired power station at Tomago to supplement the NSW provides increased opportunity for ash recycling and the
grid during peak loads. The power station is planned for Attemperation Reservoir which reduces the environmental
three phases; the first two phases involve a $500 million impact of cooling water on Lake Macquarie.
500 MW open cycle stage, the final phase involves a
790 MW combined cycle stage at a cost of an additional The upgrade and other project works were necessary
$300 million. to extend the life of the plant until 2032 and to increase
the performance of Eraring Power Station. The upgrade
In March 2010, Macquarie Generation received concept will make Eraring Power Station the most efficient sub-
approval for the Bayswater B baseload power station to critical coal fired power station in Australia. New low NOx
be located on land owned by the corporation near the burners will substantially reduce annual NOx emissions
existing Bayswater Power Station. The approval is “duel while efficiency gains will result in the reduction of 200,000
fuel” allowing the station to be either gas or coal fired. tonnes of CO2 each year.
Eraring Power Station
22
Clean energy projects by 450 locally manufactured custom designed mirrors
As well as being a state leader in power generation, the (heliostats) capable of generating temperatures of up to
Hunter leads the way in innovative energy production. 1500°C. The $5 million site is a national and international
The Hunter is a leader in clean energy with a number of hub for researching and commercialising solar thermal
projects in the region at the cutting edge of technology. technologies.
The CSIRO Energy Centre in Newcastle provides a focal Built in 2001, the Redbank Power Station near Singleton
point for energy research and demonstration. As well is the first Australian power station designed and built to
as its own projects, CSIRO is currently working with use beneficiated, watered coal tailings as the primary fuel.
Australian and overseas partners. The nearby Warkworth Coal Mine supplies Redbank with
the tailings.
Locally, CSIRO and Delta Electricity successfully

completed a $5 million demonstration of post combustion Macquarie Generation has built Australia’s largest solar
capture (PCC) technology at Munmorah Power Station thermal project at Liddell Power Station, the first time in the
before its closure. The pilot plant was relocated to Vales world that solar thermal technology has been integrated
Point for further research during 2012 for scaling up to a with a coal-fired power station. The NSW Government
demonstration plant. PCC has the potential to capture provided funding of $9.25 million from the Climate Change
carbon dioxide (CO2) from coal-fired power stations, Fund to approximately double the capacity of the plant,
leading to significant emissions reductions from the with construction completed in 2012.
energy generation sector.
Macquarie Generation has also invested $100 million to
CSIRO has constructed Australia’s largest solar thermal replace the turbines in Liddell Power Station, resulting in
research hub at the CSIRO National Solar Energy Centre. increased efficiency and significant CO2 reduction of up
The hub comprises a 30 metre high solar tower surrounded to 700,000 tonnes per year.
CSIRO Solar Centre at Mayfield West
23
MANUFACTURING
Since the early days of coal and steel production in continued growth well into the future.
Newcastle, the Hunter Region has grown to be at the
forefront of manufacturing and engineering excellence. Manufacturing industries in the region include:
• Metal Products
Following the closure of BHP Steelmaking in the late • Machinery and Equipment
1990s and the restructuring of the manufacturing • Chemical Processing
industry throughout Australia that followed, the region has • Transport and Defence
experienced a major industrial transformation. Rather than • Food and Beverages
allowing these changes to lead to an industry decline, • Wood and Paper Products
Hunter manufacturers have harnessed their strengths
to produce a diverse and innovative industry that is well Knowledge intensive manufacturing includes:
placed for the future. • Information Systems
• Programming and Automation

Drawing on past experience, industry has been able to • Medical Technology
focus and build on these strengths, redirecting energy • Energy Research
towards business on a national and global scale. • Process Improvement
The region’s industries are diversifying and embracing The region’s technical expertise covers a wide range of
innovation and adapting to new technologies and disciplines including:
applications, including the use of composite materials, • Aeronautical Engineering
computer systems integration and aerospace engineering. • Asset Management
Hunter manufacturers are building a reputation for • Biomedical Technology
innovative solutions and a “can do” attitude. • Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
They are also working hard ro realise the opportunities • Defence Equipment
available in the global marketplace and embracing • Electrical Engineering
the opportunity to expand their businesses through • Environmental Services
exporting goods and services. Hunter manufacturers • Mechanical Engineering
are targeting niche market opportunities that the current • Mining Engineering
global marketplace is presenting. Whilst it is impossible to • Vehicle Assembly
compete with countries such as China in many industry
sectors, local manufacturers are proving that they can Aluminium
compete through innovation and providing niche solutions Aluminium smelting, processing and manufacturing is
that are not available elsewhere. Newcastle Port provides a core Hunter strength. With around 30% of Australia’s
ready access to the export market. aluminium output, the Hunter Region is a major player in
the Australian aluminium industry.
The approach of people and businesses working in the
Hunter is unlike that of any other region. Manufacturers With around 950 employees and contractors and annual
who could ordinarily be classed as competitors work production of 540,000 tonnes, Tomago Aluminium is one
together on joint ventures, and share technology and new of the largest employers in the region and the second
ideas – allowing projects completed in the Hunter to be largest aluminium smelter in Australia. Tomago Aluminium
of a world-class standard, with unrivalled multi-faceted is a joint venture owned by the following Australian and
talent at the fore. overseas companies; Rio Tinto Alcan at 51.55%, Gove
Aluminium Finance Ltd at 36.05% and Hydro Aluminium
With ample quality industrial land coming on the market, at 12.4%. Tomago Aluminium produces aluminium ingots,
a supply of highly-skilled labour and good transport extrusion billet and rolling slab, which are mostly exported
networks, Hunter manufacturing is well positioned for to markets in Asia, but the majority of the 530,000 tonnes
Aerial view of Tomago Aluminium
24
HUNTER MANUFACTURING
AWARDS INC.
THANK YOU!

Proudly support
CONGRATULATIONS the2012
TO THE manufacturing industry
WINNERS AND FINALISTS in
OF THE
2008
the MAJOR
Hunter2012 HUNTERSPONSOR
Region. MANUFACTURING
The region isAWARDS
rich in talent,
innovation and commitment
and and through
THANK YOU to
acknowledgement and encouragement the HMA
celebrate the ongoing
AND achievements and success
of the Hunter manufacturing industries.
OUR SPONSORS & SUPPORTERS
2012
FOR YOUR MAJOR
SUPPORT IN SPONSOR
2008
www.hma.org.au
CONGRATULATIONS
AND OUR SPONSORS & SUPPORTERS FOR!THEIR VALUED SUPPORT IN 2012
TO THE
2008 WINNERS AND FINALISTS
21 School Drive
Tomago NSW 2322
02 4964 0400
02 4964 0499
[email protected]
DEFENCE & AEROSPACE MARINE & INDUSTRIAL SPECIALISED VEHICLES RAIL SERVICES POWER SERVICES ELECTRIC VEHICLES
www.varleygroup.com
25
produced is in the form of ingots that are sold and Major superyacht builder and repairer Azzura Marine
remelted by the customer as value added items. operates from facilities at Carrington. The site has an
Tomago Aluminium Pty Ltd has a business value above impressive list of characteristics including deep water
$1.5 billion (AUS$) and contributes around $500 million access, 180 m of wharf space, an 800 tonne lifting
to the Hunter Region each year alone. capacity, a large 120 x 45 m single span construction
hall and associated workshops.
Hydro Aluminium Kurri Kurri Pty Ltd, a member of
the Norwegian based Hydro Aluminium Group, has Machinery and equipment manufacture
operated at Kurri Kurri since 1969. Hydro closed The Hunter has a broad spectrum of machinery and
the Kurri Kurri plant's primary metal production in equipment manufacturers covering a very diverse
September 2012, but is still producing casthouse range of applications, from electronic and medical
products at the site. equipment to mining machines and food processing.
Weston Aluminium at Kurri Kurri operates the largest Hunter equipment manufacturers include energy
secondary aluminium plant in Australia with a capacity industries with expertise in major electrical component
of 40,000 tonnes per year, catering for the recycling construction and installation such as transformers,
and export of aluminium and its by-products. control systems and plant components.
Rail OneSteel’s Market Mills Division at Mayfield produces

The region is a major manufacturer of rail rolling stock, wire rope products and fence posts. Bradken Limited
along with carriages and engines, interiors and control operates a general engineering facility in Newcastle.
systems. EDI Rail has a NSW Government contract for
the construction and maintenance of 626 double-deck Chemical processing
rail carriages worth $3.6 billion. OneSteel is a major The Hunter manufactures fertilisers, acids, explosives,
manufacturer of railway wheels and recently upgraded pharmaceuticals and gases, along with a range of non-
its Newcastle facilities to a capacity of 105,000 wheels metallic mineral products such as pre-mixed concrete,
per annum. Bradken has a major division dedicated to pipes, bricks and paving.
the railway freight market, providing complete freight
rolling stock solutions. United Group has won a number Chemical processes include the production and
of major contracts nationally in recent years and a transformation of plastics, rubbers and composite
significant amount of this work is being carried out materials such as glass-reinforced polymers.
at their Broadmeadow facility. Varley Group provides
speacialist coal wagon maintenance and upgrades Food and beverage processing
through their Carrington facilities. The region has a large food processing base with major
companies such as Dairy Farmers Co-operative at
Shipbuilding & repair Hexham which processes some 200 million litres of milk
Historically the Hunter Region has been a major each year while Bartter Steggles and Inghams Enterprises
shipbuilder, building ships from ore carriers to ferries operate major chicken processing facilities at Beresfield
and naval vessels. The shipbuilding expertise and and Cardiff respectively. Pace Farms operates an egg
knowledge gained in this area, over more than 100 processing facility at Warabrook. Primo Smallgoods
years, is now being directed towards the construction,
refit and maintenance of naval vessels, superyachts
and other ships.
Thales Australia (formerly ADI Limited) built the Royal

Australian Navy’s Huon Class Minehunter fleet at
their Newcastle shipbuilding facility and continued its
maintenance under a $1.2 billion contract that ran from
1994 to 2004.
Forgacs Shipyards are capable of constructing

both steel and aluminium hull vessels such as tugs,
passenger crafts and naval ships. At present Forgacs
is a part of the team in the $8 billion build of the Air
Warfare Destroyers - one of the largest defence projects
in Australia. Forgacs also operates a commercial dry
dock – Cairncross Brisbane. Its Newcastle dockyard
comprises a comprehensive ship repair centre with 850
tonne slipway and lay-up berths serviced by dockyard
cranes. Australian and international ship owners use
Forgacs for all major grounding repairs, collision
repairs, conversions and major mechanical works.
26
Manufacturing
“The ME Program has been very beneficial to my
knowledge and skills. Everyday things that we take for
granted are explained and described and we controlled
Education Program
them in a safe and fun environment. How computers and
mobile phones worked were demonstrated
Building the Hunter’s Future Workforce
and we solved problem using sensors,
conveyor belts, and pieces of machinery.
The ping pong ball that was held up in the
air even when the air pressure was
coming from an angle blew all our minds.
The computers and the PLC was
fun and exciting and we took on
problems and challenges.”
Peter – St Mary’s High School
Maitland
WHO BENEFITS FROM ?

SCHOOLS STUDENTS
Schools benefit from the ME Program through the integration A student in the ME program will benefit from interactive
of advanced technologies and realistic career orientation technologies and advanced teaching techniques that are real
with specific learning outcomes. and relevant to today’s industry.
The assimilation of these experiences creates a more ME students are challenged by sophisticated learning
powerful student learning experience which enhances the technologies that are fun and engaging.
retention of key concepts and motivates students towards These technologies enhance the retention of information
challenging subjects and careers. and inspire students to embark on lifelong career paths of
INDUSTRY continued learning.
Industry involvement in the ME Program creates powerful Students are given access to real employers offering
connections with schools, students and parents which over real jobs in the region. They will meet with apprentices,
time create a unique recruitment pool. Students from schools graduates, tradespeople, engineers and CEO’s and will
involved in the ME Program are more likely to: see how their school technologies can be applied to real
• View your company as an employer of choice world problems.
• Have selected the right subjects at school – Science, COMMUNITY
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics The local region is ultimately the benefactor of the benefits
• Have a more realistic perception of the industry of the ME Program.
• Have been challenged by learning technologies that
enhance their reasoning ability and understanding of The community gains a more adaptable and capable
difficult concepts workforce which in turn creates a more prosperous
• Be excited by the technological advances destined for industry base.
your industry Local people in local jobs creates a thriving community.
• Be competent with 3D design software and concepts
INDUSTRY PARTNERS
Building the Hunter’s Future Workforce
To find out more go to www.meprogram.com.au or follow us at facebook.com/MEprogram

operates a beef abattoir at Scone. Gloucester Gourmet HunterNet
Foods Co-operative Limited produces beef grown in HunterNet, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2012,
Gloucester under the Barrington Beef label. A number of is a co-operative of innovative manufacturers, engineers,
smaller beer brewers are also based in the region. IT providers, electrical and consulting companies in the
Hunter Valley working together to develop and strengthen
the region’s pre-eminent manufacturing capability.
ME Program - Manufacturing Success Through Education
The ME Program is a $2.9 million education program During 2011, HunterNet absorbed Huntertech, a
funded by the federal government. The Hunter was consortium of ICT and related organisations. This area is
one of three regions across Australia awarded funding now handled by the HunterNet Innovation & Technology
under the Federal Government’s Defence Materiel Committee.
Organisation to manage an Advanced Manufacturing
Industry Schools Pathway Project. Through working with the research sector, industry
and government, HunterNet have developed initiatives
The program is providing over 4000 high school and supported programs aimed at improving the
students per year with innovative experiences that competitiveness of the manufacturing industry and
engage them in the key learning areas of Science, building a strong culture of innovation.
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
The award winning program achieves its goals through The combined knowledge and resources of HunterNet’s
the introduction of next generation manufacturing members have enabled many Hunter companies to
technologies into schools and through the provision of gain major contracts that would otherwise have been
training opportunities for teachers. out of their reach. Hunternet is a recognised leader
in engineering/manufacturing cluster development
Participating schools provide and actively promote throughout Australia.
to students a tailored program of core subjects which
are required in order to pursue careers in defence and For more information visit: www.hunternet.com.au
advanced manufacturing. The effect has been significant
increases in the uptake of STEM subjects for students'
HSC years and reporting from teachers indicating that
students are more actively engaged in their learning and
more focused on STEM careers.
The Hunter-based program is supported by its base of

innovative manufacturing companies who allow schools
access to their facilities and contribute to school projects
and career days.
Manufacturing companies wishing to contribute to the

program can contact Ashley Cox on +61 2 4908 7300.
Forgacs is a major supplier for the

$8 billion Airforce Destroyer project.
28
THE POWER OF MANY
THE POWER OF MANY
DEVELOPING OUR LOCAL INDUSTRY AND CONNECTING YOU “Tap into Australia’s most successful
» Understand the diversity of member capabilities and identify manufacturing and services networks
opportunities for collaboration and discover a world of new
DEVELOPING
» OUR LOCAL INDUSTRY AND CONNECTING YOU
Find support from our Group Training company to address
skills shortages in a variety of trades and careers
opportunities”
»
» Understand the diversity of member capabilities
Build partnerships with Federal and State agencies, affiliated
orgainisations, workforce agencies, educators, business groups
» and
Share knowledge and realise your potential through programs
identify opportunities for collaboration
aimed at innovation, efficiency and expanding your market
» learn
Share more at www.hunternet.com.au
knowledge and realise your potential or call +61 2 4908 7380
through programs aimed at innovation,
efficiency and expanding your market
» Build partnerships with Federal and State

agencies, educators, business groups
» Find support from our Group Training company

to address skill shortages in a variety of trades
and careers
“Tap into Australia’s
most successful
manufacturing and
engineering networks
and discover a world
of new opportunities”
Learn more at www.hunternet.com.au or call +61 2 4908 7380 29

DEFENCE
Defence is an important sector of the Hunter regional economy, $500 million spent on construction and upgrade of facilities
not only because of the significant number of people it directly at Williamtown and an additional $215 million will be spent on
employs but also the number of local businesses that have additional base support facilities.
defence contracts as part of their revenue base. The Hunter
has a history of large-scale defence projects for all arms of the The adjoining Williamtown Aerospace Centre (WAC) has
defence forces. the potential to position the Hunter as a major national and
potentially international centre for the aerospace and aviation
The Hunter houses 15 defence establishments, the main industry. The employment capacity of the WAC site is
ones being the RAAF Base at Williamtown and the Singleton projected as more than 9,000, and the potential income effect
Military Area called the Lone Pine Barracks. In addition, there is estimated to be around $250 million. The location of the JSF
is an army base at Adamstown and the Newcastle Harbour aircraft will provide an opportunity for the development of the
and shipyards are used for naval vessel building and repair. site to provide aircraft and other support.
The RAAF Base at Williamtown was established in 1941 to The Singleton Military Area (Lone Pine Barracks) houses the
provide protection for the strategic ports and industrial areas of School of Infantry and the Special Forces Training Centre.
the Hunter Region. Today it is Australia’s primary fighter base These units are part of Training Command - Army. In addition,
with a population of approximately 4,000 including personnel there are accommodation and training areas available
on exchange from the USA, Canada and Great Britain, as well for visiting units who use the area for field training and to
as a civilian workforce made up of public servants and contract conduct live firing. The base currently has 371 permanent
personnel. There are 32 units and organisations operating out personnel involved in the training and 400 trainees involved
of RAAF Base Williamtown and the operations inject over $1 in initial employment training (IET). A $180 million upgrade is
billion per annum into the Hunter economy. completed with a second stage of over $100 million currently
being completed.
Williamtown handles around 1,000 aircraft movements
each week, making it the busiest base in the RAAF. Aircraft The Adamstown Army Base holds 13 different units with 30
operating on the base include F/A-18 Hornet, BAE Systems regular soldiers and 1,500 reservists. The base also has three
Hawk 127 Lead-in Fighter and Pilatus PC9 for Forward Air cadet units, two army units and one air force unit. The primary
Control of the Air Combat Group. These are supported by role of the base is to train reservists.
the Air Surveillance Group radar units and Airborne Early
Warning and Control (AEW&C), Wedgetail aircraft, providing Myambat Logistics Company (MLC) covers an area of
the Australian Defence Force with an enhanced surveillance approximately 1,800 ha around 10 kilometres from Denman. Its
capability in the broad expanse of the Australian north. The role is to store, maintain and distribute all forms of ammunition
Defence Materiel organisation is also located on the base with and explosives used by the Australian Defence Force.
the System Program Offices providing logistics, sustainment
engineering support for the various platforms and systems. There are several prime defence contractors located in the
Hunter including BAE Systems, Boeing Defence Australia, GE
Newcastle Airport, Australia’s busiest regional and fastest Aviation, Lockheed Martin, L3, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon
growing civilian airport, also operates from the Williamtown and Thales. They are supported by several defence companies
Airfield on a lease arrangement between the Department of including ATSA, Abi Group, Advanced Communications,
Defence and Newcastle Airport Limited. Advitech, Airflite, ALS, Ampcontrol, APP, Archer Enterprise,
Aurecon, Berendsen, Bohemia Interactive, Bureau Veritas,
The Australian Government approved acquisition of the first CEA Technologies, CE Solutions, CI Agent Solutions, Coffey
batch of the 2 Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Partners, Cowan Manufacturing, CSA, Cubic Defense,
(Lightning) aircraft. The first operational squadron is proposed Custom Fluid Power, Delnorth, Fitt Resources, Forgacs
to be based at Williamtown and is planned to be ready for Engineering, Frontline Safety, GHD, Goal Professionals,
operations in 2020. Other units with an additional 58 Aircraft Hansen Yuncken, Hetronic, Hunter Aero Trim, Innovasys,
will follow. The government will be reviewing the air Combat Jacobs, John Holland, Lovells Technology, Maddison Safety,
Capability in 2013. With the possible introduction of the JSF Marathon Tyres, Marciano Industries, Maxwell Engineering,
and the basing of three units, there will be approximately Medic Media, MilSkil, MRA, Newcastle Innovation, Nova
Systems, Novamarine, Opus, Pall Corporation, Performance
Engineering, Powerdown, Puzzle Precision, QinetiQ, RPC
Technologies, Serco Sodexo, Simulation Modelling Services,
Sisley Clothing, Slattery Auctions, SYPAQ Systems Pty Ltd,
TAE, Teterin Engineering, Thomas Coffey, Transfield Services,
Treloar, Unitronix, Varley, Vipac, Virtual Simulation Systems,
Wax Converters and others supported by The University of
Newcastle and the Hunter Institute of Technology (TAFE).
Hunter Defence Project

The NSW Government established the Hunter Defence
Industry Strategy Centre (H-Disc) in July 2008 which funded
a program, the key objective of which was to identify the
advantages and constraints that would impact the region’s
30
ability to develop and establish a larger defence industry within Boeing for the RAAF's Airborne Early Warning & Control
the region, particularly in relation to SMEs. (AEW&C) Project Wedgetail.
Following a review of the study, it was determined to Boeing Defence Australia is the prime contractor for
implement a program to practically assist SMEs in the region the F/A-18 Hornet Upgrade (HUG) program and has
to identify project related work in the expanding defence a significant presence at RAAF Williamtown. The HUG
industry and to develop a process of engagement with major program will enhance the capability of the Hornet until its
manufacturers, service providers, as well as the Federal and planned withdrawal. Boeing is the prime contractor for
NSW governments. the six AEW&C aircraft (based on the 737 airframe) which
entered service in 2009 and also provides engineering,
Trade and Investment NSW engaged HunterNet in early logistics and training support.
2010 to employ a Defence Project Manager to develop
opportunities for SMEs in the Hunter / Central Coast defence- Jetstar, Brindabella, Virgin, Qantas Link, Aeropelican and

based industry. HunterNet subsequently appointed Ian Dick Regional Express operate from Newcastle Airport with the
as the Project Manager. Over the last three years, there have home of Jetstar’s multimillion dollar heavy maintenance
been several opportunities identified and skilling workshops facility which services the A320 fleet.
for SMEs to ensure that they are defence ready.
There are several Newcastle-based defence companies
AEROSPACE involved in Aerospace including Varley who have gained
The Hunter has a growing aerospace industry founded contracts for the manufacture of ground support equipment
around the RAAF’s Williamtown Base and Newcastle for the new Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) and Milskil who
Airport. A number of Hunter companies provide support provide simulation and other training for air crew and other
for the aircraft that are based at RAAF Williamtown and personnel for multiple platforms and systems.
their success over many years has resulted in a growing
aerospace knowledge bank. Williamtown Aerospace Centre
The Williamtown Aerospace Centre (WAC) at Williamtown
Aerospace industries cover both the defence and civil will be a key economic driver for the Hunter Region
sectors. At Newcastle Airport, through the BAE Systems and has the potential to position the Hunter as a major
Fighter facility and at RAAF Williamtown, there is a world- national and potentially international centre for the
class aerospace industry base. This base includes large aerospace and aviation industry.
global multinationals (Boeing, Raytheon and Lockheed
Martin) through to specialised niche service providers. It comprises Newcastle Airport and the Williamtown
Companies located at the airport include BAE Systems, Aerospace Park (WAP). WAP is an employment park with
GE Aviation, Nova Systems and QinetiQ. an emphasis on aerospace, aviation and the existing
industrial base that clusters around the RAAF Base
BAE Systems has a manufacturing and support facility at Williamtown. Hunter Land is developing 50 saleable
Newcastle Airport. BAE has assembled 22 Hawk Lead-in hectares.
Fighter aircraft for the RAAF and now provide through-life
support for the Hawk and the F/A-18 Hornet. The employment capacity of the WAC site is projected
as more than 9,000, and the potential income effect is
BAE Systems Australia is the principal subcontractor to estimated to be around $250 million per annum.
31
ProUdly
HUntEr groWn.
gloBAlly KnoWn.
James Estate continues a tradition started in the Upper Hunter Valley in the 1840s.
Wines produced from the Estate’s own fruit have won industry awards each year
since the first year of commercial production.
James Estate, through the development of the Estate’s vineyard capacity and full
utilisation of its winemaking, storage and bottling facilities, continues to lead the
way in producing premium quality wine for both the domestic and export markets.
90661
www.jamesestatewines.com.au
WINE
The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine growing region, The Hunter is home to many of the great names in the
with first plantings in the early 1820s. 190 years later, the Australian wine industry including Tyrrell’s, McWilliam's,
Hunter remains one of Australia’s premier wine regions, Lindeman's, McGuigan, Drayton's, Brokenwood, Wyndham
producing some of the nation’s most distinctive and Estate and Rothbury Estate.
outstanding wines.
As competition continues to produce distinctive high
Hunter Valley semillon is globally recognised and has been quality table wines, sub-regions are establishing within the
described as “Australia’s unique gift to the world”. Another Hunter Valley’s wine growing region with small vineyards
wine particularly associated with the Hunter is shiraz. The and wineries grouping together to market their product to
region also has a growing reputation for the development an increasingly sophisticated market. This has seen the
of innovative new varieties and styles such as tempranillo. Broke – Fordwich Wine Region vineyards group together.
Vignerons are promoting the Upper Hunter sub-region,
centred in Denman. In this sub-region, James Estate Wines

Centred on Pokolbin, near Cessnock, the Hunter Region’s
wine industry and the tourism industry that complements it is developing an export market in Asia for their high-quality,
are significant contributors to the regional economy. distinctive wines.
The most popular still reds produced in the Hunter are Some of the leading companies that own vineyards and
shiraz and cabernet sauvignon while the most popular still wineries in the region include: Fosters Group - Lindeman's
whites are chardonnay and semillon. The Hunter Region is and Rosemount labels; Pernod-Ricard - Wyndham Estate;
quickly gaining a reputation for quality verdelho. This variety Hokuriku Group - Arrowfield Wines; Roche Group - Roche
is becoming recognised as an important wine style that is Wines; McGuigan Simeon Wines Limited - Tempus Two,
well suited to the Australian lifestyle and the Hunter Valley is McGuigan. Other leading wineries include Audrey Wilkinson,
leading the charge to gain consumer palates and broader Bimbadgen, Brokenwood Wines, Constable & Hershon,
recognition. De Bortoli Wines, De Iuliis Wines, Evans Family Wines,
Hermitage, Hungerford Hill, James Estate, Tulloch Wines
Hunter wines have achieved remarkable market acceptance and Tyrrell’s.
over a long period of time in Europe and in more recent
years in North America. The major growth market in the last NOTE: This is not a definitive list of wineries or major owners in the
decade, however, has been Asia and in particular China. region. It is provided to give the reader an indication of the depth of
ownership in the industry.
Exports of Hunter wine 2012 (kL) Area and production of winemaking grapes 2012
Asia 364.5
Europe 320.7
Colour 2012
Middle East 2.4 Red 2,136
North America 61.8 Production Tonnes White 8,418
Total 10,554
Oceania 47.9
South America 3.6 Red 1.153
Other 3.1 Area Hectares White 1,511
Total 2,664
Total 804.0
Source: Wine Australia
33
EQUINE AGRIBUSINESS
The region’s equine industry is centred on Scone in the Historically, the Hunter Region is an important agricultural
Upper Hunter and extends into the Muswellbrook and region, although production varies considerably from year
Murrurundi areas. It produces some 70% of Australia’s to year, particularly due to weather conditions. In normal
thoroughbred foals and provides over $100 million in conditions, production would be expected to be well above
yearling sales annually, making it an important contributor a billion dollars per annum.
to the economy in the area and the region generally.
The region is strong in the production of wheat, sorghum,
Breeds such as the Australian stockhorse and the barley and other grain cereals, vegetables, grapes,
quarter horse have been important for the area for many olives, sheep, cattle, pigs, horses, poultry, eggs and milk.
years; however, quality thoroughbred horses raised for Employment in agriculture and agriculture-related industries
the racing industry have become the main focus for the in 2011 was 4,860. Approximately 10% of all businesses in
area. the Hunter are in the agriculture sector.
The area is acknowledged as the second largest The latest available ABS livestock estimates for the Hunter
thoroughbred nursery behind Kentucky, USA and has included 280,614 sheep, 4,276,572 chickens for meat,
attracted substantial investment by international racing’s 243,327 laying chickens, 387,788 turkeys, 407,583 meat
leading breeders to establish thoroughbred studs. cattle, 40,049 dairy cattle and 10,835 goats.
The industry has seen the establishment of world-class Major centres for the beef industry are Scone, Muswellbrook,
infrastructure that includes modern training and racing Merriwa, Singleton, Maitland, Dungog and Gloucester while
complexes, the Hunter Valley Equine Research Centre at the dairy industry is centred around Dungog and Gloucester.
Scone and equine-related education facilities with TAFE The prime lamb industry is concentrated in Merriwa and
Hunter Institute along with one of the largest specialist Murrurundi.
veterinary hospital complexes in Australia.
There is an increasing number of niche businesses in the
Over 50 studs are located in the area and include Region focusing on producing for specific markets. These
Alabama Stud (Aberdeen), Arrowfield (Scone), Coolmore include: goat milk, goat and rabbit meat, native and fresh
Stud (Jerrys Plains), Craidon Park Stud (Wybong), Darley flowers, herbs, chillies, echinacea, exotic stud cattle, snails,
(Denman and Aberdeen), Emirates Park (Murrurundi), essential oils, viticulture, asian vegetables and alpacas. Many
Widden Stud (Denman) and Yarraman Park (Scone). of these operators are developing niche export markets for
The majority of studs sell horses to both Australian and their products.
overseas buyers.
Based in the Upper Hunter at Muswellbrook, Hunter Belle
The thoroughbred industry employs more than 1,000 Cheese is a producer of high-quality gourmet cheeses
full-time, part-time and casual employees. In addition, it made exclusively from the milk of their own Brown Swiss
accesses a wide range of services that include: service cows. Another group, Gloucester Gourmet Foods Co-
fees, feed, veterinary services, machinery and equipment operative, markets high-quality beef grown in the Dungog/
maintenance, farrier, fuel, transport and fertilisers. Gloucester area under the Barrington Beef label to gourmet
buyers. A growing Hunter industry is that of Boer goats and
the opening of new export markets for live goats.
34
INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is The local ICT industry has expertise across a wide range
an increasingly important industry sector of the Hunter of areas and is recognised as being particularly strong in
economy. Local ICT companies and organisations are e-commerce solutions, web development, engineering
facilitating growth of the entire Hunter economy, as well control IT, system support, telecommunication IT
as being significant employment and wealth generators in applications and large scale corporate implementation.
their own right. There are hundreds of Hunter businesses
deriving their livelihoods solely from information technology. Large organisations with major premises in the Hunter
include Computer Systems (Australia), CSC Australia,
The Hunter has many advantages as a location for ICT Pacnet and Telstra. All major suppliers have expert
businesses: a readily available skilled workforce; lower base distributors in the region.
salaries than Sydney; a world-class university as well as
an array of other educational organisations including TAFE There are also a variety of support organisations including

NSW – Hunter Institute; and excellent telecommunications the HunterNet Innovation & Technology Committee (set up
infrastructure. after the absorption of HunterTech).
National Broadband Network Rollout

The Hunter’s businesses, educational institutions, health
service providers and community groups are preparing
for the arrival of high speed broadband. In January 2010,
RDA Hunter and RDA Central Coast began lobbying for
the Hunter and Central Coast regions to be priority sites for
the National Broadband Network (NBN).
In February 2013, the roll out of fibre optic connectivity in

Maitland commenced. By December 2013 work on the
NBN roll out will begin in Newcastle and a year later, NBN
fibre cable is due to start being installed in Lake Macquarie.
Other areas within the Hunter will receive high speed
broadband via fixed wireless, satellite services and fibre,
pending further announcements by NBN Co.
35
TOURISM
Tourism is a significant contributor to the Hunter Region’s • Leisure Inn Pokolbin Hill
economy, directly employing around 12,000 people and
attracting around $1.3 billion annually in visitor spend. It Hunter Valley Gardens
also offers almost limitless opportunities for investors due Developed by Roche Group, Hunter Valley Gardens
to the Hunter’s close driving proximity to Sydney, easy extends over 25 hectares. Since its opening, it has
air access from major domestic centres, great diversity become one of Australia’s leading attractions and a major
of attractions and its appeal to all market segments. All drawcard for the region.
areas are supported by excellent road access.
The Gardens are complemented by surrounding attrac-
According to Destination NSW, visitor numbers for the year tions developed by Roche Group including: Grand
ending 30 June 2012 included over 2.1 million domestic Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens Hotel & Conference
overnight visitors, 113,100 international overnight visitors Centre, Harrigan’s Irish Pub and Accommodation,
and over 5.4 million domestic daytrip visitors. Grapeview Villas, Hunter Valley Steakhouse, Roche
Wines, Hunter Valley Gardens & Village, BBQ and picnic
The Port of Newcastle is also increasingly being visited by grounds, a children’s playground and a chapel.
luxury cruise liners.
Other attractions
HUNTER VALLEY WINE COUNTRY The Wine Country region also offers a wide range of other
The Hunter Valley’s Wine Country region is based around tourist attractions such as art galleries, art and craft,
Australia’s oldest and arguably most famous wine growing gardens, bicycle tours, hot air ballooning and sports,
region. It attracts over two million visitors per annum, including very high quality golf courses. The NSW Open
with many staying overnight or longer at the numerous is now played at The Vintage golf course in Rothbury.
guesthouses, hotels and resorts.
The region holds a number of exceptional events that
It is estimated that well over $1 billion has been spent in attract large numbers of high-yield visitors each year.
private sector investment in the last ten years. Concerts attracting leading artists from around the world
are regularly held in the Hunter’s vineyards.
Wineries
The Hunter Valley is home to over 120 wineries, ranging For further information visit www.winecountry.com.au.
from large contemporary cellar doors to boutique winer-
ies. The Hunter Valley is world renowned for semillon and PORT STEPHENS
shiraz. Known as the Blue Water Paradise and covering almost
1,000 sq km, this beautiful region is characterised
In January 2013, the Hunter Valley was named one of the by breathtaking natural beauty, golden sand, pristine
world’s top-ten best wine travel destinations by the U.S waterways, spectacular scenery, unspoilt national parks
publication, Wine Enthusiast Magazine - an international and abundant wildlife.
magazine considered the bible of wine lovers.
Over 600,000 domestic day trippers visit Port Stephens
Fine food each year with visitor numbers rising annually. Tourists are
The area has established itself as the home of over offered a vast array of water and land activities, quality
seventy restaurants, many of them state and national accommodation, excellent retail facilities, and a diverse
award winners. These restaurants are supplied by local selection of award winning restaurants and cafes.
producers of cheese, olives, chocolates and hand-made
condiments. The d’Albora Marina at Nelson Bay hosts a number
Accommodation
The Hunter Valley offers every type of accommodation,
from backpacker hostels to motels, hotels, guest hous-
es, bed and breakfasts and luxury resorts. Several
internationally branded hotel chains now operate in the
region. Leading accommodation providers include:
• Peppers Guest House
• Grand Mercure The Vintage
• Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley
• The Sebel Kirkton Park
• Grand Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens
• Hunter Resort
• Tuscany Wine Estate
• Harrigan’s Irish Pub
• Hermitage Lodge
• Potters Hotel & Brewery
36
of cruise vessels and pleasure craft and provides an THE CITY OF NEWCASTLE
attraction for day visitors as well as overnight travellers. Newcastle has long been known to the corporate visitor
and is now beginning to emerge as a leisure destination
Dolphin Watching with more people becoming aware of its unique
Thousands of visitors come to Port Stephens each year to attractions. This was further highlighted when Newcastle
watch its famous local residents, the Bottlenose dolphins. was named in the Lonely Planet’s ten top cities to visit
Ten cruise vessels offer up to three cruises a day from in 2011.
d’Albora Marina in Nelson Bay, all catering for different
needs and budgets. Newcastle offers well over 2,000 hotel rooms ranging
from budget to 4.5 stars. Tourism contributes over $500
Whale Watching million to the Newcastle economy annually and continues
A small fleet of whale watching vessels run twice a day to grow.

from d’Albora Marina through the winter and spring. The
region's Humpback whales are celebrated with a two The activities and attractions sector of Newcastle’s
week Festival of the Whales during the school holidays in tourism economy grows and continues to diversify with
late September and early October. attractions such as the Hunter Wetlands Centre (Ramsar
listed), Blackbutt Reserve, award winning beaches and
Worimi Conservation Lands (Stockton Bight Sand Dunes) the Bathers Way being joined by the newly re-opened
The famous sand dunes at Stockton are only a 20 Fort Scratchley, Blue Gum Hills Adventure Park and river
minute drive from Nelson Bay and cover an area of 4,200 and harbour cruises being reintroduced.
hectares. A large number of tour operators serve an
increasing number of visitors looking to experience the One of the major attractions of Newcastle is the availability
sand dunes, providing a wide range of activities such as of all the services expected of a major Australian city,
sand boarding, 4WD beach and dune driving, horse and including the continued growth of connections and
camel riding and quad biking. capacity at Newcastle Airport.
Accommodation Honeysuckle Waterfront and Foreshore Precinct

Port Stephens offers an endless choice of friendly, relaxed Honeysuckle is arguably Newcastle’s foremost social
and affordable accommodation. Many hotels and resorts gathering place. It is a collection of restaurants, cafes,
are located close to shops, cafes and waterfront views. public space, live entertainment venues and sites for
An easy 90 minute drive from Sydney you will find the Hunter Region. Famous
for its world-class wines, the Hunter also offers a treasure chest of coastal,
country, heritage and wilderness experiences. The Hunter's coast is a rare
combination of natural beauty and cosmopolitan lifestyle. The busy working
harbour, long stretches of pristine beaches and one of the largest saltwater
lakes in the world, combine with the energy and vibrancy of a large city.
For visitor information
Visit Hunter: www.visithunter.com.au 02 4978 4000 Newcastle: www.visitnewcastle.com.au 1800 654 558
Hunter Valley: www.winecountry.com.au 02 49 900 900 Maitland: www.maitlandhuntervalley.com.au 02 4931 2800
Lake Macquarie: www.visitlakemac.com.au 1800 802 044 Upper Hunter: www.upperhuntercountry.com 02 6541 4051
Barrington Tops: www.visitbarringtontops.com.au 1300 130 647
cultural activity making it a vibrant destination. This LAKE MACQUARIE
precinct is continuing to expand and is now home to Lake Macquarie is Australia’s largest salt water lake, over
the Newcastle Region Maritime Museum and the newly four times as large as Sydney Harbour. It offers a range
reopened Newcastle Regional Museum. of water activities including swimming, fishing, sailing,
cruising, kayaking, houseboats and water skiing.
Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club
Ocean-going yachts from all parts of the world and those With 174 km of foreshore, Lake Macquarie has a diverse
participating in club events now visit Newcastle, bringing range of waterside locations. Major townships on the
with them a new class of visitor. To cater for this market, lake such as Toronto, Warner’s Bay and Swansea,
the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club has developed a offer visitors a range of facilities including shopping and
90-berth marina that includes restaurants, shipyard dining ranging from takeaways to fine dining. There are
maintenance facilities and other services. also a number of smaller townships and villages dotted
around the lake. To get away from it all, Lake Macquarie
Cruise Hunter offers numerous secluded bays, secret coves and sandy
Cruise Hunter is a project managed within Newcastle beaches.

Port Corporation which aims to attract luxury cruise
ships and navy vessels to the Hunter Region. Lake Macquarie's vicinity to the Pacific Ocean and the
Watagan National Park also means that a wide range of
The Port of Newcastle has experienced significant cruise other activities are also close at hand.
related developments in recent years with P&O Australia’s
Pacific Sun using Newcastle as its home port from 2010, Accommodation
the first non-capital city in Australia to home port a cruise Lake Macquarie offers a diverse range of accommodation
ship. options to suit varying budgets and requirements
including camping and caravan sites, houseboats, bed
The cruise initiative is seen as providing major benefits to and breakfasts, units, hotels and resorts.
the Hunter Region’s economy with the NSW Government
and Newcastle Port Corporation having completed a MAITLAND
$2.55 million refurbishment of the Channel Berth to Maitland offers a blend of heritage and contemporary
facilitate growth of the cruise shipping industry. style, encapsulating the best of the past and the present.
The street scapes of Maitland and surrounds are lined
An increasing number and size of international cruise with historical buildings dating from the early 1800s.
ships are now visiting Newcastle with annual visits now Visitors to Maitland can explore the simple pleasures of
exceeding double figures. local freshly grown produce, specialty wines or walking
38
tours of the heritage preservation and natural landscape
of the Hunter River.
Morpeth
Morpeth, once a thriving river port, was established in
1821. Today the village continues to thrive. The main
street is occupied by more than 40 specialty retail
stores which intermingle with cafés, restaurants, local
produce outlets, boutiques, galleries and eateries, many
occupying historic buildings.
Maitland Gaol
An iconic attraction within the Hunter, Maitland Gaol
has an intriguing history spanning more than 150 years.

After housing some of Australia’s most hardened and
notorious criminals, Maitland Gaol ceased operations
as a maximum security prison in 1998. The heavy gates
have once again been swung open, giving visitors the
opportunity to take a look at life on the inside. Interactive
activities make the Maitland Gaol a popular destination
for visitors to the Hunter Valley, taking in audio, ex-inmate,
historian and psychic tours not to mention a series of
events and functions held throughout the year including
the Bitter & Twisted International Boutique Beer Festival.
Maitland Regional Art Gallery

The Maitland Regional Art Gallery, which recently
underwent a $4.5 million redevelopment, features touring
exhibitions as well as its own very significant collection
of contemporary Australian art. The renovated Maitland
Regional Art Gallery also houses a retail space specialising
in products from local artists and craftspeople.
Accommodation
Maitland offers a diverse range of accommodation
including guesthouses, motels, hotels, resorts and bed
and breakfasts.
NATURE TOURISM
As nature-based tourism continues to grow in popularity,
so too does the Hunter as a preferred destination. A
wealth of world heritage listed wilderness, national parks,
state forests and wildlife reserves makes it a haven for
nature lovers.
A world heritage listed area, Barrington Tops National the area, including camping, nature retreats, hotels and
Park is full of contrasts, from subtropical rainforests in resorts. Close to the National Park are a range of historic
the deep valleys that are near sea level to subalpine towns as well as larger centres such as Dungog and
woodland on the plateau at up to 1500 m which regularly Gloucester.
has snowfalls in winter.
The Watagans National Park covers 7,751 hectares of
Barrington Tops is also the habitat of an enormous an extensive mountain range north of Cooranbong and
diversity of plant and animal life being at the northern Morriset. It is great for touring the forest roads by car,
extremity of the range for many southern Australian mountain bike or on horseback. The vantage points at
species as well as the southernmost extent for many Gap Creek, Monkey Face and Narrow Place are excellent
more tropical species. It protects more than 50 rare or lookouts and are popular with photographers. Camping
threatened species. and picnicking facilities are available at a number of
locations.
The area is well-known for its bush walking, ranging from
short, easy walks to steep overnight treks. Other “must see” destinations include Lake St Clair,
Mount Royal National Park, Blackbutt Reserve and the
There is a wide range of accommodation choices in Hunter Wetlands Centre.
39
SPORTS
The Hunter Region has a growing reputation as a great Newcastle Jazz Festival, Mattara Festival, Bitter & Twisted
destination for the sports enthusiast. International Boutique Beer Festival, Lovedale Long
Lunch, Hunter Valley Steamfest, Dungog Rodeo, Surfest,
The region is blessed with a wide array of sporting facilities Shakespeare Festival, Scone and Upper Hunter Horse
and attractions for both the active sportsperson and the Festival, Festival of the Fleeces, Port Stephens Whale &
sports watcher. Environ Fest, Blue Water Country Music Festival and many
others.
One of the major tourism sports in the Hunter is golf, with the
region boasting numerous world-class golf courses, several Newcastle’s fully restored Civic Theatre is the venue for
of which also incorporate top-quality accommodation regular local, national and international performances and
facilities. Local golf courses include: the Newcastle Entertainment Centre accommodates rock
• The Vintage Golf Club, Rothbury concerts, exhibitions and conventions. The Conservatorium
• Hunter Valley Golf & Country Club, Cessnock of Music regularly hosts national and international
• Cypress Lakes, Pokolbin musicians and performances. Wine Country venues such
• The Oaks Golf and Country Club, Cessnock as The Tempus Two Winery, Bimbadgen Estate and Hope
• Westside Golf Club Rutherford Estate have built a reputation for attracting major local and
• Le Meilleur Horizons Golf Resort, Salamander Bay international artists.
• Pacific Dunes Port Stephens, Medowie
• Nelson Bay Golf Club, Nelson Bay CONFERENCE AND CONVENTIONS
• Newcastle Golf Club, Fern Bay The Hunter is quickly building a reputation as an ideal
location for conferences and conventions. Australian
For those who enjoy watching sport, the region offers a wide and international visitors appreciate the easy access, the
range of sporting attractions including national rugby league range of quality venues and accommodation choices,
and football matches and regular horse racing meetings at entertainment and recreation options and relatively
Broadmeadow, Cessnock, Muswellbrook and Scone. uncongested roads.
EVENTS Newcastle Convention Bureau, a service unit of Newcastle

The Hunter is home to a wide range of annual festivals City Council, markets Newcastle as conference destination
that attract an increasing number of visitors to the region. and will assist with any enquiry about your organisation’s
These include Jazz in the Vineyards, Opera in the Vineyards, next conference www.nvcb.com.au
The Golden Door Health Retreat - Elysia
40
FILM & TV
The Hunter is home to some of the finest and most diverse Hunter councils, Hunter Region National Parks and Wildlife
cinematic locations Australia has to offer. From spectacular Services, along with Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council,
sand dunes, beaches, harbours and rivers to picturesque Newcastle Port Authority and many other private and
vineyards and mountain ranges. Add sweeping plains, public organisations.
horse studs, open cut mines and historical architecture,
and almost every location is covered. Screen Hunter Central Coast has approved over 200 film,
stills and television productions to film in the combined
The aim of Screen Hunter Central Coast is to capitalise Hunter and Central Coast regions of NSW.
on the unique qualities of both regions by increasing film Contact Screen Hunter Central Coast at annette@
production and fostering and driving development of a screenhuntercentralcoast.com.au, call +61 2 4978 4014
creative and sustainable film industry in the Hunter and or visit www.screenhuntercentralcoast.com.au.
Central Coast.

Staffed by industry professionals, the organisation actively
promotes its breathtaking locations to film makers and is
a one-stop-shop for filming approvals, location scouting
assistance, sourcing of local crew, services and support.
As a result it has secured several feature films as well as
thousands of local, national and international television
commercials, documentaries, programs and music videos
for the region.
Once the office secures filming to the region, they have

an extensive database of local film professionals, support
businesses and contacts to tap in to that assists all inbound
productions.
The office streamlines the film permitting process

by brokering approvals with a variety of government
departments. Screen Hunter Central Coast has ‘delegated
authority’ to issue all filming approvals for the eleven
BIOTECHNOLOGY
Biotechnology is an emerging industry in the Hunter
and is a powerful example of the region’s innovation
and entrepreneurship combining to create lucrative new
markets.
Organisations such as the Hunter Medical Research

Institute (HMRI), Newcastle University and Newcastle
Innovation are conducting a variety of ground-breaking
research projects that are not only providing valuable
commercial opportunities but providing significant
contributions to improved lifestyles.
These organisations are complemented by a variety of

companies that offer a broad range of biotechnology
products and services, and are in the process of developing
and commercialising a range of new technologies.
Competitive advantages for biotechnology businesses

being located in the Hunter include the powerful local
research and education organisations, ready availability of Biotechnology is an important growing
staff with technical expertise, lower operating costs than industry in the Hunter, both in terms of
research and commercial operations
the major capital cities and high levels of support.
41
HEALTH
Health is a major industry sector in the Hunter Region, The Hunter is home to the Hunter Medical Research
employing 36,115 persons according to the 2011 Census Institute (HMRI), the third largest medical research institute
(a 17.6% increase over the 2006 Census figure). This figure in NSW. HMRI brings together more than 1000 health and
represents 13.4% of the workforce, which is significantly medical researchers from Hunter New England Health,
higher than the national figure of 11.9%. the University of Newcastle and Calvary Mater Newcastle.
The major provider of health services in the region is Hunter HMRI provides a focal point for the coordination of
New England Health which was established in 2005 following research strategy, resources and funding, attracting
the merger between Hunter, New England and the Lower community and corporate investment in research and
Mid North Coast local government areas of Gloucester, providing central resources for researchers. Additionally,
Greater Taree City and Great Lakes. In total, the organisation HMRI has also improved research facilities, training and
has approximately 15,500 staff, 1,500 medical officers and employment opportunities and health care delivery within
1,600 volunteers. It spends around $1.8 billion per annum. the Hunter Region by attracting leading researchers and
health care professionals to the region.

In the Hunter Region, Hunter New England Health operates
two tertiary referral hospitals: John Hunter Hospital, The Hunter is serviced by the Ambulance Service of New
incorporating John Hunter Children's Hospital and the Royal South Wales providing emergency clinical care, rescue
Newcastle Centre, and Calvary Mater Newcastle. Within the and patient transport. These services are provided out
Hunter Region, it also runs two mental health hospitals, a of 21 local ambulance stations which operate ambulance
rural referral hospital at Maitland, five community hospitals, vehicles, other support vehicles and ambulance aircraft.
seven district health service centres and 21 community
health service centres. The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) is an
aeromedical search and rescue service that commenced
The region also accounts for around 10% of the state’s operations in 1975 in Newcastle. Funds from NSW
licensed private hospital beds. Most of the private hospitals Health, corporate sponsorship and the community allow
provide general medical, nursing and allied health care, aeromedical rescue to be provided without charge to
surgery including day surgery, antenatal care and obstetric patients.
care. The main private hospitals in the Hunter include Christo
Road Private, Hunter Valley Private, Lake Macquarie Private, The latest available figures show there were 56 nursing
Lingard Private, Maitland Private, Newcastle Private, Toronto homes and hostels across the Hunter. Major private,
Private and Warners Bay Private. Other day surgeries church-based and community-based providers include
and some of the private hospitals provide more specialist Anglican Care, Catholic Care for the Aged, Empowered
services such as invitro fertilisation, coronary care, dental, Living Support Services, Churches of Christ and Uniting
eye, plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Care.
Join the many other leading

Hunter businesses investing in
our future health.
Become a HMRI Top 200 donor

and help support world-class
medical research happening
right here in our region.
Call 4921 4030 or visit

hmri.net.au
HMRI is a partnership between

Hunter New England Health,
the University of Newcastle
and the community.
42
BUSINESS SERVICES
The Hunter Region boasts a diverse range of high
quality business services and is particularly strong in
professional services. There is a wide variety of both
Hunter-grown business service companies and local
offices of national and international companies who
have realised the value of doing business in the region.
Generally, almost any business service that is available

in the capital cities around Australia can be found in the
Hunter. The quality of these services is also generally
at least comparable to those in the large cities. Indeed,
many Hunter-grown business service companies are
now competing across Australia and even overseas

with a great deal of success.
Almost every major financial institution operating in

Australia is present in the Hunter, with most having
dedicated business banking offices. The Hunter is also
home to some of the nation’s most successful building
societies including the Newcastle Permanent Building
Society and The Greater Building Society.
L ST
The extent of available business services can be

Council
JSA
Car Park
POWEL
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Hoyts
Cinema HERE
easily seen from even a brief visit to online business

TALLARAH ST
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directories such as www.yellowpages.com.au.

POWEL
Hilltop
Plaza Hoyts 250 Pacific Hwy
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RL at rear of building
EST
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PACIFIC HIG
Charlestown RD
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inancial Planning
PACIFIC HIG
Level 5, 250 Pacific HwyCharlestown

Square
CHARLESTOWN NSW 2290

(Parking available in council
Accounting & Tax carpark at rear of building)
Pantone 131 (orange)

Financial Planning
rtgages & Finance
Pantone 2757 (blue)
Your Accounting & Tax depends

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dvice www.jsagroup.com.au
e determined by the nature and

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43
EXPORTING FROM THE HUNTER
The Hunter is an outstanding location for exporting businesses with
excellent transport links, a wide range of available export-related services
and readily available assistance from a variety of organisations including
NSW Trade & Investment and Austrade.
Although there are strong road, rail and air links in the Hunter, the major
Our
Our services
services include:
include:
competitive transport advantage is the Port of Newcastle. The Port is the
largest coal exporting port in the world, but is also the distribution point
Our
4 services include:
Airfreight for a broad range of other export goods including alumina, aluminium,
4 Airfreight
Airfreight
4 Seafreight concentrates, grains, fertiliser products, woodchips, steel products plus a
Seafreight
Seafreight
wide variety of other bulk and general cargo.
4 Imports
4 Imports Exporting is one of the most beneficial long-term growth strategies a
4 Imports
Exports company can choose, especially in a country with a relatively small
Exports
Exports domestic market. Export success depends upon having access to practical
4 Customs and reliable information and advice on export planning, finance, markets,
4 Customs
4 Customs
clearance distribution and marketing, and political, cultural and legal requirements.
clearance
clearance
NSW Trade & Investment and Austrade both have export advisers and
4 Document support services and programs in the Hunter Region. They provide advice
4 Document
4 to local Hunter businesses on export-related issues including planning for
Document
assistance export, market opportunities, market entry and export grants.
assistance
assistance
4 Warehousing The Hunter has a well-established export culture with a growing and diverse
4
Our Warehousing
Warehousing
4 services include: base of businesses that take their products and services to the international
Storage
Storage market. Through departments like NSW Trade & Investment and Austrade,
Our Storageinclude:
Airfreight
4 services
4 Project there is abundant support and training available to support and develop
4 Project
4 Hunter-based businesses to grow and expand as the world becomes a
Projects
Project
Seafreight
Airfreight
Warehousing smaller place and competition increases. The increase in international fair
Warehousing
Warehousing
4 Imports
Seafreight
GLOBAL
trade agreements opens up potential export opportunities for motivated
GLOBAL
local businesses.
GLOBAL
Exports
4 Imports
LOGISTICS For further information please contact:
LOGISTICS
4 Customs
Exports
LOGISTICS
clearance
4 Customs
International
NSW Trade & Investment
Level 3, 251 Wharf Road, Newcastle NSW 2300
4 International
International
4 Document
clearance Phone: (02) 4908 7333
4 air
air and sea
air and sea
and Email: [email protected]
assistance
4 Document
freight sea Website: www.business.nsw.gov.au/regions
freight
freight
4 Warehousing
4 assistance
Animal Austrade
4 Animal
Animal
Storage Level 3, 251 Wharf Road, Newcastle NSW 2300
4 Warehousing
transport Phone: (02) 4926 3922
transport
transport
4 Project
Storage Email: [email protected]
4
4
Personal
Personal Website: www.austrade.com.au
Personal
Warehousing
4 Project
effects
effects
GLOBAL
effects
Warehousing
SCORPION
GLOBAL
SCORPION
LOGISTICS
LOGISTICS
INTERNATIONAL
4 International
INTERNATIONAL
INTERNATIONAL
air and sea
4 International
CALL
freight
air and
CALL sea
CALL1234
02 4962
02 4962
FAX1234
4 Animal
freight
02 4962
FAX
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02 4962
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transport
4 Animal
02Website
4962 1283
02 4962 1283
Website
4 Personal
transport
www.scorpioninternational.com
Website
effects
4 Personal
44
effects
INFRASTRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT
MAJOR PROJECTS
Investment confidence in the Hunter is amongst the Queensland Hunter Gas Pipeline
strongest in Australia with many billions of dollars worth of Hunter Gas Pipeline Pty Ltd is building a $900 million natural
private and government projects approved, underway or gas pipeline from Queensland to the Hunter to supply gas
recently completed. to industry in the region. This addition to the market is
expected to make supply more certain and pricing more
The following is just a small snapshot of some of the region’s competitive. It will also make it feasible to build a gas-fired
projects. It is by no means complete, but provides an power station in the Upper Hunter as well as transportation
indication of the scale of project activity in the region. of coal seam gas to market.
Fourth coal loader Gas exploration well off Newcastle coast

Port Waratah Coal Services is planning to build New-castle’s Advent Energy has carried out exploratory drilling for
fourth coal loader on 310 ha of land at Kooragang Island. natural gas 55 km off the coast of Newcastle in the PEP11
Expected to cost in the vicinity of $5 billion, the total proposal permit. This permit covers 8,250 sq km on the doorstep

would add an additional 70 million tonnes per annum of coal of Australia's largest energy market and has recently
loading capacity. Stage One, announced in 2012, is planned been estimated to contain 13.2 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of
to add around 25 million tonnes per annum and employ prospective recoverable gas resources (at the P50 or 'best
1500 people during construction. estimate' level).
Major redevelopment expected for Newcastle CBD Solar thermal project at Liddell
In June 2012, Landcom purchased $20 million of land in the In partnership with Ausra Australia, Macquarie Genera-
Newcastle CBD from Landcom. They have both committed tion has built Australia’s largest solar thermal project at
to work together on plans to redevelop four city blocks in Liddell Power Station. This is the first time anywhere in
the Hunter Street mall precinct into a mix of residential, the world that solar thermal technology is integrated with
commercial and speciality retail uses. The announcement a coal-fired power station. The original pilot mirror array
in late 2012 that the NSW Government plans to remove the is being expanded to cover an area of 18,000 sqm or
rail line from Wickham to Newcastle is seen as a major step approximately three football fields, with over 500 mirror
forward for this major renewal project. panels, each 12 x 2 metres. NSW Government funding
Footprints in the sand, Nobbys Beach, Newcastle
Helping businesses in the Hunter create

footprints for 120 years
As a premier commercial law firm in the Hunter, we pride ourselves on providing advice that is responsive,
‘results driven’ and commercially focused. Harris Wheeler has developed a reputation for providing high
quality commercial services in the area of major projects.
In particular, we specialise in both public and private infrastructure related projects across a wide range of
industries, including commercial and retail property, mining, aviation, water, energy and health. We have
been based in the Hunter for 120 years and have the depth of experience to advise on all legal aspects of
your commercial venture.
www.harriswheelerlawyers.com
NEWCASTLE | Level 3, 175 Scott Street 2300 | 02 4907 6300
45
of $9.25 million doubled the capacity of the plant with in Australia. The expansion includes a new Myer store, an
construction completed in 2012. additional discount department store and approximately
130 new specialty shops.
$1 billion upgrade of coal rail network
ARTC completed a $1 billion upgrade of the Hunter Valley $300 million gas plant
coal rail network in 2012, increasing export coal capacity AGL is constructing a $300 million gas storage facility
from 97 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) to 200 mtpa. at Tomago to store up to 30,000 tonnes of LNG to help
ARTC also released the final version of the 2012-21 Hunter secure supplies to the Hunter, Sydney and Wollongong.
Valley Corridor Capacity Strategy to ensure the rail network Construction is expected to commence in December 2013.
meets demand for the next 10 years.
The Hunter Expressway
$190 million clean energy park The Hunter Expressway will provide about 40 km of
The NSW Government has approved plans for a $190 million dual divided carriageway between the F3 Freeway at
wind and solar farm at Scone which will provide renewable Seahampton and the New England Highway west of
power to more than 47,000 homes. The Kyoto Energy Park Branxton. Interchanges will be located at the F3 Freeway,
will be constructed by Pamada Pty Ltd, with a generating Buchanan, Kurri Kurri, Loxford, Allandale and Branxton.
capacity of up to 113 MW of renewable energy through The Australian Government announced in the May 2009
34 wind turbines, a hydro electric generator using recycled Budget Statement that it will provide $1,451 million (plus
water and up to 100 hectares of solar panels. The facility will earned interest income) towards the cost of construction.
create 183 construction jobs and 12 ongoing jobs, and save The NSW Government is committed to contributing up to
hundreds of thousands of tonnes of carbon. Construction is $200 million if required. Construction commenced in 2010
expected to commence in mid to late 2013. and the expressway is scheduled to open in late 2013.
Former Steelworks site - Intertrade Industrial Park

The 150 hectare former BHP Steelworks site at Mayfield is
being developed into one of the most strategic and unique
sites on the east coast of Australia. Positioned at the Port
of Newcastle and only 4 km from the Newcastle CBD, the
site offers 2 km of water frontage as well as excellent road
and rail links. A $110 million remediation strategy has been
completed and the $120 million development of the site is
being carried out by Buildev Intertrade Consortium.
$2 billion electricity infrastructure spend

Ausgrid is investing over $2 billion to renew, replace and
upgrade the network infrastructure in the Hunter over the
The Hunter Expressway, F3, Newcastle
five years to 2014. The program aims to support the Hunter’s Link Road interchange (September 2012).
rapid growth and ensure supply reliability. In particular,
it aims to address increasing demand arising from new
residential developments and changes in customer lifestyle, French themed village
such as increased use of air conditioning, as well as from The Village of St. Helena is a French Provincial themed
the increased coal production forecast for the Upper Hunter. village planned for 54 hectares of land adjacent to the New
England Highway at Lochinvar. The Village of St. Helena will
Gloucester coal seam gas project link to the historic St. Helena Restaurant and will incorporate
The NSW Government has approved a $200 million AGL a traditional French village square, a church, village hall,
project at Gloucester to harness and distribute coal seam function centre, guesthouse, recreation club, vineyards,
gas. Up to 110 coal seam gas wells are included in the French shops, short stay accommodation of approximately
approval, with a pipeline to connect to the existing gas 126 units, tennis and petanque courts and 190 permanent
pipeline at Hexham. residential lots.
Hunter coal seam gas project

AGL is part way through the gas exploration for the Hunter Zinc smelter site remediation
coal seam gas project, with the process expected to The former site of the Pasminco zinc smelter at Cockle Creek
continue for another three to five years. Independent experts is undergoing a $45 million remediation. Once complete, the
have estimated 'proved plus probable' (2P) gas reserves of site is planned to be redeveloped for a mixture of residential,
142 petajoules (PJ) and 'proved plus probable plus possible' commercial and light industrial uses. It is estimated that the
(3P) reserves of 271 PJ. redevelopment could create employment for 1,300 to 1,600
people.
$350 million expansion for Stockland Green Hills
A $350 million redevelopment of Stockland Green Hills has Aerospace precinct
been approved by Maitland City Council. It involves a new The Williamtown Aerospace Centre (WAC) at Williamtown
level and provides a total gross lettable area of around 70,000 will be a key economic driver for the Hunter Region and has
sqm, making it the equal largest Stockland shopping centre the potential to position the Hunter as a major national and
46
potentially international centre for the aerospace and aviation a new $90 million medical research facility in September
industry. It comprises Newcastle Airport and Williamtown 2012 to house 400 researchers from the University of
Aerospace Park (WAP). WAP is an employment park Newcastle and Hunter New England Health.
with an emphasis on aerospace, aviation and the existing
industrial base that clusters around RAAF Base Williamtown. Major upgrade of army facilities
Hunter Land is developing 50 saleable hectares. Land for The Singleton Military Area (Lone Pine Barracks) is un-
aerospace users includes sites with airside access. Land dergoing a $200 million upgrade, encompassing 20
and design/construct packages (for both owner occupiers individual projects.
and lessees) will be available. WAP offers Torrens title free-
hold. Future proposed components of WAP include a hotel $120 million airport expansion
and convention facility. A proposed $120 million expansion of Newcastle Airport
has been lodged with the Department of Planning which
Stonebridge Golf Club involves expansion of the terminal, a new multi-storey car
The Oaks Golf and Country Club at Cessnock underwent park and internal roads, airport support services and a
a $30 million redevelopment that saw the course reopened business park. The project is forecast to create around 250
in March 2012 as Stonebridge Golf Club with 18 new full-time equivalent construction jobs and 6291 operational
holes, improved facilities and 140 completed residential lots jobs.
fronting the course. The development also includes plans for
a new bowls green and clubhouse, with the final stage of the $130 million industrial development
development due for completion in March 2013. WesTrac is building a $130 million, 115 hectare industrial
development at Tomago with stage 1 expected to be
Expansion of Cessnock Correctional Facility complete in 2013. Another two stages are to be developed
The Cessnock Correctional Facility underwent a $93 million at a later date. The project will provide around 900 jobs
expansion, with 250 new maximum security beds being during the construction of stage one and 400 operational
made available in 2012. jobs. Up to 200 apprenticeships would also be available
upon completion.
Concept approval for new power station
Concept approval has been granted to Macquarie Gen- State Court facility
eration for a 2000 MW natural gas or coal fuelled power $94 million has been allocated for a new court complex
station near the existing Bayswater facility in the Upper in Newcastle which will be the state’s largest court facility
Hunter. The project would provide up to 1000 construction outside of Sydney. The complex is expected to be opened
jobs and around 160 operational jobs. in 2014-15. The current courthouse has been heritage listed
and will be reused.
$1.4 billion Ravensworth North coal mine
Xstrata’s $1.4 billion development of the Ravensworth North Former Newcastle Post Office
open cut mine in the Upper Hunter commenced production The NSW Government purchased the former Newcastle
in May 2012. The mine will produce 8 million tonnes per Post Office in 2010 and is currently refurbishing the historic
annum of export thermal and semi soft coking coal at full building for new uses.
production, with a mine life of approximately 26 years.
City Campus for University of Newcastle
Medical research facility The University of Newcastle is planning to develop 60,000
Hunter Medical Research institution (HMRI) officially opened sqm of city campus over the next 10 to 15 years which
Architectural drawing of Newcastle Courthouse
48
will cater for around 7,500 students. Stage 1, located on Eco park planned for Weston
Honeysuckle Drive, will involve a new Business Facility with Weston Aluminium has announced a proposal to build
around 18,000 sqm of teaching space. the Hunter Industrial Ecology Park – a $400 million
project that would divert up to 1 million tonnes of waste
$113 million tourism redevelopment from landfill each year. The park is planned to include an
A major redevelopment has been approved for the energy recovery plant and a range of other complementary
Salamander Shores Hotel to transform it into a contemporary businesses.
tourist facility with 180 hotel rooms (All Seasons and Grand
Mecure), 84 residential apartments providing permanent Large wind farm planned for the Upper Hunter
and tourist accommodation, conference facilities for 200 EPURON is planning to build the Liverpool Range Wind
delegates, 290 car and bus parking spaces and associated Farm in the Warrumbungle & Upper Hunter Shires. The
leisure facilities (bar, pool, gyms). project would include 550 wind turbines rated at 1.5 – 3.3
MW each, producing enough electricity to power around
Chemical plant expansion 525,000 homes. Total project cost is estimated to be $1
Orica is completing a major expansion of its Kooragang - 2 billion.
Island ammonium nitrate plant that will almost double
capacity from 430,000 to 750,000 tonnes per annum. $300 million gas pipeline
The pre-liminary estimate of total cost for the expansion Santos is planning to build a 295 km gas pipeline from

is between $600 million to $750 million. Commissioning is Coolah to an export terminal at Kooragang Island in
expected in 2014/2015. Newcastle. The project is estimated to cost around $300
million and offer significant construction opportunities.
New town The project also proposes a compressor station to be
Huntlee is a new town being established near Branxton. located between Merriwa and Bayswater Power Station
The 1740 ha site, the state’s largest single housing de- and two small laterals. One of the laterals would tie in
velopment proposal, includes up to 7300 dwellings, 200 to the Bayswater power station whilst the second lateral
ha of commercial development and 780 ha of conservation would tie in to the meter station at Hexham.
land. The project is projected to involve around $1.5 billion
of expenditure over 20 years. $30 million aluminium products plant
Bahrain-based Midal Cables International is to build a
$600 million power station upgrade $30 million plant to manufacture aluminium alloy rods,
Eraring Power Station completed a $600 million upgrade in wires and conductors. Located near Tomago Aluminium,
2012 which increased the four existing 660 MW generators it is expected to take around 10% of the smelter’s annual
to a generating capacity of 720 MW per unit. The upgrade production. The plant is expected to have a full capacity
works are necessary to extend the life of the plant until of 50,000 tonnes of product a year.
2032 and to increase the performance of Eraring Power
Station, improve load change rates, improve accuracy and Singleton shopping redevelopment
response to the NEM, reduce forced outage rates and Charter Hall has almost completed a $64 million
improve automatic start-up and shut-down operations. redevelopment of the Gowrie Street Mall in Singleton. The
The upgrade makes Eraring Power Station one of the most expansion will increase the size of the existing shopping
efficient coal fired power stations in Australia and reduces mall by 9,500 sqm of floor space and include a new
CO2 emissions by 200,000 tonnes per year for the life of multistorey car park for over 870 vehicles.
the power station.
$50 million tourist resort
$100 million Aldi warehouse and distribution centre Birubi Beach Resort is a $50 million, 4-star, 198 unit
Aldi is building a $100 million warehouse and distribution beach resort currently being constructed at Anna Bay.
centre to service 75 stores throughout NSW. Due to be Targeted at the growing Asian tourist market, the resort
opened in 2013 or 2014, the project includes a 57,000 is expected to create 100 jobs in the construction phase
sqm warehouse, associated distribution facilities and and around 150 jobs when opened.
parking for 302 cars plus 18 motorbikes.
24 hour mining industry service centre
$284 million rail works to unlock Gunnedah Basin P&H Minepro is building a facility to repair mining equip-
ARTC is spending around $284 million to remove the rail ment on a 4.5 ha site in the Anambah Business Park in
bottleneck over the Liverpool Ranges and unlock further Rutherford. The $25 million facility will operate 24 hours a
energy resources in the Gunnedah Basin with a greatly day, seven days a week.
enhanced link to the Port of Newcastle.
Diesel import terminal
$400 million expansion for Mt Arthur Coal Shell has contracted Marstel Holdings to build a $30
BHP Billiton is investing $400 million to expand the Mt Arthur million diesel import terminal at the site of the former
Coal mine near Muswellbrook, expanding production from BHP steel works in Mayfield. The facility will include ship
around 20 Mtpa to around 24 Mtpa. Expected to generate import capabilities, three 18 million-litre diesel tanks and
approximately 300 new full-time jobs, the expansion is due truck loading facilities. It is designed to provide fuel to the
to deliver first production in the second half of 2013. growing Hunter Valley and Gunnedah coal mining hubs.
49
TRANSPORT & ACCESS TO MARKETS
The Hunter’s location and impressive transport Freeway to Raymond Terrace to the north. The planned
infrastructure provide it with a competitive edge in connection of the southern end of the F3 at Wahroonga
accessing Australian and international markets. to the M5 at Beecroft will also speed access between the
Hunter and many parts of Sydney, including the CBD.
Centrally positioned on Australia’s eastern seaboard
between Melbourne and Brisbane, and within a two hour The Pacific Highway runs from Sydney to Brisbane
drive of Sydney, the Hunter is ideally situated to service along the NSW coast, passing through Newcastle West.
the nearly 11 million people living in these cities (ABS
ERP June 2010). Well over half of Australia’s population is The New England Highway provides passage to
within a 12 hour drive from Newcastle. Brisbane and to the north-west of NSW via the New
England Region. It is the preferred route for road freight
The Hunter has a highly efficient transport infrastructure, through to Brisbane and services the major Hunter
providing fast and integrated links within the region centres of Maitland, Singleton, Muswellbrook and Scone.
and to the rest of NSW, Australia and the world. This
infrastructure includes the Port of Newcastle, Newcastle A major interchange facilitates the flow of traffic between
Airport and a comprehensive road and rail network. the F3 and the Pacific and New England Highways.
THE PORT OF NEWCASTLE The Golden Highway extends from the New England
The Port of Newcastle is the largest export port in Australia Highway near Singleton to Dubbo in Central NSW. This
and the world’s largest coal tonnage port. It is also a highway is an important link to the areas surrounding
growing cargo and general container hub, with further Dubbo and provides a carriageway for the transport of
major expansion plans currently in development. Excellent wheat and other produce to the Port of Newcastle.
transport infrastructure and ongoing efficiency measures
at the Port contribute to a lack of congestion and rapid Arterial roads - The Hunter also has a network of arterial
turnaround compared with Australia’s metropolitan ports. roads that link the major industrial suburbs of Newcastle
and Lake Macquarie with the Port of Newcastle,
AIR LINKS Newcastle Airport and the major highways. Most arterial
The Hunter has four working airports with Newcastle roads are four lanes and well signposted, with ample
Airport being the premier regional facility. Newcastle capacity to handle the growing Hunter economy.
Airport has both civil and defence functionalities and can
accommodate large international aircraft such as the RAIL
Boeing 787 or Airbus A330. A comprehensive rail network operates within the region.
Passenger and general freight train services link the
ROADS Hunter with Sydney, Brisbane and North Western NSW
The Hunter has a highly developed network of highways including Tamworth and Moree.
and arterial roads. This combined, with over 100 national
and regional transport companies operating in the region, Between Sydney and Newcastle the State Rail Authority
allows for fast and efficient movement of freight. operates an electrified heavy rail system. A diesel
powered service continues to the North Coast of NSW
All major industrial estates in the region, as well as those and to Brisbane as well as to the Northern Tablelands.
planned, are located on or close to national highways or
on main arterial roads with fast links to the highways. The rail network is also linked to the Port of Newcastle,
providing a smooth transition between sea and land for
A core road network consisting of a freeway and three the movement of bulk items such as coal, alumina, wood
main highways facilitate the smooth flow of traffic into and chips and containerised cargo. Much of the agricultural
out of the Hunter. produce from the north-west regions is exported through
the Port of Newcastle via the rail links to these areas.
The Sydney to Newcastle F3 Freeway is part of the
National Highway network. It is the main corridor linking
Newcastle to Sydney, providing a driving time of less than
two hours between the two cities. The F3 has links to the
New England and Pacific Highways.
The Hunter Expressway is 40 km of dual divided

carriageway between the F3 Freeway at Seahampton and
the New England Highway west of Branxton. Interchanges
will be located at the F3 Freeway, Buchanan, Kurri Kurri,
Loxford, Allandale and Branxton, are scheduled to open
in 2013.
Planning is underway for the 12.2 km extension of the F3
50
Pacific National hauls the Hunter’s containerised freight, will increase export coal capacity from 97 million tonnes
coal, industrial and agricultural products. QR National per annum (mtpa) to 200 mtpa.
also hauls coal. Some of the larger coal mines are also
currently using or investigating using their own services. Passenger services: CityRail operates a regular electric
passenger rail service between Newcastle and Sydney
The Main Northern Railway Line from Sydney passes with a travel time of around 2.5 hours. Recent studies
through Cardiff/Glendale, Broadmeadow (where it links into a possible high speed rail link indicate rail trips of
into the Newcastle City Centre), and then on to Maitland, around 40 minutes between Newcastle and Sydney are
then the northern tablelands to Tamworth. viable.
At Werris Creek, near Tamworth, a branch line services Half-hourly services run between Newcastle and Maitland
Gunnedah, Narrabri and Moree in the north-west of most of the day during the week, while four services per
NSW. This line carries general freight, coal from the day operate between Scone and Newcastle, and five
Gloucester area and passenger traffic. services between Dungog and Newcastle.
The North Coast Rail Line commences at Maitland and BUS SERVICES
passes through Dungog, Gloucester and the coastal State Transit operates bus services throughout the

towns through to Brisbane. Newcastle and adjoining Lake Macquarie suburbs. In
addition, a ferry service from Newcastle to Stockton links
The aptly named Coal Lines are dedicated rail lines residents in that area to the City. Private bus services
for the coal trains that travel from the Hunter Valley to also provide connections with Upper and Lower Hunter
the Port of Newcastle. These lines are constructed on towns and Newcastle to augment the government
the western side of the main passenger and general operated services.
freight lines. This arrangement of rail lines was originally
constructed to allow coal trains to travel uninterrupted to The frequent State Transit buses in the Newcastle City
Port Waratah Coal Services’ export facility. The lines are Centre are free between 7.30 am and 6:00 pm seven
currently undergoing a massive $1 billion upgrade that days a week.
Distance (by road) Travel time Population
Newcastle to Sydney 159 km Driving time approx. 2 hours, air travel Sydney Metropolitan Area approx.
time approx. 40 minutes 4.6 million
(63% of NSW’s population)
Newcastle to Brisbane Driving time approx. 10 hours, air travel Brisbane to Gold Coast nearly
Via Pacific Highway 786 km time approx. 1 hour 3 million (66% of Queensland’s
Via New England Highway 857 km population)
Newcastle to Melbourne via 1,014 km Driving time approx. 12 hours, air travel Melbourne approx. 4.1 million
Hume Highway time approx. 1 hour 30 minutes (over 73% of Victoria’s population)
Newcastle to Canberra 436 km Driving time approx. 5 hours, air travel ACT approx. 368,000
time approx. 1 hour 10 minutes
51
AIRPORTS IN THE HUNTER
NEWCASTLE AIRPORT of Newcastle Airport’s proximity to Defence and utilise the
The Hunter’s major airport, Newcastle Airport, is located in Airport’s office facilities.
the Port Stephens Local Government Area at Williamtown,
a 25 minute drive from the Newcastle CBD. Projects and developments
In 2010, Newcastle Airport invested in infrastructure
Newcastle Airport is serviced by Aeropelican, Brindabella development. Air BP and Caltex, in a joint venture,
Airlines, Jetstar, Regional Express, Qantaslink, and Virgin constructed a new aviation fuel farm to improve efficiencies
Australia to Ballina, Brisbane, Canberra, the Gold Coast, for the two companies and released land, both airside
Melbourne and Sydney. and landside, back to Newcastle Airport. In 2011, the
Airport undertook a major refurbishment of its landside
Newcastle Airport’s influence on the Hunter economy is toilet amenities. The $900,000 upgrade was completed in
undeniable. An economic impact assessment in 2011 response to customer feedback.
reported that Newcastle Airport supports more than 4,100
jobs and generates almost $1 billion for the local economy, Newcastle Airport’s 20-year Master Plan provides a
of which $253.8 million supports local tourism. framework for ongoing managed infrastructure and
development growth. It outlines development of the terminal,
The Airport holds an operating agreement with RAAF car parks, and road network to meet future demand and
Base Williamtown, a land lease of 28 hectares from the provide permanent facilities required for international
Department of Defence, and uses the runway of RAAF services.
Base Williamtown. The runway is 2,438 metres long and
45 metres wide. It is capable of handling B787, A320, and Newcastle Airport currently has plans for the redevelopment
occasionally An-124 sized aircraft. The civil taxiways are of the road network, new taxi and coach parking facilities,
capable of handling aircraft up to B787 and An-124 size. and modified entrances to existing car parks lodged for
approval with Department of Defence and Port Stephens
Newcastle Airport is an aerospace hub. Jetstar chose Council.
Newcastle as the location for its Heavy Maintenance
Base in 2005, and BAE Systems recently expanded its Newcastle Airport continues to prove itself as an alternate
facility to build and maintain RAAF fighter jets. Various gateway into NSW and a significant transport hub for the
aerospace industry consultants have also taken advantage region, contributing to business and tourism in the Hunter.
1,189,040
1,181,887
1,181,261
1,400,000
1,145,607
1,135,596
1,005,628
1,200,000
892,313
1,000,000
757,1445
Passengers
800,000
460,364
600,000
400,000
214,427
200,000
2012
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2003
2004
2005
2006
Passenger movements at Newcastle Airport (2003 – 2012)
52
HUNTER VALLEY AIRPORT - CESSNOCK upgrade was completed in 2011 which included a full
Located near Cessnock, Hunter Valley Airport - Cessnock runway rehabilitation, construction of a Runway End Safety
is operated by Aviation & Leisure Corporation Pty Ltd. It is Area (RESA) and upgrading of the airport taxiways.
a major training, sport and recreation airport in the midst of
wine country at Pokolbin. The airport precinct includes Scone Airpark, an aviation
industry business cluster with fully serviced lots available
The International School of Aviation Australia (formerly the for purchase ranging in size from 2,600 sqm to 3,500sqm.
Avondale School of Aviation), with a fleet of seven aircraft, Several significant aviation businesses have already based
is located at the airfield along with Basair Aviation College, themselves at the airpark including aircraft maintenance and
Hunter Valley Aviation's flying school, which has access to 40 manufacture, aerial agriculture, National Parks fire fighting
aircraft. There are several operators of piston and jet vintage centre and charter operators.
and warbird aircraft offering visitors flying experiences with
these types of aircraft. Hunter Wine Helicopters operates Future developments include a new terminal building and
tourist flights from the airport. car parking.
Currently the airport has a sealed runway 1190 metres MAITLAND AIRPORT

long with night landing facilities. Both jet and avgas fuel are The Royal Newcastle Aero Club (RNAC) owns the
available from a modern facility operated by Skyfuel. Aircraft aerodrome known as Russell Field at Rutherford, near
maintenance and storage hangars are also available. Maitland. The aerodrome is defined as an Authorised
Landing Area by the Civil Aviation Regulations. It is
Enquiries should be directed to Aviation & Leisure primarily used for flight training, joy flights, private charter
Corporation Pty Ltd on (02) 4991 2153. operations and private aircraft and consists of two
sealed and one grass runways, making the aerodrome
SCONE AIRPORT operational in most conditions. The main runway is 1,290
Owned by Upper Hunter Shire Council, Scone Airport metres long and provides sufficient take-off and landing
includes a 1,404 metre fully sealed runway, night landing directions to allow circuit training to be conducted for
facilities and a 24 hour fuel depot. Scone Airport is a most situations. It has facilities for night flying and can
significant air link to the Upper Hunter area. A $2.2 million accommodate aircraft up to 5.7 tonnes.
gateway to the
Hunter Connecting the Hunter to
Australia and the world
Newcastle Airport is a significant transport hub for
the Hunter. We connect the region directly to
Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and the
Gold Coast.
From these hubs, connections are easy to the rest of
Australia and the world.
The Airport contributes almost $1 billion each year
to the local economy, and supports more than 4,000
jobs.
We are proud of the access we provide to our region
and the contribution we make to our local economy.
Newcastle Airport: gateway to the Hunter
www.newcastleairport.com.au
53
In 2010, the previous two grass runways were consolidated Commercial aircraft maintainers and operators or those
into a single north / south runway in order to change the requiring hangar leases should direct their enquiries to the
flight paths to assist neighbours with their developments. General Manager of the Royal Newcastle Aero Club on (02)
Work also commenced on a further six hangars. 4932 8888.
RNAC is also the home base of Matt Hall, Australia’s only Red OTHER AIRPORTS
Bull Air Race competitor. He is a regular visitor to the club Belmont Airport has a 914 m sealed runway; however, it has
during his off season and occasionally operates a WW11 been virtually unused since Aeropelican moved its operations
vintage Mustang from the airfield giving joy rides to the to Newcastle Airport in 2006. Mirvac has purchased the site.
public. Two TBM Avengers and a Wirraway are operated by
Paul Bennet, the Australian Unlimited Aerobatic Champion Singleton Airport has an unsealed runway and is not currently
Pilot, whose home base is also RNAC. used on a regular basis.
HBR
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54
PORT OF NEWCASTLE
The Port of Newcastle is one of Australia’s most diverse
regional ports and one of the world’s largest coal export
ports. With over 4,500 ship movements a year, the port
provides major economic benefit to the city, the region and
the state of NSW.
The export of coal is the ports’ core trade: however, over

40 different commodities are handled through the port
including alumina, aluminium, cement, fertiliser products,
forestry products, grain, mineral concentrates, petroleum
products and steel.
Infrastructure within the port can handle all types of cargo

including dry bulk, bulk liquids, break bulk, project and
containers. The Port of Newcastle is a critical supply chain
interface for the movement of cargo and includes 19

operational berths, 11 of which are allocated to handling
a range of cargoes and 7 allocated to the handling of coal.
Newcastle Port Corporation is a state owned corporation.

Its role is to provide safe, effective and sustainable port
operations and deliver efficient port development that
enhances the economic growth of the Hunter Region and
NSW. By working with its stakeholders, the Corporation
aims to deliver opportunity that is mutually beneficial.
Whilst coal continues to be the port’s major export,

expertise in handling other project cargo, dry bulk and
bulk liquid products has enabled strong growth in these
Delivering cargo solutions
The Port of Newcastle has the facilities

and expertise to manage all types of cargo.
In fact, our diverse trade base is made up
of more than 40 different commodities.
As one of Australia’s leading bulk ports,

there are 19 operational berths with
11 allocated to all types of non-coal cargo
including dry bulk, break bulk, bulk liquids,
project cargo and containers.
The port is also close to Sydney and has

a range of back-up storage options.
What’s more, the Port of Newcastle

has the only berth-face rail line on
Australia’s east coast, with excellent
road and rail connections interstate
and intrastate.
Talk to Newcastle Port Corporation

about your cargo solution.
Newcastle Port Corporation

(02) 4985 8222
[email protected]
www.newportcorp.com.au
NPC0387
55
commodities. Total trade through the port in 2011-12 was Newcastle Port Corporation invested $25 million to provide
valued at $20.01 billion, with coal trade valued at almost new berth infrastructure at the site. Mayfield No.4 Berth
$15.8 billion. In 2011-12 the total tonnage handled through was officially opened in March 2010 and consists of a 265
the port increased by 12.3% to reach over 128 million metre long wharf area and 10,000 m2 adjoining hardstand
tonnes. for port-related uses such as cargo handling, storage and
assembly area.
Newcastle Port Corporation owns and manages over 610
hectares of port land within five defined precincts: Carrington, A recently completed refurbishment project saw the re-
Mayfield, Walsh Point, Kooragang Coal and Kooragang commissioning of the channel berth for tie up purposes and
Future Development. Much of this land is allocated to current as a dedicated facility for visiting international cruise vessels.
or future trade but a range of development opportunities still
exist for port related industry. The Port of Newcastle is a thriving commercial port
recognised as a major strategic asset for the NSW economy
The former BHP Steelworks site located within the Mayfield and a generator of employment for thousands of people
precinct has 90 hectares of riverfront land and can support both directly and indirectly.
a diverse range of infrastructure, including bulk and general
cargo, bulk liquid and container terminals. Newcastle Port Competitive advantages of the Port of Newcastle
Corporation envisages development on this site will focus • excellent connections to major interstate and intrastate
on the growing maritime trade and offer regional and state- transport routes
wide commercial rewards. The Mayfield site is close to the • only berth-face rail line on Australia’s eastern seaboard
Newcastle CBD, is perfectly positioned within the Port of • 19 operational berths
Newcastle and is accessible by effective road, rail and sea • bulk, break bulk, project and general cargoes, passengers
links. and containers
• range of covered and uncovered storage options
In support of this unique development opportunity, • 15.2 m deep channel
Trade through the Port of

Newcastle for the year
ended June 2012
COMMODITY TONNES
Coal 121,904,634
Alumina 1,347,904
Grains 1,3862,691
Other bulk 1,009,748
Mineral concentrates 389,383
Fuels 440,242
Woodchips 257,764
Fertiliser products 268,011
Steel import/export 302,567
Petroleum coke 260,437
Other general cargo 343,775
Aluminium 166,202
Grinding media 56,996
Total All Trades 128,610,354
Newcastle Port Corporation records the

amount of trade imported and exported in
mass tonnes which refer to the actual weight
(in kilograms) of the commodity.
56
Port Services
Pilotage
Pilotage is compulsory in the port. The service is provided Australia, NYK Lines, Strang International, Wilhelmsen
by Newcastle Port Corporation and operates 24 hours a Ships Service.
day. More than 80 per cent of Marine Pilot transfers are
provided by helicopter. Stevedoring
Newcastle Stevedores, QUBE Holdings, Patrick.
Communications
The Vessel Traffic Information Centre (VTIC) operates the Quarantine services
ship booking system which includes planning, booking Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS).
and coordinating vessel movements, and provides
information to vessels about movements within the port.
Towage and line services

These services are provided by Svitzer Australasia utilising
a fleet of eight tugs.

Ship repair
Varley Engineering provides a range of maintenance and
repair services with a 24 hour call out service.
Providores
A full range of providore services are available through
local shipping agents.
Customs
The Australian Customs Service operates an office in
Newcastle servicing the port with one customs vessel.
Customs agents and freight forwarders

Hunter Cargo & Customs, Kuehne & Nagel, Panalpina
World Transport, Scorpion International Freight, DB
Schenker Australia.
Marine surveyors
Hunter Marine Surveys
Shipping agencies
Asiaworld Shipping, Clark Shipping, Gulf Agency
Company, Hetherington Kingsbury, Inchcape Shipping
Services, McArthur Shipping Agency, Monson Agencies
57
Port of Newcastle Berth Information
The Port of Newcastle is one of Australia’s most diverse regional ports and one of the world’s largest coal export ports. With over 1,860 ship visits a year, the port provides major economic benefit to the city, the region and the State of NSW. Infrastructure within the port can handle all types of cargo including dry
bulk, bulk liquids, break bulk, project, passenger and containers. The Port of Newcastle is a critical supply chain interface for the movement of cargo and includes 19 operational berths, 11 of which are allocated to handling a range of cargoes and 8 dedicated to the handling of coal. Newcastle Port Corporation
owns and manages over 610 hectares of port land within four defined precincts – Carrington, Mayfield, Walsh Point, and Kooragang. Much of this land is allocated to current or future trade but a range of development opportunities still exist for port related industry.
CARRINGTON PRECINCT WALSH POINT PRECINCT
Berth Details Facilities Cargo/Commodity Operators Berth Details Facilities Cargo/Commodity Operators
Throsby 1 Design depth: 10m LOA: 210m Navy ships Hunter Development Kooragang 2 Design depth: 11.6m LOA: 230m 2 ship unloaders Bulk cargo Common user
Channel depth: 12.8m Max draft: 9.7m Corporation (Owner) Channel depth: 15.2m with overhang 18 tonne gantry grab Bulk liquids
5 Max beam: 35m 35 Max draft: 11.3m Design throughput (combined): General cargo
Max beam: 30m 650tph (commodity dependant) Containers
Western Basin 3 Design depth: 11.6m LOA: 262m 4 ship loaders Grains Common user
Channel depth: 12.8m Max draft: 11.3m Loading height max: 17.1m Frozen orange juice 1 ship loader
10 Max beam: 35m Loading outreach max: 26.5m concentrate Predominant user: Design throughput: 1,000tph
Travel distance: 213.4m GrainCorp Storage area adjacent to berths
Design throughput: 1,000tph
Kooragang 3 Design depth: 13.5m LOA: 255m 2 pneumatic unloaders Bulk cargo Common user
Western Basin 4 Design depth: 11.6m LOA: 262m Berth-face rail line Project cargo Common user Channel depth: 15.2m Max draft: 13.2m Design throughput: 550tph General cargo
Channel depth: 12.8m Max draft: 11.3m Ro/Ro ramp General cargo 31 Max beam: 35m Containers Predominant user:
11 Max beam: 35m 1.5ha wharf storage area Containers Kooragang Bulk
Designed for heavy forklift axle loads Facilities
Eastern Basin Design depth: 11.6m LOA: 262m 7,120m2 storage shed Break bulk Eastern Basin
1 and 2 Channel depth: 12.8m Max draft: 11.3m 10,000m2 uncovered stacking area General cargo Distribution Centre
Max beam: 35m Rail access Containers (PATRICK) KOORAGANG COAL PRECINCT
12
Berth Details Facilities Cargo/Commodity Operators
Channel Berth Design depth: 8.5m LOA: 300m Tie-up berth Passenger ships Common user
Kooragang 4, 5, Design depth: 16.5m LOA: 300m 3 shared ship loaders Coal Port Waratah
Channel depth: 15.2m Max draft: 8.2m Concrete dolphins on steel piles with
15 6 and 7* Channel depth: 15.2m DWT: 232,000 Design throughput (each): 10,500tph Coal Services
Max beam: 50m interconnecting walkways
Total berthing box Max draft: 16.2m
30 length is 1,335m Max beam: 50m
Dyke 1 Design depth: 12.8m LOA: at discretion of Tie-up berth Petroleum products Common user
Channel depth: 15.2m Harbour Master Concrete dolphins on steel piles with *Berth 7 operational Q1 2012
16 Max draft: 12.5m interconnecting walkways Predominant user: BP Kooragang 8, 9, Design depth: 16.5m LOA: 300m 1 ship loader Coal Newcastle Coal
Max beam: 50m and 10* Channel depth: 15.2m DWT: 210,000 Design throughput: 10,500tph Infrastructure Group
29 Total berthing box Max draft: 16.2m
Dyke 2 Design depth: 12.8m LOA: at discretion 1 ship loader Bulk ore Common user
length is 680m Max beam: 55m *Berth 10 operational Q4 2012
Channel depth: 15.2m of Harbour Master Loading height max: 14m (air draft) concentrates
17 Max draft: 12.5m Loading outreach max: 17m Predominant user:
Max beam: 32.2m Travel distance: 115m ConPorts
Design throughput: 1,200tph BERTH MAX DRAFT IS AT ZERO TIDE. SAILING DRAFT IS DETERMINED BY CHANNEL DEPTH PLUS TIDE MINUS UNDER KEEL CLEARANCE.
Concentrate storage shed adjacent
to loader with five separate storage
bays totalling 28,500m3 (60,000 CONCRETE BERTH MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOADINGS* PORT CAPACITY
tonnes capacity)
Berth Crane outrigger (tonnes) Vehicle axles group (tonnes/group) 19 operational berths with 11 allocated to non-coal trade
Dyke 4 and 5 Design depth: 16.5m LOA: 290m + 230m 2 shared ship loaders Coal Port Waratah MID SPAN OVER PILES SINGLE TANDEM TRIPLE
Channel depth: 15.2m Max draft: 16.2m Design throughput: 2,500tph Coal Services Main channel depth 15.2m
19 Total berthing box Max beam: 47m Channel Berth # N/A 28 ‡ 7.5 12 18
length is 615m
Eastern Basin 1 50 65 65 90 100 River port with a tidal range of 2m
MAYFIELD PRECINCT Eastern Basin 2 50 65 65 90 100 Current maximum sized vessel accommodated has 300m LOA
and 50m beam
Berth Details Facilities Cargo/Commodity Operators Kooragang 2 23 78 33 44 51
Mayfield 4 Design depth: 12.8m LOA: 240m 10,000m2 concrete wharf area General cargo Common user Kooragang 3 30 83 40 62 75 Serviced by liner services to Asia and Oceania
Channel depth: 15.2m Max draft: 12.5m 10,000m2 hardstand Project cargo
24 Mayfield 4 100 100 70 90 100
Berth length is 265m Max beam: 50m Designed for mobile or rail-mounted Containers Navigation in and out of the Port of Newcastle is supported
ship-to-shore cranes and heavy forklift Western Basin 3 32 72 35 46 54 by a state-of-the-art swell and under keel clearance system
axle loads
Western Basin 4 52 72 57 76 90 Extensive simulation trials for fully loaded 284m container vessels
BHP 6 Design depth: 7.9m LOA: 130m Tar, pitch and Koppers Carbon have been conducted
(Koppers) Channel depth: 15.2m Max draft: 7.6m creosote Materials & Chemicals *AS OF DECEMBER 2011. ALL TONNAGES ARE INDICATIVE ONLY. HEAVY LOADS MUST BE REPORTED
TO AND APPROVED BY NPC ENGINEERS PRIOR TO BERTHING. # CHANNEL BERTH COMPRISES Operational parameters for high windage vessels have
Max beam: 18.6m exclusive access 3 x DOLPHINS AND CONNECTING BRIDGE DECK. FIGURES STATED ABOVE RELATE
25 TO DOLPHIN COMPONENTS. ‡ ON A 1.5m x 1.5m MAT ON DOLPHIN PILES 2 AND 4. been established
Port of Newcastle
41
40
32
31 1
30 33 39
34
35
36 38
37
24
25
29
23 2
19
28
18 17
26 16 4 3
20 15
14
21 12
13
11
22
10
42 27
9
7
8
6
5
1 Nobbys Headland 10 Western Basin 3 Berth 18 Toll Resources 26 OneSteel 34 Cement Australia Terminal
2
and GrainCorp Terminal 19 Dyke 4 and 5 Berths 27 Koppers Carbon Materials & Chemicals 35
Newcastle Port Corporation Pilot Station Kooragang 2 Berth
11 Western Basin 4 Berth Port Waratah Coal Services
3 Newcastle Port Corporation Office 28 Terminal 4 (T4) Development Site 36 Boral Timber Fibre Exports
12 Eastern Basin 1 and 2 Berths 20 McGrath Newcastle
4 29 Kooragang 8 and 9 Berths 37
Queens Wharf Eastern Basin Distribution Centre (patrick) GrainCorp Agriterminal
21 BP Australia Bulk Fuel Storage Facility Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group
5 Throsby 1 Berth 38 PATRICK Bulk Storage Facility
13 SVITZER Australia 22 Newcastle Stevedores 30 Kooragang 4, 5, 6 and 7 Berths
6 Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club 14 39 Orica
Helicopter Base – Pilot Transfer Service 23 Mayfield Development Site Port Waratah Coal Services
7 NSW Maritime and NSW Water Police 15 Channel Berth 31 Kooragang 3 Berth – Kooragang Bulk Facilities 40 Impact Fertilisers
24 Mayfield 4 Berth
8 Forgacs Floating Dock 16 Dyke 1 Berth 32 Incitec Pivot 41 Mountain Industries
25 BHP 6 Berth – Koppers Carbon Materials
9 CitroVita Juice Terminals 17 Dyke 2 Berth – ConPorts & Chemicals 33 Cargill 42 BHP Billiton Emplacement Cell
UTILITIES
ELECTRICITY
The Hunter has ample capacity to service any size Newcastle and Upper Hunter homes will be among
development. 30,000 households participating in the smart grid project,
which is being delivered by a consortium led by Ausgrid.
Heavy industry can liaise directly with the generation
companies: Macquarie Generation, Eraring Energy, Delta Smart grids involve transforming a traditional electricity
Electricity and Redbank. network by adding new, smart technology that can make
the network more efficient, help reduce interruptions,
Deregulation of energy provision in mid-2001 has resulted support more renewable energy and give households
in better deals for business. Electricity retailers in the greater control over their energy use.
region offer a flexible price structure to suit the needs of
individual organisations. They also provide bulk electricity GAS
to designated heavy industrial zones. Reticulated natural gas is available to most industrial sites
in the Hunter. The region is serviced by AGL Retail Energy,
Ausgrid has more than 100 years’ experience in operating Country Energy and EnergyAustralia.
one of the largest and most reliable electricity networks
in Australia, supplying electricity to 1.6 million homes and Hunter Gas Pipeline Pty Ltd is building a $900 million
businesses across Sydney, the Central Coast and the natural gas pipeline from Queensland to the Hunter to
Hunter Region. supply gas to industry in the region. This addition to the
market is expected to make supply more certain and
In the Hunter, Ausgrid’s network services nearly 250,000 pricing more competitive. It will also make it feasible to
customers, from households to major industries such as build a gas-fired power station in the Upper Hunter as
coal mines, manufacturers and primary producers. well as transportation of NSW coal seam gas to market.
Ausgrid is investing $2 billion across the region between Santos is planning to build a gas pipeline to an export
2009-2014 to upgrade and replace large parts of the terminal on land it has purchased at Kooragang Island.
electricity network to improve reliability and to meet The $300 million project would include two laterals – one
increasing peak demand for power. to the Bayswater power station and another to the meter
station at Hexham.
Ausgrid also undertakes more than 100,000 maintenance
tasks each year to ensure the Hunter network continues Dart Energy has completed four coal seam gas exploration
to serve the community safely and reliably. holes at Fullerton Cove.
Country Energy supplies consumers in the Dungog, AGL is planning to extract coal seam gas from Gloucester
Gloucester and Great Lakes Local Government Areas Basin and pipe it to meet existing infrastructure at
(LGAs). It also competes for supply to major commercial Hexham. The Gloucester Basin currently has certified
and industrial sites across the region. reserves of 423 petajoules (PJ) of 2P (Proved and
Probable) Reserves and 630 PJ of 3P (Proved, Probable
Other electricity retailers supplying the consumer market and Possible) Reserves. Gas from the Gloucester Basin
include: AGL Electricity, Integral Energy, Origin Energy, would produce 20 – 30 PJ per annum, which is more than
PowerDirect and TRUenergy. 10% of the existing NSW market.
Smart Grid, Smart City is a $100 million Australian Other huge reserves of coal seam gas have been located
Government project that will develop Australia’s first fully in the Hunter Valley and commercial development is likely
integrated, commercial scale smart grid over three years. in the future subject to approval.
Grahamstown Dam
60
Advent Energy is exploring for natural gas in the PEPII networks serviced by a number of competing carriers.
permit which has been estimated to contain over
370 billion cubic metres of prospective recoverable The Hunter is connected to the internet by a range of
gas resources (estimated Australian consumption in local and national internet service providers. Uptake of the
2009 was 26.6 billion cubic metres). The site also has internet in the Hunter is greater than the national average.
strong prospects as a potential major carbon dioxide
geosequestration site. Since January 2010, RDA Hunter in conjunction with RDA
Central Coast has been engaged in a project to put the
The NSW government has declared as critical Hunter and Central Coast forward as priority regions for
infrastructure AGL’s proposed $300 million gas storage the rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN).
facility at Tomago. Able to store up to 30,000 tonnes
of LNG, the plant would help secure gas supply to the In February 2013, the rollout of fibre optic connectivity
Hunter, Sydney and Wollongong. It is currently under in Maitland commenced. By December 2013, work on
construction and is due to be completed and operating in the NBN roll out will begin in Newcastle and a year later,
December 2013. NBN fibre cable is due to start being installed in Lake

Macquarie. Other areas within the Hunter will receive high
WATER speed broadband via fixed wireless, satellite services and
The Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Maitland, fibre, pending further announcements by NBN Co.
Cessnock and Dungog Local Government Areas are
serviced with mains water supplied by the Hunter Water
Corporation (HWC).
The Hunter Water Corporation has three catchments:

Chichester and Grahamstown Dams as well as the
Tomago Sandbeds.
State Water owns dams at Glenbawn, Glennies Creek

and Lostock in the Upper Hunter and supplies water
to Muswellbrook, Singleton and Scone, with the local Bayswater power station in the Upper Hunter
councils providing the distribution network.
Drinking water in the Hunter is of a very high standard and

is well within the national guideline requirements.
Although water restrictions have been in place for some

years in many parts of Australia, the Hunter Water
Corporation was able to provide a largely unrestricted
water supply.
WASTE WATER
The Hunter Water Corporation is an Australian leader in
innovation for effluent use. It provides reliable transport of
sewage throughout its area of operations via a wastewater
pipe network and treatment system.
Wastewater charges vary according to the strength and

Developer
volumes generated as well as the organisation’s proximity
to the treatment works.
Services
Whether it is a development such as a small
or large subdivision, commercial building, a
TELECOMMUNICATIONS new industry or even a single house, they all
The telecommunications network in the Hunter rivals that require water and/or wastewater infrastructure.
of capital cities. The region is serviced by all the major Hunter Water’s Developer Services Team
national carriers. Local carriers Soul and Ipera provide provides a single point to service the needs
a range of state-of-the-art telephone and high speed of developers and their consultants who do
business with Hunter Water.
broadband services, with optical fibre loops running
through Newcastle CBD and offering gigabit ethernet Contact Developer Serivces on 1300 657 657.
capabilities. All exchanges are linked to the national
network for carriage of voice and data.
www.hunterwater.com.au
The region has comprehensive 3G and 4G mobile
61
INDUSTRIAL AREAS
As a consequence of the Lower Hunter Regional Strategy is still to be released. In February 2012, the developable
and aggressive action by Local Government Areas the land was purchased by Hunter Investment Corporation who
Hunter Region continues to offer a wide range of industrial/ is now marketing the remaining available land. HEZ offers
employment sites to meet the needs of business and affordable, fully-serviced industrial sites from 1 to 120 ha. A
industry. Mature industrial areas provide opportunities to new primary school and high school have been approved.
obtain premises for immediate occupation while many new There are also plans to include a new hospital and release
industrial estates offer sites ready for development with, residential land.
in many cases, developers offering design and construct
packages. For further information visit www.hez.com.au.
CESSNOCK LGA DUNGOG LGA

Cessnock Civic Business Park Dungog Industrial Estate services the local Dungog
Cessnock Civic Business Park is strategically located adjacent community.
to Vincent Street, with main street access to Cessnock CBD.
Comprising light industrial and business support sites initially, GLOUCESTER LGA
Cessnock Civic Business Park will provide extensive public Gloucester Industrial Estate services the local Gloucester
open space, future bulky goods retail opportunities, and an community.

exciting residential precinct within a close walk to shopping.
Development commenced in 2012. LAKE MACQUARIE LGA
Cameron Park Industrial Estate
Companies locating in this estate include: This is a 50 hectare subdivision located at the Sydney-
Bunnings Warehouse, Endeavour Industries Newcastle Freeway and Newcastle Link Road interchange.
Stage 4 is presently under development. Lot sizes range
For more information visit www.hunterland.com.au from 2,000 to 20,000 sqm. Prices are in the $120 to $150
per sqm range.
Hunter Economic Zone
Located at Kurri Kurri, HEZ is Australia’s largest industrial Companies located at Cameron Park include:
zone, occupying some 3,200 hectares of which 900 Ampcontrol, Hyne Timber, John Farragher Removals & Transport
hectares is zoned developable for industrial use. A number and Veolia Environmental Services.
of companies have moved into HEZ but much of the land
SPECIALIST COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL & RETAIL AGENTS
Servicing Newcastle and the

Hunter Region in the sales, leasing
and management of all types of
commercial property assets.
Specialist services:
• Commercial property investments
• Project marketing
• Design and construction of land and building
packages for tenants and owner occupiers alike
• Commercial development advisory
fourwallscommercial.com ph: 49100 111

62
Cardiff Industrial Park Land prices start from $140 per square metre. Hunter
The Cardiff industrial area is one of the older industrial areas in Land offers land plus design and construct packages.
the region: however in recent years it has been redeveloped.
As a result the park is seeing a more commercial focus Companies that have located in this estate include:
with the proposed Glendale Transport Hub nearby and the Advanced Technology Solutions, Aggreko, A & D Lifting
mooted connection to Argenton expected to feed demand. Equipment, All Seasons Spas, Arbre Skin Technologies, ASK
Horticultural Distribution, ATSA Defence Services, Australian
Plastic Profiles, Austrian Energy & Environment, Boral Transport,
Companies located at Cardiff Industrial Park include: Boral Plasterboard, Cable Services Australia, Cavalier Homes,
Academy Sheetmetal Pty Ltd, Active Forklift Services, Alsco, Amdel Classic Air Conditioning, Coates Hire, Combined Coatings,
Laboratories, ATF Mining Electrics Pty Ltd, AVM Safety Solutions, Cope Sensitive Freight, Decorative Technologies Australia,
Barry McDonald Transport, Boart Longyear Pty Ltd, Brian Clulow Delnorth, Primary Industries - Minerals Technical Facility,
Industrial Pumping Pty Ltd, Brian Hanson Civil Engineering Pty Ltd, Earth Data, Eaton Fluid Power, ERM Australia, First Fleet
Cardiff Signs, Case Equipment Sales, Crown Equipment Pty Ltd, Global Acoustics, GWH Build, Harris Transport, Hume Door
Custom Fluid Power, Dexion, Downer Engineering Power Pty Ltd, & Timber, Hunter Buildings, Hunter Concrete Products,
Durham Fabrications, Edgeworth Furniture, EMB Manufacturing Pty Hunter Land, Hunter Pets, Hunter Precast Concrete, Hunter
Ltd, Enhanced Telecommunications Pty Limited, Fastway Couriers, Readymixed Concrete, Hunter Records Storage, Hunter

Garry Brown Office Supplies, Graham Stainless Manufacturing Regional Organisation of Councils, Hunter Regional Tourism
Pty Ltd, Hardy Manufacturing Pty Ltd, Hunter Plastics, Hunter Organisation, Hunter Stainless Steel, Steeline Hunter, Hunter
Watertech Pty Ltd, Inghams Enterprises, Inghams Feeds, Kenshaw Transport Centre, Hunter Valley Boring, Hunter Valley Buses,
Electrical Pty Ltd, Kev Baldwin Wholesale Confectionery, Kingston Hunter Valley Interior Linings, Justin Norris Swim Academy,
Heavy Haulage, Langford Windows, Macquarie Drywall Pty Ltd, Life Technologies, ISS Hygeine Services, Linfox, Ludowici
Mander Toyota Industrial Equipment, Maxwell Engineering Pty Processing & Handling Equipment, Mainstream Industries,
Ltd, McColl Engineering Pty Ltd, MCM Manufacturing Pty Ltd, Maitland Cool Rooms, McDonald Jones Homes, Marathon
Merino Engineering Supplies, Metalcorp Steel, Mining Components Truck & Coach, Midway Metals, Mortels Sheepskin Factory, MI
Australia Pty Ltd, Mullings Fasteners, Newcastle Machine Shop, Power, National Mining Services, National Plant & Equipment,
Newcastle's Pudding Lady, P & H Fibreglass Pty Ltd, Pacific Linen Neumann Steel, Neumann Contractors, Newcastle Mitsubishi
Services, Paul Harrison Transport, Priestley Electrical Pty Ltd, Pro Trucks, Pinpoint Computer Services, Power Serve, Rapid
Power, PromoBasics, Protection Engineers Pty Ltd, Quickturn Pty Access Australia, Redman Business Equipment, Reece
Ltd, Roadhound Electronics Pty Ltd, Sefton & Loudon Services Plumbing, RTC Building Services, Schenk Australia, Sheer
Pty Ltd, Serck Controls Pty Ltd, Stramit Frames & Trusses, Swift Stainless Steel, Sigma Pharmaceuticals, Southern Steel,
& Company Limited, Sykes Group Pty Ltd, Taylors Belting Services Speed-E-Gas, Stratco, Steelcom, Thornton Joinery, Towers
Pty Ltd, Tesa Group Pty Ltd, Toll Logistics, Tyrex Technologies Pty Transport, TriState Transport, Woods Electric Battery Charging
Ltd and Viacitius Management Pty Ltd. Systems and others.
Other business zoned lands in Lake Macquarie Local For more information visit www.hunterland.com.au
Government Areas include:
• Morisset Gateway Industrial Park Anambah Business Park - Rutherford
• Gateshead/Bennetts Green Industrial Park Located on the New England Highway at Rutherford,
• Warners Bay Bulky Goods Industrial Park five kilometres west of central Maitland, Hunter Land’s
Anambah Business Park offers superior access and
MAITLAND LGA exposure to the substantial New England Highway traffic
NSW’s fastest growing regional LGA, Maitland has readily with a variety of sites in various sizes from 1,500 square
available industrial land predominantly to the west of the city metres to over 2 hectares. Land prices start from $110
centre at Rutherford. Hunter Land offers design and construct per square metre.
development opportunities. In addition there are established
facilities.Thornton Industrial Estate, Racecourse Business With highway frontage and access to the booming
Park and Anambah Business Park (both at Rutherford) mining sectors of the Hunter Valley, this location offers
provide an excellent opportunity for transport, engineering, substantial market catchment.
mining related, and construction services businesses to
operate. Hunter Land offers a design and construct service with
available land ranges, and tailored total land and design
Thornton Industrial Estate and construct packages.
Located on the New England Highway at the end of
the Sydney-Newcastle Expressway, Thornton Industrial Companies in this business park include:
Estate was commenced in 1995 and is now one of the Tefol, LD Operations, Pullins Carpets, Signature Floats, CZL
Hunter’s major industrial estates. The estate has excellent Excavating, Prestige Design Joinery, Esco, Hunter Valley
access to the Sydney F3, New England Highway to the Tiling, Joy Global, Masters Hardware, Hunter Commercial
Vehicles, Kennards Hire, Caltex, Firestorm, Hunter Valley
north west and the Pacific Highway for the coastal north.
Filters, BT, Downunder Minesite Maintenance, P&H Minepro,
It is adjacent to Maitland and the Newcastle CBD is only Thompsons Mining Fabrications, Thompsons Paint Assembly,
20 minutes away. Developed by Hunter Land, this estate MRM Engineering, Warner Group, 1825 Interiors, Martin
comprises 100 hectares and is about three kilometres Building Services, Framing Memories, Hunter Valley Tile Mart,
from the Beresfield industrial estates. There is very limited Seamless Mining Product, Reel Tech Remote Lighting, Lifter
land availability from 8,000 square metres to 2.9 hectares. Light Mounting Australia.
63
Racecourse Business Park - Rutherford NEWCASTLE LGA
Located on the New England Highway at Rutherford, five Steel River Industrial Park, Mayfield West
kilometres west of central Maitland, this business park Steel River is located on Industrial Drive at West Mayfield,
covers 90 hectares and is one of the Hunter’s major land a 10 minutes drive from Newcastle CBD, and covers an
release areas offering level sites. Developed by Hunter Land, area of 104 hectares. Lots are level with B-Double access.
it adjoins the original Rutherford Industrial Area. Power, water telecommunications and sewer are connected
to the boundary of each lot. Lots range in size from 4,339
Australia’s leading retailer, Harvey Norman, opened a new sqm to 4,833sqm. Land prices range from $155 per sqm
22,000 sqm retail facility in early 2007 developed by Hunter plus GST with strata industrial units approximately $1,500
Land at the entrance to the business park. There is over per sqm plus GST.
20,000 square metres of other bulky goods development
completed. Limited bulky goods opportunities are still Companies that have already located at Steel River include:
available. CSIRO Energy Research Centre, Hunter Water Australia,Ullrich
Aluminium, HIA Display Centre, Computer Science Corporation,
Limited sites are available from $110 per square metre. Scorpion International Freight Services, Horan Steel, Steel
River Brewery, Grace Records Management, SGE Australia,
Companies that are located in this business park include: AeroLogistics Helicopter Base, RMD Australia, Advitech,
AJW Earthmoving Pty Ltd, Allrak Storage Systems, Atlantic Pacific Protector Alsafe, RCR Stelform VRBT Pty Ltd, Thomas & Coffey
Foods, Bearing Dynamics, D & K Safety Consultants, Firestorm and others.

Fire Protection, G & D Donnelly, Emeco, Everyday Living, Fantastic
Furniture, Harvey Norman, H & M Engineering & Construction, For more information visit www.steelriver.com.au, or
Hogan’s Heavy Haulage, Hunter Valley Granite & Marble, Inbye contact Colliers International on 02 4926 4888 or Ray
Mining Services, Industrial Maintenance & Fabrication, Jarmain White Commercial on 02 4974 3011.
Electrical, John Holland Rail, Juganaut Industries, Jurox, Laffort,
Maitland Fabrications, P&H MinePro Services, National Ceramic Warabrook Industrial Estate
Industries Australia, Nationwide Oil, N J Contracting Services,
First developed in the mid 1980s, Warabrook is located in
Pioneer Road Services, Pneumatic Equipment Repair Sales &
Service, Polymer Technology International, P W King & Sons Newcastle’s inner west, off the Pacific Highway at North
– General Engineers, Royal Equipment, Rutherford Industrial Mayfield. Some redevelopment is now taking place with
Supplies, RSPCA, SLS Custom Stainless, Spotlight, Terex, Total new commercial office complexes under construction.
Temco, Transpacific Industries, Transport Repairs & Services,
Treloar, Ultrafloor, Valley Industrial & Irrigation, Vast Interiors, Vinkem Companies that are located in Warabrook include:
Packaging, Wax Converters Textile and others. AAMHatch, Australia Post – Hunter Mail Centre, Carbon
Consulting International, Civico Manufacturing, Douglass
For more information visit www.hunterland.com.au Partners, ENSR, Hermes Precisa, Hunter Special Engineering,
Hydratech Engineering, Pace Farms, Robtec Control Solutions,
MUSWELLBROOK LGA Service Forms Australia, Sherrin Hire, Star Dean-Willcocks
Muswellbrook Industrial Park Crosbie, Transfield Holdings, Worley Parsons, Wormald and
others.
Located less than five minutes from Muswellbrook town
centre and off the main Industrial route (Thomas Mitchell Drive),
Freeway Business Park, Beresfield
Muswellbrok Industiral Park has been developed by Mirvac.
Hunter Land’s Freeway Business Park offers land in lots up
Access has been designed for the needs of mine service
to four hectares. New releases in Freeway Business Park
companies with power, water and telecommunications at
– South Precinct (20 hectares) and Freeway Business Park
each lot. Muswellbrook Council recently announced plans to
- North Precinct (30 hectares) are now available with prices
connect sewer to lot boundaries at no cost to land owners
from $110 per square metre.
thanks to a government grant. Only a limited number of lots
remain in the estate ranging in size from 2,300 sqm to 1.2
Companies that are located in this estate include:
hectares selling from $42 per sqm plus GST.
Air Liquide, Aldi Foods, Apollo Kitchens, Atlas Specialty Metals,
Australian Safety Specialists, Beavis Party Hire, Blackwoods
Generally, companies operating in the estate provide Trade Centre, Coates, CTM, Chubb Security Services, CH2,
services and support for the coal mining industry. Some of Coventry Fasteners, Bucyrus, Fletcher Insulation, F3 Motor
these include: Auctions, John R Turk Electrical Supplies, KAB Seating
A & D Lifting, Atlas Copco, Bell Scaffolding, Bradken, Bro- Systems, Keller Civil Engineers, MiniStor Self Storage, Quarry
Built Engineering, Coates Hire, Convatech, Cummins, Ellavale Mining, Reece Onsite, Robson Civil Projects, Southcott, Target
Engineering, Enzed, Goodyear Hunter Valley, H & M Engineering & Australia, Toyota Materials Handling, Geared Engineering, CSR
Construction, Hitachi Construction Machinery, John Holland, Laing Building Products and Volvo Mack.
O’Rourke, LeTouneau, Mitchell Drilling Contractors, Muswellbrook
Bearing Centre, Phillips Engineering, Reliable Conveyor Belt, For more information visit www.hunterland.com.au
Sandvik Materials Handling, Thomas & Coffey, Titan Wheels &
Rims Pty Ltd, and Valley Longwall Hydraulics. Holmwood Business Park , Beresfield
Holmwood Business Park is located on the border
For more information on availability of sites in this
industrial area, contact Four Walls Commercial at www. of Newcastle and Maitland Local Government Areas
fourwallscommercial.com, Boyle Estate Agents www. and serviced by major roads; Sydney Newcastle F3
boylerealestate.com.au, or LJ Hooker www.ljhooker.com. Expressway, New England Highway and Pacific Highway.
au/muswellbrook
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Holmwood Business Park offers very limited vacant land the potential to position the Hunter as a major national and
from approximately $130 per square metre. potentially international centre for the aerospace and aviation
industry. It comprises Newcastle Airport and the soon to be
Companies that are located in this estate include: commenced Williamtown Aerospace Park (WAP).
Anderson Group of Companies, Aquanaut Pty Ltd, Atlas-Copco,
Beresford Park Nursery Supplies, Boral Concrete Plant, Chep Available from 2013, WAP is a 50 hectare employment park
Systems, Clark Food Service, Coast Reo, Control Synergy, with an emphasis on aerospace, aviation and the existing
David Reid Homes, Fairfax Regional Printers, Firebox Australia, industrial base that clusters around RAAF Base Williamtown.
Glenwood Rural Buildings, Global Food Equipment, Howard Land for aerospace users includes sites with airside access.
Haulage, Hunter Industrial Supplies, Hunter Joinery Supplies,
Land and design/construct packages (for both owner
Hardy Spicer, Hitachi Construction Machinery, KAB Seating
occupiers and lessees) are available. WAP offers Torrens title
Systems, LJH Electrical Mining, Manor Park Homes, McCabe
freehold. Early stage proposed components of WAP include
Engineering Pty Ltd, Moody Kiddell & Partners, AUS Multicam
CNC Routing Machines, National Truck Repairs, Northern
a hotel and office buildings.
Transport Services, Opalite Plastics, PowerDown, RTC Group, R
T Taylor – Iveco, Specialised Welding Products, Symbion Health, Visit www.hunterland.com.au for further information on WAP.
Ultra Lite Plastics and WACO Kwikform.
SINGLETON LGA

PORT STEPHENS LGA McDougall Business Park
Hunter Industrial Park, Tomago Located on the New England Highway North of Singleton
This serviced industrial estate is located adjacent to the CBD, the 65 hectare McDougall Business Park is being
Pacific Highway at Tomago, just north of the Hexham bridge. developed by Hunter Land. The estate has signalised entry
The land is level with power, water, telecommunications from New England Highway, connecting through to Maison
and sewer available to each lot. The sewer is a Community Dieu Road. Singleton Toyota and Bunnings Warehouse are
Association owned and operated facility as Hunter Water located at the entry. Other users are from transport, mining,
sewer is not otherwise available. Lot sizes range from 1881 engineering and agricultural support industries.
to 4071 square metres from $100 per square metre and
limited opportunity to consolidate adjoining lots. Land is now available with sizes ranging from 2,000 sqaure
metres to over 2 hectares with prices from $80 per square
Companies that have already located in the Hunter Industrial metre. In addition, Hunter Land offers land and design and
Park include: construct packages.
Ampcontrol, Cannavale Constructions, Coates Hire, Komatsu,
SGM Fabrications, Tropic Tomago, Varley, Volgren and Williams Companies in this estate include:
River Steel. Ausgrid, Bunnings, Hunter Valley Buses, Singleton Toyota, TNT,
Entire Concrete, Singleton Elite Self Storage, Whitmore Industries,
For further information contact Raine & Horne Newcastle on Tutt Bryant Hire and Cox Plant Hire, Actrol, Greg Hedges Smash
02 4915 2555 or your preferred Newcastle industrial agent. Repair, HMA – Halley & Mellowes Australia, Prospectors Earth
Science.
Heatherbrae Industrial Estate
This estate comprises ten hectares off the Pacific Highway For more information visit www.hunterland.com.au
between Hexham and Raymond Terrace. Building products
manufacturer Weathertex’s production facility is located Maison Dieu Industrial Estate
adjacent to this estate. Fully serviced level lots range in size Located off Maison Dieu Road at Singleton, this 50 hectare
from 1,800 square metres. Limited sites are now on the estate services the coal mining industry in the Upper Hunter
market at approximately $120 per square metre. area generally as well as other parts of the Region. Lot sizes
range from 2,000 to 4,000 sqaure metres however, there is
An adjacent major facility is occupied by Sandvik’s Hunter limited availability of land.
Valley Supersite, a 16 hectare lot with major infrastructure
developed in 2011 by Hunter Land. Some of the leading companies that are located in this estate
include:
Birrana Engineering, Blackwoods, Boon Logistics, Bradken, CCI
Taylors Beach Business Park
FluidTech, CCI POPE, Consolidated Bearing Company, Enzed,
Taylors Beach has available land from $100 per square metre, Fanquip, Garland Engineering, LEGRA, Lubritene Australia,
with sizes from 2,000 square metres upwards. Completed in Marathon Equipment, MTU Detroit Diesel Australia, MVD Australia,
2010 by Hunter Land, the latest release includes level cleared Outbye Engineering, PowerServe, Sandvik Surface Mining Division,
sites adjacent to Bunnings Warehouse. Tefol, TradeLink, Tri-Steel, and Wormald Fire Systems.
Companies in this estate include: For more information contact David Williams Real Estate
Bunnings, Tradelink and Supercheap Auto. www.realestatesingleton.com.au
For more information visit www.hunterland.com.au

Mt. Thorley Industrial Estate
Williamtown Aerospace Centre Mt Thorley is a 130 hectare estate located west of Singleton.
Williamtown Aerospace Centre (WAC) at Newcastle Airport It is a mature industrial area servicing the coal mining industry.
will be a key economic driver for the Hunter Region and has Around six lots are currently available.
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Companies operating in this estate include: are already occupied by companies including HiFert,
Ellavale Engineering, Allen Precision Engineers, Firefly International, Graincorp, Tomago Aluminium, Sims Metal, Toll Transport,
Gough & Gilmore, Hedweld Engineering, Hunter Frame & Truss, Barclay Mowlem, BOC Gases, John Holland and Custom
Komatsu, Leibherr, Marathon Tyres, SGS Australia, Terex Mining, Transportable Buildings. More than 800 hectares are
Total Fire Solutions and Westrac. zoned for environmental protection, with the remaining
400 hectares suited to a range of activities including an
UPPER HUNTER LGA expansion of coal loading capacity and other large-scale
Although there is some industrial zoned land in the Upper industrial development. The Newcastle Coal Inrastructure
Hunter LGA, there has been a shortage for a number of Group (NCIG) constructed a third coal loader which
years. A significant new estate at Scone was launched in commenced operations in 2010. Port Waratah Coal
2010 to help ease this shortage. Services is planning to construct a fourth coal loader on
the site to be known as T4.
Scone Business Park
John R Burton Contractors is developing the new Scone Tomago is adjacent to Port of Newcastle and managed by
Industrial Park. The 19.28 hectare estate, which is zoned the Hunter Development Corporation, formerly managed
light Industrial / Special Business, will provide a significant by RLMC. This site is on former rural lands and comprises
economic boost for Scone which has long suffered from a 545 hectares of land suitable for both light and heavy
shortage of quality industrial and commercial land. Located industry on a large scale and developers requiring large,
on the northern boundary of the Scone township, bounded uniform and level land sites. It is situated adjacent to the
by the highway and the Great Northern Rail Line, the estate Tomago Industrial Area, which is an older industrial area.
offers fully serviced lots ranging in size from 1900 to 6670 In 2010, the Corporation sold a 240 hectare site adjoining
sqaure metres. on Tomago Road to WEPL Investments Pty Ltd. The site
is adjacent to the 108 hectare industrial subdivision which
For further information contact Elders Scone or Macallum includes 66 hectares sold to NSW/ACT Caterpillar dealer
Inglis Scone www.maccalluminglis.com.au. Westrac to establish a $120 million service, training and
apprentice facility employing 300. In early 2012, HDC
PROPOSED NEW INDUSTRIAL AREAS sold a 242 hectare parcel of land to Port Waratah Coal
There are also a wide variety of new industrial areas planned Services for use as environmental offset for its proposed
or under development which will provide powerful economic T4 coal terminal. The transaction included the lodging of a
stimuli for decades to come. covenant over the land which dictates it must be used for
environmental offset purposes even if the T4 coal terminal
The major new industrial areas include: does not proceed.
Former BHP Steelworks site, Port of Newcastle, Mayfield West Wallsend is adjacent to Port of Newcastle and
This 150 hectare site consists of two main sections: the managed by Hunter Development Corporation, formerly
60 hectare Intertrade Industrial Park managed by Hunter managed by RLMC and formerly owned by BHP. This
Development Corporation, formerly managed by Regional land comprises 1,545 hectares and is situated on the
Land Management Corporation (RLMC). The second section outskirts of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie’s existing
is the 90 hectare port-side portion of the site, managed by suburbs. The Lower Hunter Regional Strategy identified
the Newcastle Port Corporation. This park, with deepwater 355 hectares of land at West Wallsend suitable for a range
frontage to the Hunter River, is the site of the former BHP of employment uses. With a shortage of employment
Steelworks. The Hunter Development Corporation has been lands in Lake Macquarie, the unique scale and size of the
undertaking a $110 million remediation program on the site site mean that a range of integrated sustainable industrial
in two stages. Stage One of the remediation, covering 30 and residential uses are possible. The feasibility of land
hectares, was completed in mid-2008. The second and final development options are currently being considered.
stage was completed in November 2012, bringing the total
area remediated to 90 hectares. The remaining 60 hectares in Visit www.hunterdevelopmentcorporation.com.au for
the Buildev Intertrade footprint will be remediated as the land further information on the preceding four sites.
is developed.This land will be suitable for general industry,
freight and commercial uses, with plenty of room for a wide Singleton Industrial Development
range of port-related industrial development. The Buildev Located opposite the New England and Golden Highways
Intertrade Consortium Pty Ltd plans to redevelop the site in a intersection at Wittingham and being developed by
deal that would bring $120 million in new investment and an Buildev, this park is approximately 370 hectares, with 270
estimated 3,000 jobs. The consortium has plans to develop hectares zoned for industrial development. Worth around
62 hectares of the site: 10 hectares in the Intermodal Zone $400 million when complete, the site has excellent
which will be capable of supporting port-related industry; transport links, including 25 hectares of rail-side site,
and 52 hectares in the General Industry Zone. New England Highway and Golden Highway. The new
Hunter Expressway will join the New England Highway
Kooragang Island is adjacent to the Port of Newcastle just to the east. A wide range of lot sizes are planned,
and managed by Hunter Development Corporation and with consolidation possible for large operations.
Newcastle Port Corporation, formerly managed by RLMC.
This Kooragang Island site comprises 1,300 hectares with
For further information visit www.buildev.com.au.
good rail and road transport links. Almost 100 hectares
66
Building BETTER PlACES
FoR PEoPlE
The Hunter Development Corporation is a State
Government agency working to create better
places for people to live, work and enjoy.
The Corporation’s role is to facilitate private

sector investment on State-owned lands that
would otherwise remain closed to the public.
It does this by removing constraints that prevent

development and by encouraging development
that creates public spaces for the community
to enjoy. The Corporation’s area of operation
includes eleven local government areas in the
Hunter Valley.
For further information,

phone 4904 2750.
hunterdevelopmentcorporation.com.au
HDC0199
COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
The large majority of commercial development in the plans to cut the inner-city rail line and build a transport
Hunter Region is in the Lower Hunter. The Lower Hunter interchange at Wickham. Linking the older part of the
Regional Strategy, a 25 year plan announced in late 2006 Newcastle CBD with the harbour foreshore, the decision is
by the then NSW Minister for Planning identifies Newcastle expected to act as a major catalyst for the redevelopment
as a Regional City and Charlestown, Maitland, Cessnock of Newcastle and result in a major influx of investment.
and Raymond Terrace as Major Regional Centres. Of these
five growth areas, Newcastle, Charlestown and Maitland Bordering the CBD, the Honeysuckle Cottage Creek
currently lead the way in commercial development. Precinct is contributing to the revitalisation of Newcastle’s
CBD by generating investment and attracting business
NEWCASTLE CITY along the Hunter River foreshore.
The City of Newcastle is the business capital of the Hunter
and has over 250,000 square metres of office space. The Hunter Development Corporation will be a key
driver in the development and renewal required to help
Office vacancy rates in the Newcastle CBD for the 12 stimulate economic growth in the Hunter consistent with
months to January 2013 have fallen to the lowest level in the Lower Hunter Regional Strategy. As part of this work,
five years, according to the Property Council of Australia’s the Hunter Development Corporation will continue the
Australian Office Market Report. work in redeveloping 50 hectares of land and buildings
along Newcastle Harbour, one of Australia’s largest urban
Demand for CBD office space (net absorption) was 2,571 renewal projects. In 2012, Newcastle marked 20 years of
square metres in the year to January 2013 and has grown the 50 hectare Honeysuckle urban renewal project.
strongly in recent years. Overall vacancy rates have
crashed from 14.5% to 6.9% in just four years. The fall is Honeysuckle is made up of seven distinct precincts:
due almost exclusively to positive demand. Carrington, Cottage Creek, Honeysuckle, Hunter Street,
Linwood, Marina and Wickham.
A and B grade office space remains tight, with vacancy
rates of 3.4% and 3.5% respectively. C grade office space • Carrington is designed to be the epitome of an inner-city
vacancy tightened in the year to 11.7%. The demand for suburb enjoying the inner-city revival. It is here that the
D grade office space remains low, with the vacancy rate 4 km stretch to Nobbys begins with a meander through
increasing to 27.9%. Throsby Creek’s famous mangroves.
The renewal phase of the Newcastle CBD incorporates • The Cottage Creek Precinct is the main commercial
the construction of multi-storey residential complexes as centre of Honeysuckle with the Sparke Helmore
more people are finding the city an enjoyable place to Building, PricewaterhouseCoopers Centre, Hunter Water
live as well as work. This growing residential population Corporation head office and the NIB head office housing
supports a vibrant retail, dining and entertainment busy offices. The precinct provides a hub of A-grade
commercial sector and is turning the Newcastle CBD office space in the western end of the city centre, which
into a living city. Visitor accommodation ranging from is earmarked as the part of the city with the greatest
budget to 4.5-star hospitality further enhances the city’s potential for higher density commercial development into
commercial appeal. the future. The 14,500 sqaure metres NIB head office
building on Honeysuckle Drive is also the new home
In December 2012, the NSW Government announced for professional services firm GHD and a major bank as
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tenants. Facilitating commercial activity in the Cottage dwellings set amongst hectares of landscaped foreshore
Creek Precinct is part of Honeysuckle’s objective to parkland and a casual café.
encourage around-the-clock activity in the CBD, enabling • The Marina Precinct has been designed as a unique
this new hub on the harbour to become the gateway to maritime experience. Headquarters to the Newcastle
the city of Newcastle. The Corporation has exchanged Cruising Yacht Club (NCYC), this precinct features 200
contracts with the Greater Building Society for the purchase marina berths, shipyard maintenance facilities with 40-tonne
of a commercial development site next to the Hunter Water travelift and hardstand, a commercial centre with ship’s
Building for its new corporate headquarters. chandler, yacht broker, cafés and beauty clinic. Newcastle
Fishermans Co-operative operates a seafood processing
The precinct features cafes, a travel agent and childcare and retail store as well as supplies for Newcastle’s
centre, catering to the needs of office workers. The commercial fishing fleet which have their own marina berths.
Corporation is preparing to release more land to the market Work on the Marina Precinct was finalised following the
in Cottage Creek in the near future. completion of the Glasshouse commercial office building on
the Wickham waterfront and the Newcastle Cruising Yacht
• The Honeysuckle Precinct has been designed to be the Club’s new clubhouse in late 2008.
region’s foremost social gathering place, with a collection

of restaurants, cafes, public spaces, live entertainment and • Historic Wickham is home to heritage-listed buildings and
cultural activity making it a vibrant destination where there is sites. The redevelopment of the aging, semi-industrial area
always something happening. Within this precinct, Harbour has provided a catalyst for revitalisation of the inner-city
Square is a wide area of open space, while the Boardwalk community.
houses an assortment of restaurants, casual bars and
cafes. The precinct features the Lee Wharf pontoon and CHARLESTOWN
the Harbour Square Boat Dock, both of which act as Charlestown is a major retail and commercial centre for
bases for tourism-related uses such as harbour cruises and Lake Macquarie and the Lower Hunter. It has experienced
whale watching tours and also for use by private vessels. high growth in recent years and continues to attract large
Construction was recently completed on the third stage of volumes of investment in commercial development.
the Lee Wharf development, a mixture of lifestyle-retail shops,
cafes, restaurants and residential opening to the foreshore The CBD of Charlestown is home to well over 500 businesses
promenade. It also features a large park by the habour called and has over 200,000 square metres of leasable floor area.
Worth Place Park, and the popular Honeysuckle Hotel which
showcases the adaptive re-use of an historic cargo shed on Its main regional shopping complex, Charlestown Square,
the harbour at Lee Wharf. The Chifley Serviced Apartments opened its $470 million redevelopment in October 2010
building in Lee Wharf commenced operation in mid-2009. which included around 100 new stores, a 1,000 seat food
hall, a new Reading Cinemas complex and an additional
Meanwhile, the Buildev group has been working towards 1,000 car spaces.
commencing development on a mixed-use site at Lee
Wharf to be known as “Honeysuckle Central”, featuring There are a number of other major current, proposed and
20,000 square metres of commercial office space. Nearby, recently completed developments.
the heritage-listed railway workshops provide living history
in the form of venues for community events. The Newcastle MAITLAND
Museum, which takes up several of the heritage buildings, Maitland, including nearby Rutherford and Green Hills, is a
opened in mid-2011. The Forum gymnasium and Wine major retail and commercial centre servicing the surrounding
Selectors occupy the other former railway buildings. residential, industrial and mining areas including Singleton
and Muswellbrook.
• The Hunter Street Precinct offers accommodation
for visitors to the city as well as to residents at the Cove Property developers Hunter Land are active in the
Apartments. It also features the Bellevue Apartments construction of new commercial and retail space in the area
and the Ibis Hotel. These developments have been the from Thornton (east of Maitland) to Rutherford.
catalyst for revitalisation in Newcastle’s City West, with the
community health centre consolidating this culture change Stockland Green Hills is planning a $350 million
and the Hunter Street Precinct becoming a convenient and redevelopment that would include a new level and provide
colourful mix of commercial, retail and residential uses. A a total gross lettable area of around 70,000 square metres.
new 1,000 square metres park on Hunter Street links the The expansion would include a new Myer store, an additional
new Community Health Centre and the Hunter Institute of discount department store and approximately 130 new
Technology. specialty shops. Major construction is expected in 2015.
• Linwood has been designed as a peaceful piece of The NSW Police Department’s Infringement Processing
Honeysuckle showcasing the latest in architectural Bureau is located in Maitland, along with the NSW
excellence, with innovative terrace-house design fitting into Department of Mineral Resources Division of the NSW
the waterfront village and forming a community with 300 Department of Primary Industries.
69
HVRF...freely providing
independent research and
analysis to aid the Hunter’s
development since 1956.
HVRF programs are funded

by over 150 organisations &
individuals and include:
• Economic indicators
Hunter & Upper Hunter
• Business innovation
• Technology usage
• Residential market outlook
• Investment projects monitor
New format in 2013
• Community wellbeing
• Online resources
Research solutions...tailor-made and cost-effective

• Quarterly surveys of businesses and households
• Expert advice from experienced researchers
• Strong and proven customer focus
To become a member visit www.hvrf.com.au | call 02 4969 4566

INNOVATION & CREATIVITY
Innovation has been a hallmark of the Hunter since its early The University’s research includes areas that align to areas
days and is a major driver of today’s economy, providing of importance for local business and industry, including
unique market solutions and opening up new markets many areas where it is ranked among the top performers
across the globe. in the country such as in social work and neurosciences.
For example, University researchers are currently working
Innovation, combined with the traditional Hunter qualities with employers and employees on the impact of disruptive
of cooperation, positive attitude and result-driven nature, is work practices on mental health, which are now becoming
also making the Hunter a leading alternative energy region more common place in the local mining and transport
and one that is facing the current environmental challenges industries, due to the shortage of skilled workers. These
head on and producing solutions. aspects of research application are just as important as
the more traditional engineering and technology-based
collaborations.
INNOVATION
Innovation is an essential quality for success in today’s global The Australian Government’s 2012 Excellence in Research
marketplace, particularly in countries such as Australia which Australia (ERA) process placed the University of Newcastle’s
cannot compete on the basis of labour costs against many engineering research in the top two in the country and its
countries, particularly the rapidly-growing Asian economies. medical and health research in the top five in the country.
The University has also established strengths in applied

The Hunter Region is embracing innovation as an important sciences including chemistry and plant sciences.
component of business and has a broad range of success
stories, from small organisations developing one or two Internationally, the Academic Ranking of World Universities
unique products or technologies to major international places Newcastle in the top four per cent of universities
companies that invest millions of dollars into research and in the world, and the Times Higher Education World
development to continually produce new and better designs University Rankings and QS World University Rankings
that enable them to be at the forefront of global markets. place the University in the top three per cent. Both the
Times Higher Education and QS also rank Newcastle in
With an increasing emphasis in the Hunter on exporting, the top 50 universities in the world under the age of 50.
many businesspeople are realising that by supplying the
global marketplace they can have very successful and quite The University hosts two world class research institutes
large businesses in even small niche markets. – the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) and the
Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER), both
There are many successful, innovative, Hunter-based of which demonstrate the University’s commitment to the
businesses, ranging from large global suppliers such as needs of its communities and partnerships with industry
Ampcontrol and Bradken to numerous small to medium and business. NIER was established to augment the
specialist businesses offering original solutions to the University’s existing reputation of research excellence and
marketplace. expertise within the minerals, energy and resources fields.
HMRI, which promotes the translation of laboratory-based
The Hunter is also home to a number of world-class findings into improved clinical care, opened its new $90
organisations that are conducting ground-breaking research million world-class clinical research building in September
or teaming with businesses to facilitate commercialisation of 2012 on the Rankin Park campus adjacent to the John
their ideas. Hunter Hospital.
University of Newcastle Through its research achievements, the University of

The University of Newcastle is a world-class institution Newcastle is addressing the key challenges of our time,
delivering quality tertiary education and innovative research. helping to shape the world for future generations and
The University’s priority is to collaborate and engage with

business, industry and government at the local, national and
international level to deliver high impact, quality research that
is valued by the community and which provides solutions
to real world problems. Establishing and strengthening
relationships with partners is an important driver in the
University’s research success and in advancing its global
reputation.
Engaging with international partners on research provides

opportunities for new discoveries, innovations and
knowledge exchange. It also ensures that the University’s
students learn from curricula that are informed by the latest
research from Australia and overseas. A DNA researcher
71
taking key leadership roles in its spheres of achievement. research and commercialisation activities to potential
It is committed to ensuring the inspirational work of its research sponsors and collaborators, licensees or investors.
researchers and emerging research leaders continues to
contribute to communities around the world. Strategically positioned to access the University of
. Newcastle's state-of-the-art research capabilities and
To find out more about the University’s research activities equipment, Newcastle Innovation provides value-added
please visit www.newcastle.edu.au/research/ solutions to the research or technology challenges of
businesses across a diverse range of areas. Newcastle
Newcastle Innovation Innovation delivers:
Newcastle Innovation is the technology transfer office of • Engagement with industry partners to support world
the University of Newcastle. Since its creation in 1969, class innovation
Newcastle Innovation has facilitated the transfer of • A strong portfolio of new technologies to provide new
knowledge, technology and scientific research from the capabilities and a competitive edge
University to commercial partners. • Tailored contract research consulting services from the
University's multi-disciplinary research talent, and
This is achieved by linking the University's consulting and • A direct route to the University's experts and specialist
contracted research to industry and securing investments testing services.
to commercialise innovative technology developed within
the institution. Key areas of expertise include health, As an example, Newcastle Innovation’s partner Granite
biotechnology, mining, minerals processing, energy, Power was looking to develop its emerging clean energy
logistics and science. technologies. Newcastle Innovation worked with University
researchers to develop a patentable heat exchanger

Newcastle Innovation provides an efficient and effective that could efficiently produce energy without creating
commercial interface that focuses on: greenhouse gas emissions. Newcastle Innovation provided
• Identification, protection and commercialisation of novel the expertise needed, from patenting and intellectual
technologies property advice, assisting to secure government funding,
• Delivery of specialist consultancy and contracted and the project management skills that led to the licence
research services to industry and government of the technology.
• Access to the expert knowledge base within the
University of Newcastle, and In the health space, for example, Newcastle Innovation
• Promotion of the University's world-class scientific facilitates access to clinical expertise in novel drug
WE MAKE IT OUR BUSINESS TO AUSTRALIA’S

LEADING IP
WORK WITH INNOVATIVE COMPANIES
Does your business need innovative thinking to turn a
FIRM
bright idea into reality? Newcastle Innovation can help.
As the University of Newcastle’s technology transfer

office, we have access to over 1,000 of the brightest
researchers in Australia and bring their expertise,
inventions and new technologies to market. Our technical and legal specialists in the Hunter and
Central Coast provide straight forward intellectual
We’re all about forging strong, productive partnerships. property advice, due diligence and protection
If your business has a challenge to solve or a bright idea
we would love to talk to you. strategies.
Contact our Newcastle office for more information
on a free initial consultation.
T +61 2 4960 8366

E [email protected]
PAT E N T S | T R A D E M A R K S | D E S I G N S | C O P Y R I G H T
www.newcastleinnovation.com.au
02 4921 8777
davies.com.au
72
discovery for airways disease. Via the University’s Centre research in the fields of:
for Asthma and Respiratory Disease, state-of-the-art • renewable energy technologies
facilities and validated animal models of disease can be • energy future scenario modelling
applied to characterising therapeutics or mechanism for • distributed energy generation and demand management, and
action studies, and are available for contract research. • low emission electricity from coal.
To find out how Newcastle Innovation can assist your CSIRO is a unique provider of energy research and
business to access the University of Newcastle’s world development, with a broad, multidisciplinary research
class research and facilities, call 02 4921 8777. Visit www. capability and knowledge of the whole energy sector and
newcastleinnovation.com.au or you can find Newcastle value chain. The objective of CSIRO’s energy research
Innovation on Facebook. is to enable pathways and solutions for Australia to
transition safely and smoothly to a secure, low-emissions,
Industry Development Centre (Hunter) Ltd (IDC Hunter) prosperous future.
IDC Hunter is a not-for-profit organisation established
in 1992 by the Australian Federal Government. Today, In April 2010, construction began on CSIRO’s new solar
IDC Hunter remains Australia’s leading innovation thermal research hub, at CSIRO’s National Solar Energy
development services firm, delivering a suite of specialised Centre. The $5 million site, funded by the Australian Solar
commercialisation products and services to help inventors Institute, covers an area of 4000 square metres and
and innovative small businesses evaluate, develop, protect consists of a 30 metre high solar tower and a field of 450
and commercialise new ideas. Each year IDC Hunter heliostats (mirrors). Although being used for research, a
provides help to more than 1000 innovators from across site of this size could generate enough electricity to power

Australia. nearly 200 homes.
IDC Hunter recommends a step-by-step process The first of its kind in Australia, this large scale demonstration
for developing ideas and provides real and cost- site is a national and international hub for researching
effective solutions designed to minimise risk along the and commercialising solar thermal technologies, already
commercialisation pathway, as well as provide clients with attracting collaboration with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
the best chance for success. (Japan) and Abengoa Solar (Spain).
With its comprehensive range of innovation development The CSIRO Energy Centre incorporates and demonstrates
products and services, experienced staff and strong many low emission energy technologies and design
networks with government, industry, business, research features, including:
and education providers, IDC Hunter is well-positioned • 115 kW photovoltaic system comprising three types of
to assist innovators take their ideas from concept to building integrated photovoltaic arrays
commercialisation. • 120 kW gas fired microturbine cogeneration system
• One 1 kW vertical axis wind turbine and two 20 kW
For further information, please contact IDC Hunter on 02 horizontal axis wind turbine
4962 0999 or visit www.innovation.org.au • A 500k W solar thermal tower and a 200 kW solar tower
• Basic design principles that increase the building’s
CSIRO efficiency and decrease its energy requirements.
The CSIRO Energy Centre in Newcastle’s Steel River
Industrial Estate provides a focal point in Australia for The Energy Centre is also home to the headquarters
Part of the CSIRO Solar Centre
73
of the Australian Solar Institute (ASI), a $150 million Hunter Valley Research Foundation
Australian Government commitment to keep Australia at The Hunter Valley Research Foundation (HVRF) is a leader
the forefront of solar energy innovation. The ASI aims to in regional economic and social research in Australia.
drive collaborative, focused research and development
that will have a major impact on the efficiency and cost- In 2011, HVRF celebrated 55 years of providing reliable
effectiveness of photovoltaic and concentrating solar research information to guide evidence-based decision
power technologies. The ASI fosters greater collaboration making in the Hunter. This not-for-profit organisation has
between solar researchers in Australian universities, data series for the Hunter dating back more than 25 years,
research institutions and industry, and helps forge strong giving the region a unique advantage. The HVRF makes
links with peak overseas solar research organisations. The freely available its regional research findings through its
ASI also acts as a catalyst and champion for Australia’s user-friendly website – www.hvrf.com.au, a free public
leadership strengths in solar innovation. A key focus for the enquiry service (12-3pm Mon-Fri, ph: 4969 4566) and its
ASI is disseminating the results and learnings from solar well-attended functions.
development for the benefit of the Australian and global
solar communities and the Australian public. HVRF offers a level of versatility and innovation which
ensures a high quality research product tailored to each
The Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) client including:
The Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) is recognised • Regular, cost-effective omnibus surveys
as one of the leading medical research institutes in NSW. • Tailored projects using a range of methodologies and
HMRI is a partnership between Hunter New England questionnaire designs
Health, the University of Newcastle and the community. • Data collection utilising a range of methods
• Statistical analysis and interpretation of results, and

HMRI facilitates relationships between researchers to • Facilitation and focus group services.
integrate research into clinical care, spanning biomedical
research, clinical trials and public health research. HVRF has an established reputation for reliability,
independence and research expertise. Its strengths
In 13 years HMRI has grown to more than 770 researchers include:
who are conducting research of national and international • A lateral, reliable and consistent approach to research
significance. HMRI researchers from the University of methods
Newcastle, Hunter New England Health and Calvary Mater • High level Computer Aided Telephone Interviewing (CATI)
Newcastle have been instrumental in establishing the knowledge
Hunter as a place of research excellence. • Highly trained field and telephone interviewing teams
• Extensive experience in a variety of data collection
HMRI brings scientists, researchers, clinicians, policy methods
makers, civic and business communities together to • A strong focus on customer service, and
promote collaboration, enhance planning and improve • Effective and tailored communication of research results.
resource allocation at a local level. This results in improved
training and employment opportunities, improved health With diverse backgrounds and qualifications, HVRF’s
care delivery and attracts the best professionals to the researchers combine to form multi-skilled teams able to
region. tackle complex research questions. For information on
the Foundation or its services, call (02) 4969 4566 or visit
For more information visit www.hmri.net.au. www.hvrf.com.au
The new $90 million HMRI research facility opened in early 2012
74
RDA Hunter board committed to promoting a pathway for key
The Hunter has embraced innovation as an important stakeholders to network in an ethical and transparent
contributor to the growth and sustainability of its economy. manner. Opportunities for investors, entrepreneurs and
innovators to exchange ideas, knowledge and discuss
RDA Hunter is working to support and develop this mindset possibilities will be arranged throughout the year.
by:
• helping innovating companies to connect For further information on the Hunter Founders Forum visit
• recognising excellence in innovation, and www.hunterfoundersforum.com.au.
• promoting the Hunter as a centre for innovative people,
work practices and businesses.
RDA Hunter’s Innovation Festival has been at the forefront

of this work since 2008. RDA Hunter will continue to
grow and develop an innovative culture within the region
by facilitating new and thought-provoking events and
opportunities into the future.
RDA Hunter is also leading the development of the Hunter’s

Innovation Scorecard to measure the region’s innovation
capability. It will provide statistical data on the uptake of
innovation by Hunter businesses and a sample of the

region’s innovative companies.
Hunter Founders Forum

The fundamental purpose of the Hunter Founders Forum is
to serve the Hunter community by fostering innovation and
investment in the r egion that supports diversification and
growth of the economy.
As a non-political, not-for-profit organisation, the Hunter Hunter Valley Research Foundation Breakfast series
Founders Forum is guided by an independent voluntary
Leadership in clean energy research

,
and the minimisation of carbon emissions.
The NIER Research program
> Lowering carbon emissions through next generation clean coal and carbon capture and storage technologies
> Developing alternative energy sources including geothermal, biomass, wind and polymer solar cells
sion
> Promoting social change and the sustainability of resources and the environment.
Collaborate with us
Our research projects provide real value through partnering with industry and government. NIER
is currently working alongside a diverse group of industry partners from short-term collaborations
to major long-term partnerships. For further information about NIER Partnerships contact NIER
on (02) 4033 9000.
www.newcastle.edu.au/nier/
75
MEETING ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES
With strong coal mining and power generation industries, energy farm near Scone
the Hunter Region would initially appear to be one of the • AGL which has a proposal for a $200 million project to
regional economies that will be most at risk with heightened extract coal seam gas at Gloucester and feed it into the
environmental concerns and particularly the push for main pipeline. It is also investigating other sites in the
reduced carbon emissions. However, a deeper study would Hunter Region
quickly show that the region is facing many environmental • Geodynamics, which has produced very positive results
challenges head on and, in many instances, is employing for potential geothermal power plants, and
and producing cutting-edge technology that will have major • An Ausgrid led consortium, which is in charge of the
economic flow-on benefits for many years to come. $100 million Smart Grid, Smart City project in Newcastle –
Australia’s first fully integrated, commercial scale smart
The existing power stations in the Hunter have made grid, with the potential to transform the way electricity is
substantial strides in recent years to reduce their environmental used.
impact through upgrades and the implementation of new
technology. The Hunter is increasingly building a reputation The Hunter is home to a number of companies that are
as a major centre of alternative energy. establishing local, national and international reputations for
their commercial alternative energy products and services.
Important research is taking place in a wide range of
alternative energy technologies, including solar, wind and Corky’s Carbon and Combustion is a world leader in
hydroelectricity. There is also research in the areas of carbon biomass technology (energy from biomass waste) and
capture, battery technology, energy efficiency and much mine ventilation air methane (VAM) destruction technology.
more. It has had growing commercial successes in Australia and
overseas.
Much of the research is occurring at the University of
Newcastle and CSIRO’s Energy Centre which is located in Crucible Carbon is another innovative Hunter business that
Newcastle. In 2009, the Federal Government established has developed the Crucible Carbon Pyrolysis Process which
the headquarters of the $100 million Australian Solar Institute turns biomass into energy and biochar with high efficiency.
at CSIRO’s Newcastle facility – a powerful example of the
growing reputation of the Hunter as a centre of innovation Wind Prospect, one of the most successful independent
and alternative energy. renewable energy developers with offices in ten countries,
has one of their three Australian offices in Newcastle.
A $5 million experimental solar power plant began installation
at the CSIRO facilities in November 2010. Using air instead The Hunter is also home to a wide range of consultants,
of water to drive the turbines, it will be the biggest of its engineering companies, builders, architects and other
type in the world and will help open up many applications in organisations with high levels of specialist expertise to help
outback Australia where there are excellent solar conditions businesses with their environmental requirements and to
but an extreme shortage of water. The trial plant covers support major green projects.
around 4000 square metres and could power around 200
households even running at low capacity. Whilst all regions face significant environmental challenges,
the Hunter is ideally placed to be a leading national and
There are also billions of dollars of investment being global alternative energy centre.
poured into alternative energy projects by a variety of other
organisations. These include: The Hunter’s rapidly growing expertise in alternative
• Macquarie Generation, which is currently expanding energy and proximity to major markets places the region
Australia’s largest solar thermal project at Liddell Power in a very powerful position to attract a major share of
Station the flood of additional investment that will occur in the
• Pamada, which has approval for a $190 million renewable coming years.
Macquarie Generation's solar thermal project
76
LIVING IN THE HUNTER
As well as being an excellent business and investment Home owners selling in Sydney and moving to the Hunter
location, the Hunter offers a lifestyle that is difficult to match. Region are usually able to significantly improve their cash
resources, home environment and lifestyle.
The region offers excellent educational and medical
facilities, a regional centre for the arts, first-rate dining and The table below gives a snapshot of land and house
entertainment as well as every opportunity for the amateur prices as a guide.
and professional sportsperson. With an extensive array
of scenic parks, pristine beaches and waterways it is little
wonder that most of those who move to the region seldom Suburb/Town Property type Size Price
leave.
Muswellbrook – 550 -1,000 $160,000-
Not only does the Hunter allow one to take advantage of Land
Eastbrook Links sqm $199,500
superb cultural, educational, recreational and entertainment
Maitland –
amenities, but it does so at a cost of living below that of the 616 - 985 From
Aberglasslyn Land
major metropolitan areas across the country. Residents of the sqm $159,950
Estate
Hunter enjoy relatively affordable housing, easily accessible
Gloucester From
roads and transportation services and an unparalleled 4,000 -1900
– Avon River Land $160,000-
quality of life. Hunter residents benefit from lower mortgage Estate
sqm
$199,500
payments and consumer prices when compared to other
major metropolitan areas. Rothbury - 529 - 2043 From
Land
The Vintage sqm $169,500
What makes the Hunter unique is that people have the Cameron Park
525 -1111 From
opportunity to live in a city or suburban style or become – Northlakes Land
sqm $179,000
part of the many small towns and farming communities and Estate
enjoy the open spaces. With an excellent road and public Cameron Park
LIVING IN THE HUUNTER

From
transport system, getting around is quick and without the – Northlakes House + land
$390,000
congestion of major capital cities. Working people moving Estate
to the Hunter from larger centres find that the reduced travel 600 - 2,000 From
Pacific Dunes Land
times result in greater amounts of leisure time. sqm $185,000
$188,000
The Hunter truly has it all. It is a great place to live and work. 450 -1709
Trinity Point Land to
sqm
$738,000
Real estate Merewether
The Hunter is experiencing continued growth in residential $1.5
executive House + land
real estate across the region, including the harbour and million
residence
inner city urban renewal precincts as well as a range of new
Newcastle – $1.5 to
residential estates. Owning a home is still very achievable harbourside Apartment $4.5
with Hunter residents enjoying high rates of home ownership. penthouses million
Whether looking for water views, a harbourside apartment,
a rural retreat, a house in a new estate or established
housing in one of the major metropolitan areas, the Hunter Health and medical services
has something for everyone and every budget. The Hunter has one of the most advanced health and
medical systems in NSW, administered by the Hunter
New England Health.
The major hospitals for the Hunter Region include John

Hunter Hospital, John Hunter Children’s Hospital, Calvary
Mater Newcastle and Royal Newcastle Centre along with
two mental health hospitals: the James Fletcher Hospital
and Morisset Hospital. These hospitals support district
health services and community hospitals throughout the
region. In addition, a further 20 private hospitals enhance
the health services available to the community.
The Health Service works in partnership with the NSW

Ambulance Service and the Hunter Westpac Rescue
The Hunter offers a diverse range of lifestyles. Helicopter Service to safely bring people to the facility
City waterfront apartments in Newcastle. that best serves their needs. These services operate
across the whole region.
77
Education
The region has an excellent private and public school system
with primary and high schools spread throughout.
Public schooling is well covered, with all residential areas

served by infant, primary and strategically located high
schools.
Merewether High School is one of 17 fully selective high

schools in NSW providing an educationally enriched
environment for high-achieving, academically-gifted
students.
Newcastle Grammar School
There is a variety of high quality private schools with a history
of success. These include:
• Newcastle Grammar School - Newcastle • St Pius X - Adamstown
• Hunter Valley Grammar School - East Maitland • St Catherine’s Catholic College - Singleton
• Scone Grammar School - Scone • All Saints College - Maitland
• Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College - Fletcher
• Macquarie College - Wallsend The University of Newcastle is a world-class institution
• St Phillips Christian College - Campuses at Waratah, delivering quality tertiary education and innovative research.
Salamander Bay and Cessnock
• Avondale College - Cooranbong Internationally, the Academic Ranking of World Universities
places Newcastle in the top four per cent of universities in
The Catholic Diocese of Maitland provides educational the world, and the Times Higher Education World University
services throughout the region. The diocese extends from Rankings and QS World University Rankings place it in the
Lake Macquarie to Taree and as far inland as Merriwa and top three per cent. Both the Times Higher Education and
Murrurundi with primary schools, high schools and colleges QS also rank Newcastle in the top 50 universities in the
LIVING IN THE HUUNTER
in all main towns. world under the age of 50.
Major Catholic schools include: The University’s most important role is providing access to
• St Francis Xavier - Hamilton a high-quality learning environment and producing first-rate
SUCCESS IN 2012
Leading non-selective School in the Region
In the 2012HSC, Newcastle Grammar School ranked 59th in the State

35% of Students received an ATAR over 90
95% of Students received an ATAR over 60
Top ATAR of 99.7
Students nominated for:
Encore 2013
2013 ArtExpress Exhibition
2013 DesignTECH
OnSTAGE 2013
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 2014

ACADEMIC and MUSIC
APPLICATIONS CLOSE15 MARCH
APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE
OPEN DAY TOURS

BETWEEN 9am - 11am 20 MARCH

p: (02) 4929 5811 w: ngs.nsw.edu.au
78
graduates ready to compete in the global arena. There are Around 8,000 international students attend the University’s
currently 36,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students campuses. International students receive a world-class
enrolled across five faculties: Business and Law, Education education, excellent support services and the benefits
and Arts, Engineering and Built Environment, Science and of living in a vibrant and supportive community. In return,
Information Technology, and Health. they bring the world to the University, their enthusiasm and
diversity enriching the experience of domestic students and
In addition to a world-class university education, the the region.
University offers students a great coastal lifestyle. The
University’s campuses at Callaghan, Ourimbah and Port It isn’t only while studying that the University’s students
Macquarie are located in New South Wales and are each contribute to the region. The University’s 30,000 Hunter
just minutes from spectacular beaches, waterways, national alumni continue to devote their skills and knowledge they
parks and state forests. The University also has a strong learnt here to improving the community through work and
presence in Singapore and Sydney. civic activity. Local graduates join the 110,000-strong global
alumni network contributing to their own communities
On the Newcastle campus, first-class sporting facilities across more than 100 countries.
are available for students and the community at the
University’s award-winning Forum Sports and Aquatic Hunter TAFE is Australia’s largest multi-award winning
Centre, which houses a 50 metre indoor heated pool, an 18 regional training organisation.
metre climbing wall, a fully-equipped gymnasium and two
martial arts/aerobics studios. Additionally, the Forum Health With 15 campuses stretching from Scone in the Upper
and Wellness Centre in the Newcastle CBD offers a fully- Hunter to Newcastle and the Central Coast, Hunter TAFE has
equipped gymnasium and access to a 25-metre harbour- become the preferred choice for over 14,000 apprentices
side pool. and trainees in their trade each year.
Comprehensive support services on all campuses include To ensure training meets the growing expectations and
career guidance, health care, banking and sporting clubs. standards of industry, Hunter TAFE has established Centres
The University also offers a wide range of clubs and of Excellence in a range of fields:
groups. Additionally, staff and students are never short of • Aged Care and Nursing Training Centre

entertainment, with national and international acts regularly • Animal Studies Centre
featuring at the renowned Bar on the Hill on the Callaghan • Auto Trade School
Campus. • Central Coast Hair and Beauty
ENGAGE
NEWCASTLE Our Community, Your University
celebrating and connecting people

newcastle.edu.au/engage
79
• Central Coast Retail and Management Centre Stockland Greenhills has lodged a development application
• Children’s Services Centre for a $350 million redevelopment that would include a
• Cisco Academy Training Centre new level and provide a total gross lettable area of around
• Construction Centre of Excellence 70,000 sqare metres. The plans include a new Myer
• Electro-technology Centre of Excellence department store, a new major discount department store
• English Language Centre ELICOS and approximately 100 new specialty stores. Construction
• Equine Studies Centre is expected to commence in 2015.
• Fitness and Massage Centre of Excellence
• Hunter Valley Hotel Academy The announcement of the closure of the inner-city rail line
• Heavy Plant and Machinery Training Centre in December 2012 is also expected to lead to substantial
• Institute of Accounting investment in new CBD retail facilities in coming years.
• Mining Skills Centre
• Newcastle Art School Boutique shopping is available in the trendier suburbs of
• Newcastle Business and Retail Training Centre Newcastle and 24-hour supermarket shopping is available
• Newcastle Hair and Beauty Academy in many locations across the region.
• Newcastle Media and Film School
• Newcastle School of Music All major furniture and electrical discount stores are
• Retail Food Processing Centre represented in the region.
• The Regional Institute of Performing Arts
Sporting Recreation
Shopping Almost every sport imaginable can be played in the Hunter
Anything you can buy in the cities, you can buy in the Hunter. with top-class sporting facilities throughout the region
Retail complex shopping is conveniently located across the available for the player or spectator, regardless of age.
region.
Sporting teams at all levels from junior to adult compete
Larger centres such as Westfield Kotara, Charlestown across the region in sports such as cricket, football, netball,
Square and Maitland’s Stockland Greenhills feature major basketball, rugby league, rugby union, AFL and hockey.
retail outlets including David Jones, Myer, Kmart, Target, Sailing is enjoyed on all the waterways, whether racing or
Coles and Woolworths, catering to the shopper’s every wish. cruising, and there is an exceptional choice of world-class
golf courses.
There is continued investment into the region’s shopping
centres. GPT showed their faith in the region with a The region’s strong sporting background is highlighted by
$470 million expansion of Charlestown Square that was the Newcastle Knights in the National Rugby League and the
completed in late 2010. Newcastle Jets in the National A-League – very successful
teams and each with a very strong fan base.
Charter Hall has almost completed a $64 million
redevelopment of the Gowrie Street Mall in Singleton. The Surfing is a high participation sport in the Hunter because
expansion will increase the size of the existing shopping mall of the great selection of pristine surfing beaches. Surfest, an
by 9,500 square metres of floor space and includes a new international surfing event attracting the world’s elite surfers,
multi-storey car park for over 870 vehicles. occurs annually at Newcastle Beach.
The Vintage Golf Club - just one of

the Hunter’s world-class golf courses
80
The Hunter’s pristine beaches, Lake Macquarie (Australia’s
largest saltwater lake), the Hunter River and the beautiful
bays of Port Stephens give residents the opportunity to relax
and indulge in all kinds of water sports – sailing, waterskiing,
surfing, fishing and swimming.
Entertainment
There is a diverse range of entertainment available across
the Hunter for singles and families.
Fine art collections are housed in the Newcastle Regional

The Vintage Golf Club - just one
Gallery, Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery and Maitland
of the Hunter's world-class golf courses
Regional Art Gallery as well as more intimate galleries.
The relocated Newcastle Museum and the new Maritime
Glendale Sports and Athletic Centre and the University’s Museum have extensive collections to both educate and
Forum Sports and Aquatic Centre are regularly used by elite entertain.
athletes, including visiting Olympic teams in their Sydney
2000 Olympic preparations. Newcastle’s fully restored Civic Theatre is the venue for
regular local, national and international performances and
The region’s leading golf courses include: the Newcastle Entertainment Centre accommodates rock
• The Vintage Golf Club, Rothbury concerts, exhibitions and conventions. Established for
• Hunter Valley Golf & Country Club, Cessnock over 50 years, the Conservatorium of Music regularly hosts
• Cypress Lakes, Pokolbin national and international musicians and performances.
• The Oaks Golf and Country Club, Cessnock Wine Country venues such as Tempus Two Winery,
• Westside Golf Club, Rutherford Bimbadgen Estate and Hope Estate have a reputation for
• Le Meilleur Horizons Golf Resort, Salamander Bay attracting major local and international artists. Across the
• Pacific Dunes Port Stephens, Medowie region, numerous registered clubs and hotels provide a

• Nelson Bay Golf Club, Nelson Bay range of entertainment options, from a place to meet friends
• Newcastle Golf Club, Fern Bay to concerts of all types.
The Hunter has something to offer the outdoors lover. The Hunter is also home to a wide range of annual festivals
Superb national parks and wildlife reserves abound. Parts of that attract many locals as well as an increasing number of
the Barrington Tops National Park are world heritage listed visitors to the region. These include Jazz in the Vineyards,
and activities include bushwalking, eco-tourism facilities Opera in the Vineyards, Newcastle Jazz Festival, Newcastle
and white water rafting. Myall Lakes National Park in the Blues Festival, Mattara Festival, Hunter Valley Steamfest,
Great Lakes district is around 44,000 hectares Watagan Lovedale Long Lunch, Dungog Timberfest / Rodeo, Surfest,
State Forest extends for over 7,000 hectares, and Blackbutt Shakespeare Festival, Scone and Upper Hunter Horse
Reserve, just 15 minutes from Newcastle CBD, showcases Festival, Festival of the Fleeces, Port Stephens Whale &
native flora and fauna in vast unspoiled bushland. Environ Fest, Blue Water Country Music Festival and many
81
others. A number of regional shows are also held annually. While public transport links are extensive, most residents
choose to drive because of the uncongested roads and
You’ll never have a hard time finding something to do in the ample parking facilities.
Hunter.
Churches
Dining out The Hunter has a predominantly Christian community,
The Hunter’s culinary delights are sure to tempt with a vast with approximately 29% of the population Anglican, 24%
array of dining experiences to enjoy throughout the region. Catholic, 7% Uniting Church and 4% Presbyterian and
Diners can choose from alfresco dining in cosmopolitan Reformed. Newcastle is the seat of the Anglican and Catholic
cafés, seafood restaurants by the water, quality rural Hunter bishops, with stately Christ Church Cathedral one
establishments and much more. There’s a place to suit of the region’s best known icons. Other religions, including
every taste, mood and budget. Buddhism and Islam, are also represented in the region.
Of course there’s no better way to enjoy the local cuisine

than with one of the region’s world famous wines. Vineyards
stretch throughout the region where you’ll find gourmet
restaurants, world class resorts, quaint B&Bs and cellar
doors.
Transport
The Hunter is easily accessible by road, rail and air.
One of Australia’s fastest growing airports, Newcastle Airport

is just 25 minutes from the Newcastle CBD. It is serviced by
Jetstar, Qantas, Virgin Blue, Brindabella Airlines, Aeropelican
and Regional Express with direct flights to Ballina, Brisbane,
Canberra, the Gold Coast, Melbourne and Sydney. Further
services are expected to be added in the near future.
Commuter rail services operate suburban passenger trains

within the Hunter and link the region to the East Coast of
Australia via Cityrail and Country Link.
HBR
Come join us at the
Newcastle Panthers -11 April 2013

Contact us for further information (02) 4925 7760
www.HBRmag.com.au
82
LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS
The Hunter Region is unique in that the community The councils that make up the eleven LGAs in the Hunter
works together at all levels to achieve positive outcomes Region are:
for the social and economic good of the region. This is • Cessnock City Council
evidenced by the close working relationship that the local • Dungog Shire Council
government areas of the region have maintained over fifty • Gloucester Shire Council
years. • Great Lakes Shire Council
• Lake Macquarie City Council
Hunter Councils is the representative body of the eleven • Maitland City Council
LGA councils. It ensures strong communication between • Muswellbrook Shire Council
Mayors, Councillors and General Managers, shared • Newcastle City Council
professional expertise through staff forums and many • Port Stephens Shire Council
inter-council collaborative projects. • Singleton Shire Council
• Upper Hunter Shire Council
The goodwill established by successive councils over
such a long time period has underpinned the success of These eleven councils are members of Hunter Councils,
the organisation making it a leader in local government an important organisation that fosters cooperation and
co-operation in Australia. It is through this culture of co- resource sharing between its member councils, encourages
operation that local government is able to work more investment and advocates for the local government areas
closely with state and federal government for the benefit it represents. Further information is available from their
of the community. website at www.huntercouncils.com.au.
83
NEWCASTLE LGA
Area: 183 sq km Surfhouse at Merewether, are continuing to stimulate investor
Population: 154,896 (ABS 2011 Estimated Resident Population) interest while contributing to efforts in revitalising the city.
Location: 170 km north of Sydney
In December 2012, the NSW Government released the
The announcement of Newcastle as one of the top ten cities draft Newcastle Urban Renewal Strategy which considers
in the world in ‘Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2011’ guide the suitability of the Newcastle city centre for urban renewal.
catapulted Newcastle onto the world stage and set the wheels UrbanGrowth NSW (formally Landcom) and the Hunter
in motion for the creation of a vibrant Newcastle brand which Development Corporation have continued to provide a well
was launched in June 2011 with the message that Newcastle supported structure for the Urban Development of the city and
is a world class, always changing, genuine, real and hard- will be heavily involved in the realisation of change in the city
working city. The brand is gaining awareness and is continuing in the near future. The development of a new Legal Precinct
to be adopted by local businesses that are keen to spread in the Civic area of Newcastle is well under way with the $94
Newcastle’s message. million construction of the new Law Courts Building beginning
in January 2013.
Newcastle is the economic hub of the Hunter Region,
accounting for approximately 30% of the Hunter's developed The Port of Newcastle is Australia's major bulk export port and
industrial space and 80% of the office space. While Newcastle's a growing cargo and container hub. It currently handles nearly
industrial sector continues to play an important role, Newcastle 129 million tonnes of bulk cargo, worth $20 billion per year (12
is no longer a 'steel city'. months to June 2012). It also hosts a range of ship-repair and
marine support businesses, as well as a marina and fishing
A substantial and growing portion of Newcastle's economy is cooperative.
now based around the service sector. Newcastle's workforce
is over 60,000 strong and the region's occupational structure
has undergone significant up-skilling, with an increase in Contact information:
professional, associate professional and clerical employment. Lord Mayor: Councillor Jeff McCloy
Address: 282 King St, Newcastle NSW 2300
Newcastle's city centre is the most diversified in NSW outside Postal Address: PO Box 489, Newcastle NSW 2300
Sydney and employs over 17,000 people in a vibrant mix of Phone: +61 2 4974 2000
commercial, educational, entertainment, cultural and community Email: [email protected]
enterprises. Inner city renewal and renovation projects, notably Website: www.ncc.nsw.gov.au
the award winning Royal Hospital site redevelopment and Economic Development Coordinator: Greg Fenwick
Far more than From a bustling cosmopolitan arts,
business as usual
dining and shopping culture to
booming businesses both big and
small, Newcastle has grown into a
world-class city of opportunity.
We are a city with endless

potential and endless
possibilities.
A city where businesses of all sizes can grow and prosper. Businesses like
Ampcontrol, a once small Newcastle business that has flourished to become
one of the region’s largest employers and a leading supplier of award winning
continuous monitoring and control solutions, ensuring mine-wide safety at
mining operations around the world. Ampcontrol
Our businesses experience the best of both worlds. Access to world-class
facilities, talent and opportunities with a relaxed, coastal lifestyle.
See world-class business opportunities. See Newcastle. See change.
84
LAKE MACQUARIE LGA
Population: 195,909 (ABS 2011 Estimated Resident Population) Contact information
Location: 110 km north of Sydney Mayor: Councillor Jodie Harrison
General Manager: Brian Bell
Lake Macquarie City has a strong economy, a diverse Economic Development Manager: Graeme Hooper
industry mix of over 12,000 businesses, and a projected Address: 126-138 Main Road, Speers Point NSW 2284
population increase of 40,000 over the next 25 years. Postal Address: PO Box 1906, Hunter Region Mail
As the fifth largest city in NSW, the population of nearly Centre NSW 2310
200,000 provides a pool of highly skilled labour supporting Phone: +61 2 4921 0333
innovative industry. Email: [email protected]
Websites: www.lakemac.com.au
Lake Macquarie’s natural attractions provide opportunity and www.lakemacquariecity.com.au
for a quality lifestyle in an economic climate conducive
to business. Relax beside the city’s centrepiece, Lake
Macquarie, a vast blue-water expanse twice the size
of Sydney Harbour. Sandy inlets, secluded bays and
protected foreshores are perfect for water activities, or
enjoy the city’s beaches, mountains, shopping precincts,
and art galleries.
Lake Macquarie is well positioned to be one of the

fastest growing cities in NSW. It is located in a strategic
position with access to an extensive range of products,
services, and transport networks. A cosmopolitan and
progressive city, Lake Macquarie retains a sense of
community,courtesy of nine thriving town centres, each
with an individual character and focus.

board meeting Have you thought
about relocating
your business to
Lake Macquarie?
The city’s nine thriving
town centres offer families
an affordable lifestyle, with
beaches, mountains, and the
lake, providing the perfect
backdrop for balancing family
life with business success.
Call 02 4921 0425 or go to
lakemacquariecity.com.au for
more information.
85
MAITLAND LGA
Area: 392 square km and Clusters Strategy, the Maitland 2021 Community
Population: 69,646 (ABS 2011 Estimated Resident Population) Strategic Plan and the Central Maitland Structure
Location: 27km west of Newcastle, 170 km north of Plan. Fast growing industrial and commercial areas at
Sydney Thornton and Rutherford are attracting a diverse range of
industries and industry support businesses for the region
Featuring prime agricultural hinterland, an expanding as a whole.
contemporary city and established transport links to
surrounding areas and facilities, it is little surprise that The city is set to undergo a major transformation from
Maitland consistently remains one of the state’s fastest this year starting with a complete revitalisation of Central
growing regional cities. Maitland. This includes the full redevelopment of the
city centre, which is set to become a modern lifestyle
Located on the fertile, alluvial flats of the Hunter and precinct known as ‘The Levee’. It also encompasses
Paterson Rivers, Maitland is one of the most highly a major upgrade of the railway precinct, with Council
productive areas in NSW and is home to many hard securing an $11.3m grant from the Federal Government’s
working crop and livestock producers. This is in contrast Building Better Regional Cities (BBRC) program to build
to the bustling city, featuring convenient road and rail infrastructure for the provision of affordable housing.
links to Newcastle, Sydney, New England, NSW North
Coast and Queensland. Maitland also offers a diverse variety of independent
and mainstream retail options along with a burgeoning
Maitland provides an ideal business location, situated tourism market, with a focus on high quality events.
within a short distance from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie,
Port Stephens and the wine and coal industries of the Contact information:
Hunter Valley. Mayor: Councillor Peter Blackmore
General Manager: David Evans
Extensive land releases for residential, industrial, Address: 285-287 High Street, Maitland NSW 2320
commercial and retail developments are fuelling a strong Postal Address: PO Box 220, Maitland NSW 2320
construction industry and are supported by a series of Phone: +61 2 4934 9700
Council planning documents including the Maitland Website: www.maitland.nsw.gov.au
Urban Settlement Strategy, Employment Centres
Economic Development Officer: Pierre Malou
86
PORT STEPHENS LGA
Area: 979 sqare km Valley. Other major employment industries include tourism,
Population: 67,058 (ABS 2011 Estimated resident population) government, transport and logistics, manufacturing,
Location: 200 km north of Sydney construction and retail.
There's no need to decide between a sea change or a The business community is vibrant and supportive with
tree change in Port Stephens. Here, you can have both. a multitude of business associations and networking
opportunities open to both aspiring and established
Port Stephens boasts both rural and coastal environments entrepreneurs.
and a rapidly growing population base supporting a range
of industries and businesses, all just a two-hour drive Residents enjoy an abundance of lifestyle options without
north of Sydney. the high cost of city living. Swap the commute for a choice
of recreational pursuits and get involved in any number of
From the bushland suburbs of Medowie, Seaham, Bobs sporting, cultural and community organisations.
Farm and Salt Ash to the surfside suburbs of Anna Bay,
Fingal Bay, Boat Harbour and Soldiers Point – to name And big city attractions are still within easy reach.
a few – Port Stephens spans an area of almost 1000 Newcastle and its major shopping centres, national
square kilometres and has an address to suit everyone, sporting teams and university are a mere 25 minutes
from young families to retirees. away, and Sydney just a two hour drive down the road.
Newcastle Airport is a short 20 minute drive from Port Contact information:

Stephens' two main centres, Raymond Terrace and Mayor: Councillor Bruce MacKenzie
Nelson Bay, connecting the region to the rest of Australia General Manager: Peter Gesling
and beyond with six airlines offering daily services to
Address: 116 Adelaide Street, Raymond Terrace NSW 2324
destinations including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne,
Postal Address: PO Box 42, Raymond Terrace NSW 2324
Canberra, the Gold Coast and Ballina.
Phone: +61 2 4983 2549
Newcastle Airport and RAAF Base Williamtown are key Email: [email protected]
economic drivers for Port Stephens and the wider Hunter Website: www.businessportstephens.com.au

Change your outlook LIVE, WORK & INVEST IN PORT STEPHENS
■ A unique combination of industries with four key industry

sectors:
- Global manufacturing and logistics.
- Defence and aviation.
- Retail and services.
- Tourism.
■ A growing population – 93,271 forecast by 2031.
■ Breathtaking coastal scenery, national parks and a host of
tourism activities.
■ A growing and educated workforce – 2,221 increase in jobs
forecast in major industrial precinct by 2031.
■ Extensive transport network comprising road, rail and air in
place.
■ An abundance of housing choices – Median house price
$368,000.
■ Education and health care facilities catering for all ages.
For information on living, working and investing in Port Stephens contact the
Port Stephens Council Economic Development Unit on 02 4983 2545 COUNCIL
87
SINGLETON LGA
Area: 4,893 sqare km in the Broke-Fordwich and Hermitage Road areas, against
Population: 23,456 (ABS 2011Estimated Resident Population) the scenic views of the Brokenback Ranges. Other long-
Location: 80 km west of Newcastle, 200 km north-west of Sydney standing agricultural industries include beef cattle, dairy,
market gardening and citrus. More recent times has also
Located in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Singleton is a seen the emergence high quality olive and mushroom
dynamic and growing destination for industry, commerce, industries.
agriculture and tourism. With a growing population located
on the doorstep of wineries, Mt Royal National Park, Lake St Singleton is also home to the Singleton Infantry Centre, a
Clair and being an hour from the Newcastle city and coast, lively hospitality scene, sporting clubs, varied retail outlets
Singleton is also a preferred place to live. and a number of educational providers. A modern Visitor
Information and Enterprise Centre (VIEC) has just opened
With 7,000 people employed in 18 local coal mines, and this facility, along with the extension of the F3 Freeway
Singleton is on the forefront of the international resources to Branxton, will continue to help provide the Singleton
market with major companies such as Xstrata, Rio Tinto and Community with a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Vale investing in the region. This industry brings substantial
infrastructure such as rail, roads and ports as well as world- Contact information:
class support industries. New industrial estates are opening Mayor: CouncillorJohn Martin
to meet the expanding need for industrial land. General Manager: Lindy Hyam
Manager Economic Development: Salena Avard
Singleton is also helping power Australia with the largest Address: New England Highway, Singleton NSW 2330
solar farm in the southern hemisphere powering 100 homes Postal Address: PO Box 314, Singleton NSW 2330
and a solar thermal power trial taking place at Macquarie Phone: (02) 6571 5888
Generation’s Liddell Power Station. These green-initiatives Website: www.singleton.nsw.gov.au
are supporting the existing Liddell, Bayswater and Redbank
Power Stations.
Just as Singleton is leading the way with cutting-edge

industry, it also is part of the world-famous Hunter Wine
Region. Award-wining grapes and wines can be sampled
Singleton offers a wonderful lifestyle, welcoming community and

excellent business and employment opportunies.
Singleton has a dedicated Economic Development team, housed
in the Singleton Visitor Informaon and Enterprise Centre, to facilitate
the growth and development of business in Singleton. Contact For business and investment.
the team today.
www.singletonbusiness.com For more information, please contact

Cessnock City Council’s Economic
Singleton Visitor Informaon and Enterprise Centre
Development Manager on 02 4993 4257.
T 02 6571 5888 | F 02 6571 5999 | E [email protected]
www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/business
Townhead Park, New England Highway, Singleton NSW 2330
88
DUNGOG SHIRE COUNCIL LGA
Area: 2,251 square km of strategies aimed at enhancing the opportunities
Population: 8,673 (ABS 2011 Estimated Resident Population) available in the region. These activities will create wealth
Location: 76 km north of Newcastle in the area, allow for the development of new skills and
the enhancement of existing resources, which in turn will
Dungog Shire is in the north-east corner of the Hunter ensure a more sustainable future for the Shire.
Region and is renowned for its forests, mountains and
picturesque towns and villages. Dungog Shire Council is An existing network of business and community groups
committed to the preservation and protection of the Shire's within the Shire offer new businesses the opportunity to
natural environment and cultural heritage and offers a high develop extensive networks within the area and when
quality rural lifestyle within 2.5 hours easy drive of Sydney. combined with the resources of Dungog Shire Council,
it is understandable why existing operators enjoy doing
The Shire's economy has traditionally been based on business in the Shire.
agriculture, grazing and timber, with the alluvial river flats
suitable for intensive agricultural production. Tourism is Contact information:
also a focus of Dungog Shire's economy with the National Mayor: Councillor Harold Johnston
Parks, State Forests, Chichester Dam and the river General Manager: Craig Deasey
systems as well as the historic and scenic character of the Address: 198 Dowling Street, Dungog NSW 2420
area providing the major focus for attracting visitors. Postal Address: Box 95, Dungog NSW 2420
Phone: (02) 4995 7777
Dungog Shire's Economic Development Unit is involved in Fax: (02) 4995 7750
the attraction of innovative businesses, professionals and Email: [email protected]
skilled tradespeople to the area through the development Website: www.dungog.nsw.gov.au
CESSNOCK LGA
Area: 1,966 square km

Port of Newcastle and the Newcastle Airport.
Population: 52,493 (ABS 2011 Estimated Resident Population)
Location: 40 km west of Newcastle; 120 km north of Sydney A number of manufacturing, engineering and mining
support businesses contribute significantly to local
Strategically located within the growth corridor of the employment. There is also substantial investment in
Lower Hunter, Cessnock local government area has poultry farming, chicken meat and egg production, timber
abundant and affordable industrial and residential lands. milling, dairying and beef.
The majority of residents are concentrated in urban Cessnock City’s outstanding natural environment has
zones between the CBDs of Cessnock and Kurri Kurri. large expanses of state forest and a backdrop of natural
The nature of settlement is set to change in the long and rural scenery. There are many fine heritage structures
term with the proposed Huntlee town development near and an emerging cultural precinct, with the Cessnock
Branxton (over 20,000 people) and emerging Greenfield Performing Arts Centre and Cessnock Regional Art
developments at Bellbird, Greta and Cliftleigh. The growth Gallery centrally located.
rate of Cessnock local government area between 2006
and 2011 at 10% is one of the strongest in the Hunter Kurri Kurri is mainland Australia’s largest mural town, and
Region. the community have also embraced Rock'n Roll, classic
cars and all things from the 50s and 60s era with the
Cessnock’s diverse towns and villages emerged from a annual Nostalgia Festival.
prominent coal mining history and are now sustained by
a diverse business environment with a backdrop of wine Recently undergoing an expansion, the Cessnock
and tourism. The Hunter Valley brand is recognised as Correctional Complex when fully occupied will house and
one of the top three regional wine brands in Australia. This manage in excess of 750 inmates.
is Australia’s oldest wine producing region and Australia’s
top wine tourism destination attracting around 2.5 million Contact information:
overnight visitors each year. Wine Tourism in the Hunter Mayor: Councillor Bob Pynsent
Valley is estimated to be worth $521 million supporting General Manager: Lea Rosser
just under 3000 jobs. The wine industry employs over Economic Development Manager: Rhiannon Stevens
7000 people. The flow on effect of tourism spending and (Acting)
investment is estimated at approximately $227 million. Address: 62-78 Vincent Street, Cessnock NSW 2325
Postal Address: PO Box 152, Cessnock NSW 2325
Close to major highways including the F3 and the Hunter Phone: +61 2 4993 4257
Expressway, Cessnock is well situated for access to the Website: www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au
89
MUSWELLBROOK LGA
Area: 3,405 square km work opportunities in a relaxed rural environment.
Population: 16,322 (ABS 2011 Estimated Resident Population)
Location: 135 km west of Newcastle A regional art centre and recently refurbished public
library are located within the shire and are dedicated to
Just 3 hours from Sydney and 90 minutes from Newcastle, providing regular innovative and imaginative services to the
Muswellbrook Shire is centrally located between the community. Home to the Upper Hunter Conservatorium of
Gunnedah and Ulan Coal basins and Port Waratah’s Coal Music, Muswellbrook Shire provides lessons to over 600
Handling facility. Serviced by the New England and Golden students with regular community performances.
Highways and corresponding rail links, the Shire has huge
capacity for continued growth. Health services include a small hospital in Denman and a larger
hospital in Muswellbrook with associated aged care facilities,
Residential growth in the Shire has experienced continued including two nursing homes and independent care services.
expansion with property value rises significantly out-
performing the state. Even so, property still remains relatively Education providers include Muswellbrook High School, eight
inexpensive. Industrial property is available and affordable. primary schools and a Hunter TAFE campus. The Mining Skills
Muswellbrook Shire Council has lots available in its Glen Centre, an innovative apprentice training ground, continues to
Munro industrial sub-division and Enterprise Estate has a provide youth in the Shire with local educational deliveries.
number of large lots available for development.
The rich diversity of Muswellbrook Shire is demonstrated
Investment opportunities are extensive with continued by strong coal and power generation industries surrounded
population growth expected as mining and power by viticulture, dairying, thoroughbred horse breeding and
production opportunities occur in the near future. award winning wine making industries.
Employment opportunities throughout Muswellbrook Shire
for skilled labour in the mining, power generation, transport Contact information:
and agricultural industries are strong. The Muswellbrook Mayor: Councillor Martin Rush
and Denman business chambers support new business General Manager: Steve McDonald
investment in Muswellbrook Shire and work closely with Address: 157 Maitland Street, Muswellbrook NSW 2333
Council to support new investments across the Shire. Postal Address: PO Box 122, Muswellbrook NSW 2333
Phone: +61 2 6549 3700
Excellent community services and opportunities for social Email: [email protected]

activity make Muswellbrook Shire an ideal place to live; close to Website: www.muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au
UPPER HUNTER
Is it worth A Quality Rural Lifestyle - in a caring and thriving community
relocating your THE FACTS
business to
The Upper Hunter provides a pleasant and relaxed lifestyle in
a region that boasts a strong agricultural sector and supports
the second largest thoroughbred industry in the world.Home to
Australia’s multi-billion dollar thoroughbred breeding industry with
Muswellbrook
the second largest concentration of thoroughbred studs in the
world. Home to Australia’s most sophisticated and concentrated
network of equine support industries - including Scone Equine
Hospital, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.
Shire? • Growing population base

• Expanding industry
DEVELOPMENTS
• 35 hectare industrial land
support services development
• Relatively cheap • 50 hectares of residential
Identify business opportunities commercial, industrial and
residential land for sale
land development
• Major residential rezoning
by contacting the economic • A range of towns and

lifestyles on offer
proposal with 100ha in
Stage 1 release
• Located within 2 hours
development staff at of Newcastle, 3 hours of
• Rezoning for commercial
purposes
Sydney, 2 hours of Dubbo • Upgrades and expansions
Muswellbrook Shire Council. and 1 hour of Tamworth of existing medical services
• Strong business centres • Expansion of the Scone
Ph: 02 6549 3700 with expansion potential Air Park
• Major commercial
developments
Muswellbrook Shire Council Sean Constable

157 Maitland Street Manager Economic Development and Tourism
PO Box 208, SCONE NSW 2337
Muswellbrook NSW 2333 Ph: 02 6540 1135
Mob: 0428 659 705
[email protected] [email protected]
muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au
90
GREAT LAKES LGA
Area: 3,376 sqare km The major employment base includes industries such as
Population: 35,601 (ABS 2011 Estimated Resident Population) retail, tourism and hospitality, construction, education,
Location: 70 km north of Newcastle health and community services. The area also boasts
strong on-land agriculture, oyster farming, fishing and a
The Great Lakes area is nestled on the border between small but innovative light manufacturing sector. The area
the Hunter Valley and the Mid North Coast. Only 200 km has a strong and diverse range of home-based businesses
north of Sydney and 70 km north of Newcastle, the area and a developing arts and cultural industry.
provides excellent access to metropolitan and regional
markets between Sydney and Brisbane via the Pacific Contact Information:
Highway. Major population centres are the twin towns of Mayor: Councillor Jan McWilliams
Forster/Tuncurry and Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest. With its General Manager: Glenn Handford
beautiful beaches, lush hinterland and fabulous climate, Economic Development Manager: Deb Tuckerman
the Great Lakes has been a favourite holiday destination Address: Breese Parade, Forster NSW 2428
for generations of Australians and overseas visitors. A Postal Address: PO Box 450, Forster NSW 2428
cooperative approach to local economic development Telephone: +61 2 6591 7222
in the area is designed to encourage business activities Email: [email protected]
that complement the area’s environmental and lifestyle Websites: www.greatlakes.nsw.gov.au
attributes and diversifies local employment opportunities. and www.greatlakesbusiness.com.au

UPPER HUNTER LGA
Area: 8,050 square km The equine industry includes some of the largest
Population: 13,822 (ABS 2011 Estimated Resident Population) thoroughbred studs in Australia. Other horse-related
Location: 152 km north-west of Newcastle activities include equestrian, polo and stock horse events.
Scone is the national headquarters to the Australian Stock
The Upper Hunter LGA includes the major centre of Horse Society, Hunter Valley Equine Research Centre,
Scone and the smaller, yet growing, townships of Merriwa, Scone Equine Hospital (the largest veterinary practice in
Murrurundi and Aberdeen. the southern hemisphere) and a TAFE campus specialising
in rural and equine studies.
Predominantly a rural area, key industries in the Shire
include agriculture, manufacturing and the equine industry, The magnificent Barrington Tops and Goulburn River
although agriculture remains the main economic driver. National Parks, Towarri, Washpools, Burning Mountain
Primo Abattoir has embarked on an expansion program and Lake Glenbawn provide tourist destinations with the
that will see it doubling production levels in the next two Goulburn, Pages and Hunter Rivers enabling intensive
years. Council recently completed a $2 million upgrade of agriculture to thrive on the alluvial flats. The reliable
its regional airport and has also commenced its $1 million water supply and relatively inexpensive land also provide
upgrade of the Scone Regional Livestock Selling Centre to significant opportunities for business relocation and
remain in the top seven ranked NSW saleyards. establishment within the LGA. Council and privately owned
residential land developments provide affordable housing
Investment opportunities in the Upper Hunter continue to in all the population centres within the LGA.
expand with continued population growth and the mining
and construction industries within the surrounding region. Contact information:
Stage 1 release of Scone Business Park is now available Mayor: Councillor Michael Johnsen
for purchase. With approval for several large windfarm General Manager: Daryl Dutton
projects within the LGA there are great opportunities for Economic Development & Tourism Manager: Sean
industries related to clean energy production to locate and Constable
expand in this thriving region. The Scone and Murrurundi Address: 135 Liverpool Street, Scone NSW 2337
business chambers support new business investment in Postal: PO Box 208, Scone NSW 2337
the Upper Hunter Shire, and work closely with Council to Phone: +61 2 6540 1100
support new investments across the Shire. Website: www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au
91
GLOUCESTER LGA
Area: 2,952 square km
Population: 4,974 (ABS 2011 Estimated resident Population)
Location: 125 km north of Newcastle, 160 km south west
of Armidale
Gloucester is historically associated with the birth of the

Australian Agricultural Co., which has led to a long history
of agricultural production, timber milling and in earlier days,
commercial gold mining.
The location of Gloucester at the base of the World Heritage

Barrington Tops has been the catalyst for a dynamic
experiential tourism sector as well.
Gloucester has experienced significant growth in recent Chichester Dam

years, with both population and industry output on a steady
incline.
• Manufacturing – light manufacturing of specialist
The economic base of the community is now much broader commodities
as the community embraces a very diverse and growing • Professional, retail and service industries
industry base. With its relaxed lifestyle and close proximity
to Newcastle and the coast, Gloucester is attracting light Contact information:
manufacturing and lifestyle-based businesses. Mayor: Councillor John Rosenbaum
General Manager: Danny Green
Currently, the major contributing factors to the Gloucester Economic Development Officer: Tim Weeks
economy are: Address: 85-89 King Street, Gloucester NSW 2422
• Agriculture – beef, dairy and intensive agribusiness Postal Address: PO Box 11, Gloucester NSW 2422
• Tourism – Barrington Tops, farm-based experiences and Phone: +61 2 6538 5250
adventure Email: [email protected]
• Mining – coal and coal bed methane gas Website: www.gloucester.nsw.gov.au

The Councils of the Hunter
Working together in Australia’s most dynamic and diverse Region

COUNCIL
... a community partnership

Hunter Councils
Hunter Councils – PO Box 137, Thornton NSW 2322 Phone: (02) 4978 4040 Fax: (02) 4966 0588 Email: [email protected]
Website: www.huntercouncils.com.au
92
BUSINESS ORGANISATIONS
EMPLOYER ORGANISATIONS Industrial Relations Society of New South Wales
Australian Industry Group – Newcastle Branch
Regional Manager: Adrian Price Branch Secretary: Catherine Wilkinson
Suite 1, 265 Wharf Road, Newcastle NSW 2300 PO Box 393, Newcastle NSW 2300
PO Box 811, Newcastle NSW 2300 Phone: +61 2 4924 7268
Phone: +61 2 4925 8300 Website: www.irsnsw.asn.au
Website: www.aigroup.asn.au
Newcastle Law Society
Hunter Business Chamber President: Gary Fox
President: Richard Anicich PO Box 160, Warners Bay NSW 2282
PO Box 607, Hamilton NSW 2303 Phone: +61 2 4925 2849
Phone: +61 2 4969 9600 Website: www.newcastlelawsociety.com.au
Website: www.hunterbusinesschamber.com.au
PROPERTY AND BUILDING INDUSTRY
PROFESSIONAL AND BUSINESS ORGANISATIONS Housing Industry Association – Hunter
Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors – Newcastle Area 17 Murray Dwyer Circuit, Steel River Estate, Mayfield West NSW 2304
Local Representative : Grant Muller Phone: +61 2 4041 2000
PO Box 266, The Junction NSW 2291 Website: www.hia.com.au
Phone: +61 2 4965 4722
Website: www.aiqs.com.au Hunter Development Corporation
General Manager: Bob Hawes
Engineers Australia – Newcastle Division Level 5, PWC Centre, 26 Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle NSW 2300
President: Karlie Collis PO Box 813, Newcastle NSW 2300
122 Parry St, Newcastle West NSW 2302 Phone: +61 2 4904 2750
Phone: +61 2 4926 4440 Website: www.hunterdevelopmentcorporation.com.au
Website: www.engineersaustralia.org.au
The voice of
Hunter business
Hunter Business Chamber is integral to the
way in which business drives Australia’s most
productive and innovative regional economy.
The Chamber is the vehicle
through which business
advocates, informs and networks.
hunterbusinesschamber.com.au [email protected] 02 4969 9600
93
BUSINESS ORGANISATIONS (CONT.)
Newcastle Master Builders Association of NSW Dungog Shire Visitors Information Centre
Regional Manager: Len Blakeney Cnr Brown & Dowling Streets, Dungog NSW 2420
Level 1, 165 Lambton Road, Broadmeadow NSW 2292 Phone: +61 2 4992 2212
Phone: +61 2 4953 9400 Website: www.visitdungog.com.au
Website: www.newcastle-mba.com.au
Gloucester Visitors Information Centre
Property Council of Australia – Hunter Chapter 27 Denison Street, Gloucester NSW 2422
NSW Regional Director: Andrew Fletcher Phone: +61 2 6558 1408
122 Parry Street, Newcastle West NSW 2302 Website: www.visitgloucester.com.au
Phone: +61 2 4927 1550
Website: www.propertyoz.com.au Great Lakes Tourism
General Manager: Richard Old
UDIA-NSW (Urban Development Institute of Australia) Hunter 2 Little Street, Forster NSW 2428
Chapter Phone: +61 2 6554 8799
Chairman: Shane Boslem Website: www.greatlakes.org.au
Suite 2, Level 11, 66 King Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: +61 2 4945 7500 Hunter Valley Wine Country Tourism
Website: www.udiansw.com.au Executive Manager: Dean Gorddard
Vintage Hunter Wine & Visitors Centre,
TOURISM INDUSTRY 455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Tourism Hunter Phone: +61 2 4990 0940
Executive Manager: Sheridan Ferrier Website: www.winecountry.com.au
PO Box 3137, Thornton NSW 2322
Phone: +61 2 4978 4000 Lake Macquarie Tourism
Website: www.visithunter.com.au Lake Macquarie Visitor Information Centre
228 Pacific Highway, Swansea NSW 2281
Denman Visitors Information Centre Phone: +61 1800 802 044
7 Olgivie Street, Denman NSW 2328 Website: www.visitlakemac.com.au
Phone: +61 2 6547 2799
Website: www.visitdenman.com.au
Assisting Small Business to Thrive

Providing services and support to start up and established small businesses across the Hunter for over 27 years
Business Advisory Networking

Mentoring Programs Casual Room Hire
Workshops and Training Training Facilities
Bite-sized Business Briefings Serviced and Virtual Offices
Benchmarking, Diagnostics and Analysis Funding and Partnership Programs
265 King Street Newcastle 4925 7700 www.businesscentre.com.au
Developing business by developing people
94
Maitland Visitor Information Centre Hunter Digital Innovation Growth & Industry Taskforce
Ministers Park, Cnr New England Highway and High Street, A not-for-profit member organisation committed to establishing the
Maitland NSW 2320 Hunter Region as a leading digital economy with a global reputation
Phone: +61 2 4931 2800 by 2020.
Website: www.maitlandhuntervalley.com.au President: Brendan Brooks
PO Box 4029
Merriwa Visitor Information & CTC Centre Kotara East NSW 2305
Tourist Officer: Tina Taylor Phone: 0414 362 557
PO Box 111, Merriwa NSW 2329 Website: www.hunterdigit.com.au
Phone: +61 2 6521 7046
Website: www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au Hunter Councils
Fosters co-operation and resource sharing between its 12 member
Murrurundi Visitor Information Centre councils, encourages investment and advocates for the local
Coordinator: Carolyn Farrow government areas it represents.
Mayne Street, Murrurundi NSW 2338 CEO: Roger Stephan
Phone: +61 2 6546 6446 PO Box 3137, Thornton NSW 2322
Website: www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au Phone: +61 2 4978 4040
Website: www.huntercouncils.com.au
Muswellbrook Visitor Information Centre
87 Hill Street, Muswellbrook NSW 2333 Hunter Region Business Enterprise Centre
Phone: +61 2 6541 4050 Provides information, training and support for business development
Website: www.muswellbrook.org.au for new and exisiting businesses.
Manager: Kerry Hallett
Newcastle Tourism Industry Group Phone: +61 2 4936 2557
Chairperson: Debera Mackenzie Website: www.hunterregionbec.com.au
PO Box 489, Newcastle NSW 2300
Phone: +61 2 4929 5181 HunterNet
Website: www.ntig.org.au A network of the region’s small to medium sized engineering and
manufacturing companies.
Port Stephens Tourism Chief Executive Officer: Tony Cade
Marketing Manager: Tars Bylhouwer Level 3, 251 Wharf Road, Newcastle NSW 2300
Visitor Information Centre, Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay NSW 2315 Phone: +61 2 4908 7380
Phone: +61 2 4980 6905 Website: www.hunternet.com.au
Website: www.portstephens.org.au or portstephenstourism.com.au
Industry Development Centre (IDC)
Scone Visitor Information & Horse Centre IDC Hunter is involved in delivering a range of programs to facilitate and
Tourism Co-ordinator: Belinda McKenzie support industry and business development in the Hunter Region.
Cnr Kelly & Susan Streets, Scone NSW 2337 CEO: Darrell Nicholls
Phone: +61 2 4962 0999
Phone: +61 2 6540 1300
Website: www.idc-hunter.org.au
Website: www.upperhuntertourism.com.au
Business Growth Centre
Singleton Visitor Information & Enterprise Centre
Provides a business incubator, business training and business
Manager: Salena Avard
information advisory and support service.
Singleton Visitor Information & Enterprise Centre
Manager: Brett Gleeson
Townhead Park, New England Highway, Singleton NSW 2330
48 Oakdale Road, Gateshead NSW 2290
Phone: +61 2 6571 5888
Phone: +61 2 4942 3133
Website: www.visitsingleton.com
Website: www.mybgc.org.au
WINE INDUSTRY
Regional Development Australia – Hunter
Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association Inc. CEO: Todd Williams
President: Andrew Margan Level 3, 251 Wharf Road, Newcastle NSW 2300
PO Box 352, Cessnock NSW 2325 Phone: +61 2 4908 7300
Phone: +61 2 4991 4533 Website: www.rdahunter.org.au
Website: www.hvwia.com.au
RESEARCH ORGANISATIONS
SUPPORT NETWORKS Hunter Valley Research Foundation (HVRF)
The Business Centre (Newcastle Region) HVRF provides independent research services and undertakes regular
General Manager: Narelle McClelland economic, wellbeing and environmantal monitoring in the Hunter and
A community-based, not-for-profit, business assistance organisation Upper Hunter.
providing business advisory, mentoring, training and serviced offices. CEO: Wej Paradice
265 King Street, Newcastle West NSW 2302 PO Box 322, Newcastle NSW 2300
Phone: +61 2 4925 7700 Phone: +61 2 4969 4566
Website: www.businesscentre.com.au Website: www.hvrf.com.au
95
Newcastle Innovation (formerly TUNRA) Phone: +61 0499 779 972
Newcastle Innovation is the technology transfer and contract research Website: www.ftchamber.com.au
office of the University of Newcastle. Since its inception in 1969,
Newcastle Innovation has facilitated the transfer of knowledge, Gloucester Chamber of Commerce
technology and scientific research from the University to commercial Vice President: Yvonne Reynolds
partners. PO Box 111, Gloucester NSW 2422
CEO: Dr Brent Jenkins Phone: +61 0409 607 934
IDC, University Drive, Callaghan NSW 2308 www.gloucesterchamber.com.au
Phone: +61 2 4921 8777
Website: www.newcastleinnovation.com.au
Hamilton Chamber of Commerce Inc.
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE President: George Yarnis
Hunter Business Chamber PO Box 92, Hamilton NSW 2303
President: Brett Derwin Phone: +61 2 4969 7555
99 Selwyn Street, Mayfield East NSW 2304 www.hamiltontown.com
Phone: +61 2 4969 9600
Website: www.hunterbusinesschamber.com.au Kurri Kurri District Business Chamber
President: Rod Doherty
Belmont Chamber of Commerce PO Box 255, Kurri Kurri NSW 2327
President: Ricky Roberts Phone: +61 4938 0510
PO Box 296, Belmont NSW 2280 Website: www.kurrikurri.com
Phone: +61 2 4945 5079
Website: www.belmontnsw.com.au Lambton (Village)
President: Gary Croese
Bulahdelah Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Inc. PO Box 50, Lambton NSW 2299
President: John Sahyuon Phone: +61 2 4956 1640
PO Box 30, Bulahdelah NSW 2423
Phone: +61 2 4997 4764 Maitland Business Chamber
Website: www.bulahdelah.net.au President: Bob Kerr
8 Bulwer Street, Maitland NSW 2320
Cardiff Chamber of Commerce Phone: +61 2 4934 3343
Town Coordinator: Jacinta Mackey Website: www.maitlandbusiness.com.au
298 Main Road, Cardiff 2285
Phone: +61 410 557 071 Mandurah Hunter Indigenous Business Chamber
CEO & Chairperson: Debbie Barwick
Cessnock Chamber of Commerce PO Box 681, Maitland NSW 2320
President: Geoff Walker Phone: +61 2 4932 7722

PO Box 329, Cessnock NSW 2325 Website: www.mandurahibc.com.au
Phone: +61 428 245 678
Website: www.cessnockchamber.com.au Mayfield Business Association
Chairman: Ivor Davies
PO Box 235, Mayfield NSW 2304
Business Charlestown Inc.
Phone: +61 2 4968 1785
Town Coordinator: Jennie Barrie
Website: www.mayfield.asn.au
PO Box 479, Charlestown NSW 2290
Phone: +61 411 222 429
Muswellbrook Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc
Website: www.businesscharlestown.org.au President: Mike Kelly
PO Box 683, Muswellbrook NSW 2333
Cooranbong Chamber of Commerce & Community Precinct Phone: +61 2 6541 1285
President: Michael Chamberlain Website: www.muswellbrook.org.au/chamber
PO Box 190, Cooranbong NSW 2265
The Myall Coast Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Inc.
Denman Chamber of Commerce President: Rob Anderson
President: Gloria Wargent PO Box 70, Hawks Nest NSW 2324
PO Box 115, Denman NSW 2328 Website: www.myallcoast.org.au
Phone: +61 2 6547 2972
Website: www.visitdenman.com.au Nelson Bay & District Business Chamber
President: Steve Sampson
Dungog District Chamber of Commerce PO Box 6, Nelson Bay NSW 2315
President: Jennifer Lewis Phone: +61 0416 223585
PO Box 210, Dungog NSW 2420 Website: www.baybusinesschamber.com.au
Phone: +61 2 4992 1441
Website: www.ddcc.org.au New Lambton Village Community Chamber Inc.
President: Robyn Bradbury
Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber Inc PO Box 279, New Lambton NSW 2305
President: Gary Gersbach Phone: +61 2 4981 1813
PO Box 380, Forster NSW 2428
96
Newcastle Now
Chair: Edward Duc
137 King Street, Newcastle NSW 2300
Phone: +61 2 49294644
NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce

Chairperson: Debbie Barwick
5/34 Racecourse Road, Rutherford NSW 2320
Phone: +61 2 4932 1325
Website: www.nswicc.com.au
Scone Chamber of Commerce & Industry

President: Steven Bell
PO Box 100, Scone NSW 2337
Phone: +61 6545 2611
Website: www.sconechamber.com.au
Singleton Chamber of Commerce & Industry

President: Tony Charlesworth
PO Box 298, Singleton NSW 2330
Phone: +61 0400 460 412
Website: www.singletonchamber.org.au
Southlake Business Chamber and Community Alliance

President: Robert Kemmis
143 Dora Street, Morisset NSW 2264
Phone: +61 2 4973 3483
Website: www.southlakemac.com
Swansea & District Chamber of Commerce

President: Peter Johnston
PO Box 127, Swansea NSW 2281
Phone: +61 4971 6282
Website: www.swanseabusiness.com.au
Toronto Chamber of Commerce & Industry
President: Gail Ryan
PO Box 382, Toronto NSW 2283
Phone: +61 2 4950 5216
Website: www.toronto.com.au
Warners Bay Chamber of Commerce

Town Centre Coordinator: Rhonda Campbell
PO Box 722, Warners Bay NSW 2282
Phone: +61 0458 549 222
Website: www.warnersbay.net.au
Wallsend Town Business Association

Chairperson : Max McCorkell
PO Box 218, Wallsend NSW 2287
Phone: +61 2 4950 1878
Website: www.wallsendtown.com.au
97
GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE
Hunter businesses are well placed to access government NSW TRADE & INVESTMENT
assistance, with a number of state and federal government NSW Trade and Investment (NSW T&I) works to attract
departments and agencies providing business support business investment to NSW and the Hunter Region.
services having Hunter-based offices. NSW T&I supports innovative, sustainable and globally
competitive businesses, industries and sectors through
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA- HUNTER assistance and advice.
(RDA- HUNTER)
Regional Development Australia (RDA) is an Australian The Hunter regional office can assist your business with:
Government initiative that brings together all levels of • Information about the Hunter Region, including hosting
government to enhance the growth and development of company visits and site selection
Australia’s regions. A national network of RDA Committees • Engaging with Hunter industry and key organisations
has been established to achieve this objective. • Liaison with regulatory authorities, and
• Accessing utility, infrastructure and service providers.
The RDA Hunter Committee has five key roles:
• consult and engage with the community Contact:
• inform regional planning Level 3, 251 Wharf Road, Newcastle NSW 2300
• support whole of government activities Phone: (02) 4908 7333
• promote government funding programs Email: [email protected]
• community and economic development. www.business.nsw.gov.au
Twitter: @businessnsw
RDA Hunter works within the community through Facebook: BusinessNSW
consultation, partnerships and representation to encourage
investment in the region’s priority areas: INDUSTRY CAPABILITY NETWORK (ICN)
• Infrastructure to improve productivity and efficiency The Industry Capability Network can help businesses to
• Grow the Hunter's economy find competitive local sources to meet their procurement
• Comprehensive and cohesive long term planning and project needs, irrespective of their business, and can
• Investment in Education, Skills and Workforce assist to find either a buyer for your products, or a supplier
development that will deliver the goods and services that you require.
• Build knowledge, skills and innovation capabilities
• Enriching the natural and built environment to create Contact:
livable places. Regional Manager: Ken Ford
Contact: Phone: (02) 4908 7390
CEO: Todd Williams Email: [email protected]
Level 3, 251 Wharf Road, Newcastle NSW 2300 Website: www.icnnsw.org.au
GOVERNEMNT ASSISTANCE
Phone: (02) 4908 7300

Email: [email protected] AUSTRADE
Website: www.rdahunter.org.au Austrade is the Australian Government’s trade, investment
and education promotion agency.
AUSINDUSTRY
AusIndustry is the Australian Government's business Through a global network of offices, Austrade assists
program delivery division in the Department of Innovation, Australian companies to grow their international business,
Industry, Science and Research. AusIndustry delivers a attracts productive foreign direct investment into Australia
range of more than 30 programs including innovation and promotes Australia’s education sector internationally.
grants, tax and duty concessions, small business skills
development, industry support and venture capital. Austrade provides information and advice that can help
you reduce the time, cost and risk of exporting. We also
Contact: administer the Export Market Development Grant Scheme
Regional Manager: Jo Fisher and offer a range of services to Australian exporters in
IDC – Hunter, University Drive, Callaghan NSW 2308 growth and emerging markets.
PO Box 189, Hunter Region Mail Centre NSW 2310
Phone: (02) 4960 3823 Contact:
Email: [email protected] Regional Representative: Isaac Court
Website: www.ausindustry.gov.au Level 3, 251 Wharf Road, Newcastle NSW 2300
Phone: (02) 4925 8777
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.austrade.gov.au
98
RDA - Hunter and Hunter Business Publications Pty Ltd thank the following organisations
for their support of the Hunter Investment Prospectus and the Hunter Region:
GOLD SUPPORTERS
Hunter Development Corporation
Hunter Economic Zone
Hunter Valley Research Foundation
James Estate
HunterNet
SILVER SUPPORTERS
Accent Group
Australian Industry Group
Forsythes Recruitment
Four Walls Commercial
Harris Wheeler
Hunter Business Chamber
Hunter TAFE
JSA
Lake Macquarie City Council
Maitland City Council
Newcastle Airport
Newcastle City Council
Newcastle Port Corporation
Port Stephens Council
Prosperity
Scorpion
The Business Centre
Tourism Hunter
University of Newcastle
Varley
BRONZE SUPPORTERS
Cessnock Council
Davies Collison Cave
DYWIDAG-Systems International Pty Ltd
GHD
Hunter Water
Mine Subsidence Board
Muswellbrook Shire Council
Newcastle Innovation
Singleton Council
Upper Hunter Council
For enquiries regarding support of the 2014

edition of the Hunter Investment Prospectus,
please call Garry Hardie on (02) 4925 7760
or email [email protected]
99
HUNTER INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 2013
Published by:
Hunter Business Publications Pty Ltd
PO Box 853, Hamilton NSW 2303
Phone: + 61 2 4925 7760
Web: www.HBRmag.com.au
In conjunction with:
RDA - Hunter
Phone: +61 2 4908 7300
Web: www.rdahunter.org.au
Printed by:
Print National Pty Ltd
10 Denney Street, Broadmeadow NSW 2292
Phone: +61 2 4969 4811
Web: www.printnational.com.au
Major Sponsors and Partners
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure that

the information in this publication is reliable and accurate
RDA -Hunter and Hunter Business Publications Pty Ltd take
no responsibility for the accuracy of such information and
cannot be held responsible for any consequence resulting
from misdescription or inadvertent errors contained herein.
This prospectus was produced by RDA Hunter and Hunter
Business Publications and does not necessarily represent
the views of the Australian Government, its officers,
employees or agents.

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Hunter

RDA Hunter is the peak regional developme

Since its inception in 2009, RDA Hunter has:

• Lead over 55 projects that have contribute

STATE GOVERNMENT WELCOME

RDA Hunter is the peak regional development organisation for

Federal and State government Welcomes ........................................3

Introducing the region, geography, climate, population, Regional map

Education & Training.......................................................................14

Economic Strength & Diversification...............................................17

The workforce, industrial relations, coal mining, power generation,

Infrastructure & Development.........................................................45

Innovation & Creativity....................................................................70

Living in the Hunter........................................................................77

Local Government Areas.................................................................83

OVERVIEW OF THE HUNTER

ARE YOU A DEVELOPER LOOKING

Putting service and the needs of PeoPle first

OVERVIEW OF THE HUNTER

Maitland 69,646 1.7 10.8 392 177.7

Muswellbrook 16,322 1.0 2.5 3,405 4.8

Port Stephens 67,058 0.7 10.4 979 68.5

ETHNICITY 5 - 14 13.2 12.1 12.6 -2.2

Springs NR CAMERONS GORGE

Rock Muscle Creek

DUNGEREE NULLO PUTTY Broke

Rylstone Kindarun Mountain SF

Mount Touwouwan PARK 746m Ces

Tayan Peak Mount Yengo WAT

Ilford 1154m 668m

Capertee Newnes NATIONAL HAWKESBURY

TURON Lockyer GOSFORD

OVERVIEW OF THE HUNTER

S C A CONEAC r Mount George

BOWMAN S F rR Riv Taree

Dungog Stroud Bulahdelah Myall

Gresford MYALL LAKES Seal Rocks

Mirannie NP MYALL LAKES

MYALL PORT STEPHENS

Brookfield KARUAH NERONG

COLUMBEY Clarence KARUAH MYALL LAKES

The Royal Newcastle Hospital

OVERVIEW OF THE HUNTER

Show me the money!

A priority for the university is providing a high-quality learning

Get the edge on your competition

What’s in it for your business?

or Google Hunter TAFE

Hunter TAFE Tocal College

EDUCATION & TRAINING

A large number of other accredited vocational training

Participating schools provide and actively promote to

HVTC Saves you time and money - we look

Hunter Valley Training Company

ECONOMIC STRENGTH & DIVERSIFICATION

The Australian Industry Group

number of people are now moving to the Hunter for both

HUNTER LABOUR FORCE

Av.2008 Av.2009 Av.2010 Av.2011 Av.2012