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    <item>
      <guid>ec1ec849-d26f-4e48-9162-3b3fd71a7202</guid>
      <title>Newcastle shines as host destination for business tourism </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle has won the right to host two large scale business events this October, with more than 500 delegates expected to descend on the city injecting more than $1.6 million into the local visitor economy.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-shines-as-host-destination-for-business-tourism</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c9494fba-a253-4ea2-8891-1901d1b921db</guid>
      <title>Remembering the Pasha Storm</title>
      <description>Council&amp;#39;s flood experts are teaming up with Newcastle Museum and the community on an exhibition to commemorate the 10&lt;sup&gt;th&lt;/sup&gt; anniversary of the epic &lt;em&gt;Pasha Bulker&lt;/em&gt; storm that claimed nine lives.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>16 May 2017</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/remembering-the-pasha-storm</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>996331e8-39d6-44f8-b28c-f8150961d87c</guid>
      <title>Portal to city's tech future opens </title>
      <description>Digital dealings with city authorities, whiz-kid computer coders biking between tech hubs and energy-efficient lighting on streets lined with productivity-boosting data sensors and electric vehicles - welcome to Newcastle&amp;#39;s future, not in 50 years&amp;#39; time but the next five years.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 May 2017</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/portal-to-city-s-tech-future-opens</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2ece8557-2bc0-487c-b7eb-091d896f30ee</guid>
      <title>"Game changing" recreational hub for Stockton</title>
      <description>A region-first urban skate plaza and playground with flying foxes and water features will breathe new life into Stockton and help promote both sides of Newcastle Harbour.</description>
      <pubDate>26 June 2017</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/game-changing-recreational-hub-for-stockton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1a7aa233-49fd-4b41-a1e4-325e63d00d3a</guid>
      <title>Finalists announced for Newcastle Art Gallery's KILGOUR PRIZE 2017</title>
      <description>Newcastle Art Gallery has announced the finalists for the &lt;em&gt;KILGOUR PRIZE 2017&lt;/em&gt;, the Gallery&amp;#39;s prestigious annual award for figurative and portrait painting.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 June 2017</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/finalists-announced-for-newcastle-art-gallery-s-kilgour-prize-2017</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a9460b87-84c1-4970-b7f6-0978627fb02a</guid>
      <title>     Bike week celebrates future on two wheels</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-family: &amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,&amp;quot;sans-serif&amp;quot;; font-size: 12pt;"&gt;&lt;font color="#000000"&gt;Newcastle City Council will celebrate Bike Week 2017 with the 17&lt;sup&gt;th&lt;/sup&gt;&lt;/font&gt;&lt;font color="#000000"&gt; annual free community breakfast for cyclists at Lambton Park.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>15 Sept 2017</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/bike-week-celebrates-future-on-two-wheels</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9bd31972-683f-46b2-bb46-087a34c5be7d</guid>
      <title>City stores dress up and rev up for Newcastle 500</title>
      <description>A Newcastle clothing store sporting Supercars livery from floor to ceiling has been named the city&amp;#39;s best-dressed business in support of the inaugural Newcastle 500.</description>
      <pubDate>20 Nov 2017</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-stores-dress-up-and-rev-up-for-newcastle-500</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7c94ccd2-9fd0-4ac1-9b3b-facc6911b3fe</guid>
      <title>Council meets with NSW Government on Stockton erosion</title>
      <description>&lt;p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family: &amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,&amp;quot;sans-serif&amp;quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"&gt;&lt;font color="#000000"&gt;Newcastle City Council and the Department of Premier and Cabinet met with the State Government&amp;#39;s Coastal Panel at Stockton today to discuss the shoreline retreat plaguing the suburb.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Feb 2018</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-meets-with-nsw-government-on-stockton-erosion</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3752afd9-da1d-4a34-84d1-97e8107c123c</guid>
      <title>Council forms Community Liaison Group on Stockton Beach erosion </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A group of&amp;nbsp;leading&amp;nbsp;locals&amp;nbsp;will&amp;nbsp;share&amp;nbsp;community views&amp;nbsp;and knowledge of local issues&amp;nbsp;as&amp;nbsp;Newcastle City Council continues to seek&amp;nbsp;a long-term solution to&amp;nbsp;the worsening&amp;nbsp;erosion of&amp;nbsp;Stockton Beach.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Feb 2018</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-forms-community-liaison-group-on-stockton-beach-erosion</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>edf3c583-2d09-4424-bd41-ee961d2ff34d</guid>
      <title>Summerhill solar farm to be built with CEFC finance</title>
      <description>Newcastle City Council has secured a $6.5 million loan from Australia&amp;#39;s Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) to help build the Hunter Region&amp;#39;s biggest solar farm.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>07 Mar 2018</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/summerhill-solar-farm-to-be-built-with-cefc-finance</link>
    </item>
    <item>
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      <title>Coastal management plan for Stockton approved</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle City Council can now apply for funding to address coastal erosion along Stockton Beach following the State Government&amp;rsquo;s green lighting of Council&amp;rsquo;s management plan for the area.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Aug 2018</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/coastal-management-plan-for-stockton-approved</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7cdb0fa0-a408-4ae5-b6bb-514f4564e516</guid>
      <title>LEDs to light up residential streets</title>
      <description>&lt;p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"&gt;&lt;font color="#000000" size="2"&gt;Newcastle City Council will replace more than 5,000 ageing street lights with environmentally friendly light emitting diodes (LEDs) in a bid to slash the city&amp;#39;s annual energy use. &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 Aug 2018</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/leds-to-light-up-residential-streets</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f269ee30-ae16-413e-93d1-dec5220111fc</guid>
      <title>Newcastle scores Matildas Chile World Cup warm up </title>
      <description>Australia&amp;#39;s most popular footballer, the dynamic Sam Kerr, and Newcastle&amp;#39;s own Emily van Egmond, are bringing their Matilda team mates back to Newcastle for a clash against Chile in November.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>03 Sept 2018</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-scores-matildas-chile-world-cup-warm-up</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>97938a50-6030-4237-ab52-05101bea805a</guid>
      <title>Map Newcastle's iconic street art online</title>
      <description>Where can you take a seat in the Lord Mayor&amp;#39;s chair, fight off a giant tyrannosaurus rex and have your mugshot taken as Newcastle&amp;#39;s &amp;#39;most wanted&amp;#39; - all in the same day?&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>23 Oct 2018</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/map-newcastle-s-iconic-street-art-online</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1cdbe29e-87e5-467c-aa59-0024e13924d5</guid>
      <title> Park and Ride celebrates first birthday</title>
      <description>The City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s popular Park and Ride service turns one today after taking 20,000 cars off inner-city streets since it was first introduced in November 2017.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>05 Nov 2018</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/park-and-ride-celebrates-first-birthday</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a34a9906-6869-43da-bcff-6af733a8a04f</guid>
      <title>Business improvement associations set for overhaul</title>
      <description>Council will consider a&amp;nbsp;recommendation to&amp;nbsp;introduce competition for funding among local business improvement associations, to generate more events and initiatives throughout the city, tomorrow night.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>09 Dec 2018</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/business-improvement-associations-set-for-overhaul</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>40a3a1ec-a0e2-4e67-93b6-b1787e51342a</guid>
      <title>New logo for a new city </title>
      <description>Newcastle Art Gallery, Civic Theatre, Blackbutt Reserve and other city jewels have been united under a new corporate logo to reflect Newcastle&amp;#39;s revitalisation and ensure Novocastrians are aware of the assets they collectively own.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>06 Feb 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-logo-for-a-new-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>83964346-e58e-41e5-b092-cfb5323448d9</guid>
      <title>City launches convenient civil works mapping tool</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has today launched a new interactive mapping tool to help residents track the latest civil works projects happening across our LGA.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Feb 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-launches-convenient-civil-works-mapping-tool</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>baacba75-4cca-4227-9ea0-8a5c2ea7ba72</guid>
      <title>Stockton recreational drawcard ‘opens’</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle will open a major $2 million playground and skate plaza attraction on the Stockton foreshore on Friday, just in time for the Easter long weekend.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Apr 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/stockton-recreational-drawcard-‘opens’</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e76916f1-4fbc-45b2-b3ee-1d2846f3fda1</guid>
      <title>Start-ups help catapult Smart City </title>
      <description>Civic Park will feature an illuminated night-time attraction next month thanks to a City of Newcastle project that will see a local technology start-up deliver an interactive light display in the popular CBD park.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 Apr 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/start-ups-help-catapult-smart-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>86528602-be70-4fb0-b524-6c075c6822ba</guid>
      <title> Library to host innovation festival highlights</title>
      <description>Virtual and augmented reality demonstrations, an Internet of Things workshop and an intro to borrowable podcasting equipment will feature at Newcastle Library during the upcoming Hunter Innovation Festival.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 Apr 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/library-to-host-innovation-festival-highlights</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9925b810-ef5c-4386-aaa8-e5b9939b481e</guid>
      <title> Ecosuburbia event for smart, liveable sustainable city</title>
      <description>Laman Street behind Civic Park will come to life with eco-market stalls, a local food swap and a range of activities to get kids thinking about sustainability when Newcastle Library hosts the Ecosuburbia Fair Share event next month.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>20 June 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ecosuburbia-event-for-smart,-liveable-sustainable-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>575c67c3-a558-46e3-891f-e84644b6e55d</guid>
      <title>City to honour Humble librarian in annual address</title>
      <description>An annual lecture will be launched by Newcastle Libraries this week to remember the life of a devoted librarian and public servant who recently lost her battle with cancer.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>29 May 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-to-honour-humble-librarian-in-annual-address</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>da13b7dd-e41c-4371-872e-75e26e48bd55</guid>
      <title>City to seek clarification about offshore sand extraction </title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will seek clarification on the NSW Government&amp;rsquo;s position on offshore sand extraction for nourishment and replenishment of sand at Stockton Beach, following Lord Mayoral Minute at last night&amp;rsquo;s June Council meeting.</description>
      <pubDate>25 June 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-to-seek-clarification-about-offshore-sand-extraction</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>22b0de10-4667-463d-a0ad-a8935e102fc5</guid>
      <title>City delivers works in face of ongoing Stockton erosion</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle will undertake multi-million dollar works at the northern end of the Mitchell Street seawall to protect it from future failure caused by ongoing coastal erosion.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Sept 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-delivers-works-in-face-of-ongoing-stockton-erosion</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cf5f8e2d-bf98-4c97-8670-b8d1c86d2cb2</guid>
      <title>Vera Deacon given City’s highest honour</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Writer, philanthropist and passionate historian Vera Deacon has been named a Freeman of the City in recognition of her contribution to Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s heritage, conservation and local history at a special ceremony at City Hall today.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Sept 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/vera-deacon-given-city’s-highest-honour</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ff1206f3-7dd6-433a-9874-96ca245e2626</guid>
      <title>Stockton Safety Update</title>
      <description>In the lead-up to the start of school holidays this weekend, local students are being warned about the dangers of sand cliffs due to the erosion on Stockton Beach.</description>
      <pubDate>27 Sept 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/stockton-safety-update</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9ad4e762-602b-4fb0-919c-5ec538c6825f</guid>
      <title>City awards 100 per cent renewable contract </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle will become the first local government in NSW to move to 100 per cent renewable electricity after awarding a tender to purchase power from the state&amp;rsquo;s largest windfarm.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Oct 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-awards-100-per-cent-renewable-contract</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8d8223d0-e179-4e83-a620-a3f57b3968e5</guid>
      <title>Ocean baths up for redevelopment </title>
      <description>&lt;p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; vertical-align: baseline;"&gt;&lt;font color="#000000"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family: &amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting expressions of interest to redevelop the iconic Newcastle and Merewether Ocean Baths pavilions in overhauls that could include restaurants, recreational and community facilities and other services.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: &amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: &amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"&gt;&lt;font color="#000000"&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: &amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"&gt;&lt;font color="#000000"&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: &amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Nov 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ocean-baths-up-for-redevelopment</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a96be2ef-34c0-4ca4-a0a0-b24d987688ea</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle recognises climate emergency</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle recognised in a council resolution of 28 May 2019 that there is a global climate emergency and urgent need for realm action on climate change.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 Nov 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-recognises-climate-emergency</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e1feb7ac-28b4-4eba-8b69-d31cab623b6c</guid>
      <title>Future of transport on show as City gears up for Supercars </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s driverless shuttle will be available for racegoers and locals to test-ride in Wheeler Place this weekend.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Nov 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/future-of-transport-on-show-as-city-gears-up-for-supercars</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>13b39f1f-8330-4c01-975e-cb51e059229e</guid>
      <title> Stockton to see sand before Christmas </title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has welcomed the NSW Government&amp;rsquo;s approval of its application to secure funding to deliver 5,500 tonnes of sand to the southern end of Stockton Beach as a short-term measure&lt;span style="font-family: &amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: &amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"&gt;&lt;font color="#000000"&gt;.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>25 Nov 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/stockton-to-see-sand-before-christmas</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>98e4f31b-433b-4ba8-8b1d-bc7da9cf5fbc</guid>
      <title>City powers into sustainable new era  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle confirmed itself as one of Australia&amp;rsquo;s most environmentally progressive councils today when it opened a new $6 million resource recovery facility and switched on an $8 million five-megawatt solar farm.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 Dec 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-powers-into-sustainable-new-era</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7e7249d8-56ea-4203-bbd5-b5d566abe30c</guid>
      <title>Trucked sand to start arriving at Stockton next week</title>
      <description>&lt;p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family: &amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;font color="#000000" size="3"&gt;Five-and-a-half-thousand tonnes of sand will begin arriving at Stockton Beach on Monday as City of Newcastle commences the anticipated beach nourishment project.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 Dec 2019</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/trucked-sand-to-start-arriving-at-stockton-next-week</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>57b4111b-4260-43fc-bf05-86d7afdbf3a3</guid>
      <title>City to fund ocean baths restorations  </title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has committed to funding the restoration of both Newcastle and Merewether Ocean Baths. Consultation will commence on Newcastle&amp;#39;s restoration first, with Merwether to follow. To have a say on the future of Newcastle&amp;#39;s iconic facility visit &lt;a href="http://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/bathsCRG"&gt;newcastle.nsw.gov.au/bathsCRG&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>21 Feb 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-to-fund-ocean-baths-restorations</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>edb4d9ab-5444-4d4f-9c62-96dd8cb4a96b</guid>
      <title>City welcomes funding support as natural disaster   declared at Stockton beach </title>
      <description>Work to fight against severe erosion at Stockton beach&amp;nbsp;exacerbated&amp;nbsp;by extreme weather over the weekend has received desperately needed support, with&amp;nbsp;the NSW Government declaring&amp;nbsp;Newcastle a natural disaster&amp;nbsp;area.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>12 Feb 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-welcomes-funding-support-as-natural-disaster-declared-at-stockton-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1442a483-69c6-49fe-ba41-0e205ff4146e</guid>
      <title>Community feedback flows for Newcastle Ocean Baths revitalisation </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Thousands of Novocastrians have been involved in community engagement on revitalisation of Newcastle Ocean Baths, with consultation forming an integral part of the City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s concept-design phase.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Feb 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-feedback-flows-for-newcastle-ocean-baths-revitalisation</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fdc95464-6269-4fe5-9207-c06d6a6b09b6</guid>
      <title> Bumper weekend of events set to attract thousands  </title>
      <description>The City will come alive this weekend with Newcastle hosting multiple major events including world class sport, live music and family entertainment.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>02 Mar 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/bumper-weekend-of-events-set-to-attract-thousands</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cb1cb4ce-cff0-43b9-a086-7ee1b6293847</guid>
      <title>Statement on events and sponsorships amid COVID-19</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is continuing to work with the State and Federal Government on limiting the spread of COVID-19&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Mar 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-on-events-and-sponsorships-amid-covid-19</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3259aa96-26f8-457d-9514-884b95567b7c</guid>
      <title>Final parcel of former rail corridor sold to City</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The final section of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s former rail corridor has been purchased for $2 million by City of Newcastle in a decision which will strengthen the City&amp;rsquo;s cycling infrastructure and support the ongoing revitalisation of the CBD.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Apr 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/final-parcel-of-former-rail-corridor-sold-to-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>25cd91b4-ca22-40c7-9bc9-2b0c2db99821</guid>
      <title>Stockton Coastal Management Program team remains essential through COVID-19 uncertainty</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s Stockton Coastal Management Program (CMP) team has been recognised as essential and will work remotely through any Government-directed lockdown in response to COVID-19 in order to meet the Local Government Minister&amp;rsquo;s shortened deadline of&amp;nbsp;30 June 2020.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 Apr 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/stockton-coastal-management-program-team-remains-essential-through-covid-19-uncertainty</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ef19d011-c893-4552-b8ce-07cffee61662</guid>
      <title>City welcomes State Government progress on sand nourishment for Stockton </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has welcomed a long-term plan to address erosion at Stockton Beach using large-scale sand nourishment.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Apr 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-welcomes-state-government-progress-on-sand-nourishment-for-stockton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>84c2af0f-8f46-4117-b1fc-37ec5e530a74</guid>
      <title>Stockton Community Liaison Group welcomes latest briefing on long-term coastal planning</title>
      <description>&lt;p paraeid="{eab578b9-7fc3-4691-bcbe-cea9355408d3}{58}" paraid="1259585747"&gt;The Stockton Community Liaison Group has responded positively&amp;nbsp;overall&amp;nbsp;to a final briefing on the long-term plan for managing the suburb&amp;rsquo;s coastline prior to it going to councillors for endorsement on Tuesday.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 May 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/stockton-community-liaison-group-welcomes-latest-briefing-on-long-term-coastal-planning</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>162b4484-b64d-457c-9f3a-8c68867b6807</guid>
      <title>Our plan to save Stockton Beach is now on public exhibition</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Using offshore sand to save Stockton Beach will protect local homes and community land from the threat of coastal erosion as well as protect $2.5 million in public assets.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 May 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/our-plan-to-save-stockton-beach-is-now-on-public-exhibition</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>38ed68b1-2466-4f75-b4a0-1ac41749c01d</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Ocean Baths restoration to receive $9.5 million   from sale of local buildings </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The Newcastle Ocean Baths&amp;nbsp;will&amp;nbsp;inherit&amp;nbsp;$9.5&amp;nbsp;million towards its&amp;nbsp;long-awaited&amp;nbsp;restoration&amp;nbsp;should Councillors agree to the&amp;nbsp;sale of three&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle owned&amp;nbsp;buildings.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 May 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-ocean-baths-restoration-to-receive-$9-5-million-from-sale-of-local-buildings</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>02b5a2a2-5af9-468a-b9bd-68a410214e5c</guid>
      <title>Additional upgrades for streets around Mall</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Wider footpaths for outdoor dining, new landscaping and a traffic closure to help activate two long-dormant laneways are among additional plans approved for streets surrounding Hunter Street Mall last night.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 May 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/additional-upgrades-for-streets-around-mall</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>12a498d1-1ad1-4ab4-a06d-0a31b8fd38aa</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle confirmed as a key player on the Deputy Premier's Stockton Erosion Taskforce</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has welcomed news that mass sand nourishment for Stockton Beach is a step closer following the Deputy Premier&amp;rsquo;s announcement of the Stockton Erosion Taskforce&amp;rsquo;s membership and terms of reference.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 May 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-confirmed-as-a-key-player-on-the-deputy-premier-s-stockton-erosion-taskforce</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2ae1d8d0-b35f-48e3-9a52-d01501716a8e</guid>
      <title>City to prioritise upgrades to Newcastle Ocean Baths' pools</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle will begin upgrading Newcastle Ocean Baths&amp;nbsp;from early next year to improve the safety and accessibility of its two pools while community consultation continues on future improvements to the site&amp;rsquo;s historic pavilions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 June 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-to-prioritise-upgrades-to-newcastle-ocean-baths-pools</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3d9b92f5-afcf-41dd-bcef-3d9f29ebedeb</guid>
      <title>Additional $20 million committed to help further mitigate Wallsend flooding</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has committed over $20 million to replace two more Wallsend bridges and called on the Federal and State governments to help further reduce flooding in the town centre.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>31 May 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/additional-$20-million-committed-to-help-further-mitigate-wallsend-flooding</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>98d4415f-22b1-40aa-832e-533e17639354</guid>
      <title>Long-term actions for Stockton’s coastline get the tick of community approval</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s proposal for mass-offshore sand nourishment and immediate minimal buried seawall extension works in the draft Stockton Coastal Management Program (CMP) has received broad support through public exhibition, with 162 community and 19 agency submissions in total.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>11 June 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/long-term-actions-for-stockton’s-coastline-get-the-tick-of-community-approval</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cc6c2dae-8694-4666-a39b-1dfd4c7c08a9</guid>
      <title>Stockton’s long-term coastal plan goes to Council after strong community endorsement</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s long-term management&amp;nbsp;plan for Stockton&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;erosion&amp;nbsp;hit&amp;nbsp;coastline will be&amp;nbsp;decided&amp;nbsp;at Tuesday night&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;Council meeting&amp;nbsp;after receiving&amp;nbsp;overwhelming&amp;nbsp;support from the community through the public exhibition process.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 June 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/stockton’s-long-term-coastal-plan-goes-to-council-after-strong-community-endorsement</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>15a99f65-662f-4601-8391-19cdd07a2a06</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle submits Stockton CMP for certification</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has delivered on a shortened deadline of 30 June and become just the second council in NSW to deliver a coastal management program for certification to the State Government.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 June 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-submits-stockton-cmp-for-certification</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d7914a6a-5150-414c-9777-ff384abf59f0</guid>
      <title>Wheels turning on driverless vehicle trial </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The first ever driverless vehicle to mix with traffic on Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s roads has started ferrying passengers along Wharf Road as part of a three-month trial&lt;span style="font-family: &amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;font color="#000000" size="3"&gt;.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 July 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/wheels-turning-on-driverless-vehicle-trial</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>60943f51-a1d5-4585-afe0-cd3773cf4be0</guid>
      <title>Michael Bell wins KILGOUR PRIZE 2020</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Local Mambo artist and art teacher Michael Bell has won the prestigious KILGOUR PRIZE 2020 with a whimsical double self-portrait.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>31 July 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/michael-bell-wins-kilgour-prize-2020</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fa8a0f09-4865-4554-9e95-ccab09f93800</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle’s erosion plan for Stockton gets Ministerial green light</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s long-term plan to manage erosion along Stockton&amp;rsquo;s coastline has been certified by the State Government.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Aug 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle’s-erosion-plan-for-stockton-gets-ministerial-green-light</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8a307a49-8c51-4525-8ca8-82f5e162a79d</guid>
      <title>Tenders called for Newcastle Ocean Baths pool upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is progressing the well-needed upgrade to Newcastle Ocean Baths, with tenders being called to restore the unique sand-bottomed pool and its promenades.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Oct 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/tenders-called-for-newcastle-ocean-baths-pool-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f11023f5-7069-43f5-91b0-e17a652af784</guid>
      <title>Statement regarding alleged offences at Newcastle Ocean Baths </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is aware of an incident at Newcastle Ocean Baths changerooms yesterday afternoon.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Oct 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-regarding-alleged-offences-at-newcastle-ocean-baths</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>451fb6c8-b96c-4b69-b320-4d7caa7a626a</guid>
      <title>Taskforce looks to Hunter River for Stockton sand as City upgrades coastal protection works</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following a meeting of the Deputy Premier&amp;rsquo;s Stockton Beach Taskforce, City of Newcastle will meet with the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation, and Regional NSW to explore the possibility of using sand from the south arm of the Hunter River to replenish Stockton Beach.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Oct 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/taskforce-looks-to-hunter-river-for-stockton-sand-as-city-upgrades-coastal-protection-works</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ff46b65e-d798-417a-b509-a05868d4ad8e</guid>
      <title>City explores public space connecting the Harbour and the Cathedral </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A new public space,&amp;nbsp;inspired by&amp;nbsp;Rome&amp;rsquo;s Spanish&amp;nbsp;Steps,&amp;nbsp;is&amp;nbsp;proposed&amp;nbsp;as part of the redevelopment&amp;nbsp;of Hunter Street Mall&amp;nbsp;and Iris Capital&amp;rsquo;s East End&amp;nbsp;and&amp;nbsp;in the process create&amp;nbsp;a&amp;nbsp;stunning&amp;nbsp;view&amp;nbsp;corridor&amp;nbsp;of Christ Church Cathedral from Newcastle foreshore.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Dec 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-explores-public-space-connecting-the-harbour-and-the-cathedral</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>942bd4f4-088b-408a-82cf-7c1725b243ad</guid>
      <title>Application for sand source exploration licence a step closer to returning a sandy beach to Stockton  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;welcomes the NSW Government&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;move to apply&amp;nbsp;for an&amp;nbsp;offshore&amp;nbsp;exploration licence&amp;nbsp;that will allow for the&amp;nbsp;investigation&amp;nbsp;of a suitable sand source to put sand back on the beach&amp;nbsp;at Stockton.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Dec 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/application-for-sand-source-exploration-licence-a-step-closer-to-returning-a-sandy-beach-to-stockton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>aeae0d0a-eee8-45fd-b43d-6b47b3f094de</guid>
      <title>Tender awarded for Newcastle Ocean Baths pool upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Concept designs for Stage 1 of the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade will soon get underway, with GHD named as the principal design consultant.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Dec 2020</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/tender-awarded-for-newcastle-ocean-baths-pool-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a2d1bcf0-83d4-4076-88e5-241256971b7f</guid>
      <title>City praised for drought response efforts</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s water saving action has gained attention, with Hunter Water reporting an impressive 20% reduction in consumption during recent Level 1 and 2 Water Restrictions*, saving in excess of 80 megalitres of precious water and an estimated $220,000.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>03 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-praised-for-drought-response-efforts</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ad752999-99f5-4289-9ddf-c382acefe68b</guid>
      <title>Dive into 2021 with City’s Summer School Holiday program</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Say farewell to 2020, and dive into 2021 with the City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s Summer School Holiday program.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/dive-into-2021-with-city’s-summer-school-holiday-program</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1dfe7c50-5f30-40c6-8ad2-b9c6df0cc198</guid>
      <title>Full program unveiled one month out from inaugural New Annual festival</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An intimate&amp;nbsp;art gallery&amp;nbsp;performance by a&amp;nbsp;renowned Australian&amp;nbsp;musician,&amp;nbsp;an augmented reality&amp;nbsp;experience celebrating&amp;nbsp;indigenous&amp;nbsp;culture and&amp;nbsp;a discussion on women in leadership with Australia&amp;rsquo;s first female Prime Minister&amp;nbsp;feature in&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;second program announcement&amp;nbsp;for&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;inaugural arts&amp;nbsp;festival,&amp;nbsp;New Annual.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>11 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/full-program-unveiled-one-month-out-from-inaugural-new-annual-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>db86eb2c-c97f-46c4-a6fa-9c412969389d</guid>
      <title>Statement on Ocean Bath cleanliness </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The&amp;nbsp;summer cleaning schedule at Newcastle Ocean Baths&amp;nbsp;and Merewether Ocean Baths,&amp;nbsp;and&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;cleaning hours for staff at the baths,&amp;nbsp;have not been reduced.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-on-ocean-bath-cleanliness</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>15ac4708-fdfc-44b8-8805-b6216cdb6f48</guid>
      <title>Summerhill’s Community Recycling Centre open after closing temporarily</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Community members can&amp;nbsp;again drop off common household problem waste&amp;nbsp;at Summerhill Waste Management Centre&amp;#39;s Community Recycling Centre (CRC) after it closed temporarily this week.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/summerhill’s-community-recycling-centre-open-after-closing-temporarily</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ec6cd0bf-9581-4e34-ac97-f1472a6e9766</guid>
      <title>Family fun focus for Australia Day   </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;From a stirring salute to the Hunter&amp;rsquo;s frontline health workers to the city&amp;rsquo;s largest simultaneous pool party, there will be plenty of COVID safe activities to enjoy across Newcastle on 26 January.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/family-fun-focus-for-australia-day</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>03944b53-9d90-41e2-9874-cba61bd8e592</guid>
      <title>City deliver on promise to community by investing millions in Priority Projects</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Novocastrians are encouraged to &amp;lsquo;go out and enjoy their city by grabbing it with both hands&amp;rsquo; in the tagline for City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s latest Priority Projects campaign.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-deliver-on-promise-to-community-by-investing-millions-in-priority-projects</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>23014990-bf84-46d4-8668-87d3c9bbea3c</guid>
      <title>Upstanding Novocastrians honoured at award ceremony</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Australia&amp;#39;s first recognised Indigenous surgeon and a passionate advocate for health equality, Associate Professor Kelvin Kong, has been honoured as City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s Citizen of the Year 2021.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/upstanding-novocastrians-honoured-at-award-ceremony</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>976816d2-9284-470f-a88c-344230df505d</guid>
      <title>Tenders called for Dixon Park Kiosk refurbishment</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is progressing with plans to revitalise Dixon Park, with contracts to refurbish the Dixon Park kiosk now open to tender.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/tenders-called-for-dixon-park-kiosk-refurbishment</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a33b9767-4fd5-4502-ac90-5350a322916e</guid>
      <title>Community encouraged to stay safe at local beaches  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;With high temperatures and hazardous sea conditions forecast today through until Tuesday 26 January, City of Newcastle is encouraging the community to stay safe around Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s beaches and coastal areas.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-encouraged-to-stay-safe-at-local-beaches</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>604f9607-a324-4942-8c05-08df1b9ff103</guid>
      <title>Star Jets player among Newcastle's newest citizens-to-be</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle Jets forward Roy O&amp;#39;Donovan has found a permanent home in the region, with the Irish import and his young family set to become Australian citizens at one of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s online citizenship ceremonies on Tuesday.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/star-jets-player-among-newcastle-s-newest-citizens-to-be</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>07a88fc6-f1e5-4aff-998d-1bfe02018f4b</guid>
      <title>Paws on patrol as City’s Rangers welcome new addition to team </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s newest recruit has certainly got her nose to the ground when it comes to educating the community about responsible pet ownership.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/paws-on-patrol-as-city’s-rangers-welcome-new-addition-to-team</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ef8190fe-dd65-449f-934d-cf770a175d6b</guid>
      <title>Questacon’s Colour exhibition at Newcastle Museum extended due to popular demand</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Novocastrians need not travel interstate to experience the science-based fun offered by the capital&amp;rsquo;s most popular science museum. Questacon&amp;rsquo;s &lt;em&gt;Colour&lt;/em&gt; exhibition at Newcastle Museum has been extended due to popular demand until 2 May 2021.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Jan 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/questacon’s-colour-exhibition-at-newcastle-museum-extended-due-to-popular-demand</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d0db881a-59fc-429e-911e-12256fb6d0cd</guid>
      <title>City set to boost live music scene during New Annual festival </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More than forty live music events are set to reinvigorate the local COVID-19-disrupted live music industry, during the inaugural New Annual festival in February.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>03 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-set-to-boost-live-music-scene-during-new-annual-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a371e9da-21e1-4647-9122-1f01b066b9a5</guid>
      <title>Council Street, Cooks Hill unveiled after $6 million overhaul</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has completed a $6 million upgrade of Council Street with 8,000 new street plants, 18 new trees, additional parking spaces, public art and stormwater improvements at the heart of Cooks Hill&amp;rsquo;s eat-street.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-street,-cooks-hill-unveiled-after-$6-million-overhaul</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e3e59fcb-3fd8-4e3c-91e5-bfdee9938b6a</guid>
      <title> City of Newcastle joins the line-up with new international surfing event</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle will launch the Australian leg of the world pro surfing tour, with 52 of the best surfers from across the globe set to converge on the city in April.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-joins-the-line-up-with-new-international-surfing-event</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a7c8522b-b966-4d62-9c66-dee582c0c7e9</guid>
      <title>City transformed as Newcastle embraces New Annual festival</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Final preparations for the inaugural million-dollar New Annual festival are almost complete as City of Newcastle prepares to kick off its flagship cultural event this Friday.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-transformed-as-newcastle-embraces-new-annual-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1842799b-4a32-42fa-8714-f8e961f2b01b</guid>
      <title>City supports live music and creative industries by raising resident awareness of vibrant night-time economy</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Planning certificates provided by the City of Newcastle to people considering buying a property will now include reference to strategies supporting live music and the night time economy.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-supports-live-music-and-creative-industries-by-raising-resident-awareness-of-vibrant-night-time</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e2ed8657-ed98-4f71-b9df-46b302ca6375</guid>
      <title>New Annual brings city to life with busy opening weekend of cultural events</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s inaugural festival of arts and culture will officially get underway today with a mix of live music, quirky theatrics and thought-provoking visual and performing art.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-annual-brings-city-to-life-with-busy-opening-weekend-of-cultural-events</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>398eef86-b81f-43be-8656-1510a8568def</guid>
      <title>Plan for $1.5 million sports play hub in Wallsend now open for community feedback  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Construction of&amp;nbsp;a&amp;nbsp;$1.5&amp;nbsp;million active hub&amp;nbsp;in Wallsend is expected to get underway mid-year, with&amp;nbsp;the concept design&amp;nbsp;for the&amp;nbsp;project&amp;nbsp;now open for&amp;nbsp;community feedback.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/plan-for-$1-5-million-sports-play-hub-in-wallsend-now-open-for-community-feedback</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a7e8379e-e52d-4dbe-94f4-019fe7a312d1</guid>
      <title> Concept for new Foreshore Park open for feedback </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is seeking community feedback on a new concept for Foreshore Park which sees the site&amp;rsquo;s community playspace increase by almost eight times.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/concept-for-new-foreshore-park-open-for-feedback</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>92446cfc-a525-49cf-941d-90e4eb3b58d2</guid>
      <title>City launches first one-stop-shop for grant funding</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is making&amp;nbsp;it easier for&amp;nbsp;the community&amp;nbsp;to access more than 1,000 grant&amp;nbsp;funding opportunities&amp;nbsp;through a&amp;nbsp;new&amp;nbsp;online service,&amp;nbsp;Newcastle Grant Finder.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-launches-first-one-stop-shop-for-grant-funding</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2c0ed4a4-cf49-48f4-b978-3f37af3f9e57</guid>
      <title>Volunteer guides back in action for New Annual</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Dedicated&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;volunteers&amp;nbsp;have hit the streets for the first time since COVID-19&amp;nbsp;to offer a&amp;nbsp;welcoming point of contact for&amp;nbsp;visitors during&amp;nbsp;the New Annual festival.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/volunteer-guides-back-in-action-for-new-annual</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>afb69d1a-b561-4342-b9c5-78b092719e9b</guid>
      <title>Action on Wallsend flooding as space made for stormwater channel widening</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is taking further steps to&amp;nbsp;facilitate works to&amp;nbsp;mitigate&amp;nbsp;flooding in the Wallsend town centre with&amp;nbsp;tenders called to&amp;nbsp;demolish&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;vacant building&amp;nbsp;next&amp;nbsp;to Nelson Street bridge, which will&amp;nbsp;allow&amp;nbsp;the future widening of Hunter Water&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;Ironbark Creek stormwater channel.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/action-on-wallsend-flooding-as-space-made-for-stormwater-channel-widening</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>24e964c6-e713-4f50-aa9a-7dc3fb72cb7d</guid>
      <title>Shortland local centre upgrade plans out for feedback </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is&amp;nbsp;calling for community feedback on a proposal to&amp;nbsp;improve safety for pedestrians&amp;nbsp;and amenity of the local centre&amp;nbsp;in Shortland.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/shortland-local-centre-upgrade-plans-out-for-feedback</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>36211a43-cad8-4868-8e65-c73dfb95b828</guid>
      <title>Love Our Coast survey now open</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s coastline is precious to locals and visitors alike, and through a new survey, City of Newcastle is looking to explore what the community loves about our beaches and what people do while they are there.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/love-our-coast-survey-now-open</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>791feffc-e36c-4f58-951c-d890a209a8c3</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 23 February 2021</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 23 February 2021.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-23-february-2021</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b41cc888-0b55-4b0f-9f3c-25af202f6314</guid>
      <title>Thousands embrace inaugural New Annual in welcome boost for Newcastle’s arts sector</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s inaugural New Annual festival has come to a close after 10 days of events, attracting over 30,000 people to more than 50 events and activities across the city in a showcase of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s arts and cultural community.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/thousands-embrace-inaugural-new-annual-in-welcome-boost-for-newcastle’s-arts-sector</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>751eee56-f340-43ea-8907-7410d8453268</guid>
      <title>10-year vision for cycling and parking in City gets the green light  </title>
      <description>&lt;p paraeid="{efd752f8-a00e-4834-bb8a-0f48ee82d3a2}{30}" paraid="1111382021"&gt;The City&amp;rsquo;s aspiration for safer and more connected cycleways and a parking plan that supports Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s growing population is a step closer with the final Cycling and Parking Plans adopted by the elected council at last night&amp;rsquo;s Ordinary Council Meeting. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/10-year-vision for cycling-and parking-in city gets-the-green-light</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b3756579-2a43-49d1-bc4b-f6895f672584</guid>
      <title>Next step in coastal plan for north Stockton</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The management of Stockton&amp;rsquo;s coastal areas&amp;nbsp;remains a priority&amp;nbsp;when&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle facilitates meetings with members of the Stockton Community Liaison Group&amp;nbsp;(SCLG)&amp;nbsp;and the relevant northern landholders Hunter Water Corporation, Defence Housing, Family and Community Services, and Crown&amp;nbsp;Lands&amp;nbsp;today.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/next-step-in-coastal-plan-for-north-stockton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b70f00c3-4005-442a-93d4-0bc1d5eab2bd</guid>
      <title>City’s draft Economic Development Strategy puts people at the heart of economic opportunity </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has put&amp;nbsp;its&amp;nbsp;people at the centre of&amp;nbsp;driving the city&amp;#39;s economic&amp;nbsp;opportunities&amp;nbsp;and&amp;nbsp;recovery from COVID-19&amp;nbsp;in&amp;nbsp;its&amp;nbsp;new Economic Development Strategy.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city’s-draft-economic-development-strategy-puts-people-at-the-heart-of-economic-opportunity</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e15b237a-54de-469d-a8f8-4ccd0edb67ee</guid>
      <title>Newcastle projects identified as nationally significant on Infrastructure Priority list</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Infrastructure Australia, the independent national&amp;nbsp;authority on projects of national significance,&amp;nbsp;has&amp;nbsp;announced&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;Broadmeadow Precinct Regeneration and Newcastle Airport Capacity Expansion projects on its&amp;nbsp;annual&amp;nbsp;Infrastructure&amp;nbsp;Priority&amp;nbsp;List.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Feb 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-projects-identified-as-nationally-significant-on-infrastructure-priority-list</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>93de8ddc-ec0a-4dc3-a991-b57e89986a84</guid>
      <title>Best and brightest attracted to Newcastle with launch of New Move and 10,000 Reasons campaign</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is incentivising talented and community-minded Australians to relocate to the city with a $10,000 grant available for up to 30 innovative and accomplished entrepreneurs.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/best-and-brightest-attracted-to-newcastle-with-launch-of-new-move-and-10,000-reasons-campaign</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3a90bb3b-1e26-48a6-a72c-a891173385f4</guid>
      <title>City celebrates disability inclusion at Count Us In festival</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;With over 30 events and activities across the city, City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s &lt;i&gt;Count Us In Newcastle&lt;/i&gt; festival, is a celebration of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s inclusiveness and accessibility.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-celebrates-disability-inclusion-at-count-us-in-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>33b783b6-52f5-4e11-95ed-7c2a3e52a15a</guid>
      <title>City continues commitment to mitigating Wallsend flooding </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is&amp;nbsp;moving&amp;nbsp;forward with projects to&amp;nbsp;help mitigate&amp;nbsp;flooding in Wallsend&amp;nbsp;with tenders called to&amp;nbsp;upgrade stormwater infrastructure&amp;nbsp;at&amp;nbsp;Cowper Street, including the installation of&amp;nbsp;a channel&amp;nbsp;bypass&amp;nbsp;adjacent to&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;existing&amp;nbsp;bridge&amp;nbsp;which will help water flow more easily&amp;nbsp;through Ironbark Creek.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-continues-commitment-to-mitigating-wallsend-flooding</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>57647465-7af5-4c07-8c20-2a53c92a1d34</guid>
      <title>$3.3 million upgrade to Stockton’s Mitchell Street  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A&amp;nbsp;$3.3 million&amp;nbsp;facelift to&amp;nbsp;Stockton&amp;rsquo;s Mitchell Street&amp;nbsp;is underway&amp;nbsp;with&amp;nbsp;new footpaths, landscaping,&amp;nbsp;street furniture,&amp;nbsp;increased shade&amp;nbsp;and improved pedestrian and cyclist safety set to be&amp;nbsp;delivered&amp;nbsp;as part of the City&amp;rsquo;s Local Centres program. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$3-3-million-upgrade-to-stockton’s-mitchell-street</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ada882f9-be44-4e77-bcbf-feb8920ef3ce</guid>
      <title>COVID-19 causes massive increase in household rubbish volumes</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The surge in people continuing to work from home following last year&amp;rsquo;s COVID-19 restrictions has generated an extra 850 garbage trucks of waste since July last year.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>11 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/covid-19-causes-massive-increase-in-household-rubbish-volumes</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3b901c70-d201-406a-889a-7ab0e4e7f809</guid>
      <title>Newcastle local live music scene to benefit from City’s bumper April events calendar </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is continuing its support for the live music industry with a further $20,000 injection to encourage gigs during the upcoming bumper event month of April.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-local-live-music-scene-to-benefit-from-city’s-bumper-april-events-calendar</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>500d6692-1757-46ef-9a8c-7f6329ae1ca0</guid>
      <title>Early literacy program facilitates connections with culture</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Storytime sessions at Newcastle Libraries are helping to introduce Newcastle families to Indigenous perspectives on early learning.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/early-literacy-program-facilitates-connections-with-culture</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>736c9ae5-1cf5-40d5-bb83-6221543513aa</guid>
      <title>City and Fort Scratchley Historical Society pledge to uphold Newcastle’s military history </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Formalising a long-standing relationship, City of Newcastle has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fort Scratchley Historical Society (FSHS) Incorporated, in a shared commitment to uphold the significant military history and cultural importance of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s iconic Fort.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-and-fort-scratchley-historical-society-pledge-to-uphold-newcastle’s-military-history</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>01e3a0ef-2314-41a2-8cb1-bc3a8c306a56</guid>
      <title>Independent report commends City of Newcastle’s rapid response to COVID-19 </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s timely and targeted response to COVID-19&amp;nbsp;has been praised&amp;nbsp;as&amp;nbsp;best practice crisis&amp;nbsp;leadership&amp;nbsp;delivering&amp;nbsp;clear&amp;nbsp;and&amp;nbsp;measurable benefits to the community&amp;nbsp;and local business.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/independent-report-commends-city-of-newcastle’s-rapid-response-to-covid-19</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>10fcb786-3356-4949-971b-1287c27fd8d4</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle Budget confirms Newcastle on road to recovery from economic impact of COVID-19</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Building on six years of stable and consistent progressive Budgets that have protected services and local jobs while ensuring long-term financial sustainability, City of Newcastle is forecasting a $23.5 million turnaround in its financial performance just 12 months on from the peak of the economic impact caused by COVID-19.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-budget-confirms-newcastle-on-road-to-recovery-from-economic-impact-of-covid-19</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d12611be-7649-4d1f-b84c-27982fd3b61b</guid>
      <title> Preliminary design for Newcastle Ocean Baths Stage 1 shows improvements to access and safety</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;will&amp;nbsp;meet&amp;nbsp;a community reference group&amp;nbsp;for the&amp;nbsp;Newcastle Ocean Baths&amp;nbsp;upgrade this Wednesday, to discuss a preliminary design&amp;nbsp;which focuses on&amp;nbsp;improving the&amp;nbsp;two&amp;nbsp;ageing&amp;nbsp;pools and lower promenades.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/preliminary-design-for-newcastle-ocean-baths-stage-1-shows-improvements-to-access-and-safety</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1d830268-ceb4-45c9-9ada-c64924efdf73</guid>
      <title>Tourism plan to shape Newcastle’s visitor economy   as a destination with a difference</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A first-of-its-kind plan to reposition Newcastle as a premier tourism destination with focuses on events, natural assets and cultural heritage has been approved by City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/tourism-plan-to-shape-newcastle’s-visitor-economy-as-a-destination-with-a-difference</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9792de28-0362-449d-b070-0e0dcff32393</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 23 March 2021</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 23 March 2021. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-23-march-2021</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ac6d52fe-58a7-456c-a659-da7be618f537</guid>
      <title>Statement on Jill Gaynor employment termination appeal</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Statement about the appeal regarding the termination of Jill Gaynor&amp;rsquo;s employment.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-on-jill-gaynor-employment-termination-appeal</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>28991b96-b6fa-4915-a340-e997fb43b06e</guid>
      <title>King Edward Park recommended for Heritage Register  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;With its spectacular ocean views,&amp;nbsp;importance to Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s traditional custodians the Awabakal people, penal and defence history and timeless appeal for picnics and recreation, King Edward Park holds&amp;nbsp;enormous&amp;nbsp;significance to Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/king-edward-park-recommended-for-heritage-register</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fd8ce1f7-3c21-4a51-b40a-6545a195cb20</guid>
      <title>$2.4 million makeover for Kotara unveiled </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has completed a $2.4&amp;nbsp;million upgrade&amp;nbsp;of&amp;nbsp;Joslin&amp;nbsp;Street, Kotara&amp;nbsp;with&amp;nbsp;a&amp;nbsp;safe and&amp;nbsp;welcoming new&amp;nbsp;public space created at the heart of the&amp;nbsp;renewal.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$2-4-million-makeover-for-kotara-unveiled</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fdda29f3-6a95-46f8-9196-e776a83d0871</guid>
      <title>The Station set for live site as world’s best surfers drop-in to Newcastle </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A &amp;lsquo;live site&amp;rsquo; for the community to soak up the festival atmosphere of the World Surf League (WSL)&amp;rsquo;s Newcastle Cup has been created at The Station.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>31 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/the-station-set-for-live-site-as-world’s-best-surfers-drop-in-to-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7cf7ab30-5671-4795-9508-ae4751005b80</guid>
      <title>Streets are shared spaces in Newcastle </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s identity as a cycling friendly city continues to evolve with construction scheduled to commence mid-year on a cycling path along Hunter Street in the city&amp;rsquo;s west end.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>31 Mar 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/streets-are-shared-spaces-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fa2b1b5f-fe7e-474e-ae41-c48fa3cf876b</guid>
      <title>City calls on the community to shape 2040 vision  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The services and facilities required in 2040 are being explored as City of Newcastle prepares a new Community Strategic Plan on behalf of the community.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-calls-on-the-community-to-shape-2040-vision</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f684715e-eae7-44d5-9164-296a5848d237</guid>
      <title>City seeks early feedback from community on north Stockton CMP erosion management options</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is seeking&amp;nbsp;feedback from the community on erosion management options for the northern area of Stockton Beach as part of work underway on the Stockton Coastal Management Program (CMP) 2021.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-seeks-early-feedback-from-community-on-north-stockton-cmp-erosion-management-options</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>45f319f7-99ce-4a5c-8c06-a945666b7df1</guid>
      <title>Plenty of laughs on offer at Newcastle’s home of comedy</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;With some of Australia&amp;rsquo;s funniest comedians on the line-up across four hilarious shows, Civic Theatre is set to become Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s new home of comedy.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/plenty-of-laughs-on-offer-at-newcastle’s-home-of-comedy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>64034d08-2bec-4755-bb63-e81fa423c2c8</guid>
      <title>Redeem your Dine &amp; Discover NSW vouchers in Newcastle during the school holidays </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The&amp;nbsp;NSW Government&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;Dine &amp;amp; Discover NSW&amp;nbsp;vouchers&amp;nbsp;can now&amp;nbsp;be redeemed at over 70 hospitality, entertainment and recreation venues across the&amp;nbsp;city.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/redeem-your-dine-discover-nsw-vouchers-in-newcastle-during-the-school-holidays</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0289b284-c8f6-433b-82e1-080aa822a347</guid>
      <title>What’s ON website to help drive awareness of Newcastle’s event economy  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A new website capturing everything happening across Newcastle has been launched by City of Newcastle to help locals and visitors make the most of the city&amp;rsquo;s entertainment options.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/what’s-on-website-to-help-drive-awareness-of-newcastle’s-event-economy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c05eff60-ce36-4d11-a505-7907d26ae7c8</guid>
      <title>New online directory makes it easier to find the right local community service </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has launched a new one-stop-shop for&amp;nbsp;local&amp;nbsp;community services, making it easier for residents to&amp;nbsp;find&amp;nbsp;the right service and&amp;nbsp;access&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;latest&amp;nbsp;information.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-online-directory-makes-it-easier-to-find-the-right-local-community-service</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e12454c2-6534-4911-bc8f-7098cb544d48</guid>
      <title>Transformation of Hamilton’s James Street Plaza begins </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is kicking off work on its transformation of James Street Plaza to revitalise the space and attract more visitors, families, and shoppers to the popular spot on Beaumont Street.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/transformation-of-hamilton’s-james-street-plaza-begins</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7627bee0-dad1-42e6-9df7-9f09846c3657</guid>
      <title>Youth take centre stage for week of activities</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting local youth to come together and enjoy street art, skateboarding and song-writing as part of NSW Youth Week.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/youth-take-centre-stage-for-week-of-activities</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>efc119cf-9a91-43d5-82df-297a62cb41f4</guid>
      <title>Work commences to breathe new life into Dixon Park Kiosk </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Work will commence tomorrow on transforming the long dormant kiosk at the popular Dixon Park Beach into a vibrant community place. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/work-commences-to-breathe-new-life-into-dixon-park-kiosk</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fbe2523a-ed87-4335-9f11-8f74803e7ecf</guid>
      <title>Dedicated Veterans Employment Program launched by City of Newcastle </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A dedicated program aimed at supporting veterans to pursue a career in local government has been launched by the City of Newcastle.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/dedicated-veterans-employment-program-launched-by-city-of-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4698ce2d-8998-4ec2-9c9e-0dbd9112899e</guid>
      <title>City takes next step in $20 million-plus Wallsend flood commitment</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is a step closer in delivering a range of projects to help mitigate flooding in Wallsend with a preferred tenderer for the upgrade of stormwater infrastructure at Cowper Street to be considered at tonight&amp;#39;s&amp;nbsp;Council meeting.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-takes-next-step-in-$20-million-plus-wallsend-flood-commitment</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0d0a6f6a-e36e-451e-bf3c-a4adfa90eae7</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 27 April 2021</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Here is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 27 April 2021.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-27-april-2021</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>74a4b40c-d2a5-464d-a8ca-b492d3660d9b</guid>
      <title>New environmental management contract to support  Summerhill Waste Management Centre</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle Councillors&amp;nbsp;awarded&amp;nbsp;a&amp;nbsp;tender&amp;nbsp;for&amp;nbsp;specialist services&amp;nbsp;at Summerhill Waste Management Centre&amp;nbsp;which will&amp;nbsp;allow staff to quickly&amp;nbsp;identify and respond to environmental risks onsite.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-environmental-management-contract-to-support-summerhill-waste-management-centre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>48fbb0f4-da07-41cf-8fbc-3d7efbf3ce60</guid>
      <title>City’s East End upgrades to start next month</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The first stage of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s revitalisation of&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;Hunter Street Mall will start&amp;nbsp;in May&amp;nbsp;after Councillors voted to award&amp;nbsp;Statewide&amp;nbsp;Civil&amp;nbsp;the construction contract last night.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city’s-east-end-upgrades-to-start-next-month</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a8a15ee0-c835-4477-a641-cecaf364ac3d</guid>
      <title>City welcomes 150 new citizens with return to face-to-face ceremonies  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of&amp;nbsp;Newcastle&amp;nbsp;embraced&amp;nbsp;the return to face-to-face&amp;nbsp;Australian&amp;nbsp;Citizenship Ceremonies on Wednesday, welcoming 150 new citizens from 39 countries&amp;nbsp;in a&amp;nbsp;COVIDsafe&amp;nbsp;ceremony&amp;nbsp;at&amp;nbsp;the Civic Theatre.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-welcomes-150-new-citizens-with-return-to-face-to-face-ceremonies</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6a9ba4b9-34b8-458e-9208-f610281477fa</guid>
      <title>Livestream brings world’s finest authors to Newcastle’s Digital Library </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle book lovers&amp;nbsp;are being given&amp;nbsp;access to one of Australia&amp;rsquo;s largest literary events&amp;nbsp;thanks to a collaboration between City of Newcastle and the Sydney Writers&amp;rsquo; Festival.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 Apr 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/livestream-brings-world’s-finest-authors-to-newcastle’s-digital-library</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>50fb6cfc-0dc3-40f5-9e02-f16899791c69</guid>
      <title>April’s events see hotel occupancy bounce back to pre-COVID-19 levels</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;visitor economy received a major economic&amp;nbsp;injection&amp;nbsp;as a result of&amp;nbsp;the City&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;&lt;em&gt;Event&amp;nbsp;Packed April&lt;/em&gt;&amp;nbsp;with&amp;nbsp;industry&amp;nbsp;data showing&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;accommodation sector returning&amp;nbsp;to pre-COVID occupancy levels.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/april’s-events-see-hotel-occupancy-bounce-back-to-pre-covid-19-levels</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3b9e4ec9-88ef-45cf-a79e-5db8782947c1</guid>
      <title>City opens record $1 million grants and sponsorships round</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Community and sporting groups, businesses, tourism and event operators are invited to apply for almost $1 million of community grants and sponsorship funding from City of Newcastle.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-opens-record-$1-million-grants-and-sponsorships-round</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d39785cd-5aef-44c3-9f7f-d76e0015b77c</guid>
      <title>Newcastle’s ‘forgotten diva’ Florence Austral celebrated in new exhibition</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle Libraries will celebrate the significant contribution to the city&amp;rsquo;s arts community made by world-renowned opera singer, Florence Austral, with a curated exhibition and program of events for the community to learn all about her life.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle’s-‘forgotten-diva’-florence-austral-celebrated-in-new-exhibition</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7c98c404-336b-4e42-8b50-14a83b9570f9</guid>
      <title>City prepares locals for future jobs through ‘New Skills’ Program </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is&amp;nbsp;helping&amp;nbsp;local&amp;nbsp;businesses&amp;nbsp;gain&amp;nbsp;the skills&amp;nbsp;to make the most of&amp;nbsp;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;emerging new economic opportunities&amp;nbsp;with&amp;nbsp;a $385,000 investment in&amp;nbsp;its&amp;nbsp;New Skills Program.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-prepares-locals-for-future-jobs-through-‘new-skills’-program</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a2b35e4a-7128-4796-b8fb-1a3940757745</guid>
      <title>Airport runway upgrade a boon for Greater Newcastle </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has welcomed news that the Federal Government has committed $66 million towards Newcastle Airport&amp;rsquo;s runway upgrade as part of today&amp;rsquo;s Federal Budget announcement.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/airport runway-upgrade a-boon-for-greater-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1e8e9bcb-28cc-4e4b-9f88-8c3820ca2acf</guid>
      <title>Potential new residents get a taste of Newcastle’s best as part of targeted relocation program</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Over 70 talented, skilled and entrepreneurial individuals from across metropolitan Australia were acquainted with Newcastle this weekend.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/potential-new-residents-get-a-taste-of-newcastle-s-best-as-part-of-targeted-relocation-program</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>08f2d660-b3b1-4a61-acfb-1bafda086db7</guid>
      <title>Film series uncovers stories of Newcastle </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s role in a&amp;nbsp;19th&amp;nbsp;century&amp;nbsp;art&amp;nbsp;revolution&amp;nbsp;that preserved&amp;nbsp;important&amp;nbsp;Aboriginal cultural knowledge&amp;nbsp;has been highlighted in a new film.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/film-series-uncovers-stories-of-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>96af07df-7649-4330-bb18-869da9d94fe0</guid>
      <title>New exhibition gives unique perspective on city landmarks</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A new exhibition highlighting the beauty of everyday objects will also provide a snapshot in time of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s ever-evolving history.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-exhibition-gives-unique-perspective-on-city-landmarks</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ec69451c-db88-47e8-96be-86731a0c1ee1</guid>
      <title>Cutting-edge technology unlocks new ways to preserve and share Newcastle’s stories</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Rare and fragile items dating back to the early 1800s are now able to be digitally preserved for future generations via&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s new&amp;nbsp;high-tech digitisation lab.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/cutting-edge-technology-unlocks-new-ways-to-preserve-and-share-newcastle’s-stories</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5a911f80-e85f-406e-b9a4-31c6cb8a74df</guid>
      <title>City's four-legged residents to benefit from further off leash area improvements</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Improvements to the popular off leash area located in Islington Park will soon get underway to increase safety for local pooches and enhance usability of the park.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-s-four-legged-residents-to-benefit-from-further-off-leash-area-improvements</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bb6161a3-567e-4328-af10-9552fe0ec223</guid>
      <title>eSafety focus for Libraries and Information Week </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle Libraries is celebrating Australian Library and Information Week with a series of community events highlighting the skills and resilience needed to navigate the digital world.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/esafety-focus-for-libraries-and-information-week</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4da8d5ca-c371-4fcd-b5e3-c3187b41796a</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle seeks community feedback on Harbour to Cathedral Corridor</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting feedback from the community on the Harbour to Cathedral Corridor (Stairway to Heaven) concept, which proposes to link Christ Church Cathedral to the Harbour via a grand staircase.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-seeks-community-feedback-on-harbour-to-cathedral-corridor</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>63ada9e2-70d8-4991-9cc7-4f4896006411</guid>
      <title>City develops concept design for Newcastle Ocean Baths pool upgrade following community feedback </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has finalised the concept design for Stage 1 of the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade which focuses on improving the ageing pools and lower promenades.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-develops-concept-design-for-newcastle-ocean-baths-pool-upgrade-following-community-feedback</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>487cf536-7b9d-4752-9933-f4d9066f98f3</guid>
      <title>Digital storytelling workshops bring young imaginations to life  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s Digital Library&amp;nbsp;is&amp;nbsp;playing&amp;nbsp;host to a&amp;nbsp;series of workshops to teach local young people&amp;nbsp;skills&amp;nbsp;to share&amp;nbsp;stories&amp;nbsp;through modern mediums like&amp;nbsp;virtual reality, augmented reality and animation.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/digital-storytelling-workshops-bring-young-imaginations-to-life</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>91ab864a-be90-4f67-8785-59016025d9d8</guid>
      <title>Calling all poets to help reinvigorate regional poetry scene </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland and Port Stephens Libraries are joining forces&amp;nbsp;in a bid to refresh the Hunter&amp;nbsp;region&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;poetry scene&amp;nbsp;by&amp;nbsp;offering&amp;nbsp;a program of&amp;nbsp;workshops and special events&amp;nbsp;to both emerging and more experienced poets across the region.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/calling-all-poets-to-help-reinvigorate-regional-poetry-scene</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>74353ffb-bb94-49cb-9489-4ae6e65a27d0</guid>
      <title>Wickham Masterplan updated as the west-end transforms </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A report recommending that the community be invited to have their say on an updated vision for Wickham, providing attractive public spaces, more connections and safety improvements will be considered at Tuesday&amp;rsquo;s Ordinary Council meeting.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/wickham-masterplan-updated-as-the-west-end-transforms</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>76928ee8-bcea-454b-af17-557b0b84b25e</guid>
      <title>City delivers new playgrounds in Mayfield and New Lambton</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City delivers new playgrounds in Mayfield and New Lambton as $9.1 million to be invested in recreation facilities&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-delivers-new-playgrounds-in-mayfield-and-new-lambton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2400a274-8690-4e84-a7fc-a08ee01e4c02</guid>
      <title>Community backs City’s $330 million budget</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Improved footpaths, new cycleways and stormwater upgrades to reduce flooding are among the projects proposed under City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s 2021/22 Budget, which has received strong endorsement from the community ahead of Tuesday&amp;rsquo;s Council vote.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-backs-city’s-$330-million-budget</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d7998dfe-8c51-48ec-a6fc-a0669774de6b</guid>
      <title>First phase of City’s East End upgrade underway</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;revitalisation of&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;Hunter Street&amp;nbsp;Mall&amp;nbsp;as a&amp;nbsp;traditional&amp;nbsp;high&amp;nbsp;street complete with&amp;nbsp;wider&amp;nbsp;footpaths,&amp;nbsp;cycleways&amp;nbsp;and street trees&amp;nbsp;is underway,&amp;nbsp;with the first phase targeting the block bound by&amp;nbsp;Wolfe and Perkins Streets.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/first-phase-of-city’s-east-end-upgrade-underway</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>84461957-a485-49b2-bbae-ec2384fef612</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 25 May 2021</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 25 May 2021. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-25-may-2021</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d6b279c5-c6cb-4ad9-8d11-c9789bfe3945</guid>
      <title>Landmark exhibition showcases art and culture of the Torres Strait</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Works of art never before seen outside of the Torres Strait will be displayed in Newcastle as part of a landmark exhibition focusing on the artistic traditions of the Torres Strait Islander culture.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/landmark-exhibition-showcases-art-and-culture-of-the-torres-strait</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b5142c17-2949-495d-bf93-b7ee69b1ea9c</guid>
      <title>Weather warning for Newcastle and Hunter coast </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The Bureau of&amp;nbsp;Meteorology (BOM)&amp;nbsp;has&amp;nbsp;predicted high&amp;nbsp;ocean&amp;nbsp;swell&amp;nbsp;for the Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;coastline&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/weather-warning-for-newcastle-and-hunter-coast</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d8eba8a6-67d6-4e47-af11-8253e0d1b436</guid>
      <title> Safety upgrades on the way for Shortland local centre </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A safer, more attractive local centre is on its way for Shortland, with City of Newcastle endorsing the Shortland Local Centre Public Domain and Traffic Plan at the Ordinary Council meeting this week.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>31 May 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/safety-upgrades-on-the-way-for-shortland-local-centre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>33db94e1-57db-4340-b303-b99037e74e67</guid>
      <title>City lifeguard’s courageous service recognised with national award </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;When an 8-year-old girl was swept on her body board out of&amp;nbsp;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;Canoe Pool, onto the rocks and into the ocean during 14-foot&amp;nbsp;dangerous swell&amp;nbsp;in January,&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;lifeguard Mick Body sprang into action.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-lifeguard’s-courageous-service-recognised-with-national-award</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cd3ab0ef-0a18-4686-95d3-cf2b85711014</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle brings the compost revolution to the family home</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle households are being given the opportunity to take up home composting and reduce the amount of food waste going to landfill.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-brings-the-compost-revolution-to-the-family-home</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>120b3ffa-9c85-44ab-bb9f-5b7cd95d71c7</guid>
      <title>Community tree planting greens city </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The community has joined with City of Newcastle in celebration of World Environment Day by planting 5,500 native grasses, groundcovers, shrubs and trees in Jesmond this week to restore Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s urban ecosystems.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-tree-planting-greens-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d9655199-c0b8-493e-a778-1c71a1ac685f</guid>
      <title>Community invited to help shape the future of Newcastle coast</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting interested community members to join a working group to help with the development of the City&amp;rsquo;s Coastal Management Programs.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-help-shape-the-future-of-newcastle-coast</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>270665ff-68e0-49f1-addc-1dbe0ba0b832</guid>
      <title>City’s new civic and community hub and COVID-19 response win state accolades</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has been recognised with two major awards at the New South Wales Local Government Awards in Sydney on Thursday evening.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city’s-new-civic-and-community-hub-and-covid-19-response-win-state-accolades</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e34cb09b-bc7b-44c9-a6db-8de4e238fe1a</guid>
      <title>New flood study to build flood resilient communities </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;has engaged specialists&amp;nbsp;to carry&amp;nbsp;out an updated&amp;nbsp;flood&amp;nbsp;study&amp;nbsp;of&amp;nbsp;the Throsby, Styx,&amp;nbsp;and Cottage Creek catchments,&amp;nbsp;to&amp;nbsp;enhance&amp;nbsp;current floodplain management&amp;nbsp;and&amp;nbsp;mitigate&amp;nbsp;future flood risks.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-flood-study-to-build-flood-resilient-communities</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b1a0b25b-84b3-43aa-9eff-265566563e61</guid>
      <title> Mentoring program gives rise to more tourism experiences in Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Sourdough making classes, quirky art workshops and sight-seeing bike rides with a twist will be served up to tourists as part of a push to expand Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s tourism experiences.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/mentoring-program-gives-rise-to-more-tourism-experiences-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b403b844-aa6a-4361-874f-3b28d3383f73</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Museum exhibit earns industry’s highest honour at national awards</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle Museum has beaten some of the most prestigious cultural institutions across the country to earn the industry&amp;rsquo;s highest national accolade, the National MAGNA.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-museum-exhibit-earns-industry’s-highest-honour-at-national-awards</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d637cdaf-c77e-4a7b-a358-9ecb0784f7a6</guid>
      <title>City invites community input to imagine ‘a place for everyone’</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting the community to identify the barriers to social inclusion as it develops a new Social Strategy that will provide the foundations for a range of planning decisions to make Newcastle a more liveable and inclusive community.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-invites-community-input-to-imagine-‘a-place-for-everyone’</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b0414d5a-5308-4490-a301-d33678ae081b</guid>
      <title>Vice Regal visit to mark completion of Newcastle City Hall restoration</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Australia&amp;rsquo;s Head of State will next week join City of Newcastle officials, key project stakeholders and esteemed guests in marking the completion of the exterior restoration works to Newcastle City Hall.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/vice-regal-visit-to-mark-completion-of-newcastle-city-hall-restoration</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>65aacf54-59b4-4261-b719-61a649f6b244</guid>
      <title>Hunter Homeless Connect benefits from Lord Mayor’s prayer breakfast support  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A local organisation that provides vital support to people&amp;nbsp;who are&amp;nbsp;experiencing&amp;nbsp;homelessness&amp;nbsp;or doing it tough is the beneficiary of&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;2021 Annual&amp;nbsp;Lord Mayor Prayer Breakfast.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hunter-homeless-connect-benefits-from-lord-mayor’s-prayer-breakfast-support</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e81006ac-8e81-4c6e-8b25-83d92329663a</guid>
      <title>Community given sneak peek of library upgrade to celebrate 150 years of Lambton</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Lambton locals are set to be given a sneak peek at the restoration of the city&amp;rsquo;s oldest library building as part of a celebration of Lambton&amp;rsquo;s 150&lt;sup&gt;th&lt;/sup&gt; anniversary occurring this week.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-given-sneak-peek-of-library-upgrade-to-celebrate-150-years-of-lambton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b87d2048-ebd0-471e-81ab-71edbcac224e</guid>
      <title>City welcomes funding to progress Hunter Park project at Broadmeadow</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has welcomed funding for a significant urban renewal proposal that would transform 63 hectares surrounding McDonald Jones Stadium, the Newcastle Entertainment Centre and Newcastle Showground, into a world-class lifestyle precinct.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-welcomes-funding-to-progress-hunter-park-project-at-broadmeadow</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>345e5a94-132e-4063-bdc2-60898b4b3662</guid>
      <title>Tuxford Park oval renamed to recognise Shortland local Bob Palmer’s  contribution to community </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has re-named Shortland&amp;rsquo;s Tuxford Oval Number One as &amp;lsquo;Bob Palmer Oval&amp;rsquo; in honour of Robert &amp;lsquo;Bob&amp;rsquo; Palmer&amp;rsquo;s incredible contribution to Shortland, the Shortland Devils RLFC and to local Rugby League.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/tuxford-park-oval-renamed-to-recognise-shortland-local-bob-palmer’s-contribution-to-community</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>55062dbe-0443-4b20-b48a-d7835df61c17</guid>
      <title>Scholarship to honour Meg Purser’s passion for communications and community</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Local businesswoman Meg Purser, who passed away in January, will be honoured with a new annual tertiary scholarship by City of Newcastle.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/scholarship-to-honour-meg-purser’s-passion-for-communications-and-community</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a3adf3b6-3806-4217-b31d-5b335254f340</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 29 June 2021</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 29 June 2021. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 June 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-29-june-2021</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c2ca0452-0b7f-451d-b23f-8b72ff165da2</guid>
      <title>Landmark public space for the city gains new ground   </title>
      <description>&lt;p paraeid="{4785a02c-63cb-4892-8e58-46f3c088e372}{112}" paraid="1853597420"&gt;City of Newcastle Council has awarded a tender to demolish the 59-year-old Mall Car Park, with work set to commence in early August 2021.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/landmark-public-space-for-the-city-gains-new-ground</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cb9ad839-a961-4959-9263-2a5baab24aca</guid>
      <title>Flood improvements coming for University Drive </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Work to reduce ongoing flooding near University Drive at Waratah West has received the go-ahead following the awarding of a contract at Tuesday night&amp;#39;s Council meeting.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/flood-improvements-coming-for-university-drive</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>46c0daf3-5ab5-4948-8f2b-f26c08bae688</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle Councillor information sessions</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Are you interested in representing your community as a Councillor?&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-councillor-information-sessions</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d24dc5dc-fbd2-43de-b17f-b182c13dfbf3</guid>
      <title>Exhibition provides window into Newcastle’s creative past and present </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;It&amp;rsquo;s been&amp;nbsp;almost four&amp;nbsp;decades since members The Castanet Club&amp;nbsp;first&amp;nbsp;graced the stage at the back of the Clarendon Hotel with their irreverent mix of comedy, theatre, music and dance.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/exhibition-provides-window-into-newcastle’s-creative-past-and-present</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>baebabf3-eeae-43fe-bd93-7e31ed8c33de</guid>
      <title>Fine-free libraries offer more for members</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A fines-free initiative&amp;nbsp;introduced&amp;nbsp;to support library members during&amp;nbsp;COVID-19 has been extended indefinitely by City of Newcastle.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/fine-free-libraries-offer-more-for-members</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>81ee7f3a-ce6e-4cc3-8fde-33d099ba25d1</guid>
      <title>Two City iconic venues set for a refresh</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The final touches are being applied to two of the City&amp;rsquo;s most iconic coastline venues at Shepherds Hill Cottage and the Dixon Park Beach kiosk on Bathers Way, before the search starts for operators to bring the spectacular spaces to life.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/two-city-iconic-venues-set-for-a-refresh</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>72093e82-6b3b-4235-bbf6-4d2e43f4b761</guid>
      <title>Inspirational Newcastle citizens raise flags at City Administration Centre</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s 2021 Citizen of the Year Award recipients have led the inaugural flag-raising ceremony at 12 Stewart Avenue in recognition of their significant roles in our community.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/inspirational-newcastle-citizens-raise-flags-at-city-administration-centre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d05cd07b-9337-4ec1-9f29-8d76bd4719b9</guid>
      <title>$800,000 available to support innovative local business projects in City CBD </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Projects&amp;nbsp;designed&amp;nbsp;to&amp;nbsp;draw people into&amp;nbsp;the City Centre and Darby Street&amp;nbsp;will&amp;nbsp;share in around&amp;nbsp;$800,000&amp;nbsp;as part of a funding program&amp;nbsp;driving visitation and vibrancy&amp;nbsp;across Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$800,000-available-to-support-innovative-local-business-projects-in-city-cbd</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d9fa7ea5-db43-458e-865e-92716c5fc93d</guid>
      <title>City extends COVID-19 hardship support  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is extending hardship support to businesses and residents in the community affected by the latest restrictions aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-extends-covid-19-hardship-support</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>66b17e7d-5673-4a9a-95cf-2c1147855ac9</guid>
      <title>Finalists revealed as KILGOUR PRIZE 2021 attracts record entries</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Three local artists have made the cut from a record number of entries vying for honours in this year&amp;#39;s prestigious KILGOUR PRIZE.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/finalists-revealed-as-kilgour-prize-2021-attracts-record-entries</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0e173986-7621-400b-a55a-88e4ee4bfa59</guid>
      <title>Training programs to help local businesses and residents   </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;is investing&amp;nbsp;almost $400,000&amp;nbsp;in&amp;nbsp;training programs designed to&amp;nbsp;help&amp;nbsp;locals&amp;nbsp;make the most of&amp;nbsp;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;emerging economic opportunities.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/training-programs-to-help-local-businesses-and-residents</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a9f01923-bff3-478b-9895-bc313b780998</guid>
      <title>Transformation of Hamilton’s James Street Plaza close to complete </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;After three months of construction the City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s transformation of James Street Plaza on Hamilton&amp;#39;s Beaumont Street is nearly complete.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/transformation-of-hamilton’s-james-street-plaza-close-to-complete</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1d8bc545-a4f0-48e3-b6bc-8e1f4b01bb02</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle creates career opportunities for Newcastle youth</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is continuing its commitment to creating career opportunities for Newcastle&amp;#39;s youth in response to high unemployment rates caused by COVID-19.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-creates-career-opportunities-for-newcastle-youth</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f3a02088-f505-4b30-880d-1089cfb48234</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Art Gallery expansion set to proceed </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A $35.6 million project to double the size of the Newcastle Art Gallery looks set to receive the green light from Council.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-art-gallery-expansion-set-to-proceed</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a4e1236b-67f8-4ac6-90eb-1415c6123f74</guid>
      <title>Community shapes new vision for Newcastle's iconic Harbour Foreshore</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has released its updated vision for Newcastle&amp;#39;s Harbour Foreshore including a revised concept for Foreshore Park, showing an additional 4,000m2 of playspace with more picnic areas, trees and gardens, cycleways, as well as new plans for the Wharf Road Precinct.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-shapes-new-vision-for-newcastle-s-iconic-harbour-foreshore</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>218f4c36-5071-4055-aa69-75430e72e912</guid>
      <title>City commits to elevating women in sport</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has cemeted its ongoing commitment to female sporting talent by sponsoring a range of women&amp;#39;s sporting events including rugby, soccer and surfing over the next 12 months.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-commits-to-elevating-women-in-sport</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8e8809d6-4c55-4009-b944-1dc9e7be6c09</guid>
      <title>City continues activation of unused space in National Park</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Work is about to start to triple the number of basketball courts located within the inner city&amp;rsquo;s National Park.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-continues-activation-of-unused-space-in-national-park</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>25189cd7-13e7-4214-b25f-853722a8237c</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 27 July 2021</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 29 June 2021. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-27-july-2021</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>80ff362f-c4b5-4603-b6c2-2323739932b4</guid>
      <title>Entrepreneurs set to bolster local economy</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Thirty talented and entrepreneurial individuals have been selected to relocate to Newcastle as part of an Australian-first economic stimulus program.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/entrepreneurs-set-to-bolster-local-economy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1abad086-a031-4290-940e-662a932b9665</guid>
      <title>Grants boost support services for vulnerable members of the community in Hamilton </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;is continuing to support a&amp;nbsp;multi-agency approach&amp;nbsp;to community safety in the&amp;nbsp;Hamilton&amp;nbsp;area to ensure people who are vulnerable get access to important services.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 July 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/grants-boost-support-services-for-vulnerable-members-of-the-community-in-hamilton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1c00040c-5460-42c8-9a43-de9cb37a5ea6</guid>
      <title>Decade of discoveries as Newcastle Museum notches up 10 years at Honeysuckle</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;It&amp;#39;s welcomed almost 1.5 million visitors,&amp;nbsp;won 20 state and national awards, displayed 71 exhibitions and held thousands of special events &amp;ndash; but after&amp;nbsp;a decade&amp;nbsp;at&amp;nbsp;Honeysuckle there&amp;#39;s still more to discover at Newcastle Museum.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/decade-of-discoveries-as-newcastle-museum-notches-up-10-years-at-honeysuckle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ab1de925-d7f5-442e-a489-073523627206</guid>
      <title>Newcastle caters for ageing population in city planning</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has partnered with Hunter Ageing Alliance to better integrate age-friendly actions such as accessibility improvements and community connections into forward planning.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-caters-for-ageing-population-in-city-planning</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f21f38c0-1e5b-4de3-a3c3-cf688cbdd48c</guid>
      <title>City services and facilities COVID-19 lockdown update</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Many of&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s publicly facing facilities are closed&amp;nbsp;to the public in line with the lockdown announced by NSW Premier&amp;nbsp;Gladys Berejiklian&amp;nbsp;for areas of the Hunter, including the Newcastle local government area.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-services-and-facilities-covid-19-lockdown-update</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>24ca376f-a1f0-4519-a1a4-cd412732ecb0</guid>
      <title>Hiroshima Day flag-raising reaffirms City’s commitment to Nuclear Free Zone</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle reaffirmed its long-held commitment to declaring the city a Nuclear Free Zone, raising the Hunter Peace Group and International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) flags in Civic Park in recognition of Hiroshima Day.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hiroshima-day-flag-raising-reaffirms-city’s-commitment-to-nuclear-free-zone</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0a88042d-4a82-4c3b-bfbc-80ed117fdd1c</guid>
      <title>New Annual postponed until September 2022</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has&amp;nbsp;postponed&amp;nbsp;its New Annual&amp;nbsp;festival,&amp;nbsp;which was scheduled to take place from&amp;nbsp;24 September to 3 October.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-annual-postponed-until-september-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a1e3d491-ca77-495f-a1f8-48843dfcdfe8</guid>
      <title>City support establishment of new COVID-19 testing clinic in Wickham </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has worked with the NSW Government and private operator Medtech Services to quickly establish a new testing clinic in Wickham to meet increasing demand from the community seeking rapid COVID-19 testing.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-support-establishment-of-new-covid-19-testing-clinic-in-wickham</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d0de5889-6f2e-4928-b007-7c13efc9a999</guid>
      <title>Facilities deliver digital experiences to keep community busy</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s cultural facilities are diving back into the digital world to help keep Novocastrians entertained during the&amp;nbsp;current&amp;nbsp;COVID&amp;nbsp;lockdown.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/facilities-deliver-digital-experiences-to-keep-community-busy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6b5117fd-2ce4-415d-b295-43353a020e7b</guid>
      <title>Directors reappointed to State Government roles </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The Directors of&amp;nbsp;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s museum&amp;nbsp;and art gallery&amp;nbsp;will continue to&amp;nbsp;guide the future direction of the State&amp;rsquo;s cultural sector&amp;nbsp;after being&amp;nbsp;reappointed&amp;nbsp;for a&amp;nbsp;second two-year&amp;nbsp;term to&amp;nbsp;the Create NSW Artform Advisory Boards.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>11 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/directors-reappointed-to-state-government-roles</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>80fc78cd-6031-4f7f-ae29-db46acc4c95c</guid>
      <title>Contract for Business Improvement Association Support Services</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Hamilton business owner Janice Musumeci has been awarded a two-year contract to provide Business Improvement Association (BIA) support services, replacing previous provider Purser Corporate Communications (Purser).&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/contract-for-business-improvement-association-support-services</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bc05e4eb-8d1d-4dea-b0ba-733df59703c0</guid>
      <title>Community steers vision for historic Gregson Park </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has unveiled a new vision for&amp;nbsp;Hamilton&amp;rsquo;s historic&amp;nbsp;Gregson Park as part of the development of a draft masterplan.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-steers-vision-for-historic-gregson-park</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>796646e3-b4f6-4f1f-8341-8acfabf751cd</guid>
      <title>Proposed Development Contributions Plans to Fund Future Infrastructure </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Consultation on an improved approach to&amp;nbsp;funding future&amp;nbsp;infrastructure&amp;nbsp;to support growth in the&amp;nbsp;city&amp;nbsp;will be considered&amp;nbsp;by the elected Council&amp;nbsp;on Tuesday night.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/proposed-development-contributions-plans-to-fund-future-infrastructure</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>59d42295-2d6c-4d3e-a13d-0dd2001d4d07</guid>
      <title>City prepares operators for tourism-led economic recovery</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting businesses to learn more about developing unique and marketable visitor offerings so they can make the most of an expected post-COVID-19 tourism boom.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-prepares-operators-for-tourism-led-economic-recovery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6ad26f2e-0f84-4ac2-a3fb-9001db8b3ee4</guid>
      <title>City supports Aspen Medical disability vaccination hub</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has worked with Aspen Medical to&amp;nbsp;establish&amp;nbsp;a&amp;nbsp;Newcastle disability vaccination hub at Wallsend Library.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-supports-aspen-medical-disability-vaccination-hub</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7c0369f2-bfa6-4092-b221-42e71df28874</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Ocean Baths pool designs finalised </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has called for construction tenders for the first stage of Newcastle Ocean Baths&amp;#39; revitalisation including the pools and lower promenade.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-ocean-baths-pool-designs-finalised</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f80e774c-8a5d-4e40-8efd-1faf8a8e02ba</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 24 August 2021</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 24 August 2021. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-24-august-2021</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7e52d78b-7e1a-4fba-a35c-38067801642f</guid>
      <title>Rock bags offer emergency protection but sand remains the focus for Stockton </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Work to place a temporary protection structure along Stockton foreshore at Barrie Crescent is now complete while City of Newcastle remains committed to sourcing sand for mass nourishment at Stockton Beach.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/rock-bags-offer-emergency-protection-but-sand-remains-the-focus-for-stockton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f20bbe36-d8e1-4357-8325-1a4d0e5864ee</guid>
      <title>Hamilton’s James Street Plaza makeover complete </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s transformation of James Street Plaza on Hamilton&amp;#39;s Beaumont Street is complete after four months of construction.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hamilton’s-james-street-plaza-makeover-complete</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4a3b2770-044a-4c5d-b424-a163fa9c2149</guid>
      <title>Lori Pensini wins Kilgour Prize 2021</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;West Australian artist and perennial&amp;nbsp;Kilgour Prize finalist Lori&amp;nbsp;Pensini&amp;nbsp;has&amp;nbsp;celebrated a breakthrough win in the prestigious&amp;nbsp;$50,000&amp;nbsp;art&amp;nbsp;prize&amp;nbsp;with an intimate reflection&amp;nbsp;on&amp;nbsp;inter-racial relationships and her own family lineage.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/lori-pensini-wins-kilgour-prize-2021</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c1bf1562-0534-45ef-84d2-03fc80ac2ed3</guid>
      <title>City extends COVID-19 community support</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;will&amp;nbsp;invest at least&amp;nbsp;$10 million&amp;nbsp;into the&amp;nbsp;local economy&amp;nbsp;to help&amp;nbsp;create&amp;nbsp;new jobs following a&amp;nbsp;Lord&amp;nbsp;Mayoral&amp;nbsp;Minute&amp;nbsp;unanimously&amp;nbsp;supported by the Council.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 Aug 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-extends-covid-19-community-support</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7434f7a6-a550-4f12-8ac9-40becac35a3a</guid>
      <title>Newcastle welcomes 150 new citizens online in City first </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle today welcomed close to 150 new citizens from 39 countries online in a COVID first for the&amp;nbsp;City.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-welcomes-150-new-citizens-online-in-city-first</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0f4f4ff1-90bb-46d8-9527-096b14e77cfa</guid>
      <title>City supports community organisations to continue vital work amidst COVID-19</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Thousands of&amp;nbsp;face masks, hand sanitiser, face shields and disinfectant wipes have been&amp;nbsp;distributed&amp;nbsp;to dozens of community organisations&amp;nbsp;as part of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s continued efforts to support the community through COVID-19.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-supports-community-organisations-to-continue-vital-work-amidst-covid-19</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1e4e6a22-17d2-4a8f-9b4a-962ea04b3fcf</guid>
      <title>Rapid response funding supports COVID-driven demand for community services</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has provided $110,000&amp;nbsp;towards the purchase of&amp;nbsp;food packages&amp;nbsp;and toiletries,&amp;nbsp;as well as crisis&amp;nbsp;accommodation,&amp;nbsp;counselling&amp;nbsp;and&amp;nbsp;web connectivity&amp;nbsp;to community groups&amp;nbsp;responding to&amp;nbsp;the current lockdown of the city.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/rapid-response-funding-supports-covid-driven-demand-for-community-services</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d8166999-5e22-4bfe-b705-5714e7894aca</guid>
      <title>Have your say on plan for Mayfield cycleway network</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is continuing to expand the city&amp;rsquo;s cycleway network with early consultation now open on a plan for the Mayfield area.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/have-your-say-on-plan-for-mayfield-cycleway-network</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a8dfec39-d6ac-4f97-8199-14c1e59c510a</guid>
      <title>Summerhill Waste Management Centre service resumes for domestic customers </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;In line with NSW Government advice&amp;nbsp;Summerhill Waste Management Centre&amp;nbsp;has&amp;nbsp;now&amp;nbsp;reopened to all customers.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/summerhill-waste-management-centre-service-resumes-for-domestic-customers</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2b0ef01f-9dac-432d-afd3-41983e905bf2</guid>
      <title>Hunter Street boasts City's newest cycleway</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s network of active transport options continues to grow, with City of Newcastle finalising work on the Hunter Street Trial Cycleway project.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hunter-street-boasts-city-s-newest-cycleway</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b879639f-7e89-4edd-84d7-0bd4e552bb18</guid>
      <title>Bright young minds to participate in Future Innovators Summit</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The Future Innovators Summit (FIS) will be held in Australia for the first time in December 2021, following City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s investment in the art/science event.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/bright-young-minds-to-participate-in-future-innovators-summit</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a4c10fb6-0ea1-4b51-b88c-1b6da8b39d87</guid>
      <title>City's commercial kitchen facilities dish up support to charities</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;With the city in lockdown, City of Newcastle has handed over its unused commercial kitchen facilities to help charities prepare healthy meals for families struggling to get by.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-s-commercial-kitchen-facilities-dish-up-support-to-charities</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e71993a9-dc22-4d11-8a58-f5920dc39291</guid>
      <title>City to progress significant remediation of former Shortland landfill site</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;will&amp;nbsp;soon go to tender to remediate a&amp;nbsp;former&amp;nbsp;landfill&amp;nbsp;site at Shortland&amp;nbsp;where much of the debris from the&amp;nbsp;Newcastle&amp;nbsp;earthquake was buried.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-to-progress-significant-remediation-of-former-shortland-landfill-site</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b187918c-85aa-453e-9cdc-b67594e9dc17</guid>
      <title>Work continuing behind the scenes at Blackbutt Reserve</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;As one of Newcastle&amp;#39;s most popular open&amp;nbsp;green&amp;nbsp;spaces, Blackbutt Reserve has remained a haven for locals looking for COVID safe exercise options during lockdown.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/work-continuing-behind-the-scenes-at-blackbutt-reserve</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9ad1b1a9-4cbc-4828-af6c-426178bae2b0</guid>
      <title>Another cycleway link completed</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The city&amp;rsquo;s cycleway network has received a boost with works finalising on a 1.1km shared path along Watkins Street, Merewether, linking Glebe Road, The Junction, with Merewether Beach. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/another-cycleway-link-completed</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>06e8e6c8-d8e0-4720-a7f4-3b9a55b683e5</guid>
      <title>Car park demolition to reveal first glimpse of stunning city to harbour view corridor  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;will&amp;nbsp;commence&amp;nbsp;demolition of&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;59-year-old&amp;nbsp;Mall Car Park&amp;nbsp;at&amp;nbsp;92&amp;nbsp;King Street,&amp;nbsp;with&amp;nbsp;works scheduled to be completed by&amp;nbsp;late-January&amp;nbsp;2022.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/car-park-demolition-to-reveal-first-glimpse-of-stunning-city-to-harbour-view-corridor</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>77040144-c455-4bc9-9b2f-d1ce729160fa</guid>
      <title>Help shape public art in Newcastle </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;is seeking&amp;nbsp;community-minded&amp;nbsp;art, design&amp;nbsp;and architecture&amp;nbsp;experts&amp;nbsp;to&amp;nbsp;help&amp;nbsp;advise on the development of public art that reflects Newcastle&amp;#39;s history, culture and community.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/help-shape-public-art-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a13ed1e8-83e6-405c-87d2-a9f02f6b7f17</guid>
      <title>Environmental upgrades underway at Summerhill Waste Management Centre</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle will deliver approximately $6 million in environmental upgrades at Summerhill Waste Management Centre, including new systems to prevent pollution of water and manage leachate. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/environmental-upgrades-underway-at-summerhill-waste-management-centre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>84ddda6e-626e-4f2c-9ae9-258169ca575f</guid>
      <title>Books delivered direct to your door</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Avid readers will be able to turn the pages of their favourite books once again following the launch of a new Newcastle Libraries service, Library 2U, which will see books, movies and music delivered to the homes of members. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/books-delivered-direct-to-your-door</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a80f5690-6dad-4b32-83ec-781d8666ef12</guid>
      <title>No. 1 Sportsground set to celebrate centenary with a makeover</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle could host elite cricket and AFL matches as soon as 2022 with the redevelopment of Newcastle&amp;#39;s No. 1 Sportsground drawing closer to completion.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/no-1-sportsground-set-to-celebrate-centenary-with-a-makeover</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8315ce73-0417-4a59-8c66-fb1f2ea4bd5d</guid>
      <title>Windfarms offer up billions of investment dollars for Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A renewable energy industry built on large-scale offshore wind farms could unlock billions of dollars in investment and create thousands of jobs in Newcastle, offering a sustainable future for the city.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/windfarms-offer-up-billions-of-investment-dollars-for-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>dba749ec-9429-46bd-908d-e5a63325ad20</guid>
      <title>Village Hub precinct set for expansion as Wickham evolves </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An updated vision for Wickham will see the Village Hub precint expanded, turning what has always been a semi-industrial suburb into an urban residential neighbourhood that supports Newcastle&amp;#39;s reinvented west-end.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/village-hub-precinct-set-for-expansion-as-wickham-evolves</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>359fc501-5c79-4cd0-baad-f9196da262f7</guid>
      <title>City’s swimming centres to reopen Monday</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Swimming centres across Newcastle are set to welcome swimmers back&amp;nbsp;on Monday, following&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;NSW Government&amp;#39;s decision last week that&amp;nbsp;outdoor public pools&amp;nbsp;can&amp;nbsp;reopen.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city’s-swimming-centres-to-reopen-monday</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f2b5fef9-cdf7-4410-a5ff-a9999aea2de3</guid>
      <title>CN and Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation agree on $10 million contribution to long-awaited expansion project </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Councillors will consider a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the City of Newcastle and the Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation at tonight&amp;#39;s Council meeting, which outlines the organisations&amp;#39; shared commitment to the expansion project and the future of the cultural landmark.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/cn-and-newcastle-art-gallery-foundation-agree-on-$10-million-contribution-to-long-awaited-expansion</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>208126e5-5519-419a-90a8-d6458185e10f</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 28 September 2021</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council&amp;nbsp;Meeting of Tuesday&amp;nbsp;28 September&amp;nbsp;2021. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-28-september-2021</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e88f10b4-02d7-4f7d-8134-a642d32c22ce</guid>
      <title>Newcastle 500 to return as Supercars season opener in March </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s economy and COVID-hit tourism industry is set to benefit from the season opener of the 2022 Supercars Championship series converging in the city for the Newcastle 500 on 4-6 March.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-500-to-return-as-supercars-season-opener-in-march</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3f578fc0-393e-437d-baba-f7e83c70c874</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle on track to appoint contractor for Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Tenders for a construction contractor to complete the Stage 1 upgrade of Newcastle Ocean Baths have closed with City of Newcastle on track to appoint a head contractor at the October Council meeting.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-on-track-to-appoint-contractor-for-newcastle-ocean-baths-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>02917f94-a6fc-45db-beef-be5b04bb7234</guid>
      <title>City pledges continued action on climate change </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle continues to demonstrate its leadership in addressing climate change, with Councillors voting to join the international Cities Race to Zero and Cities Race to Resilience campaigns at Tuesday&amp;#39;s Council meeting.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-pledges-continued-action-on-climate-change</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fa6ffeb5-cb1a-442b-bbda-0905fd360d94</guid>
      <title>59,000 visitors to City’s Digital Library in its first year</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Novocastrians have embraced the chance to learn digital skills and access cutting edge technology at the City&amp;#39;s newest library, which has attracted more than 59,000 visitors in its first year.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 Sept 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/59,000-visitors-to-city’s-digital-library-in-its-first-year</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c1f8a7ee-6ff3-40d4-8010-2d88ec331efe</guid>
      <title>Cheers to COVID-Safe picnics </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Although it&amp;#39;s not possible to get out to your favourite restaurant or watering&amp;nbsp;hole&amp;nbsp;at the moment, the city&amp;#39;s beautiful parks are the perfect place to meet up with up family and friends for a COVID-Safe picnic, provided you&amp;#39;re fully vaccinated.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/cheers-to-covid-safe-picnics</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>700f8a96-da37-4c14-a718-4bd79fcd7f88</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle welcomes its 500th citizen in 2021 online </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle welcomed its largest number of new citizens yet via group virtual ceremonies on Tuesday, conferring Australian citizenship upon 190 people from 39 countries.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-welcomes-its-500th-citizen-in-2021-online</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9d96043c-f9b7-4d9c-92c1-14d07a6d73dc</guid>
      <title>Hamilton’s James Street Plaza lights up </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Hamilton&amp;#39;s James Street Plaza will be filled with colour and light every night following the installation of an interactive lighting display developed as part of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s transformation of this much-loved community space.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hamilton’s-james-street-plaza-lights-up</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>97d47d88-4d7c-451c-bbf2-ec6a64d7aa5d</guid>
      <title>$450K in grants to support jobs and business growth</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A&amp;nbsp;transition to clean energy, developing&amp;nbsp;solutions to grow&amp;nbsp;a&amp;nbsp;circular economy&amp;nbsp;and&amp;nbsp;connecting&amp;nbsp;refugees to&amp;nbsp;career&amp;nbsp;pathways&amp;nbsp;have received funding under City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s Community Support Grants&amp;nbsp;Program.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$450k-in-grants-to-support-jobs-and-business-growth</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d0c99062-d254-462f-8b71-d4c63931e0c6</guid>
      <title>Statement on pools and staged resumption of services</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle will continue to focus on the health and safety of&amp;nbsp;our community&amp;nbsp;as we take a staged approach to the safe reopening of services and facilities&amp;nbsp;this week&amp;nbsp;in line with NSW Government Public Health Orders (PHOs).&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-on-pools-and-staged-resumption-of-services</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7c172589-c2b9-4670-a74e-dea92b4a052f</guid>
      <title>Bathers Way just got even better </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Local coffee lovers will soon be flocking to Dixon Park&amp;nbsp;Beach, with&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;arrival&amp;nbsp;of&amp;nbsp;a&amp;nbsp;long-awaited&amp;nbsp;kiosk&amp;nbsp;in time for the busy&amp;nbsp;Summer&amp;nbsp;period.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/bathers-way-just-got-even-better</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>62309584-2831-4c1f-93ed-336bdcc0335e</guid>
      <title>Health and wellbeing at the heart of City of Newcastle’s local business support  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City&amp;nbsp;of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;has marked World Mental Health Day by launching&amp;nbsp;an eight-week campaign to encourage the community to&amp;nbsp;improve&amp;nbsp;their&amp;nbsp;physical and mental health&amp;nbsp;whilst&amp;nbsp;earning&amp;nbsp;discounts&amp;nbsp;that can be redeemed&amp;nbsp;at&amp;nbsp;local businesses.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/health-and-wellbeing-at-the-heart-of-city-of-newcastle’s-local-business-support</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5b7b8d9f-6e42-4aac-ab61-a31aaa9d0aa8</guid>
      <title>Online vote crowns People's Choice for Kilgour Prize</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A first-time entrant&amp;nbsp;has taken out the People&amp;#39;s Choice award in this year&amp;#39;s Kilgour Prize after&amp;nbsp;attracting&amp;nbsp;19 per cent&amp;nbsp;of the&amp;nbsp;total&amp;nbsp;votes, which were&amp;nbsp;cast online due to COVID-19 restrictions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/online-vote-crowns-people-s-choice-for-kilgour-prize</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2e6e7f7b-24a9-4069-ad90-ea27121b5d17</guid>
      <title>Community satisfaction increases as major projects are delivered throughout the city</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Independent research shows community satisfaction with City of Newcastle (CN) has increased progressively since 2012,&amp;nbsp;correlating with increased&amp;nbsp;investment in capital works&amp;nbsp;of&amp;nbsp;almost 200 per cent&amp;nbsp;in the same period.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-satisfaction-increases-as-major-projects-are-delivered-throughout-the-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7ea63752-e5cd-4691-b282-c2767e7ef53b</guid>
      <title>Funding programs offer $1.25 million boost for COVID-affected sectors</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Two&amp;nbsp;street art festivals&amp;nbsp;will help&amp;nbsp;draw visitors into&amp;nbsp;the city&amp;nbsp;centre, increase&amp;nbsp;spending&amp;nbsp;with&amp;nbsp;local businesses&amp;nbsp;and&amp;nbsp;showcase the&amp;nbsp;talents of local artists,&amp;nbsp;thanks to support from City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/funding-programs-offer-$1-25-million-boost for-covid-affected sectors</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8a8daaf8-e2cd-4cf7-a71c-f86edd098454</guid>
      <title>Nominations now open for City of Newcastle 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;As another challenging year draws to a close, City of Newcastle is calling for nominations for its 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards&amp;nbsp;to recognise the strength, resilience and excellence of Novocastrians.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/nominations-now-open-for-city-of-newcastle-2022-citizen-of-the-year-awards</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>616cacd7-89f3-4fbd-a1fa-ddbbfac337b1</guid>
      <title>New funding to welcome back live performances </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;As the city emerges from lockdown,&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;has announced&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;return of&amp;nbsp;its&amp;nbsp;&amp;lsquo;Locally Made and Played&amp;nbsp;Grant&amp;rsquo;&amp;nbsp;program&amp;nbsp;with&amp;nbsp;funding&amp;nbsp;available to showcase talented&amp;nbsp;local artists&amp;nbsp;and&amp;nbsp;incentivise&amp;nbsp;venues to&amp;nbsp;host&amp;nbsp;live&amp;nbsp;performances.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-funding-to-welcome-back-live-performances</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>028fc9ef-7fab-4772-8327-dc8fecc4ccc2</guid>
      <title>Improved safety coming soon for Shortland Local Centre</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A more attractive and accessible local centre is on its way for Shortland, with City of Newcastle set to start construction on an upgrade to improve safety next month.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/improved-safety-coming-soon-for-shortland-local-centre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d4d4bffb-b806-439f-99b9-89a2cf738a1d</guid>
      <title>Newcastle recognised for innovative approach to economic development </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s innovative approach to talent attraction and people-first economic development strategy has been recognised at the 2021 National Economic Development Awards for Excellence.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-recognised-for-innovative-approach-to-economic-development</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b5db0fbd-fd53-4286-adc9-30a90090cd7b</guid>
      <title>Employment opportunities in focus as City responds to COVID-19</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;January 2022 will usher in a new year&amp;nbsp;-&amp;nbsp;and a new career&amp;nbsp;-&amp;nbsp;for&amp;nbsp;12&amp;nbsp;trainees, apprentices and graduates as&amp;nbsp;Newcastle&amp;nbsp;looks to&amp;nbsp;create&amp;nbsp;employment opportunities&amp;nbsp;for the city&amp;rsquo;s young people&amp;nbsp;as part of its response to COVID-19.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/employment-opportunities-in-focus-as-city-responds-to-covid-19</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e77ec192-cab5-4fb5-b525-53380c23e5b9</guid>
      <title>Financials highlight cost of COVID but strong foundation holds City in good stead for future     </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The two-and-a-half month lockdown of Newcastle is expected to cost the City of Newcastle $8.5 million this year alone with the biggest financial hits coming from the loss of tonnages to the waste management centre at Summerhill, the temporary closure of the Civic Theatre, the closure of the Stockton Holiday Park and a reduction in the number of people using parking meters in the CBD as well as parking tickets being issued.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/financials-highlight-cost-of-covid-but-strong-foundation-holds-city-in-good-stead-for-future</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cd70bde5-7287-4910-aa1b-58204bc46a20</guid>
      <title>Residents and visitors set for one more summer splash before Newcastle Ocean Baths' upgrade </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle Councillors&amp;nbsp;will&amp;nbsp;vote&amp;nbsp;on Tuesday&amp;nbsp;to&amp;nbsp;award&amp;nbsp;the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade&amp;nbsp;contract&amp;nbsp;with the site to&amp;nbsp;close early next year and be off limits for just one summer.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/residents-and-visitors-set-for-one-more-summer-splash-before-newcastle-ocean-baths-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6351d74b-6b30-419a-b9fb-8bb285b84d6a</guid>
      <title>Sporting facilities set for upgrades thanks to City of Newcastle grant funding </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Sporting facility upgrades for Alder Park in New Lambton, Empire Park opposite Bar Beach, Cook Park in Shortland and Hamilton Park Tennis Club are among 59 projects awarded a combined $450,000 in funding from the City of Newcastle. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sporting-facilities-set-for-upgrades-thanks-to-city-of-newcastle-grant-funding</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0b543169-5bea-4444-af87-f8dcb630de91</guid>
      <title>New plan to ensure Newcastle is an inclusive community for all</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has&amp;nbsp;reaffirmed its commitment to&amp;nbsp;ensuring Newcastle is an inclusive community&amp;nbsp;via an updated&amp;nbsp;Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP)&amp;nbsp;to&amp;nbsp;be presented to Councillors at Tuesday&amp;#39;s Council Meeting.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-plan-to-ensure-newcastle-is-an-inclusive-community-for-all</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3f145753-f2eb-4319-8ab1-90d0f4b818af</guid>
      <title>South Newcastle Beach stone shelter stands the test of time </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;When the stones were set in the arches at South Newcastle Beach, horse and carts&amp;nbsp;filled&amp;nbsp;the streets of&amp;nbsp;Newcastle&amp;nbsp;and&amp;nbsp;beach attire consisted of&amp;nbsp;three-piece&amp;nbsp;suits and ankle length dresses.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/south-newcastle-beach-stone-shelter-stands-the-test-of-time</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>87bd9a87-962f-4774-bf93-48027be6a477</guid>
      <title>Newcastle benefits from record infrastructure spend to buffer impact of COVID on local economy </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Audited financial statements for the last twelve months show that the&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;lifted its infrastructure&amp;nbsp;spend&amp;nbsp;by&amp;nbsp;more than ten percent, to&amp;nbsp;a record&amp;nbsp;$102.4&amp;nbsp;million, to counter the impact of COVID-19&amp;nbsp;on the local&amp;nbsp;economy. &lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-benefits-from-record-infrastructure-spend-to-buffer-impact-of-covid on-local-economy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cc3e1eb7-e374-42b1-8448-fccf57067f6a</guid>
      <title>Street verge to become the next frontier for city's gardeners  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Green-thumbed&amp;nbsp;residents&amp;nbsp;are being&amp;nbsp;given the opportunity to transform Newcastle&amp;#39;s street verges into flourishing road-side gardens.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/street-verge-to-become-the-next-frontier-for-city-s-gardeners</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ccde086e-f41f-4045-bcd2-7a2a6b970ec6</guid>
      <title>Major events the ticket to Newcastle’s economic success </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Major events have broad support from residents and businesses, while each Supercars Newcastle 500 delivers an average $36.2 million in economic output and 149 jobs, according to global accountancy firm Ernst &amp;amp; Young.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/major-events-the-ticket-to-newcastle’s-economic-success</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>65c311aa-52eb-47f0-8102-685755e61a1e</guid>
      <title>Funding future infrastructure top of the agenda with population and development set to boom</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An improved framework to fund future community infrastructure will be considered by the elected Council at tonight&amp;rsquo;s Ordinary Council Meeting, to support 23,000 new residents by 2036.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/funding-future-infrastructure-top-of-the-agenda-with-population-and-development-set-to-boom</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7f77ba95-d243-417e-82f7-7d7042593ba6</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting 26 October 2021</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council&amp;nbsp;Meeting of Tuesday&amp;nbsp;26 October 2021. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-26-october-2021</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b40043b0-1fa5-4f2b-952e-fd6fcd0a3428</guid>
      <title>Nominate now for inaugural Meg Purser Scholarship</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Applications are being invited for a new scholarship&amp;nbsp;established&amp;nbsp;to honour the memory of Newcastle businesswoman Meg Purser.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/nominate-now-for-inaugural-meg-purser-scholarship</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c62e5fc5-e9d5-4d36-8756-b5f5d50726ef</guid>
      <title>Protest art takes centre stage at Newcastle Art Gallery  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The deep-rooted tradition of activism through art is being put in the spotlight by a new exhibition at Newcastle Art Gallery.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Oct 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/protest-art-takes-centre-stage-at-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f360f323-a564-41ff-ac18-e69aa20860f2</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle helps drive lifesaving blood and plasma donations </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;With months of lockdown causing a massive shortfall in blood and plasma donations, City of Newcastle staff and Councillors have volunteered their time (and arms) to help raise awareness of the urgent need to give blood.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-helps-drive-lifesaving-blood-and-plasma-donations</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fbdcd683-931d-497f-920b-52e2844dc971</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle invests $135,000 into multi-arts activation at landmark site</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Local arts, cultural, and tourism businesses are set to benefit from the opening of a multi-arts activation lead by the Hunter Writers Centre, funded by City of Newcastle in response to COVID-19&amp;rsquo;s impact on the Newcastle economy.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-invests-$135,000-into-multi-arts-activation-at-landmark-site</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>acf81e86-0471-461c-abff-eb5abcc1888f</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle recognised for innovative cultural change and city planning excellence</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s innovative approach to cultural change and city planning excellence has been recognised at the Local Government NSW Planning Awards (LGNSW) and the 2021 Planning Institute Australia (PIA) NSW Awards for Planning Excellence.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-recognised-for-innovative-cultural-change-and-city-planning-excellence</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>15bbb00e-b078-476b-8e17-293fd993278d</guid>
      <title>Live performance to make a sparkling return to the stage at Newcastle's Civic Theatre </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The&amp;nbsp;Civic Theatre&amp;nbsp;is putting on the glitz this week as it shakes off the shackles of lockdown to welcome audiences back into&amp;nbsp;the iconic&amp;nbsp;Newcastle&amp;nbsp;venue.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/live-performance-to-make-a-sparkling-return-to-the-stage-at-newcastle-s-civic-theatre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b6345d92-1c30-480f-80b8-96fad0999807</guid>
      <title>Major sporting events return to Newcastle as local sides clash with A-League heavyweights</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;National sport will make its&amp;nbsp;long-awaited&amp;nbsp;return to Newcastle&amp;nbsp;Wednesday&amp;nbsp;evening, with a&amp;nbsp;FFA&amp;nbsp;Cup match between local side Broadmeadow Magic FC and the A-League&amp;#39;s Western Sydney Wanderers to be played at No. 2 Sportsground.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/major-sporting-events-return-to-newcastle-as-local-sides-clash-with-a-league-heavyweights</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6ed0f575-efb3-43d4-9c05-cbdd4a0b43ca</guid>
      <title>A smarter way to park by the beach</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Finding a park&amp;nbsp;near the city&amp;#39;s beaches and baths will soon become easier&amp;nbsp;thanks to smart technology that will allow&amp;nbsp;drivers&amp;nbsp;to view available spaces&amp;nbsp;before leaving the house.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/a-smarter-way-to-park-by-the-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f0b01211-13a9-4e83-a57b-9dbe237e9766</guid>
      <title>Newcastle joins Australian-first coffee capsule recycling trial </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An Australian-first pilot program will allow 3,000 households in Newcastle to recycle aluminium coffee pods through their kerbside bins.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-joins-australian-first-coffee-capsule-recycling-trial</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8acddf2f-0ec8-4ae7-91cb-23f83357ec18</guid>
      <title>Life's work on show at Newcastle Art Gallery </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The unexpected beauty&amp;nbsp;that can be&amp;nbsp;found in&amp;nbsp;the microscopic&amp;nbsp;elements of the natural&amp;nbsp;world&amp;nbsp;will be on show at Newcastle Art Gallery as part of an&amp;nbsp;exhibition that&amp;nbsp;celebrates&amp;nbsp;the 40-year career of Adelaide artist Angela&amp;nbsp;Valanamesh.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/life-s-work-on-show-at-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5e8239a2-6694-4342-913f-fc1a72ed1cac</guid>
      <title>Seed library grows further across Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Green thumbs across Newcastle have contributed to the growth of&amp;nbsp;Newcastle Seed Library,&amp;nbsp;with a wider variety of seeds now available to&amp;nbsp;borrow from&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;city&amp;#39;s Digital Library.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>11 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/seed-library-grows-further-across-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bca9a08d-0743-470d-b764-e60718ba7962</guid>
      <title>Community feedback sought for Tennis Strategy</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting community feedback to help inform a new strategy that will guide the future provision and direction of tennis and bat ball facilities across the Newcastle local government area. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-feedback-sought-for-tennis-strategy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a8481d88-ac67-47f0-b893-1b3b1b1884b0</guid>
      <title>Solar farm anniversary shines a light on City's power pledge</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is powering ahead with its commitment to renewable energy, celebrating the success of its solar farm while also rolling out more rooftop solar systems at key facilities.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/solar-farm-anniversary-shines-a-light-on-city-s-power-pledge</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7d93044f-59ff-4de2-a8e1-40bae78bc50d</guid>
      <title>Summerhill Waste Management Facility Statement</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;There is no agreement to take any waste from Sydney with Transport for NSW (TfNSW). TfNSW contacted City of Newcastle (CN) in September requesting a meeting to discuss future waste from the Northern Beaches Link project.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/summerhill-waste-management-facility-statement</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b2c93ce8-8fd2-44b9-92c6-ecfa74d06dd1</guid>
      <title>COVID safe Council meeting </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Tonight&amp;#39;s Council meeting will be held in the Council Chambers. To ensure COVID safe practices for City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s Council meetings, arrangements have been made for members of the public to observe the meeting from the digital library space on the ground floor of the City Administration Centre, in accordance with Public Health Orders.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/covid-safe-council-meeting</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>32e770a4-7017-472c-973c-634edbb7a7bb</guid>
      <title>Exhibition turns back time to highlight Newcastle's transformative decade </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;It&amp;#39;s not&amp;nbsp;unusual&amp;nbsp;for a museum to turn back the clock to celebrate the way things were.&amp;nbsp;But Newcastle Museum is&amp;nbsp;focussing on&amp;nbsp;the past to&amp;nbsp;draw attention to the present,&amp;nbsp;with an exhibition designed to&amp;nbsp;highlight&amp;nbsp;how the cityscape&amp;nbsp;has changed&amp;nbsp;during the&amp;nbsp;last decade.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/exhibition-turns-back-time-to-highlight-newcastle-s-transformative-decade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ef9a0072-af2f-4c8f-b3dc-eca7df889f20</guid>
      <title>Newcastle joins #RacismNotWelcome street sign campaign </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;New street signs are being installed in key locations across Newcastle as part of a grassroots initative to sow that racism is not welcome within our community.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-joins-racismnotwelcome-street-sign-campaign</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>108de1e1-9cc4-43a5-a2bc-b457a71d4f7b</guid>
      <title>Gregson Park's history celebrated in new Masterplan </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Future&amp;nbsp;improvements to&amp;nbsp;Hamilton&amp;#39;s historic Gregson Park&amp;nbsp;will&amp;nbsp;be&amp;nbsp;realised&amp;nbsp;through a detailed&amp;nbsp;Masterplan for the site, which&amp;nbsp;will be presented to&amp;nbsp;Councillors&amp;nbsp;for adoption&amp;nbsp;at&amp;nbsp;Tuesday&amp;#39;s&amp;nbsp;Council meeting.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/gregson-park-s-history-celebrated-in-new-masterplan</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>eb4699fd-84e8-465c-bf10-9a2df4ddbc51</guid>
      <title>Funding support takes entertainment outdoors this summer </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s COVID-19 disrupted performing arts and live music industries will be reinvigorated by a new initiative which will see emerging performers work with experienced professionals to deliver live events in suburban parks.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/funding-support-takes-entertainment-outdoors-this-summer</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3408fe46-7829-4b11-8a1d-46b838133d7f</guid>
      <title>Newcastle launches architectural design competition  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An exciting opportunity awaits inspited architects, with City of Newcastle together with property developers St Hilliers and The Spotlight Property Group launching a design competition for the redevelopment of 711 Hunter Street in the city&amp;#39;s revitalised West-end.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-launches-architectural-design-competition</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e3522395-b83e-4c69-ae91-4b187cd68c10</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 23 November 2021</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 23 November 2021. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-23-november-2021</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>28442224-0ad4-421b-9c0f-5d05c7ae3ccd</guid>
      <title>City trials world-leading technology in raingardens to keep waterways clean  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is leading the trial and implementation of a new sustainable technology that improves cleanliness of stormwater runoff through an innovative filtration system used in garden beds along our city streets. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-trials-world-leading-technology-in-raingardens-to-keep-waterways-clean</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>79240ffd-9253-400c-8ec4-09001504ffca</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle welcomes improvements to Infrastructure Contributions Bill after advocacy  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has welcomed the NSW Government&amp;#39;s decision to amend its unpopular infrastructure contributions scheme following the Council&amp;#39;s advocacy.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-welcomes-improvements-to-infrastructure-contributions-bill-after-advocacy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f205cb55-2123-4767-95a7-bfbb2e06faf3</guid>
      <title>New Year's Eve celebration to welcome in the Newcastle new year </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle will farewell 2021 with a spectacular return of New Year&amp;#39;s Eve celebrations to the Foreshore, with the much-loved family-friendly event to be capped off with a dazzling 9pm fireworks display.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-year-s-eve-celebration-to-welcome-in-the-newcastle-new-year</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>eff3b78f-c402-49a6-95e2-a70ce101af4d</guid>
      <title>Donate items to your local library for those in need this Christmas </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Locals are being encouraged to donate non-perishable food and toiletry items as part of the 2021 Newcastle Libraries Christmas Giving Appeal. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/donate-items-to-your-local-library-for-those-in-need-this-christmas</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5b10286d-4193-42ba-bab0-e725d7c5ab08</guid>
      <title>Share your ideas for Georgetown local centre upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has begun community consultation with local residents and business owners to understand views on safety, parking and public spaces in the Georgetown Local Centre area.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 Nov 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/share-your-ideas-for-georgetown-local-centre-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c7966398-b74c-43bb-ad3e-f2c09710566c</guid>
      <title>New laws get tough on abandoned shopping trolleys </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Supermarket operators&amp;nbsp;could&amp;nbsp;be hit with&amp;nbsp;an&amp;nbsp;on the spot&amp;nbsp;fine of $660&amp;nbsp;for not collecting abandoned shopping trolleys&amp;nbsp;following&amp;nbsp;advocacy&amp;nbsp;by&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-laws-get-tough-on-abandoned-shopping-trolleys</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>53ef626f-16a6-47b9-a5cc-c1e674a59ce0</guid>
      <title>Unique digital exhibition to reflect on the HIV crisis in the Hunter </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A new exhibition at Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s Digital Library is delving into the collective memories of locals to provide a unique insight into the history of the AIDS epidemic in the Hunter.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/unique-digital-exhibition-to-reflect-on-the-hiv-crisis-in-the-hunter</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4a4b78fe-92a4-4aee-9f0a-459f6890c342</guid>
      <title>Civic Theatre set to reignite city with live performances in 2022 </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A sizzling new schedule of shows will reignite Newcastle audiences&amp;rsquo; passion for live performance following the online launch of Civic Theatre&amp;rsquo;s new subscription season.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/civic-theatre-set-to-reignite-city-with-live-performances-in-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9608c0ae-04d6-4eaf-be03-af46a17af51b</guid>
      <title>Festive fun comes to Newcastle's Civic precinct</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s Wheeler Place will play host to festive fun as the Civic precinct is transformed with an 11-metre-high Christmas tree and family-friendly activities.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/festive-fun-comes-to-newcastle-s-civic-precinct</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>50f39179-dd61-4f23-9f7d-53bbc8e5b68d</guid>
      <title>Celebrate inclusion on International Day of People with Disability</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;is calling for comment on its new draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) as part of&amp;nbsp;its commitment to&amp;nbsp;creating an accessible and inclusive&amp;nbsp;community.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>03 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/celebrate-inclusion-on-international-day-of-people-with-disability</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>62f4f8b0-6a71-4234-8a42-89a6dbe84d01</guid>
      <title>Richmond Vale Rail Trail a step closer</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The&amp;nbsp;landmark&amp;nbsp;Richmond Vale Rail Trail&amp;nbsp;project has&amp;nbsp;reached an important approval&amp;nbsp;milestone, with future work set to&amp;nbsp;rejuvenate&amp;nbsp;the&amp;nbsp;historic rail line&amp;nbsp;as a new&amp;nbsp;regional&amp;nbsp;shared path for the community and&amp;nbsp;visitors.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/richmond-vale-rail-trail-a-step-closer</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>823f07bd-12e7-4c75-9c06-5dab6785c4bb</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle projects receive $1.2 million funding boost </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A café and community facility at Newcastle&amp;#39;s favourite nature&amp;nbsp;reserve and an improved cycling link between&amp;nbsp;the University of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;and the city centre have&amp;nbsp;received almost&amp;nbsp;$1.2 million from the NSW&amp;nbsp;Government.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-projects-receive-$1-2-million-funding-boost</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3465d287-fbb2-4164-84e0-bcb28f2a2fec</guid>
      <title>Annual sand top ups needed for Stockton coastline</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An ongoing program of sand nourishment will be the best way to provide a buffer for the coastline and beach amenity at Stockton according to a City of Newcastle evaluation, which considered a range of options for long term coastal management.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/annual-sand-top-ups-needed-for-stockton-coastline</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7c99dd08-ca8b-4c5c-9cb2-86056ee8fc07</guid>
      <title>Roaring good time in store at Newcastle Museum as visitors vote for best dinosaur in show</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The Local Government elections may be over, but there&amp;#39;s another&amp;nbsp;ballot looming for Novocastrians this month when&amp;nbsp;the latest exhibition opens at Newcastle Museum.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/roaring-good-time-in-store-at-newcastle-museum-as-visitors-vote-for-best-dinosaur-in-show</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a0eded80-d432-4da3-a769-1985081fc2f6</guid>
      <title>Art illuminates city spaces at night through interactive smart city technology </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Iconic artworks from Newcastle Art Gallery&amp;#39;s collection&amp;nbsp;will&amp;nbsp;provide&amp;nbsp;interactive&amp;nbsp;night-time&amp;nbsp;attractions to&amp;nbsp;liven up underutilised public spaces across the city.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/art-illuminates-city-spaces-at-night-through-interactive-smart-city-technology</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>caf47213-d5b9-42db-b359-a9618002993e</guid>
      <title>Work begins on upgrade to National Park Netball Courts</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The revitalisation of National Park&amp;#39;s popular sporting precincts is set to continue with a $627,000&lt;br /&gt;
overhaul of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s premier netball facility.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/work-begins-on-upgrade-to-national-park-netball-courts</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bf8ffc0c-4faa-44aa-9c57-067e63434a5f</guid>
      <title>Landmark Newcastle Art Gallery exhibition receives national recognition </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A Newcastle Art Gallery exhibition that showcased works of art&amp;nbsp;never before&amp;nbsp;seen outside of the Torres Strait has&amp;nbsp;this week&amp;nbsp;been announced as the winner of the Promoting Indigenous Recognition Award at the National Local Government Awards. &amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/landmark-newcastle-art-gallery-exhibition-receives-national-recognition</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bd0da68b-4949-4501-bc83-b16924efc48a</guid>
      <title>Women claim almost three quarters of spots on new Council </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Nine women have today been confirmed as elected to Newcastle City Council, a first in the City&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;220-year&amp;nbsp;history.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/women-claim-almost-three-quarters-of-spots-on-new-council</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f1f5f2da-5846-48cf-97b6-054c50809381</guid>
      <title>Keeping our kids safe over the holidays</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has again teamed up with Little Blue Dinosaur to promote safety and reduce child pedestrian injuries and fatalities across the city.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/keeping-our-kids-safe-over-the-holidays</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1ec65718-8adf-479e-b884-7233c0816469</guid>
      <title>Record investment celebrated as challenging year comes to a close</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) staff are being congratulated for their achievements during a challenging 12 months after delivering another record capital works program, uninterrupted community services and a targeted response to the pandemic.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Dec 2021</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/record-investment-celebrated-as-challenging-year-comes-to-a-close</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9d7852d9-8eec-48dd-b330-8ce469e0773c</guid>
      <title>Surge in development to inject $1.8 billion into local economy </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s revitalisation and transformation continues with a record $1.8 billion of development approved over the past 12 months set to generate approximately 3,500 direct jobs and buoy the local economy.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Jan 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/surge-in-development-to-inject-$1-8-billion-into-local-economy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>db592f45-f7f8-4962-a811-5469f431318e</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 18 January 2022</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 18 January 2022. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Jan 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-18-january-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>42849d76-9fa7-4baa-8da2-ba68f0af5d93</guid>
      <title>Community invited to comment on ambitious shared vision for Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle will be a liveable, sustainable and inclusive global city in 2040 under an ambitious long-term vision developed with the community.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Jan 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-comment-on-ambitious-shared-vision-for-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d3ceda4d-02e5-4f27-8dbd-9196657f90f0</guid>
      <title>Paralympian Lauren Parker takes out top gong in Newcastle’s Citizen of the Year Awards</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An all-female line-up has taken out City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s 2022 Citizen of the Year Awards, with a Paralympian, a law undergraduate and a passionate community advocate among this year&amp;rsquo;s recipients.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Jan 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/paralympian-lauren-parker-takes-out-top-gong-in-newcastle’s-citizen-of-the-year-awards</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1b255f8f-434e-4ab6-a202-807ea8c2e02b</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle drives towards electric future</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s transition to a zero emissions fleet is powering forward with the unveiling of its first electric truck.&amp;nbsp;The medium rigid Hino truck is the only one of its kind in Newcastle.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Jan 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-drives-towards-electric-future</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7feadc21-fd72-469e-8d1b-4c08edcf03f9</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Art Gallery expansion set to start Monday</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle Art Gallery will hold a special Sunday evening viewing to the general public before closing its doors and reopening in two years&amp;rsquo; time to allow its long-awaited $40 million expansion to occur.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Jan 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-art-gallery-expansion-set-to-start-monday</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1c6ba583-6394-4c1f-ab0b-a71a0def4ca2</guid>
      <title>Side hustlers encouraged to turn their ideas into viable businesses </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A new small business incubator program is offering 15 Novocastrians the chance to take their business ideas to the next level.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/side-hustlers-encouraged-to-turn-their-ideas-into-viable-businesses</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>59be772f-8867-47a8-a303-8afe9a80c017</guid>
      <title>Newcastle's newest residents bring a $25 million opportunity</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;New local jobs have already been created through the attraction of 30 entrepreneurs to Newcastle as part of an Australian-first economic stimulus program initiated by City of Newcastle.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-s-newest-residents-bring-a-$25-million-opportunity</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1e0ca9cf-1956-45fc-afbf-2626fa1d1b25</guid>
      <title>Winning architectural design unveiled for prominent West End site </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A landmark design to reimagine the former Spotlight and Anaconda building has been unveiled following a targeted architectural design competition.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/winning-architectural-design-unveiled-for-prominent-west-end-site</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3a95c6de-243c-44ec-8d3c-d83ebcda13b2</guid>
      <title>Cultural events to support local performers in the lead-up to New Annual festival </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is dishing up a taste of the cultural delights that will be on the menu when its flagship arts festival returns later this year.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/cultural-events-to-support-local-performers-in-the-lead-up-to-new-annual-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>87b31972-a6c8-4da9-b48d-0603e68eea6a</guid>
      <title>Environment in focus as new strategy takes shape</title>
      <description>&lt;p paraeid="{7c694f23-abb3-4214-9c0d-0d00f9ad02df}{104}" paraid="869943303"&gt;Driving a circular economy, harnessing nature-based solutions and taking action on climate change have been identified as priority areas for discussion as City of Newcastle (CN) develops its new Environment Strategy.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/environment-in-focus-as-new-strategy-takes-shape</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>30df3a58-810e-48d8-b035-8fc871c8a382</guid>
      <title>Progress Pride Flag raised at City Hall in support of LGBTIQ+ community </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has thrown its support behind the LGBTIQ+ community by flying the Progress Pride Flag at City Hall for the first time, to coincide with the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/progress-pride-flag-raised-at-city-hall-in-support-of-lgbtiq-community</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e7c546a5-258d-4f7f-9dcc-f51099c2eff5</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade to begin 14 March </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The long-awaited revitalisation of the Newcastle Ocean Baths will kick off on March 14 with stage one works to improve the safety, water quality and accessibility of the much-loved community facility.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-ocean-baths-upgrade-to-begin-14-march</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8c1172b6-9012-4ad5-8ad8-d2893ac93bf2</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 22 February 2022</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting on Tuesday 22 February 2022.&lt;br /&gt;
NB: It is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-22-february-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>45b3f7f0-12ac-43f3-a3ba-c42b1aef24bd</guid>
      <title>New plan sets challenge for Newcastle to be an inclusive and accessible city</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has adopted a bold plan to achieve the community&amp;rsquo;s vision expressed in the Newcastle 2040 plan, of an inclusive and accessible city for all.&amp;nbsp;The Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2022-2026 (DIAP) was unanimously adopted by the elected Council at Tuesday&amp;#39;s Council Meeting.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-plan-sets-challenge-for-newcastle-to-be-an-inclusive-and-accessible-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>347129ea-7c77-401f-b0e0-331c09e04635</guid>
      <title>Help continue to shape City of Newcastle's vision for the future</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Novocastrians are invited to share their expertise to help shape the future of the city and identify opportunities that will benefit the city.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/help-continue-to-shape-city-of-newcastle-s-vision-for-the-future</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b4d69320-1027-4883-b5b4-0544e13a921e</guid>
      <title>Playground upgrades heading west with multimillion dollar investment</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Children in the city&amp;rsquo;s west will have plenty of reasons to get active in 2022 with four playground upgrades to be delivered this year.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/playground-upgrades-heading-west-with-multimillion-dollar-investment</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cfa9769d-c33f-4fca-9059-af9825f42bce</guid>
      <title>Multimillion dollar Blackbutt Village upgrade ready to commence</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A $3.7 million upgrade of Blackbutt Village on Orchardtown Road is set to commence next month, delivering a safer, more attractive place to shop for New Lambton residents.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/multimillion-dollar-blackbutt-village-upgrade-ready-to-commence</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1bb5c091-0de8-4561-9e02-0d0e4f585aa8</guid>
      <title>Tea and scones provide seniors with social connection</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An initiative to combat social isolation amongst the city&amp;#39;s elderly population caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has been dished up today thanks to funds provided by City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Feb 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/tea-and-scones-provide-seniors-with-social-connection</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>31e31dfd-3528-4e96-9446-49fc1f147044</guid>
      <title>Weather warning for Newcastle's coastline </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has implemented safety precautions in preparation for another weather event forecast to impact the Newcastle coastline this week.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/weather-warning-for-newcastle-s-coastline</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2e81bee5-f9f3-4aa9-9414-0146d53ae6bc</guid>
      <title>Live performances give Novocastrians something to smile about as restrictions ease </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s rich cultural scene is set to be reinvigorated with almost 70 live performances being delivered across 18 venues during the next two months with support from City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/live-performances-give-novocastrians-something-to-smile-about-as-restrictions-ease</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e102665b-dfcf-42b1-b1dd-17acd5f3673c</guid>
      <title>Exhibition celebrates 50th anniversary of protest movement that saved Blackbutt Reserve </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A union-backed community protest movement that helped stop Blackbutt Reserve being cut in two by a new highway in the 1970s is being celebrated in an exhibition at Newcastle Library.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/exhibition-celebrates-50th-anniversary-of-protest-movement-that-saved-blackbutt-reserve</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7762006a-597e-4210-b233-dd90f2bc3e59</guid>
      <title>Australian stories on show at Newcastle Museum  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;There&amp;#39;s no luggage required to enjoy a trip through the rural, remote and regional heart of Australia thanks to the latest exhibition at Newcastle Museum.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/australian-stories-on-show-at-newcastle-museum</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0407bb97-6099-4db1-b5f0-d96fe4107c1c</guid>
      <title>Concept plans reveal grand ambition for second stage of No.1 Sportsground upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A proposed major refurbishment of Newcastle&amp;#39;s No.1 Sportsground grandstand will transform the facility into a modern venue able to cater for the needs of local, regional and elite-level sporting fixtures.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/concept-plans-reveal-grand-ambition-for-second-stage-of-no-1-sportsground-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c53561b6-dbc6-42f4-9cf5-7078c7e47b61</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle moves forward with recycling plans</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) will invite expressions of interest for the collection and processing of its recyclable waste as it continues to plan towards the construction of a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) at Summerhill Waste Management Facility.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>11 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-moves-forward-with-recycling-plans</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>220bfa8f-5a4d-41d6-9d93-7f07e4e03f65</guid>
      <title>Islington Park re-opens to the public</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Islington Park has been re-opened to the public this morning following clearance by independent assessors yesterday. &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/islington-park-re-opens-to-the-public</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>232da7e5-984a-4160-815e-c5232f8ea865</guid>
      <title>Council to consider plan to fast track  food waste recycling by four years</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A proposal to increase the capacity of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s new organics processing facility will fast track its ability to accept food scraps by four years, diverting an additional 24,000 tonnes of waste from landfill.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-to-consider-plan-to-fast-track-food-waste-recycling-by-four-years</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>61376792-998a-4610-844e-81986122e7b4</guid>
      <title>Technology makes Lambton Library more accessible</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The humble library card has been transformed into an after-hours key allowing accessing to Lambton Library for the city&amp;#39;s more than 100,000 library members.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/technology-makes-lambton-library-more-accessible</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0b998786-6ba5-436a-897d-36c597c2167e</guid>
      <title>Newcastle residents invited to start curbing plastic waste on Global Recycling Day</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle residents can help prevent soft plastics from going to waste through a new, innovative kerbside recycling program.&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle will become just the second council in Australia to take part in the &lt;a href="https://www.curbyit.com/softplastics/" target="_blank"&gt;Curby Soft Plastics Program&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-residents-invited-to-start-curbing-plastic-waste-on-global-recycling-day</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e1021448-7cb1-48e1-b721-4f2c8b58494e</guid>
      <title>Interim Heritage Order claim for Newcastle Ocean Baths dismissed by Heritage NSW </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) welcomes the decision by Heritage NSW to dismiss a request for an Interim Heritage Order lodged by a local community group. This dismissal means the long-awaited restoration of the Newcastle Ocean Baths can now proceed without delay.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/interim-heritage-order-claim-for-newcastle-ocean-baths-dismissed-by-heritage-nsw</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ed16c96c-e932-411e-ae32-f916a2c45f0d</guid>
      <title>City seeks action from Deputy Premier's Taskforce to return sand to Stockton Beach  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The first meeting of the Deputy Premier&amp;#39;s Stockton Beach Taskforce since Deputy Premier Paul Toole inspected erosion at Stockton Beach with Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes last month is set to occur tomorrow.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-seeks-action-from-deputy-premier-s-taskforce-to-return-sand-to-stockton-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>dc4c4742-c15e-4767-959a-187f9dabc0c6</guid>
      <title>Chance for last slide down iconic Lambton Swimming Centre attraction before replacement</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Local children have the chance to take one more slide down the towering spiral waterslide at Lambton Swimming Centre before the iconic attraction is updated. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/chance-for-last-slide-down-iconic-lambton-swimming-centre-attraction-before-replacement</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>969ee9d1-557f-46bb-8ab6-c464d5755979</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 22 March 2022 </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 22 March 2022. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-22-march-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fe73b0c1-fc09-4f27-be24-c299047ab7e9</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle advocates for Indigenous constitutional recognition</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is calling for the community to come together in support of a First Nations Voice in the Australian Constitution.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-advocates-for-indigenous-constitutional-recognition</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3560e611-2eff-4f0c-885a-c51e3f2ea30f</guid>
      <title>Next steps in planning for Wickham’s urban renewal</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is delivering on its commitments to good urban planning in Wickham, with a community infrastructure contribution planning proposal and updates to the City&amp;rsquo;s development control plan adopted by the elected Council on Tuesday night.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/next-steps-in-planning-for-wickham’s-urban-renewal</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>45823d8a-6130-4586-99b0-ffbf2a4b932c</guid>
      <title>Brian Suters AM honoured for architectural legacy  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An architectural legacy that spans more than half a century has earned Brian Suters AM the city&amp;#39;s highest honour.&amp;nbsp;The award-winning architect has been named a Freeman of the City in recognition of his significant contribution to Newcastle&amp;#39;s built form.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/brian-suters-am-honoured-for-architectural-legacy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6aa8c2dc-16ba-4e5c-99ea-988b46462aa4</guid>
      <title>Remedial work at Stockton Beach following recent weather events </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;After two significant weather events impacted Stockton Beach in recent weeks, City of Newcastle is implementing a program of remedial work to address safety issues that forced the closure of several beach accessways and to manage debris that washed onto Stockton Beach. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/remedial-work-at-stockton-beach-following-recent-weather-events</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9ade4a63-200a-46dc-8cb1-f318b8de7dbd</guid>
      <title>New basketball courts unveiled as multimillion dollar investment in National Park continues </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More than $10 million is being invested into facility upgrades at Newcastle&amp;#39;s largest recreational reserve, with four new basketball courts the latest project to be completed at National Park.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-basketball-courts-unveiled-as-multimillion-dollar-investment-in-national-park-continues</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1dc205e3-0fc1-4201-bfd6-4d568cbfaa22</guid>
      <title>Seniors Festival to celebrate reconnection</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Reconnection is in focus for the largest festival celebrating seniors in the Southern Hemisphere, as Newcastle plays host to a variety of events and activities as part of the 2022 NSW Seniors Festival.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/seniors-festival-to-celebrate-reconnection</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>567ea179-ba10-40b7-b033-d45ef0d2a6e9</guid>
      <title>Youth Week to highlight the contribution of city's young people </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Street art sessions, DJing workshops, a skateboarding program and the opportunity to build social connections while learning photography skills are among the activities on offer for the city&amp;#39;s younger generation during Youth Week 2022.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>31 Mar 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/youth-week-to-highlight-the-contribution-of-city-s-young-people</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>203906fd-4fc1-4b27-a2e9-492be5d835e5</guid>
      <title>Weather warning for Newcastle's coastline</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has implemented safety precautions in preparation for severe weather&amp;nbsp;impacting the Newcastle coastline.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 Apr 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/weather-warning-for-newcastle-s-coastline-ce007f6be12cccd52239024e70cac417</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>72295062-cc77-4b6a-bf46-da59093b5a87</guid>
      <title>Recovery from weekend weather underway</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is in the process of inspecting and assessing all CN assets within its 14- kilometre coastal zone, following the weekend&amp;rsquo;s large and powerful surf conditions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Apr 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/recovery-from-weekend-weather-underway</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>247fa981-7e60-47d0-b833-89862f9f4ce7</guid>
      <title>Civic Theatre hosts 66th annual Combined Schools Anzac Service </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More than 1800 students from across Newcastle and the Hunter gathered at Civic Theatre today to share untold war stories through drama and performance to commemorate the region&amp;rsquo;s military heritage ahead of Anzac Day.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Apr 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/civic-theatre-hosts-66th-annual-combined-schools-anzac-service</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>32e4a4b0-e4ab-4939-b85b-382ec71b5dbb</guid>
      <title>Bootcamp to kick-start new beginnings for young entrepreneurs</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Budding young entrepreneurs are being invited to take part in a new program designed to help take their potential business ideas to the next level.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Apr 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/bootcamp-to-kick-start-new-beginnings-for-young-entrepreneurs</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b08a5a3f-db54-4df6-9bb7-20735a8ef31e</guid>
      <title>Museum exhibition takes young minds on curious adventure through science</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A trip to Newcastle Museum has become curiouser and curiouser with the latest exhibition taking visitors down the rabbit hole.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Apr 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/museum-exhibition-takes-young-minds-on-curious-adventure-through-science</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>69382483-e7ff-416c-b79b-3f47a83c227a</guid>
      <title>Newcastle’s CBD set to come ‘alive’ with $500,000 injection into vibrant program of free events </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More than 40 free night-time events will be delivered across Newcastle&amp;#39;s city centre between 29 April &amp;ndash; 21 May, to encourage the community to experience the cultural, retail and hospitality heart of the city.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 Apr 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle’s-cbd-set-to-come-‘alive’-with-$500,000-injection-into-vibrant-program-of-free-events</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1349494f-fd04-4d70-9734-7ef4e47f0fee</guid>
      <title>End of COVID-19 restrictions sees Budget return to surplus alongside mega infrastructure spend</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle believes the financial hit from COVID-19 is largely in the rear-view mirror and is predicting a decade of record infrastructure spending and balanced budgets.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Apr 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/end-of-covid-19-restrictions-sees-budget-return-to-surplus-alongside-mega-infrastructure-spend</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b072e46b-e496-4366-a3b1-b554918fb6d6</guid>
      <title>Community feedback invited on amended planning guidelines</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Proposed amendments to planning guidelines will provide more clarity for applicants and enhanced safety, sustainability and environmental outcomes for developments in Newcastle. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 Apr 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-feedback-invited-on-amended-planning-guidelines</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>17275a1d-264f-40f2-b046-12a707e00856</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 26 April 2022 </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 26 April 2022.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 Apr 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-26-april-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>85b1b8e1-52c8-4fc2-83ed-e57566bff1d8</guid>
      <title>Early works to commence underneath Newcastle Art Gallery ahead of expansion</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Work is set to commence beneath the Newcastle Art Gallery to prepare for the $40 million expansion of one of the city&amp;#39;s most loved cultural assets. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Apr 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/early-works-to-commence-underneath-newcastle-art-gallery-ahead-of-expansion</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1aadd974-2526-4f9e-be96-48a7311be50b</guid>
      <title>City's vision locked in following record community input </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An ambitious long-term vision for Newcastle shaped by more than 5,000 community members was unanimously endorsed at last night&amp;rsquo;s Council Meeting. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Apr 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-s-vision-locked-in-following-record-community-input</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>73d762c6-2138-4a89-a941-fc7b488a63c0</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle marks return to in-person citizenship ceremonies </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has embraced the return to face-to-face citizenship ceremonies following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, welcoming more than 130 new citizens from 34 countries on Wednesday afternoon.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-marks-return-to-in-person-citizenship-ceremonies</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bfb980f5-4b32-464e-aa51-1d6cab818c6a</guid>
      <title>City opens $1 million grants and sponsorships round </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Community and sporting groups, businesses and tourism and event operators can now apply for close to $1 million of community grants and sponsorship funding from City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-opens-$1-million-grants-and-sponsorships-round</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>76e12810-b6eb-460a-9693-55c1a4a80779</guid>
      <title>Lord Mayor Emeritus of Newcastle Greg Heys’ significant planning document collection catalogued</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A key chapter of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s social and regional planning history has been preserved with the completion of the Greg Heys Regional Planning Collection.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/lord-mayor-emeritus-of-newcastle-greg-heys’-significant-planning-document-collection-catalogued</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>23afd1df-833f-442d-9b34-a2cd30b651ce</guid>
      <title>East End revitalisation taking shape</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The long-term revitalisation of the Hunter Street Mall is a significant step closer, with work being finalised on the first stage of the East End Village project. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/east-end-revitalisation-taking-shape</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7591be04-132c-45d3-84d6-3d4cd2292ef8</guid>
      <title>$150,000 in funding available to activate local business precincts </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Businesses, not-for-profits and community groups are encouraged to apply for a share of $150,000 in funding for projects which activate or beautify the Hamilton, Wallsend and New Lambton business precincts as part of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s Special Business Rate (SBR) program.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$150,000-in-funding-available-to-activate-local-business-precincts</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3ca36f19-cd61-434d-ab4e-20a3b91a003b</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle explores affordable housing options </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has kicked off the process of exploring options for additional affordable housing in Newcastle as part of the implementation of its Local Housing Strategy 2020.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-explores-affordable-housing-options</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6fe0e1ad-cdb5-499e-944f-23d32db763fc</guid>
      <title>Call for community input on proposed new recycling facility at Summerhill</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is seeking community feedback on its proposal to construct a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) at Summerhill Waste Management Centre.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/call-for-community-input-on-proposed-new-recycling-facility-at-summerhill</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>398a9c76-1cda-4e79-b6b9-7335cd211462</guid>
      <title>Community views to guide the expansion of Newcastle’s footpaths</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Smart technology, along with community insights, are helping to guide the expansion of the city&amp;rsquo;s footpath network.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-views-to-guide-the-expansion-of-newcastle’s-footpaths</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>77310eca-aea6-4ea2-98e0-d8b7186e5585</guid>
      <title>Count Us In festival puts disability inclusion front and centre </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More than 30 free events and activities aimed at raising the profile of inclusion in our community will be held over the next two weeks as part of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s Count Us In festival.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/count-us-in-festival-puts-disability-inclusion-front-and-centre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7f284c82-7115-4dde-9077-305e1b071c3f</guid>
      <title>New ideas for improved public space coming to Darby Street</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is working to enhance the outdoor dining experience along Darby Street while improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-ideas-for-improved-public-space-coming-to-darby-street</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b2cdad62-304a-4c5e-a971-68ea06a294ec</guid>
      <title>Driving towards a future of possibilities</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Breaking down barriers faced by newly arrived refugees and asylum seekers on their pathway towards education and employment is the goal of a new initiative being rolled out with City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s support.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/driving-towards-a-future-of-possibilities</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fbe0fd4b-9257-4acc-ad1a-076963f60ca9</guid>
      <title>Investment in libraries continues with refurbishment of Wallsend Library ready to begin </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An extensive refurbishment of Wallsend Library will deliver an enhanced experience for library members as part of ongoing significant investment into the city&amp;rsquo;s library network.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/investment-in-libraries-continues-with-refurbishment-of-wallsend-library-ready-to-begin</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cccf858c-b1d4-4579-96d8-9cc398973b0b</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle celebrates contribution of dedicated volunteers  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More than 300 City of Newcastle volunteers have been recognised for their invaluable contribution to the community as part of National Volunteer Week.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-celebrates-contribution-of-dedicated-volunteers</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6fb3e8a4-2c35-4159-851f-7a5523a3c2c6</guid>
      <title>Share your ideas for Waratah Local Centre upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has begun community consultation with local residents and business owners to understand their views on how to improve safety, parking and public spaces in the Waratah Local Centre area.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/share-your-ideas-for-waratah-local-centre-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c4f72d88-d587-49dd-a4b0-2a0a6e1a8786</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 24 May 2022</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting on Tuesday 24 May 2022. NB: It is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-24-may-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e5d7a295-f9ce-4906-bcb2-4e5c5dace33c</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle's investment in waste to lock in future affordability</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has lodged a development application (DA) for its new organics processing facility as part of a plan to locally manage waste from all three kerbside bins, saving millions of dollars on current transport costs.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-s-investment-in-waste-to-lock-in-future-affordability</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>54e07a9e-7f52-4efc-a9a9-60eea1f0d01a</guid>
      <title>Social and affordable housing gets fast-tracked </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A $12 million social housing funding agreement between the City of Newcastle and NSW Land and Housing Corporation was endorsed by councillors at last night&amp;rsquo;s Ordinary Council Meeting.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/social-and-affordable-housing-gets-fast-tracked</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a974f375-97c5-4cf9-8a29-864d5f79730f</guid>
      <title>Excavations to explore archaeology of Cathedral Park as part of plan to revitalise site</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An archaeological dig that kicked off at Newcastle&amp;#39;s oldest European cemetery this week will delve deeper into the heritage of the site ahead of its planned revitalisation.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/excavations-to-explore-archaeology-of-cathedral-park-as-part-of-plan-to-revitalise-site</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>99fa70ba-ea2a-4865-9f2c-87ce3c0c984c</guid>
      <title>Remediation of former Shortland landfill site ready to commence </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has awarded a tender to remediate a former landfill site at Shortland.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/remediation-of-former-shortland-landfill-site-ready-to-commence</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7279e488-d24e-4c7b-8c70-77160e2fc958</guid>
      <title>Van Gogh Alive to headline Newcastle’s 2022 New Annual festival </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A multi-sensory experience that has attracted more than eight and a half million people across 75 cities around the world will be the centrepiece of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s second New Annual festival in September.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 May 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/van-gogh-alive-to-headline-newcastle-s-2022-new-annual-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ca7b41f1-a400-4161-ba13-42b74acf085d</guid>
      <title>Flood improvements underway in Waratah West </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Work to reduce the impact of flooding near University Drive at Waratah West is underway, with construction commencing on an upgrade to stormwater infrastructure at Boatman Creek.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/flood-improvements-underway-in-waratah-west</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8de000d9-870a-416b-8674-d58fe3daba82</guid>
      <title>Hazardous swell forecast for Newcastle coastline</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is preparing for a forecast weather event with large swell coinciding with a high tide which has the potential to cause damage along Newcastle&amp;#39;s coastline.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hazardous-swell-forecast-for-newcastle-coastline</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0f4f2a38-bb0c-4b31-95b4-a2c43b85500e</guid>
      <title>Statement on coastal damage following weekend weather event </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Large and powerful surf conditions combined with high tides have impacted sections of Newcastle&amp;#39;s coastline over the weekend, compounded by the recent impact of the severe weather events in March and April. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-on-coastal-damage-following-weekend-weather-event</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>33551fb2-2705-4759-99b2-0d2efe88acc0</guid>
      <title>Improved connection to Richley Reserve as   Blackbutt Village upgrade progresses </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A new footpath connecting Blackbutt Village in New Lambton to Blackbutt&amp;rsquo;s Richley Reserve along Freyberg Street has been completed as part of a $3.7 million upgrade of the popular local centre.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/improved-connection-to-richley-reserve-as-blackbutt-village-upgrade-progresses</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7bafbf6f-09e2-4d0f-9bc6-e31e8c276253</guid>
      <title>Inaugural Meg Purser Communications Scholarship awarded</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A passion to make a positive impact in the community has seen second year Communications student Courtney Yeandle named as the inaugural recipient of the Meg Purser Scholarship.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/inaugural-meg-purser-communications-scholarship-awarded</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>69243968-28ae-481d-bf0e-f6b35766813d</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Art Gallery scores a clean sweep of national awards with celebration of Indigenous art </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A landmark exhibition of Torres Strait Islander art has scooped the pool at the 2022 Museums and Galleries National Awards (MAGNA), securing a trifecta of titles for Newcastle Art Gallery.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-art-gallery-scores-a-clean-sweep-of-national-awards-with-celebration-of-indigenous-art</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ad335406-6be6-4a20-90b1-634deede522a</guid>
      <title>Digital platform helping to create youth connections with Art Gallery collection</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle Art Galley&amp;#39;s collection may have been put in storage while the building&amp;#39;s long-awaited expansion takes place, but that hasn&amp;#39;t stopped a passionate group of volunteers from creating new ways for young people to connect with the works of art.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/digital-platform-helping-to-create-youth-connections-with-art-gallery-collection</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6cd9973f-fc01-424f-b63f-bd44301e771b</guid>
      <title>New playgrounds in western corridor opened ahead of school holidays</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Families are celebrating City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s (CN&amp;#39;s) ongoing investment in recreational spaces, with two new playgrounds opened in the western corridor and plans for five more across the city unveiled.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-playgrounds-in-western-corridor-opened-ahead-of-school-holidays</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>36d15225-c488-4d87-a324-9205c399536e</guid>
      <title>State-wide approach needed for sand nourishment program </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is calling on the NSW Government to plan strategically and develop a state-wide approach for a sustainable sand nourishment program to support Local Councils as they develop Coastal Management Programs under the NSW Government&amp;#39;s coastal management framework.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/state-wide-approach-needed-for-sand-nourishment-program</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2c4306dc-6974-4316-ba5f-8c6dff187b29</guid>
      <title>Expert panel canvas the future of public art in the city </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has appointed five external community-minded art, design and architecture experts to help lead the future of public art in the city that reflects Newcastle&amp;#39;s history, culture and community.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/expert-panel-canvas-the-future-of-public-art-in-the-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>75fc6569-a1dd-4519-9b55-230bed06b06f</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 28 June 2022 </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 28 June 2022. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-28-june-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>028c95e2-e157-48b6-bd3b-99b0962d4175</guid>
      <title>Widespread support delivers tick of approval for record Budget</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A historic Budget that balances record infrastructure spending with long-term financial sustainability, as well as a return to surplus has been approved by City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s elected Council and follows widespread community support expressed during community engagement.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/widespread-support-delivers-tick-of-approval-for-record-budget</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>94ced2e0-c404-4a8a-847c-abe7f3aba6c6</guid>
      <title>Community-focused app delivers positive outcomes during COVID-19 </title>
      <description>&lt;p paraeid="{d4b2ec69-9995-4c5b-92e6-814c58a721e2}{46}" paraid="664453035"&gt;An innovative app developed by City of Newcastle (CN) as part of its $5.5 million COVID-19 Community Economic Resilience Package (CERP), generated more than 68,000 acts of kindness and injected more than $390,000 into local businesses to get them back on their feet.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p paraeid="{d4b2ec69-9995-4c5b-92e6-814c58a721e2}{110}" paraid="1644898216"&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 June 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-focused-app-delivers-positive-outcomes-during-covid-19</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>967de32e-e9e8-440e-aef4-3fd182036599</guid>
      <title>Indigenous stories in the spotlight this NAIDOC Week </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A new film that tells the story of how the local Indigenous language was recorded and preserved in Newcastle 200 years ago will premiere on Sunday as part of Newcastle&amp;#39;s NAIDOC Week celebrations.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/indigenous-stories-in-the-spotlight-this-naidoc-week</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cdbb721d-d37a-4d7f-b9e6-95fb40bad13f</guid>
      <title>Weather warning</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is predicting hazardous surf conditions and strong winds for Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s coastline between Sunday 3 July and Monday 4 July, with elevated swells again on Tuesday 4 July.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/weather-warning</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9c623b27-9395-4431-a9cf-14e866bd6be1</guid>
      <title>Weather warning</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is predicting hazardous surf conditions and strong winds for Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s coastline between Sunday 3 July and Monday 4 July, with elevated swells again on Tuesday 4 July.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/weather-warning-0f17b979f83b2b7facac387433b64bb2</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>67d1037c-642e-4c30-9e3d-c6619a7c6518</guid>
      <title>Inspirational OzHarvest founder Ronni Kahn visits Newcastle during Library and Information Week </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Inspirational leader Ronni Kahn will share her passion for sustainability as part of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s annual Humble Lecture to celebrate Australian Library and Information Week.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/inspirational-ozharvest-founder-ronni-kahn-visits-newcastle-during-library-and-information-week</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f2966a24-b29d-4e13-9f9b-13e927bd9bf6</guid>
      <title>Community feedback sought on parking at Blackbutt Village</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A survey seeking community feedback on proposed changes to timed parking at New Lambton&amp;#39;s Blackbutt Village launched today as part of a $3.7 million upgrade of the popular local centre.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-feedback-sought-on-parking-at-blackbutt-village</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b56db319-94a8-4410-ad27-d427e5d6bb8f</guid>
      <title>NSW Government declaration to protect cultural significance of Aboriginal ceremonial site </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A 9.6-hectare section of the Hexham Wetlands used by the Awabakal people as a place of spiritual connection and ceremony has become the first site in Newcastle officially protected with an Aboriginal Place declaration by the NSW Minister for Heritage.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/nsw-government-declaration-to-protect-cultural-significance-of-aboriginal-ceremonial-site</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9e02db47-8f7f-41fa-9b7c-704579032dbe</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Museum exhibition celebrates diversity and depth of creative talent in community</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A scholarship program designed to foster emerging talent within Newcastle&amp;#39;s creative community will culminate in a month-long exhibition of LGBTIQ+ artists at Newcastle Museum.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-museum-exhibition-celebrates-diversity-and-depth-of-creative-talent-in-community</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5976a8af-ecc7-4594-bb3d-ea969ebfc801</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle welcomes disaster relief for local community </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle residents affected by the severe weather event that began on 27 June will now be able to access government-funded disaster relief payments.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-welcomes-disaster-relief-for-local-community</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a8d8be4f-47f2-405c-941b-7094ee927089</guid>
      <title>Statement on coastal damage following weekend weather event</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Large and powerful surf conditions combined with high tides have impacted sections of Newcastle&amp;#39;s coastline over the weekend. This has been compounded by recent severe weather events.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-on-coastal-damage-following-weekend-weather-event-88274d20e219be40d407d4b22211653f</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b42e336a-4a8f-405b-b172-21bc411257bd</guid>
      <title>Rehabilitation of Ironbark Creek flows on </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has commenced the next stage of its award-winning Ironbark Creek rehabilitation project, targeting 350 metres of creek from Croudace Road, Elermore Vale, to Lewis Street Oval, Wallsend.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/rehabilitation-of-ironbark-creek-flows-on</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ae4548d5-388a-4866-9fd7-9861bd6ac9a8</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle optimises kerbside collection schedule to accommodate housing growth </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Household bin collections are set to change for some properties across Newcastle to enhance service and processing efficiency at the kerbside.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-optimises-kerbside-collection-schedule-to-accommodate-housing-growth</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>589e3bd2-adde-491b-b380-3a9a69064f0c</guid>
      <title>Elton John rockets into Newcastle on back of new City partnership with Venues NSW </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Elton John will rock McDonald Jones Stadium during an upcoming international tour as the first major event announced under a historic partnership between City of Newcastle and Venues NSW.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/elton-john-rockets-into-newcastle-on-back-of-new-city-partnership-with-venues-nsw</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4b9375a6-8c24-46b0-8844-fa5a6f051501</guid>
      <title>Get involved in green makeover for local streets </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is encouraging local green thumbs to spruce up their neighbourhood by entering the new &amp;#39;Green Our City&amp;#39; competition.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/get-involved-in-green-makeover-for-local-streets</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9287a5c1-ff5b-4c68-80b8-0000ba5c0e31</guid>
      <title>Distinguished scholars receive Keys to the City of Newcastle </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Six distinguished alumni of the New Colombo Plan Scholarship Program who completed their studies at the University of Newcastle have received keys to the city in recognition of their work to promote Newcastle internationally.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/distinguished-scholars-receive-keys-to-the-city-of-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>28f15033-086d-41c3-9740-ad0035638eb2</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 26 July 2022</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 26 July 2022. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-26-july-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>79a11644-c3dc-4791-a5c5-45dc5221fff5</guid>
      <title>Community encouraged to lend their green thumb on National Tree Day</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;School students, local residents and City of Newcastle staff are digging in to help expand the city&amp;rsquo;s urban forest as part of National Tree Day celebrations this week.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-encouraged-to-lend-their-green-thumb-on-national-tree-day</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8ab98431-7ff2-4640-9424-defa46afb15a</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle rallies community to power ahead toward cleaner energy future</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More than 2500 local and regional governments from around the world are invited to come together tomorrow to exchange ideas on how to electrify communities to fight climate change, create local jobs, and make the air cleaner for future generations.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-rallies-community-to-power-ahead-toward-cleaner-energy-future</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>795813cd-b7b8-4243-82c3-c8c1288fdcf8</guid>
      <title>Local youth experience a taste of local government</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Students from six local high schools have gained a unique perspective into local government by participating in City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s annual Youth Mock Council this week.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 July 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/local-youth-experience-a-taste-of-local-government</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>87650f13-25e8-4ffc-9084-70ebda56ef39</guid>
      <title>Vibrant program sets the scene for New Annual's return  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;With an exciting new program and the blockbuster Van Gogh Alive exhibition at Foreshore Park, City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s flagship arts festival will return this September with a vibrant showcase of art, culture and creativity. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/vibrant-program-sets-the-scene for new-annual-s-return</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c5af06f9-1fc1-4c93-88cb-3963de015b36</guid>
      <title>Newcastle reaffirms sustainable development goals on 25th anniversary milestone  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The 25&lt;sup&gt;th&lt;/sup&gt; anniversary of an historic declaration signed in Newcastle to pursue sustainable development was marked before representatives from Hunter businesses, not-for-profit, local and state government today.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-reaffirms-sustainable-development-goals-on-25th-anniversary-milestone</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>01b28f5b-e37e-41a1-a189-cd83c80d224b</guid>
      <title>Businesses invited to enhance New Annual festival spirit </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has launched a business support program to help local traders benefit from the influx of visitors to the city centre for the New Annual festival next month.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/businesses-invited-to-enhance-new-annual-festival-spirit</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b228709c-bc4c-4a3c-95d4-d22392138c85</guid>
      <title>Domestic violence support service bolstered by Newcastle Lord Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Local domestic violence and homelessness support service, Jenny&amp;rsquo;s Place has received a welcome $18,000 windfall as the 2022 Annual Lord Mayor&amp;rsquo;s Prayer Breakfast beneficiary.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>03 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/domestic-violence-support-service-bolstered-by-newcastle-lord-mayor’s-prayer-breakfast</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1f482999-aa1c-4fc2-bf4c-d9e150ef247d</guid>
      <title>Visitors invited to ‘Seek Off Beat’ tourism experiences</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has set its sights on capturing more of the lucrative leisure tourism market by encouraging visitors to discover the city&amp;rsquo;s eclectic and unexpected experiences.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>03 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/visitors-invited-to-‘seek-off-beat’-tourism-experiences</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f617d894-af6d-47c6-87d7-218199484f67</guid>
      <title> Awards season shines spotlight on City of Newcastle </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s culture of excellence, transparency and continuous improvement has been recognised amongst its peers at a host of recent industry awards ceremonies.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/awards-season-shines-spotlight-on-city-of-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>36cb3333-733b-4264-ba8f-d0a59a3946ad</guid>
      <title>Museum visitors invited to drop-in and explore Newcastle's skateboarding subculture  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;You mightn&amp;#39;t know the meaning of &lt;i&gt;Shralp&lt;/i&gt; before going into the Newcastle Museum exhibition, but visitors will certainly leave appreciating the tricks, terrain and talented individuals involved in Newcastle&amp;#39;s skateboarding subculture.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>11 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/museum-visitors-invited-to-drop-in-and-explore-newcastle-s-skateboarding-subculture</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>323c6db3-3878-4c1f-9b71-bf493fe52dfb</guid>
      <title>Valuation delivers multimillion-dollar boost to Newcastle Art Gallery collection  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle Art Gallery&amp;#39;s collection has been independently valued at $126 million, an increase of $11 million since key works were last reviewed.&amp;nbsp;The $126 million value means the collection is now the most valuable of any gallery in Australia not located in a capital city.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/valuation-delivers-multimillion-dollar-boost-to-newcastle-art-gallery-collection</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a916b54f-e051-4299-a5b2-1aa2d250c45a</guid>
      <title>Recycling plans set to progress with strong community support </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s plans to build a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) at the Summerhill Waste Management Centre have been overwhelmingly endorsed by the community.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/recycling-plans-set-to-progress-with-strong-community-support</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a235f9ed-2601-402a-b87d-eaea119acbaf</guid>
      <title>Council to consider Darby Street trial concept following support from community </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The community has shown its support for a six-month trial to extend outdoor dining and improve pedestrian and cyclist safety within Newcastle&amp;#39;s renowned &amp;quot;eat street&amp;quot; precinct.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-to-consider-darby-street-trial-concept-following-support-from-community</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a199b29a-fd83-4e15-8e9d-2f55eda09f5b</guid>
      <title>New life for upgraded Shortland Local Centre</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;New footpaths, safety improvements and a vibrant community mural will breathe new life into Shortland&amp;rsquo;s neighbourhood shopping precinct as part of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s Local Centres program.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-life-for-upgraded-shortland-local-centre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b3888da6-e768-4e30-985f-3eca399ce4b4</guid>
      <title>Reimagined Wallsend Library reopens for the community</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Popular television presenter Costa Georgiadis and MasterChef favourite Mindy Woods will join a special program of free events to mark the reopening of Wallsend Library following an extensive upgrade.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/reimagined-wallsend-library-reopens-for-the-community</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b926a97f-0460-4898-8318-cc2f0a2748a2</guid>
      <title>Local suburban business precincts to benefit from activations and beautification    </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;$150,000 is being shared amongst 10 successful projects aimed at activating key suburban business precincts in Hamilton, New Lambton and Wallsend, including an innovative self-guided op shop trail, vertical &amp;ldquo;smart&amp;rdquo; gardens installed on shopfront facades, and a series of community-based art initiatives.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/local-suburban-business-precincts-to-benefit-from-activations-and-beautification</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f7f31ee6-0a6a-40de-82ec-b02a8ea37135</guid>
      <title>Weather warning for Newcastle's coastline</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A coastal weather event with hazardous surf, heavy rain and strong wind is forecast for this evening and through Wednesday.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/weather-warning-for-newcastle-s-coastline-336c845cdb11b4bd9f86db22a9eb82aa</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fcd32404-9f27-44fc-be69-42525f065f09</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 23 August 2022</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 23 August 2022. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-23-august-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bd50d00a-854e-4682-9672-81a859053d17</guid>
      <title>  Future liveability and amenity of Wickham enhanced </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The future liveability, public domain and amenity of Wickham are at the centre of updates to the Newcastle Development Control Plan (DCP) adopted by the elected Council at tonight&amp;#39;s Ordinary Council Meeting.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/future-liveability-and-amenity-of-wickham-enhanced</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ca5c60a0-45ab-4640-b9ce-8cd11d9f3620</guid>
      <title>New funding round open to innovative projects in the City Centre </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Creative projects designed to increase visitation and boost economic activity will share in almost $1 million as part of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s annual Special Business Rate (SBR) program.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-funding-round-open-to-innovative-projects-in-the-city-centre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8a45f8a4-34e5-46fe-8df0-e8d0fc966c93</guid>
      <title>Council gives its support to Supercars date for Newcastle 500 in 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The Newcastle 500 could return to the city&amp;#39;s streets in March next year after councillors voted to support new dates for the final event to be held under the existing agreement between Supercars Australia and City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-gives-its-support-to-supercars-date-for-newcastle-500-in-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>00fda3bf-e133-4246-a715-932c80ae4720</guid>
      <title>Expansion project moves underground as mine remediation kicks off at Newcastle Art Gallery  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Early construction works that will pave the way for a $40 million expansion kicked off this week at Newcastle Art Gallery.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/expansion-project-moves-underground-as-mine-remediation-kicks-off-at-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ac515041-aabb-46d0-b485-afd03a300cab</guid>
      <title>Media statement – Beresfield Golf Course  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has been advised by the operators of Beresfield Golf Course, Avana Pty Ltd, that they intend to abandon their lease of the council-owned facility on 31 August.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-–-beresfield-golf-course</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>901dc081-a30b-4754-b106-cb48b73ae259</guid>
      <title>Newcastle’s development boom continues to skyrocket </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Merewether, New Lambton and Mayfield are Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s top three suburbs when it comes to renovations according to City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>31 Aug 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle’s-development-boom-continues-to-skyrocket</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9a3e9337-e54f-4c9f-8985-396a228add85</guid>
      <title>School art competition to uncover creative visions for Newcastle's sustainable waste future </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting school students to share their visions for a circular economy as part of an art competition launched today to promote sustainability and resource recovery.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/school-art-competition-to-uncover-creative-visions-for-newcastle-s-sustainable-waste-future</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>68ca5a58-a0d7-4a7d-bcf9-2424a96a86c7</guid>
      <title>Newcastle’s newest citizens take the pledge </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle welcomed more than 220 new Australian citizens from 51 countries today&amp;nbsp;in what was the city&amp;rsquo;s largest face-to-face Citizenship Ceremony since the COVID-19 pandemic.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle’s-newest-citizens-take-the-pledge</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e62af466-f2bc-49a6-a2ef-aa5e039a426b</guid>
      <title>Ancient ocean predators on display at Newcastle Museum   </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle Museum&amp;rsquo;s largest ever exhibition will showcase the terrifying creatures that ruled the oceans during the time of the dinosaurs.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ancient-ocean-predators-on-display-at-newcastle-museum</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f729822a-f8f0-4c82-aa9a-0941c7764bdd</guid>
      <title>City pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A seven-gun salute, illumination of the City Hall Clock Tower and a condolence book signing are among the events planned by the City of Newcastle to commemorate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-pays-tribute-to-queen-elizabeth-ii</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>836be13b-d26e-4754-8ad8-74ed8ef2c240</guid>
      <title>Newcastle's largest playground at heart of Harbour Foreshore Masterplan </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Foreshore Park will become home to the city&amp;#39;s largest playground under a draft masterplan for Newcastle&amp;#39;s iconic harbourside precinct, which will be considered by Councillors later this month.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-s-largest-playground-at-heart-of-harbour-foreshore-masterplan</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3e48ef45-7875-4775-ae8d-eb9a74ca7c01</guid>
      <title>Refugee kids kicking goals thanks to increased grants and sponsorships program  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Refugee children will be supported to play sport and feel welcome throughout the community after receiving a share of City of Newcastle (CN)&amp;#39;s almost $1 million grants and sponsorships funding. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/refugee-kids-kicking-goals-thanks-to-increased-grants-and-sponsorships-program</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>69104e94-f0c6-40aa-841b-083933184435</guid>
      <title>$1.1 million bill to repair City's southern beaches </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is commencing works to reinstate safe access to beaches from Bar Beach to Merewether, following storm damage earlier this year.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$1-1-million-bill-to-repair-city-s-southern-beaches</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fd7369a4-9c7c-43ba-9f8a-435ccf104888</guid>
      <title>First look at final stage of East End revitalisation </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle, together with Iris Capital, have unveiled the winning designs of an architectural design competition to complete the $880 million redevelopment of its award winning East End development.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/first-look-at-final-stage-of-east-end-revitalisation</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3f83d0aa-d20c-4a20-bac2-6b7edfd8c9b1</guid>
      <title>Sharing ideas to shape the future of community engagement</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) will bring together 100 people of all walks of life to help shape how the community&amp;#39;s voice can best be heard to guide the city&amp;#39;s future.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sharing-ideas-to-shape-the-future-of-community-engagement</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6b736be8-c479-4e5c-95d3-4bf50d1020c6</guid>
      <title>Transforming Hunter Street's hidden bridge </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A century-old bridge over Cottage Creek in Newcastle West is set for renewal, with City of Newcastle seeking to engage a consultant to progress the design for a replacement structure.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/transforming-hunter-street-s-hidden-bridge</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e4c1eff8-228b-4b39-99e8-6a170bf6ec18</guid>
      <title>Festival of arts and culture kicks off in Newcastle  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A mesmerising mass dance performance at Civic Theatre will provide a spectacular start to City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s flagship cultural festival when New Annual officially kicks off today.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/festival-of-arts-and-culture-kicks-off-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>569ff065-6030-484e-ab93-4b815d2cf2c6</guid>
      <title>Newcastle leading race to host a FIFA Women's World Cup team </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s premier No. 2 Sportsground has been short-listed as a dedicated team base camp training site during the FIFA Women&amp;rsquo;s World Cup in 2023.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-leading-race-to-host-a-fifa-women-s-world-cup-team</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>18d5c264-0e8f-404a-950c-a03f44506837</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle presents vision for sustainable waste future  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Summerhill Waste Management Centre will be transformed into an innovative regional recovery hub under a 20-year vision to reduce waste.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-presents-vision-for-sustainable-waste-future</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>72190c32-d984-4530-a302-6ce8fbc3e931</guid>
      <title>Newcastle development application times cut by 25 per cent</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A streamlined solution set to slash determination times for low-impact, decision-ready development applications will be considered by Councillors at tonight&amp;rsquo;s Ordinary Council Meeting following a three-month trial.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-development-application-times-cut-by-25-per-cent</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>90dcbf43-3818-4ecd-9acc-7369a374c3b6</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 27 September 2022</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 27 September 2022. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-27-september-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f66aa22d-5ebf-4104-9876-e8d4223dd2c1</guid>
      <title>Stockton Local Centre receives $5 million upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has completed a $5 million facelift of Stockton&amp;rsquo;s Local Centre, delivering new footpaths, increased shade and improved pedestrian and cyclist safety in time for the school holidays.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/stockton-local-centre-receives-$5-million-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8819c6fc-b956-4804-a0e1-041e3ebbff3f</guid>
      <title>Darby Street outdoor dining transformation begins </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s renowned &amp;quot;eat street&amp;quot; precinct on Darby Street in Cooks Hill will come alive as part of a six-month trial with extended outdoor dining facilities, community focused events and improved pedestrian and cycling infrastructure under the Streets as Shared Spaces initiative.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/darby-street-outdoor-dining-transformation-begins</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>00661b0d-2572-497b-b859-0e4878f2a220</guid>
      <title>Newcastle emerges as the new street art capital</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s already incredible collection of vibrant and eclectic street art is set to don another nine new large-scale murals with the return of Big Picture Fest this weekend.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-emerges-as-the-new-street-art-capital</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4a0a7cc3-b607-4a9a-98f4-cf428633896c</guid>
      <title>Works continue to protect Stockton's coastline</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is making progress with the implementation of actions outlined in the Stockton Coastal Management Program 2020, with tenders to be called soon for the construction of a new buried seawall.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 Sept 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/works-continue-to-protect-stockton-s-coastline</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f44a84cd-31dd-4c40-98fe-1907a64c40c6</guid>
      <title>Key to the City opens the doors to City Hall for the Newcastle Knights NRLW 2022 Premiers</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Hundreds of Knights fans lined King Street outside City Hall last night to celebrate the Newcastle Knights&amp;rsquo; historic 2022 NRLW Premiership win.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/key-to-the-city-opens-the-doors-to-city-hall-for-the-newcastle-knights-nrlw-2022-premiers</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f3b51c0e-9210-412d-b60f-049b8f437407</guid>
      <title>Sport back in action at No.1 Sportsground following $8 million upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle cricketers will take to the pitch for the first round of their district cricket season this weekend to celebrate the reopening of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s No.1 Sportsground following its $8 million upgrade.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sport-back-in-action-at-no-1-sportsground-following-$8-million-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fab59ce0-fb31-468e-9309-f6731bcc9426</guid>
      <title>Tenders called for Boscawen Street Bridge replacement  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is moving ahead with the next stage of its $20 million commitment to reduce flooding across Wallsend, calling tenders for the replacement of the Boscawen Street Bridge.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/tenders-called-for-boscawen-street-bridge-replacement</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>87b48f25-4595-44e3-82d8-30d29e868dc5</guid>
      <title>Working together to achieve an inclusive, liveable city </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is inviting the community to have their say on how to address housing affordability, social isolation and access to public spaces.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/working-together-to-achieve-an-inclusive,-liveable-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>91845ec1-7e2c-4097-8882-c93570f1a451</guid>
      <title>A closer look at Newcastle’s southern beaches</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Significant damage and loss of sand caused by several storm events this year has put the spotlight on future-proofing Newcastle&amp;#39;s southern beaches &amp;ndash; the stretch of coastline between Nobby&amp;#39;s Beach and Burwood Beach.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/a-closer-look-at-newcastle’s-southern-beaches</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3346e4fd-c017-4ef7-afeb-00fd04844ccd</guid>
      <title>Community invited to join the party on Darby Street</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An outdoor stage with live music, roving performers and pop-up stalls will ensure an unforgettable street party along Darby Street this Saturday.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-join-the-party-on-darby-street</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>16d5e76c-842e-4e88-81f4-c238147e4393</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle advocates for greater recognition and inclusion of carers </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More than 15,000 carers across Newcastle who provide round the clock care and support to a family member or friend will be recognised by City of Newcastle ahead of National Carers Week.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-advocates-for-greater-recognition-and-inclusion-of-carers</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ba0a2d38-4df2-4eee-b176-1fcfc31f5b4d</guid>
      <title>Hit Broadway musical to make Newcastle debut in 2023 </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The critically acclaimed musical &lt;i&gt;Come From Away&lt;/i&gt; is set to run for an extended stay at the Civic Theatre in February 2023; the first time in 30 years that a Broadway smash hit has come to Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hit-broadway-musical-to-make-newcastle-debut-in-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>86b06235-023c-4700-a5d5-4afb97704e3d</guid>
      <title>Trainee and apprenticeship opportunities on offer for 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is offering to help nine people take their first career step with applications now open for its annual intake of apprentices and trainees.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/trainee-and-apprenticeship-opportunities-on-offer-for-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c11b9777-f185-463d-b53e-a8e56b2859ad</guid>
      <title>Federal co-funding welcomed for Stockton Beach </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has announced $1.5 million co-funding in partnership with $4.7 million Federal Government funding for the planning, design and approvals to secure sand for amenity nourishment at Stockton Beach.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/federal-co-funding-welcomed-for-stockton-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ccaa1aac-e2d0-4926-b779-bed35e818909</guid>
      <title>Avenue of trees to commemorate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A 700m long avenue of native trees stretching along the creek side of Maryland Drive will create a living legacy in honour of Queen Elizabeth II.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/avenue-of-trees-to-commemorate-the-queen-s-platinum-jubilee</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>21234fc2-c954-4f8b-934d-f597c88fa22f</guid>
      <title>Capital works top $100 million as City of Newcastle confirms outcome of financial year</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN)&amp;rsquo;s annual financial report confirms the city invested more than $100 million into infrastructure projects last year, as part of a stimulus program to buffer the local the economy during the pandemic.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/capital-works-top-$100-million-as-city-of-newcastle-confirms-outcome-of-financial-year</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e460a386-429a-47b0-ab47-bfa2e2edca8f</guid>
      <title>Environmental works underway at former Shortland landfill site </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has kicked off significant environmental works at a former landfill site that took waste from across the Hunter for more than 20 years.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/environmental-works-underway-at-former-shortland-landfill-site</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4b766579-6302-4a79-bf82-9b2f635c2607</guid>
      <title>City entices entrepreneurs to Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is inviting entrepreneurs and professionals to set up shop for three months free of charge as part of a program to diversify and increase the local skills base.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-entices-entrepreneurs-to-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>eb75654c-775c-4814-8b84-076e0cef4a57</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 25 October 2022 </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 25 October 2022. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Oct 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-25-october-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>510cb06d-a282-40c2-b43b-01ec52998d52</guid>
      <title>Newcastle on track to capture more of lucrative business tourism market </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Large-scale business events have returned to Newcastle following a COVID-enforced industry hiatus, with more than 360 delegates currently in the city attending the 2022 RSL NSW Annual State Congress.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-on-track-to-capture-more-of-lucrative-business-tourism-market</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>13541788-e2de-4542-82d5-c21e704b53e8</guid>
      <title>Nominate a local hero for the Newcastle Citizen of the Year Awards </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Applications for nominations for City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s 2023 Citizen of the Year Awards are now being accepted.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/nominate-a-local-hero-for-the-newcastle-citizen-of-the-year-awards</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>04bc30ba-a6d7-4f61-9842-0337469d1c97</guid>
      <title>Newcastle’s largest playground now open in Wallsend </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Wallsend is now home to the city&amp;#39;s largest playground complete with a bike pump track, climbing walls, basketball court, tennis hitting wall and fitness equipment, following the completion of the $2 million Wallsend Active Hub.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>03 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle’s-largest-playground-now-open-in-wallsend</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>964b967f-822a-49d7-b1c2-7188782b5a1f</guid>
      <title>Church Walk Park</title>
      <description>&lt;p paraeid="{211ba813-277d-443c-b25c-02f798d5887a}{208}" paraid="2120186374"&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has collaborated with community members to highlight a hidden green oasis in the heart of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s CBD.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p paraeid="{211ba813-277d-443c-b25c-02f798d5887a}{228}" paraid="1538868311"&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>03 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/church-walk-park</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2a7780b4-4cae-4902-a5f9-e82983dca59d</guid>
      <title>Colourful career of former Commonwealth Meat Inspector celebrated with Freeman of the City honour </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A former campaigner to improve health and safety conditions for those working in abattoirs is the latest honouree to be conferred as a Freeman of the City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/colourful-career-of-former-commonwealth-meat-inspector-celebrated-with-freeman-of-the-city-honour</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>77c1dcf7-1677-4ee2-9fb0-8e782fb15da2</guid>
      <title>Students picture new vision for sustainable waste future   </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has uncovered the next generation of sustainability champions as part of a school art competition designed to promote resource recovery.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/students-picture-new-vision-for-sustainable-waste-future</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c9505791-3702-4d5b-aa0a-fd9c59b1f03e</guid>
      <title>Newcastle City Library serves up chance to learn from the master with Cakeboi book launch</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Novocastrians are used to City of Newcastle dishing up a great range of events across the Libraries network, but November&amp;#39;s upcoming book signing quite literally takes the cake.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-city-library-serves-up-chance-to-learn-from-the-master-with-cakeboi-book-launch</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b4142727-af86-43a2-a379-22612d3da80b</guid>
      <title>Emerging artists making their mark on Darby Street</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The newly renovated Darby Street Headphones Courtyard will be transformed into a spectacular pavement canvas this weekend as part of a live street art event supported by City of Newcastle.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/emerging-artists-making-their-mark-on-darby-street</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d5e67088-6d78-4ac7-a942-e652cecb5bcc</guid>
      <title>Media statement – inland pools review   </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) officers are undertaking a review of the management of the city&amp;#39;s five inland swimming centres.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-–-inland-pools-review</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>193bd0ee-8d32-42d7-b451-80004d1123ef</guid>
      <title>Ambitious play for the lucrative cultural tourism market  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has outlined its plan to become a nationally significant destination for cultural tourism as part of a masterplan designed to preserve Newcastle&amp;#39;s cultural institutions and enhance the surrounding precinct.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ambitious-play-for-the-lucrative-cultural-tourism-market</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>397d5001-0640-4d9f-9744-ced28b897591</guid>
      <title> Sixteen projects to boost City’s night-time economy  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A roaming music festival, contemporary dance party, and quarterly food, art and wine trails will attract more visitors into the city centre at night, increase spending at local businesses and showcase local creatives thanks to funding from City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s special business rate. &amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sixteen-projects-to-boost-city’s-night-time-economy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b296bf43-5886-434a-9994-6a4074819f1b</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 22 November 2022</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting on Tuesday 22 November 2022. NB: It is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-22-november-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a9d9b49b-218d-4133-97bb-4fa730f4af0d</guid>
      <title>City's regional waste strategy receives Council green light</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) will move forward with plans to transform its Summerhill Waste Management Centre into a regional recovery hub following the adoption of its sustainable waste strategy.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-s-regional-waste-strategy-receives-council-green-light</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>70bf7af4-dc31-440f-85dc-1e6992e5d398</guid>
      <title>Inclusivity at the heart of new playspace for Gregson Park  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An inclusive playground enriched with traditional indigenous elements are key features of a new million-dollar playspace proposed for Hamilton&amp;rsquo;s most historic park.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/inclusivity-at-the-heart-of-new-playspace-for-gregson-park</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>af76e6f4-1e15-4d0d-8b7f-410ecee9705e</guid>
      <title>Investing in people key to Newcastle's economic future</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Addressing skills shortages and leveraging future opportunities for jobs and economic growth will be on the agenda when City of Newcastle (CN) meets with local business leaders today.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/investing-in-people-key-to-newcastle-s-economic-future</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9cccb8d3-97b1-4289-8db6-832e1ac6edfc</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Ocean Baths turns 100 </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s much-loved ocean baths will notch up another significant milestone tomorrow with the 100&lt;sup&gt;th&lt;/sup&gt; anniversary of their official opening.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-ocean-baths-turns-100</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3b267bc0-605b-4327-8bb5-404939378b52</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle champions disability inclusion in the workplace </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A training video advocating for more inclusive workplaces will be launched today to raise awareness of the barriers and opportunities people with a disability face in employment.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-champions-disability-inclusion-in-the-workplace</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6985e9cc-c7e5-4b05-abf6-1e68ba69cf1f</guid>
      <title>International stars head up sizzling summer of events in Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle has launched into a sizzling summer of events, with 150 of the state&amp;#39;s best rowers taking to the waters of Throsby Creek today ahead of a busy period of music, sport and culture.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/international-stars-head-up-sizzling-summer-of-events-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>60dc29b3-aa37-4fe6-89fa-80671a35fd6d</guid>
      <title>Dog lovers to head west with City of Newcastle unveiling plans for new fenced off-leash dog park</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Maryland will become home to the city&amp;#39;s newest fenced off-leash dog park, with City of Newcastle unveiling a multi-stage masterplan featuring dedicated areas for both large and small canines.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/dog-lovers-to-head-west-with-city-of-newcastle-unveiling-plans-for-new-fenced-off-leash-dog-park</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cdf0d39e-6461-4245-8225-59dad8843b82</guid>
      <title>Christmas cheer lights up Newcastle's Civic precinct</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s Wheeler Place will play host to festive fun as the Civic precinct comes to life with an 11-metre-high Christmas tree and family-friendly activities.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 Nov 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/christmas-cheer-lights-up-newcastle-s-civic-precinct</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c11f027a-3792-4996-acb3-f80f57cb277d</guid>
      <title>World Cup live site gives Novocastrians chance to cheer on Socceroos</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Thousands of passionate football fans are expected to descend on Wheeler Place this Sunday to watch the Socceroos take on the might of Lionel Messi and his Argentinian teammates in a World Cup sudden death match in Qatar.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/world-cup-live-site-gives-novocastrians-chance-to-cheer-on-socceroos</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ce609490-04a5-43b4-9854-540ab3045eba</guid>
      <title>City’s new Enterprise Agreement reflects commitment to inclusion, diversity and equity </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Greater support will be extended to victims of domestic violence as City of Newcastle (CN) doubles leave provisions for affected employees under its proposed new &lt;i&gt;Enterprise Agreement (EA) 2023.&lt;/i&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city’s-new-enterprise-agreement-reflects-commitment-to-inclusion,-diversity-and-equity</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8e596d21-acde-41a0-91e2-765a0cae06ef</guid>
      <title>2021/2022 Annual Report</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s 2021/2022 Annual Report was endorsed at the November Ordinary Council Meeting.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/2021-2022-annual-report</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2a1a64cf-2472-4469-a6ac-a962f15c98cd</guid>
      <title>Historic lifeboat to be preserved for future generations by Newcastle Museum  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The lifeboat involved in one of the most dramatic rescues in Newcastle&amp;#39;s maritime history will be preserved for future generations as part of a project being carried out by Newcastle Museum.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/historic-lifeboat-to-be-preserved-for-future-generations-by-newcastle-museum</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>28d6a10e-14c4-4fb0-9189-8d6f1611ae17</guid>
      <title>App boosts accessibility at cultural facilities</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has become the first organisation in the Hunter to embrace a mobile phone app that empowers people with vision impairment to navigate new spaces.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/app-boosts-accessibility-at-cultural-facilities</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1e77d2d8-9dd6-4617-990a-3734a36522cc</guid>
      <title>Memorable moments await Civic Theatre audiences in 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Civic Theatre will take audiences on an emotional rollercoaster next year with a diverse line-up of theatre, dance, music and comedy set to grace the stage in 2023.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/memorable-moments-await-civic-theatre-audiences-in-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>72eeba90-7ed1-4149-88e6-0d2b08842aa7</guid>
      <title>Call for tenders to design next stage  of Bathers Way project  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is calling for tenders to complete the design of a key link in the city&amp;#39;s iconic coastal walkway.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/call-for-tenders-to-design-next-stage-of-bathers-way-project</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d8b41b07-95ba-4679-92f1-c47b4a3a2a5d</guid>
      <title>Divers flip out for Lambton pool's latest upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;New diving boards funded via a grant from the NSW Government are the latest upgrade at Lambton Swimming Centre, with recent investment at the swim centre by City of Newcastle nearing $1 million.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/divers-flip-out-for-lambton-pool-s-latest-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2e1a76fb-86df-4889-bd4d-36016d55ab4e</guid>
      <title>Australian-first aerobatics display takes New Year's Eve celebrations to new heights in Newcastle  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;All eyes will be on the sky over Newcastle Harbour on New Year&amp;#39;s Eve when daring aerobatics manoeuvres and dazzling fireworks provide an electrifying farewell to 2022.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>11 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/australian-first-aerobatics-display-takes-new-year-s-eve-celebrations-to-new-heights-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3ac55d3b-0a70-4b90-8bb8-14772270f38e</guid>
      <title>Protection for Stockton Beach</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle City Council on Tuesday evening will consider a tender for the construction of a buried protection structure at the southern end of the existing Mitchell Street seawall in Stockton.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/protection-for-stockton-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>aa2a1403-d145-424c-a562-6201799ffabc</guid>
      <title>Search is on for First Nations creatives to star in Newcastle Museum exhibition  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;First Nations artists are being invited to take part in a major new community exhibition being curated by Newcastle Museum.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/search-is-on-for-first-nations-creatives-to-star-in-newcastle-museum-exhibition</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3eb1ba30-9885-4489-99b4-203b32cf08c3</guid>
      <title>Community to have their say on future of Newcastle 500</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle will seek feedback from the community before, during and after next year&amp;#39;s Newcastle 500 as part of a consultation strategy prepared to guide future decisions on the event.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-to-have-their-say-on-future-of-newcastle-500</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>536050d9-5062-43b7-bbc9-6eae2a09b081</guid>
      <title>Winner of the 'Green our City' competition announced </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle green thumbs went head-to-head to enliven their neighbourhoods by entering City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s (CN) &amp;#39;Green Our City&amp;#39; street garden competition.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/winner-of-the-green-our-city-competition-announced</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0e25d5af-fe70-4df3-a0b4-9711f61ae027</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 13 December 2022 </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 13 December 2022. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-13-december-2022</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c205ab45-d248-403b-83ee-30890356259d</guid>
      <title>Multimillion-dollar funding boost for Newcastle's largest playground</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Plans to build the city&amp;#39;s largest playground at Foreshore Park are in full swing with a $2.27 million funding boost from the State Government.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/multimillion-dollar-funding-boost-for-newcastle-s-largest-playground</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cc41edd2-f80c-47b3-a65a-8f8fdf7ca2d8</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle takes next step towards expansion of Newcastle Art Gallery </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle will invite tenders next month for the construction of Newcastle Art Gallery&amp;#39;s $40 million expansion, as work continues on grouting the historic mine tunnels 80 metres below the building.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-takes-next-step-towards-expansion-of-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>57c0b26f-8caa-4cb2-9932-bf3c3a0af1ab</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle takes milestone step in journey to deliver sustainable waste vision</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has hit a key milestone in its plan to build Newcastle&amp;#39;s first Material Recovery Facility (MRF) at the Summerhill Waste Management Facility.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-takes-milestone-step-in-journey-to-deliver-sustainable-waste-vision</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e5d56121-fe2a-4b49-bf02-fa3fa4f3fad8</guid>
      <title>Sunny days ahead with the arrival of new kiosk</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Christmas has come early for Newcastle beachgoers, with the opening of a new kiosk at Dixon Park Beach just in time for the busy summer school holiday period.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>20 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sunny-days-ahead-with-the-arrival-of-new-kiosk</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>60534bc1-9ed7-4bec-a60b-a9a71c4e263d</guid>
      <title>Coastal projects take shape heading into 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Significant impacts of three consecutive La Niña events added to the challenge of ensuring Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s famous coastline from Stockton in the north to Burwood Beach in the south remained safe and accessible for the community to enjoy.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/coastal-projects-take-shape-heading-into-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2c11d762-e1bf-4ac0-84cb-c22df209acc2</guid>
      <title>Media statement - NSW Government funding for Stockton protection structure</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) welcomes the $2.3 million in funding from the NSW Government&amp;#39;s 2021-22 Coastal and Estuary Grants Program for the first of three protection structures to address immediate erosion risk at Stockton Beach.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Dec 2022</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-nsw-government-funding-for-stockton-protection-structure</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b1844685-338e-4748-923e-b4c502c61f8b</guid>
      <title>Elton John travels road paved with economic gold to Australia's burgeoning global event destination  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Global superstar Elton John is heading to Newcastle this week on a yellow brick road paved with gold for the local economy as the revitalised city cements its transformation into an event powerhouse.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Jan 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/elton-john-travels-road-paved-with-economic-gold-to-australia-s-burgeoning-global-event-destination</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>39ee4e36-7f64-42bf-9b0e-3313a7c3b6b9</guid>
      <title>Success of Sir Elton John’s Newcastle tour extends across the city </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The sun may have gone down on Sir Elton John&amp;rsquo;s first and last Newcastle tour, but local tourism and hospitality operators are still revelling in the wake of the event&amp;#39;s success.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 Jan 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/success-of-sir-elton-john’s-newcastle-tour-extends-across-the-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b0fcc0f2-b7ab-48cc-b2e3-6c9f2ad0e7f5</guid>
      <title>New grandstand to give spectators plenty to cheer about </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The 60-year-old grandstand at Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre is set to be replaced as part of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s ongoing investment in the much-loved community facility.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Jan 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-grandstand-to-give-spectators-plenty-to-cheer-about</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6694cd76-80ad-4749-8b97-072c2e019ee6</guid>
      <title>Playground program breathes new life into the city's recreational spaces </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Young people will soon be swinging, sliding and climbing around five local playgrounds as City of Newcastle (CN) embarks on a $750,000 replacement program in 2023.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 Jan 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/playground-program-breathes-new-life-into-the-city-s-recreational-spaces</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cc33bd51-5047-438f-97bf-dd9d993667f9</guid>
      <title>First Nations voice amplified by 2023 Newcastle Citizen of the Year accolade </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A passionate advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities has been selected as Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s 2023 Citizen of the Year.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>18 Jan 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/first-nations-voice-amplified-by-2023-newcastle-citizen-of-the-year-accolade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0f5f1f7c-8738-49d3-897e-c6231fb5dc38</guid>
      <title>Broadway smash hit Come From Away breaks ticket sale records   </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The Civic Theatre has set a new box office record less than a month out from the Newcastle debut of the hit Broadway musical &lt;em&gt;Come From Away.&lt;/em&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Jan 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/broadway-smash-hit-come-from-away-breaks-ticket-sale-records</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7f159d95-1473-4557-9879-b70710e1a9cb</guid>
      <title>Dates announced for return of New Annual as search begins for local programming</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Local artists are being invited to join the bill for this year&amp;#39;s New Annual festival, with City of Newcastle announcing the dates and opening expressions of interest for its flagship cultural event.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Jan 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/dates-announced-for-return-of-new-annual-as-search-begins-for-local-programming</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bf91c384-fe7e-4c9a-bdf8-675c2a87ec71</guid>
      <title>Next steps in the expansion of the Newcastle Art Gallery</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Artists from across Australia are being invited to make their mark on the expansion of Newcastle Art Gallery as the project takes the next step towards construction.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Jan 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/next-steps-in-the-expansion-of-the-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>932c05fd-436b-4f62-b65c-f13fafd50fd7</guid>
      <title>Citizenship ceremony leads change and celebrates diversity </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle today welcomed 200 new Australian citizens at its first citizenship ceremony for 2023 at the Civic Theatre. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Jan 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/citizenship-ceremony-leads-change-and-celebrates-diversity</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0562030f-d9d1-49ce-900c-e3df0b2b2136</guid>
      <title>Bathers Way CRG Expressions of Interest</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Expressions of Interest are now open to community members looking to participate in the Community Reference Group (CRG) for the upgrade of the next section of the iconic Bathers Way shared path running through King Edward Park.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 Jan 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/bathers-way-crg-expressions-of-interest</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ba8f1578-6704-420f-bbd5-5194b619acb0</guid>
      <title>City welcomes step forward for Stockton Beach</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has welcomed this morning&amp;#39;s announcement by the Deputy Premier Paul Toole, that NSW Public Works will be charged with project managing key activities to enable sand nourishment for Stockton Beach.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 Jan 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-welcomes-step-forward-for-stockton-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>48ca1e64-a19b-44ec-b004-985b3e071d08</guid>
      <title>Darby Street trial creates record trade boom for local businesses</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A City of Newcastle trial to extend outdoor dining options and improve pedestrian and cyclist safety along Darby Street has resulted in a trading boom for local businesses.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/darby-street-trial-creates-record-trade-boom-for-local-businesses</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bffe7c08-185f-4068-9b76-2f43ccd82c99</guid>
      <title>City welcomes Labor pledge for Stockton Beach</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has welcomed today&amp;#39;s announcement by Labor leader Chris Minns that NSW Labor will commit $21 million needed from the State Government for mass sand nourishment at Stockton if it wins the upcoming March election.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-welcomes-labor-pledge-for-stockton-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f134fea9-4bf5-4423-afe7-ad4d99661ecd</guid>
      <title>New program to boost social connections for seniors </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;From device advice to help seniors stay safely connected online to active outdoor sessions, a new program designed to reduce isolation and loneliness among seniors was announced today by City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-program-to-boost-social-connections-for-seniors</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>04a35d33-ea75-4058-9304-318a7ce32a23</guid>
      <title>Pop powerhouse becomes latest global music star to set sights on Newcastle  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle has scored a coveted spot on the upcoming world tour of American pop powerhouse Pink, who will take to the stage at McDonald Jones Stadium on February 13 next year.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/pop-powerhouse-becomes-latest-global-music-star-to-set-sights-on-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6a3c2310-7f1e-4304-aaa7-10a825b17482</guid>
      <title>Show of pride as Newcastle supports celebration of diversity and inclusion</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle is getting the party started ahead of the official Sydney WorldPride festivities this month, with a series of events to celebrate and support the LGBTIQ+ community.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/show-of-pride-as-newcastle-supports-celebration-of-diversity-and-inclusion</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6b98d0f0-1a60-434a-b61f-2ebc68dffd3e</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle supports Voice to Parliament  with free community barbecue</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders will have the floor at a free community barbecue hosted by City of Newcastle on Sunday 26 February at Hamilton&amp;#39;s Gregson Park, for anyone wanting to learn more about the forthcoming Voice to Parliament referendum.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-supports-voice-to-parliament-with-free-community-barbecue</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ff7aa275-85be-4d59-a999-6f497786f2f3</guid>
      <title>Newcastle welcomes hit Broadway musical Come From Away</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The curtains have gone up on the first professional Broadway musical to be held at Civic Theatre in 30 years, as the cast and crew from &lt;em&gt;Come From Away&lt;/em&gt; take to the stage.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-welcomes-hit-broadway-musical-come-from-away</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7d4b29a5-207f-4a62-83b7-47b95dac582a</guid>
      <title>Community to have its say on future of Newcastle 500</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Residents, businesses and racegoers are being invited to have their say on the future of the Newcastle 500 as community consultation on the event kicks off.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-to-have-its-say-on-future-of-newcastle-500</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7ceabbe6-a396-462e-b0b7-8803c86ef5f6</guid>
      <title>Mitch Revs painted Elton John piano to go under the hammer for women and children in need </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A unique upright piano hand painted by renowned Newcastle artist Mitch Revs to honour Elton John&amp;rsquo;s Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour will be auctioned at the Newcastle 500 next month to benefit women and children escaping domestic violence.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/mitch-revs-painted-elton-john-piano-to-go-under-the-hammer-for-women-and-children-in-need</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>68a2b5a8-b466-4179-b737-250d6caa5030</guid>
      <title>Have your say on the future of Wickham</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;New cycleways and footpaths, tree planting and public art opportunities are being proposed under a concept plan designed to guide future streetscape upgrades in Wickham.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/have-your-say-on-the-future-of-wickham</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e08e91b1-7368-487b-bca6-64d27177d706</guid>
      <title>Offshore wind farms drive new jobs and investment for Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has welcomed the prospect of unlocking billions of dollars of investment and hundreds of local jobs after the Federal Government opened consultation into establishing Australia&amp;#39;s second offshore wind zone off the coast of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/offshore-wind-farms-drive-new-jobs-and-investment-for-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7f8543f5-02f8-49d9-af9e-8f7e8a870fbd</guid>
      <title>Advocacy puts local government priorities in the spotlight </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Advocating for the needs of the local community was on the agenda today when City of Newcastle (CN) played host to the peak organisation representing councils across the state.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/advocacy-puts-local-government-priorities-in-the-spotlight</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>538838d0-90f0-470f-958a-ce074079a327</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 28 February 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-28-february-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a17e5a1d-3a70-47fb-84c0-36105a1a3c20</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 28 February 2023 </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 28 February 2023. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions. &amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Feb 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-28-february-2023-55311fbc4582a0dfca8674c90d362be0</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cd64c0b9-845b-4b1d-833a-dbe4364999ac</guid>
      <title>Boscawen Street Bridge set for replacement</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is moving forward with the next stage of its $20.7 million commitment to reduce the risk of flooding in the Wallsend CBD.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/boscawen-street-bridge-set-for-replacement</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>af2c3e3b-94dd-46e9-afd6-42f725c4a85b</guid>
      <title>Commitment needed to deliver renewed plan for Stockton</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is calling for a meeting of the NSW Deputy Premier&amp;#39;s Stockton Beach Taskforce, to determine which NSW Government agencies will fund and own the sand nourishment implementation actions for managing erosion in Stockton, as discussed at a meeting with the Stockton Community Liaison Group this morning.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/commitment-needed-to-deliver-renewed-plan-for-stockton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>54302140-76d6-4233-9194-688ce0aa9bb3</guid>
      <title>City turns up the heat on inland pool upgrades</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Swimmers will be able to dip more than just a toe in the water during the cooler months of the swimming season with water heating upgrades planned for Wallsend and Mayfield Swimming Centres.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>03 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-turns-up-the-heat-on-inland-pool-upgrades</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>333d2b15-bb9a-4167-81db-a766ed10f356</guid>
      <title>Come From Away cast takes final bow in Newcastle to rave reviews </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The curtain will come down one last time tonight bringing &lt;em&gt;Come From Away&amp;#39;s&lt;/em&gt; record-breaking Newcastle season to a close&lt;em&gt;, &lt;/em&gt;after sweeping audiences to their feet for a standing ovation after all 23 shows.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/come-from-away-cast-takes-final-bow-in-newcastle-to-rave-reviews</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f519b593-e91a-4063-85e7-5b1b1e45c09f</guid>
      <title>Refreshed playgrounds being reopened to the community </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Families are celebrating City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s ongoing investment in recreational spaces, with the completion of the first of five new playgrounds this year being upgraded across the city.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/refreshed-playgrounds-being-reopened-to-the-community</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0f638f77-b050-4d6f-aab0-c11fbe8b4dfa</guid>
      <title>Inspiring humanitarian receives Key to the City on International Women's Day </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An award-winning screenwriter and humanitarian has received a Key to the City of Newcastle after a compelling keynote speech at the annual Lord Mayor&amp;#39;s International Women&amp;#39;s Day Morning Tea at City Hall.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/inspiring-humanitarian-receives-key-to-the-city-on-international-women-s-day</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4836ba8a-8f84-40a4-9470-c48ad182eee8</guid>
      <title>Supercars fun starts with free community events on offer</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;There will be plenty of options to soak up the atmosphere of the Newcastle 500 outside of the racing precinct, with City of Newcastle supporting a series of fun, free events this weekend.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/supercars-fun-starts-with-free-community-events-on-offer</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>96693ede-f254-4b3a-b960-ac58c6161d79</guid>
      <title>Newcastle 500 wraps up with more chances for community to have their say</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The race may be over for 2023 but the chequered flag has not yet fallen on the chance to have a say about the return of the Newcastle 500.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>14 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-500-wraps-up-with-more-chances-for-community-to-have-their-say</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>38e13f8f-fcfd-48b5-8048-9bc8aa506dd3</guid>
      <title>Multimillion-dollar grandstand upgrade at Wickham</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Construction is set to begin this month on a major redevelopment of the Passmore Oval Wickham grandstand, delivering dedicated female changerooms, improved disability access and new community function areas.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/multimillion-dollar-grandstand-upgrade-at-wickham</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>64c223fd-fed8-4582-9864-a23fd7bb855f</guid>
      <title>Beautification projects breathe new life into  New Lambton shopping precinct </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is adding a dash of greenery and a splash of colour throughout New Lambton&amp;#39;s shopping precinct with the installation of shopfront &amp;ldquo;smart&amp;rdquo; gardens and a vibrant four-metre-high community mural.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/beautification-projects-breathe-new-life-into-new-lambton-shopping-precinct</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e63de1a2-6e7a-4164-a3af-244813e7340b</guid>
      <title>Newcastle to remain the regional home of basketball</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle Basketball, City of Newcastle and the State Member for Lake Macquarie Greg Piper have today announced a new $30 million basketball stadium will be built in Newcastle.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-to-remain-the-regional-home-of-basketball</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d5d4af57-e977-446f-9fff-e2ddc678ba15</guid>
      <title>New initiative set to boost Newcastle's global reputation as a preferred destination to study</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More than 1,200 newly arrived international students and their families were officially welcomed to the city by the Lord Mayor today and equipped with resources, services and programs to orientate them with everything Newcastle has to offer.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-initiative-set-to-boost-newcastle-s-global-reputation-as-a-preferred-destination-to-study</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f31a3e37-4a35-4012-8fe6-a142606bd1c0</guid>
      <title>Budget to deliver record infrastructure boost alongside second consecutive surplus    </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More than $137 million has been earmarked for investment into local facilities and infrastructure projects as part of a record Budget balancing community needs with a $6.9 million surplus.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/budget-to-deliver-record-infrastructure-boost-alongside-second-consecutive-surplus</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f4ec4339-41b1-4cd7-8328-d68151eb4168</guid>
      <title>Darby Street's outdoor dining on the table to stay  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Extended outdoor dining options could be here to stay on Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s renowned eat street following a successful six-month trial by City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/darby-street-s-outdoor-dining-on-the-table-to-stay</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>dd960e90-5a52-4e58-b751-fac06d455629</guid>
      <title>Exhibition tells Australian military stories through tattoos   </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Stories of service life and sacrifice inked on the skin of current and former Australian military personnel have been made into a powerful photographic exhibition now on display at Newcastle Museum.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/exhibition-tells-australian-military-stories-through-tattoos</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8f3aabba-9dd2-4a5a-965d-809fa590c40d</guid>
      <title>Works to start at Stockton's Mitchell Street seawall</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Work is set to commence in the coming weeks on construction of a buried protection structure at the southern end of the existing Mitchell Street seawall in Stockton.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/works-to-start-at-stockton-s-mitchell-street-seawall</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c6d26c3b-66c2-4ef2-9d6c-0e0d82925484</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 28 March 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 28 March 2023. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>28 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-28-march-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4939bf09-7441-4cc2-89e5-65e58c215ba9</guid>
      <title>Opportunity for jobs and housing in regionally significant Broadmeadow precinct  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle will begin planning for the renewal of Broadmeadow as a regionally significant growth area providing new housing and job opportunities during the next 20 years alongside the proposed sporting and entertainment precinct at Hunter Park.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>29 Mar 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/opportunity-for-jobs-and-housing-in-regionally-significant-broadmeadow-precinct</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7fe03f00-1338-456c-8a9f-600a927d4a68</guid>
      <title>Community continue to have their say on Newcastle 500  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The next stage of consultation has commenced to gain feedback on the future of the Newcastle 500.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>03 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-continue-to-have-their-say-on-newcastle-500</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5abc5b2b-f13a-491a-9ee5-8a9f6bfe2933</guid>
      <title>Media statement – street furniture theft </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is appealing for information about the removal of more than 35 items of aluminium street furniture from a CN storage facility.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement –-street-furniture-theft</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>307a27c3-c6ce-4356-9234-05a616005a6d</guid>
      <title>Pickleball hits Newcastle for the first time </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Beresfield netballers and pickleballers have been given a boost ahead of the new season with upgraded training facilities delivered as part of a $65,000 project to create a new multisport space for the community.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/pickleball-hits-newcastle-for-the-first-time</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a70c341b-9cb5-4e30-918c-29d3366c1856</guid>
      <title>Media statement – functions at Fort Scratchley during Newcastle 500 weekend </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle held three events at Fort Scratchley during the Newcastle 500, which is in line with what was done during the 2019 Newcastle 500.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement –-functions-at-fort-scratchley-during-newcastle-500-weekend</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>05fda722-30b7-4e00-8173-4ab78d89525d</guid>
      <title>Community wade in on 20-year plan for Newcastle's public swimming pools</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A comprehensive review has outlined a strategic path for the City to enhance and protect Newcastle&amp;#39;s five public swimming pools for the community over the next 20 years.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-wade-in-on-20-year-plan-for-newcastle-s-public-swimming-pools</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>02ef881d-e69f-41e3-b96a-1da286dcc79e</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Museum set to preserve unique piece of Australian aviation history</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;It took to the skies in the 1970s as Australia&amp;#39;s only homemade helicopter, but following decades in storage, its latest journey has been completed by road after being donated to the Newcastle Museum.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>11 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-museum-set-to-preserve-unique-piece-of-australian-aviation-history</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>595431e6-60a2-4634-88d4-83f3ec2b2021</guid>
      <title>Five new playgrounds officially open across the city</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;With school holidays underway, families are celebrating City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s ongoing investment in recreational spaces with five new local playgrounds officially opening for children with energy to burn.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/five-new playgrounds-officially-open-across-the-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2533656b-3d07-406d-b04b-63e7c2ff0463</guid>
      <title>Mall building demolition application to be expedited </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) will expedite processing a soon to be lodged Development Application by Iris Capital, to enable the demolition of the buildings located in Phase 3 of its award-winning East End development.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/mall-building-demolition-application-to-be-expedited</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>440a4f5d-994e-4611-9bc5-27d58885b16b</guid>
      <title>Youth take over city for week of celebrations</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Young people are gearing up to take over Wheeler Place and Museum Park this Saturday with pop-up skate ramps, live music, market stalls, art exhibits and workshops to kick off Youth Week 2023 celebrations.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/youth-take-over-city-for-week-of-celebrations</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>255edbe7-aa10-417b-b9f2-3ba4c94f8785</guid>
      <title>$150,000 in funding up for grabs to activate suburban business precincts</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Creative projects designed to increase visitation and boost economic activity in Hamilton, New Lambton and Wallsend business precincts will share in $150,000 as part of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s annual Special Business Rate (SBR) program.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$150,000-in-funding-up-for-grabs-to-activate-suburban-business-precincts</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c3b493ef-ffb9-4e8b-99d8-be6adfffe4b0</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Wednesday 26 April 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Wednesday 26 April 2023. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-wednesday-26-april-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>da98bf14-a211-444a-9389-de5bda2167a3</guid>
      <title>Tender awarded for Newcastle Art Gallery expansion</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The second stage of the Newcastle Art Gallery expansion will begin next month after councillors last night unanimously awarded the $43.8 million contract for the main construction works to Hansen Yuncken Pty Ltd.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Apr 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/tender-awarded-for-newcastle-art-gallery-expansion</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3401733d-1052-4f54-8789-315d0514cb19</guid>
      <title>Meet the Lord Mayor's Scholarship recipients for 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is supporting the academic pursuits of three University of Newcastle students by easing their financial burden with scholarships in 2023.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/meet-the-lord-mayor-s-scholarship-recipients-for-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>90a3e3c3-9282-41e5-b70c-66224eb35495</guid>
      <title>Rare birds of a feather flock together for Newcastle Libraries' exhibition  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle will shine a light on some of Australia&amp;#39;s finest bird illustrations as part of a new exhibition from its rare book collection.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>02 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/rare-birds-of-a-feather-flock-together-for-newcastle-libraries-exhibition</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4aca3394-9559-441c-9def-2c9e4b82627c</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Museum shines spotlight on First Nations creatives  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The talent and creativity of Newcastle&amp;#39;s diverse First Nations people is being celebrated through a new exhibition curated by Newcastle Museum.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-museum-shines-spotlight-on-first-nations-creatives</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>338c93de-ae68-4940-b89e-f3424418d592</guid>
      <title>City taps into local investment to harness community development</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) hosted a series of workshops today that explored the benefits of investing locally to unlock business growth, local employment and economic development opportunities.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-taps-into-local-investment-to-harness-community-development</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>76e56521-6cd2-42cc-8c83-7679978241ba</guid>
      <title>Mayfield tree planting and playground opening</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Mayfield residents have come together today to celebrate the opening of a new playground at the Avon Street Reserve, which was upgraded as part of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s annual playground replacement program.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/mayfield-tree-planting-and-playground-opening</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>408da471-4958-4613-b020-1e681e90edff</guid>
      <title>Lambton pool grandstand demolition gets underway</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;With summer now behind us, the Lambton Swimming Centre is gearing up for the construction of a new grandstand capable of hosting 800 people during school swimming carnivals as part of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s continued investment to protect and enhance the popular facility.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/lambton-pool-grandstand-demolition-gets-underway</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f7bd5cb8-3557-45c4-b443-880941b1ba9f</guid>
      <title>Sensors to help improve parking in Darby Street</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) will install parking sensors along Darby Street to help improve parking availability for customers of local businesses.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sensors-to-help-improve-parking-in-darby-street</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7ad4c16b-f5c4-49b3-bbaf-a21f41576b90</guid>
      <title>Community is key to shaping  the future of Broadmeadow</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has begun consulting with the community about ideas and feedback on the transformation of Broadmeadow over the next 20 years.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>08 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-is-key-to-shaping-the-future-of-broadmeadow</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4342b709-6f0b-4359-9de2-4ba7d7765ec4</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle confers record number of Australian citizens</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The largest ever citizenship ceremony held in Newcastle filled the Civic Theatre on Wednesday morning.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;More than 380 conferees from 68 countries were invited to take the pledge of commitment alongside family, friends and dignitaries.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-confers-record-number-of-australian-citizens</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>963046c4-116c-46f3-8923-5dd12e281bd4</guid>
      <title>Revitalisation of Hunter Street Mall set to continue </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Construction is set to commence on the next stage of the revitalisation of the city&amp;rsquo;s East End enabling the reinstatement of the Hunter Street Mall as a traditional high street.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>11 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/revitalisation-of-hunter-street-mall-set-to-continue</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a4914c2f-4ce6-42d2-a759-30a1559d011f</guid>
      <title>Million-dollar investment on track to improve Newcastle's footpath network </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is on track to deliver more than 3500 metres of new footpaths and shared pathways by the end of June as part of a $1 million investment across Newcastle.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/million-dollar-investment-on-track-to-improve-newcastle-s-footpath-network</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0963a110-6e5e-4713-a685-684ad6bd827c</guid>
      <title>Hands-on lessons help sow the seeds for a new generation of environmental champions </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Students swapped the classroom for the great outdoors today during a hands-on lesson about urban biodiversity delivered by City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hands-on-lessons-help-sow-the-seeds-for-a-new-generation-of-environmental-champions</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>73e1b6f4-59c2-4701-9065-e6c69df54af8</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle appoints interim contractor for South Newcastle Beach project  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has taken a key step towards the recommencement of work at South Newcastle Beach following the project&amp;#39;s head contractor Lloyd Group entering voluntary administration in March.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-appoints-interim-contractor-for-south-newcastle-beach-project</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>43c08b2b-65e5-427c-90e8-55ef532ceafa</guid>
      <title>Newcastle footballers score multimillion-dollar grandstand upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is kicking goals for football fans and players visiting Hamilton South&amp;rsquo;s Darling Street Oval, with work commencing on a major redevelopment of the grandstand and amenities.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-footballers-score-multimillion-dollar-grandstand-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>44d37b72-ae92-4dba-a4ce-c8653321b957</guid>
      <title>City welcomes news of next Stockton Taskforce meeting</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle welcomes the NSW Government&amp;rsquo;s announcement that the Department of Regional NSW will take responsibility for the delivery of initial amenity sand nourishment at Stockton Beach, after the funding was announced in October last year.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-welcomes-news-of-next-stockton-taskforce-meeting</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b6738730-74bc-45ed-a02c-6868013582ff</guid>
      <title>Key cultural conference puts Newcastle in the spotlight</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle will become the cultural capital of Australia this week, with almost 500 representatives of the country&amp;#39;s museums and galleries sector gathering in the city for their annual conference.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/key-cultural-conference-puts-newcastle-in-the-spotlight</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0d5a7247-0901-4cca-913f-ba765b1aa42c</guid>
      <title>British theatre impresario keen to bring more Broadway shows to Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Hot on the heels of &lt;em&gt;Come From Away&amp;#39;s&lt;/em&gt; record-breaking Newcastle season at the Civic Theatre, leading English theatre operator and producer Sir Howard Panter has visited the city as part of a reconnaissance trip scouting new locations to host future Broadway productions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/british-theatre-impresario-keen-to-bring-more-broadway-shows-to-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c3a51c17-1949-4a05-8e3f-71e4d018ca59</guid>
      <title>New dog facility to get tails wagging in western suburbs </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Construction is underway on the first stage of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s latest fenced off-leash dog park in Maryland.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>19 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-dog-facility-to-get-tails-wagging-in-western-suburbs</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d36589d7-7839-4808-a4e2-a6fa2fb34b84</guid>
      <title>Investment in Newcastle's public swimming pools continues</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More shaded seating and an upgraded playground are among the latest projects being delivered by City of Newcastle as part of continued investment to enhance and improve its public swimming pool facilities.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/investment-in-newcastle-s-public-swimming-pools-continues</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2282472d-72fb-4fd4-b700-f92a8fcb37f1</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 23 May 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 23 May 2023. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-23-may-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b5a03c22-15ac-4789-bc80-da65979dbca5</guid>
      <title>New recycling plant ushers in new era for recycling in Newcastle and the Hunter</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) will move forward with its landmark investment into the future of recycling in the region after awarding the contract to build Newcastle&amp;#39;s first Material Recovery Facility (MRF).&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-recycling-plant-ushers-in-new-era-for-recycling-in-newcastle-and-the-hunter</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9f0160b2-76cf-4d51-a7f3-5a5aa8f03a44</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle's record Budget to deliver everyday benefits to community  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;More than $25.7 million will be invested into maintaining and enhancing the city&amp;#39;s roads, bridges and footpaths as part of a record Budget unanimously adopted by Council last night.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-s-record-budget-to-deliver-everyday-benefits-to-community</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a9f80681-aed9-4f82-ba74-6592b2021ca9</guid>
      <title>Have your say on the revitalisation of Newcastle Ocean Baths </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The final stage of the upgrade to the Newcastle Ocean Baths is underway with City of Newcastle calling for community input into preliminary options for the pavilion buildings.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/have-your-say-on-the-revitalisation-of-newcastle-ocean-baths</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>33dfa976-ae2a-4248-8178-d918d0b7c9a8</guid>
      <title>Newcastle crowned NSW’s ‘Top Tourism Town’ </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle has been hailed NSW&amp;rsquo;s &amp;lsquo;Top Tourism Town&amp;rsquo; by Business NSW at the Local Government NSW Destination &amp;amp; Visitor Economy Conference in Manly.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-crowned-nsw’s-‘top-tourism-town’</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a76b3617-198a-46a3-a4fd-ffc3e135b759</guid>
      <title>$1 million in grants and sponsorships on offer from City of Newcastle </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Projects that attract people to public places, enhance community well-being and strengthen the city&amp;rsquo;s reputation as a tourism, business and events destination are set to share in almost $1 million from City of Newcastle (CN).&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>31 May 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$1-million-in-grants-and-sponsorships-on-offer-from-city-of-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a4dc457a-bfa3-4b6f-ad2f-b899e2c71e4c</guid>
      <title>New milestone for multimillion-dollar Ironbark Creek catchment rehabilitation</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has planted more than 53,000 native trees, grasses and shrubs alongside a 350m stretch of Ironbark Creek as part of a $3 million project to rehabilitate another section of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s largest tidal creek.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 June 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-milestone-for-multimillion-dollar-ironbark-creek-catchment-rehabilitation</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a89a62e8-c0df-44d3-ba6c-5b5b834ba5cf</guid>
      <title>Air Show set to thrill Newcastle region</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in partnership with City of Newcastle and Port Stephens Council, is proud to announce the Air Force Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 June 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/air-show-set-to-thrill-newcastle-region</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>12135810-7555-408b-b455-4665d784ca1a</guid>
      <title>NSW Government Taskforce meet to progress sand solution for Stockton</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A $6.2 million grant from the Federal Government to place sand on Stockton Beach, that was at risk of being lost, has been saved following the intervention of the Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>15 June 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/nsw-government-taskforce-meet-to-progress-sand-solution-for-stockton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7d60f65b-1436-4fc8-a94a-ee0ee19a907e</guid>
      <title>Multimillion-dollar grandstand upgrade underway</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is ready to kick off construction on a game-changing major redevelopment at Hamilton South&amp;rsquo;s Darling Street Oval.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>17 June 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/multimillion-dollar-grandstand-upgrade-underway</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2c1bb1cd-ba3a-487b-ad14-a9980f23456a</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle's Enterprise Agreement paves the way for rest of NSW</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A raft of progressive leave provisions and enhancements featured in City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s (CN) Enterprise Agreement (EA) 2023 is being extended to local government employees across NSW.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 June 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-s-enterprise-agreement-paves-the-way-for-rest-of-nsw</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>80d0765a-eb9e-4d23-a00a-fc7cb6515e1f</guid>
      <title>Have your say on plans to reduce congestion along Longworth Avenue</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;nbsp;is seeking feedback on concept plans to widen a notorious traffic bottleneck at Longworth Avenue, Wallsend, which is a major connecting road to Newcastle from Minmi and Fletcher.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 June 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/have-your-say-on-plans-to-reduce-congestion-along-longworth-avenue</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4d56357e-6b32-47b9-828c-f537965e45c8</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 27 June 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 27 June 2023. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 June 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-27-june-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>30b4eaea-d5bc-49ce-8219-71361b56e965</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle sets the scene for New Annual festival with launch of 2023 program</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Delivering unforgettable experiences in unexpected locations, City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s flagship New Annual festival is set to return this September for 10 days of art, culture, and creativity.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>30 June 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-sets-the-scene-for-new-annual-festival-with-launch-of-2023-program</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b47b5e2d-d123-44b8-871a-ae9418b936f9</guid>
      <title>Sharing stories of First Nations culture to celebrate NAIDOC Week</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle has kicked off its NAIDOC Week celebrations with the launch of a new monthly storytime session designed to share First Nations culture with the next generation.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>01 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sharing-stories-of-first-nations-culture-to-celebrate-naidoc-week</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>594628b4-a609-414b-a9de-663892496791</guid>
      <title>City embarks on record year of road investments </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Night works are soon to wrap up on the resurfacing of one of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s most well-known streets as City of Newcastle (CN) invests more than $14.7 million into a record year of road improvements.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>04 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-embarks-on-record-year-of-road-investments</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>00adb909-3fe5-47bd-b6d9-cf7c78d41f0d</guid>
      <title>Full steam ahead for trip back in time with special Newcastle Museum exhibition</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle Museum is turning back the clock to the days of paddle steamers and horse drawn carriages as part of a special exhibition showcasing one of Australia&amp;#39;s best model railways.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>07 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/full-steam-ahead-for-trip-back-in-time-with-special-newcastle-museum-exhibition</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1abd3434-cf8e-4444-857f-22821a22f4e5</guid>
      <title>Live sites to bring World Cup action into the heart of Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s Civic precinct will turn green and gold this month when City of Newcastle hosts outdoor screenings of the Matildas World Cup campaign in Wheeler Place.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>09 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/live-sites-to-bring-world-cup-action-into-the-heart-of-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3648e559-1890-4397-af44-00ba70dd5b08</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle receives proposal for $10 million makeover of Lambton Pool</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;A $10 million indoor aquatic facility at Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre is part of a tender the City of Newcastle has placed on public notice, for the operation of Newcastle&amp;#39;s five swimming pools.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>10 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-receives-proposal-for-$10-million-makeover-of-lambton-pool</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>153db776-9d7d-4bc6-9ce9-341d6263987b</guid>
      <title>Artists to make their mark on Newcastle Art Gallery expansion </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Its doors may be temporarily closed to visitors but that hasn&amp;#39;t stopped Newcastle Art Gallery bringing art to the city, commissioning new works to be displayed on the construction fencing around the site.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>12 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/artists-to-make-their-mark-on-newcastle-art-gallery-expansion</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2b6decfe-a529-42b5-a746-849802b70988</guid>
      <title>Artificial intelligence in the spotlight at City of Newcastle's Humble Lecture  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Award-winning journalist Tracey Spicer will seek to turn the page on the emerging bias in artificial intelligence as part of an annual lecture created in memory of Newcastle librarian Jennie Humble.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/artificial-intelligence-in-the-spotlight-at-city-of-newcastle-s-humble-lecture</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>82caa3d5-f49d-4b18-b789-f80e25284e06</guid>
      <title>Live music and performance grants to help local talent shine  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Newcastle venues are being invited to apply for a new round of funding from City of Newcastle (CN) aimed at delivering more live, local performances during this year&amp;#39;s New Annual festival.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>16 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/live-music-and-performance-grants-to-help-local-talent-shine</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>33c14317-12dc-41f6-b627-46484bcc136f</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle develops environmental roadmap to help combat climate change  </title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Net zero carbon emissions, renewable energy initiatives, more cycleways, connected wildlife corridors and sustainable construction materials are part of how&amp;nbsp;City of Newcastle (CN) intends to create an environmental legacy for future generations.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>23 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-develops-environmental-roadmap-to-help-combat-climate-change</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5a3a39b0-d343-4b77-b1c8-385ea3b4ea62</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 25 July 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 25 July 2023. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>25 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-25-july-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>759f0283-f8fe-4354-b266-740383d4ccb7</guid>
      <title>Community invited to provide feedback on updated flood study</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Novocastrians are being invited to have their say on a study designed to provide updated information on flood risks in parts of Newcastle and ensure future developments are fit-for-purpose in these areas.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>26 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-provide-feedback-on-updated-flood-study</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8965daa5-54b2-4e8d-bcaa-e3c6ec6f4c27</guid>
      <title>Western suburbs welcome new premier dog facility</title>
      <description>Dogs and their owners in Newcastle&amp;#39;s booming western suburbs are set to benefit from the opening of the city&amp;#39;s second fully fenced off-leash dog park.</description>
      <pubDate>28 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/western-suburbs-welcome-new-premier-dog-facility</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ba88c9f5-26a7-473c-858d-784ac24e4b5c</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle delivers million-dollar sports and recreation hub for community</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) has transformed Adamstown&amp;rsquo;s Myers Park into a multi-use sporting hub, with improved playing surfaces and new recreation facilities catering for both clubs and community members.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>29 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/about-us-news-and-updates-latest-news-city-of-newcastle-delivers-million-dollar-sports-a</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ada18885-0ceb-4026-9766-837926298d9b</guid>
      <title>Community digs deep to create habitat on National Tree Day</title>
      <description>Local residents, students and City of Newcastle (CN) staff this week dug deep to plant more than 8,000 native trees, shrubs and grasses as part of National Tree Day celebrations.</description>
      <pubDate>31 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-digs-deep-to-create-habitat-on-national</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0852e28f-4393-4167-a67c-9a5b97eaaf59</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle switches on safety improvements at notorious intersection</title>
      <description>Navigating a notorious Islington intersection has become easier and safer for cyclists, students and pedestrians following an $800,000 upgrade by City of Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>31 July 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-switches-on-safety-improvements</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bb9b5d00-00e1-4c4b-9b49-30ae89b36264</guid>
      <title>Back-to-back champions to be honoured with civic reception</title>
      <description>The Newcastle Knights are once again the toast of the town claiming their second-straight NRLW premiership. To help celebrate their historic achievement City of Newcastle will host a civic reception for the 28-player squad and coaching staff at City Hall on Tuesday, October 3.</description>
      <pubDate>01 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/back-to-back-champions-to-be-honoured-with-civic-r</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cd646f0e-9017-45d5-af44-8b145efdd397</guid>
      <title>City embraces Beatlemania as major events partnership attracts rock royalty to Newcastle</title>
      <description>One of the world&amp;#39;s most successful musicians will be winging his way to Newcastle this October thanks to a major events partnership between City of Newcastle and Venues NSW.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>01 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-embraces-beatlemania-as-major-events-partners</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9049d3ab-a0c5-41c1-9bd8-0ec53f27c558</guid>
      <title>Another step closer to sand for Stockton Beach</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has made progress on a range of work underway to address coastal erosion at Stockton, as discussed at a meeting earlier today with the Stockton Community Liaison Group.</description>
      <pubDate>01 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/another-step-closer-to-sand-for-stockton-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>23e495f1-8214-4892-ab16-281bd9fde1fb</guid>
      <title>City set to roll out welcome mat for Run for the Voice campaigner Pat Farmer</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will welcome ultramarathon runner Pat Farmer into Wallsend in August as part of his epic six-month run around Australia in support of the Voice to Parliament.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>02 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-set-to-roll-out-welcome-mat-for-run-for-the-v</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5fa7ace8-eed3-4fab-895f-2feda2760e4c</guid>
      <title>Statement from Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes on the passing of the Hon. Richard Face</title>
      <description>It&amp;rsquo;s with much sadness that I acknowledge the passing of the Hon. (Richard) Jack Richard Face, former State Member for Charlestown, Minister for Gaming and Racing and Minister Assisting the Premier on Hunter Development in the Carr Labor Government, who passed away peacefully last night.</description>
      <pubDate>02 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-from-newcastle-lord-mayor-nuatali-nelmes</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f5bad2eb-bb36-4cf1-9381-544a4652f3ca</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle champions disability inclusion with launch of Count Us In festival</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will team up with 2022 Australian of the Year Dylan Alcott next month to champion opportunities for people with a disability in the workplace.</description>
      <pubDate>09 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-champions-disability-inclusion-w</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a0b7e260-1ded-4721-826a-f445d6e8f567</guid>
      <title>Football fever lands in Kotara as City of Newcastle delivers million-dollar revamp</title>
      <description>Female footballers inspired by the Matildas&amp;rsquo; World Cup heroics will have access to more inclusive amenities as part of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s $1.2 million upgrade of Lugar Park.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/football-fever-lands-in-kotara-as-city-of-newcastl</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>81159126-f6f9-4608-9871-57379b7d5da3</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle celebrates National Science Week with free community events</title>
      <description>Thousands of budding scientists and future tech experts are expected to pour into Newcastle Museum this Sunday for a hands-on celebration of National Science Week.</description>
      <pubDate>15 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-celebrates-national-science-week</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>893f607e-8ae6-4dad-b976-6972b581b88a</guid>
      <title>Swimmers ready to dive into new season as City of Newcastle continues its investment in public pools</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) is ready to welcome swimmers back to its public pools after undertaking a significant program of improvements over the Winter break.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>16 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/swimmers-ready-to-dive-into-new-season-as-city-of</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e1a2f2d3-14c7-4a26-b748-e86f2e087f02</guid>
      <title>Bathers Way South Newcastle Beach project set for completion with new contractor</title>
      <description>Work will recommence on the upgrade of Bathers Way at South Newcastle Beach following the appointment of a new head contractor by City of Newcastle (CN).&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>16 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/bathers-way-south-newcastle-beach-project-set-for</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fb2d2387-f904-43cf-bcf0-642aa81ee0f4</guid>
      <title>Hardship support provides relief for Newcastle ratepayers</title>
      <description>As cost-of-living pressures continue to rise, City of Newcastle is encouraging people experiencing hardship to reach out for help with their rates.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hardship-support-provides-relief-for-newcastle-rat</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>18b02c1e-6d47-4a42-a9fc-9b97cd41316d</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle steps up war on waste with free community workshops</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) is empowering residents to join the war on waste with a new series of free workshops designed to encourage a more sustainable lifestyle.</description>
      <pubDate>18 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-steps-up-war-on-waste-with-free</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>59295b6e-fe98-48f3-bd62-6b0a693ab6a4</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle delivers million-dollar investment to support innovative local business projects</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) has opened applications for its City Centre and Darby Street Special Business Rates (SBR) program, with $900,000 in funding available for projects designed to promote, beautify and develop the precinct. It&amp;nbsp;follows the recent awarding of $150,000 in funding for seven projects in the Hamilton, New Lambton and Wallsend precincts.</description>
      <pubDate>18 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-delivers-million-dollar-investme</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>19c8ea10-0eaa-40e7-8c25-3724ce47872a</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle pedals ahead to deliver first bike repair station </title>
      <description>Cyclists are set to benefit from the installation of Newcastle&amp;#39;s first public bike repair station as City of Newcastle (CN) gears up to invest more than $3.6 million into cycleways during the next 12 months. &amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>21 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-pedals-ahead-to-deliver-first-bi</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2166e711-101a-461e-943c-de992a163c6b</guid>
      <title>Inspirational Matildas midfielder receives Key to the City of Newcastle</title>
      <description>Novocastrian footballer Emily Van Egmond has been awarded a Key to the City of Newcastle in recognition of the Matildas&amp;#39; heroic efforts during the 2023 FIFA Women&amp;#39;s World Cup.</description>
      <pubDate>22 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/inspirational-matildas-midfielder-receives-key-to</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7b4e6006-7c0d-4ed8-89d1-90862b8909e9</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 22 August 2023</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 22 August 2023. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>22 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-22-august-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1227e28e-ec64-4226-bbc8-f8443eb0918c</guid>
      <title>Expert panel helping to raise the bar for urban design in Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;An independent panel of experts are helping to set a new benchmark for urban design in Newcastle, working with City of Newcastle to evaluate major commercial, industrial, residential, community and civic developments proposed for the city.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>24 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/expert-panel-helping-to-raise-the-bar-for-urban-de</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>af2fca40-8e66-4ede-a1b9-5d855eafac9c</guid>
      <title>Community invited to celebration of First Nations creativity and culture </title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) will serve up a feast of First Nations culture at Hamilton&amp;#39;s James Street Plaza on Saturday as part of Newcastle Art Gallery&amp;#39;s outdoor projection project.</description>
      <pubDate>24 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-celebration-of-first-nations</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>004b9e58-17fe-4bb4-9a60-99475cfa68e0</guid>
      <title>Mayfield streets to sparkle through new cleaning program</title>
      <description>Footpaths along Mayfield&amp;#39;s main shopping strip will be looking brand new this week thanks to a pressure cleaning trial designed to improve the cleanliness and visual appeal of the precinct.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>25 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/mayfield-streets-to-sparkle-through-new-cleaning-p</link>
    </item>
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      <guid>32b22581-2385-4e52-893a-53bc10995ff3</guid>
      <title>Inclusive connection for Bathers Way takes shape</title>
      <description>Community members received a sneak peek of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s plans for the next stretch of Bathers Way at a meeting of the project&amp;#39;s newly renewed Community Reference Group this week.</description>
      <pubDate>25 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/inclusive-connection-for-bathers-way-takes-shape</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>efabb33c-b2de-49da-8f47-f2797510c41a</guid>
      <title>Becca Hatch to headline free Museum Park concert as part of New Annual festival</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) has unveiled details for This Land, Global Gathering and Ngiarrenumba Burrai (Our Country) as part of the final program for its flagship New Annual festival, which will deliver 10 days of art, culture, and creativity across the city from 22 September.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>25 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/becca-hatch-to-headline-free-museum-park-concert-a</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f4f7ae4f-46a0-4864-b409-88331bc89946</guid>
      <title>Accessible new strategy to drive community's engagement in decision-making process</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensure all Novocastrians feel involved in the decision-making process as part of its new four-year Community Engagement Strategy.</description>
      <pubDate>25 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/accessible-new-strategy-to-drive-community-s-engag</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2b05b4c3-a4ca-42eb-86af-88d8def788ae</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle invites local creatives to take centre stage at The Playhouse</title>
      <description>Newcastle&amp;#39;s creative and performing arts community are being invited to express their interest in presenting new and reimagined works in Civic Theatre&amp;#39;s intimate Playhouse Theatre in 2024.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 Aug 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-invites-local-creatives-to-take</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7de806cb-9a07-4746-a9fb-2fde92cd8f95</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle takes next steps towards revitalisation of iconic harbourside precinct</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has commenced work at Foreshore Park to prepare for the future construction of Newcastle&amp;#39;s largest children&amp;rsquo;s playground.</description>
      <pubDate>06 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-takes-next-steps-towards-revital</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8e8efcf0-28d7-4a6c-a5b9-75b10a9a0149</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle pitching in to help local sporting clubs</title>
      <description>Junior cricketers in Stockton will have a better chance of one day wearing a baggy green cap thanks to a $10,000 boost from City of Newcastle.</description>
      <pubDate>08 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-pitching-in-to-help-local-sporti</link>
    </item>
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      <guid>3f03865f-9a9a-496b-90dc-1c43c4b63987</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle leading the way with faster DA approvals</title>
      <description>An award-winning initiative designed by City of Newcastle (CN) that is slashing development application (DA) processing times could be rolled out across the state.</description>
      <pubDate>10 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-leading-the-way-with-faster-da-a</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e9d28ae3-ff40-4a2d-959c-98e9520f5a72</guid>
      <title>A new playspace for Gregson Park</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is moving ahead with the creation of a new inclusive playspace at Hamilton&amp;#39;s historic Gregson Park, with the contract for construction now open to tender.</description>
      <pubDate>12 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/a-new-playspace-for-gregson-park</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>004d03ac-7b2a-482d-87e9-f5f6619bc9a1</guid>
      <title>Riverwall repairs provide rock solid future for popular running route</title>
      <description>A shared pathway home to one of the largest parkrun events in Australia will be preserved into the future as part of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s $350,000 investment into the Throsby Creek riverwall.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/riverwall-repairs-provide-rock-solid-future-fo-1</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bbe747ea-16b0-4218-923d-53cd099bdeb8</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle double 2024 trainee and apprenticeships</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) has boosted its annual apprentice and trainee intake for 2024 with 18 roles on offer to help people take their first career steps.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>15 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-double-2024-trainee-and-apprenti</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>97e784b0-f92e-4e0e-82fe-e41ea51615c7</guid>
      <title>Safety first as City of Newcastle lifeguards prepare students for summer</title>
      <description>Thousands of local primary school students will be better equipped to take a dip this summer thanks to a City of Newcastle program that has been saving lives for more than 50 years.</description>
      <pubDate>15 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/safety-first-as-city-of-newcastle-lifeguards-prepa</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7073f2e0-282b-4702-98ce-aeb1e169e51b</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle confers its newest Australian citizens</title>
      <description>More than 200 people from 40 countries were invited to take the pledge of commitment as Australian Citizens alongside family, friends and dignitaries at Civic Theatre this morning.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>19 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-confers-its-newest-australian-ci</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3be05d21-40b5-4583-bc62-6f4c3800d7c1</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle takes next step towards final stage of Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is moving forward with the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade, with Council to vote at its meeting next week on appointing the Principal Design Consultant to oversee designs for the pavilion buildings.</description>
      <pubDate>21 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-takes-next-step-towards-final-st</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b10a142e-babb-4f5b-a3ed-eadb3b2be7e5</guid>
      <title>Amenities upgrade to ensure new swim season is accessible for all</title>
      <description>Construction of a new accessible changeroom is underway at Wallsend Swimming Centre as City of Newcastle continues to enhance its public swimming pool facilities for the new season.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>21 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/amenities-upgrade-to-ensure-new-swim-season-is-acc</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e7a2f91b-f1a7-48e2-8c37-8a67cde362d0</guid>
      <title>Newcastle coastline to make major Air Show debut</title>
      <description>Almost one hundred thousand spectators are expected to line Newcastle Harbour to catch a glimpse of thrilling aerial displays and flypasts as part of the Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023.</description>
      <pubDate>22 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-coastline-to-make-major-air-show-debut</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>58903eeb-4c10-4333-9449-8b2893a8da9e</guid>
      <title>High flying start as festival of art and culture swings into action in Newcastle </title>
      <description>A captivating contemporary circus performance inside the iconic Christ Church Cathedral will provide a spectacular start to City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s flagship cultural festival when New Annual officially kicks off today.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>22 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/high-flying-start-as-festival-of-art-and-culture-s</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e99b921f-9a9f-49f4-ad1c-ddda6b5167ab</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 26 September 2023</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 26 September 2023. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>26 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-26-september-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0e04c3dc-88af-4bf4-9cbb-d6d6d2350b69</guid>
      <title>Environment, mobility and ageing population the focus of future development planning</title>
      <description>Sustainability, access and inclusion are at the centre of proposed enhancements to planning guidelines that will support future developments across the city.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/environment-mobility-and-ageing-population-the-foc</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2395e2b2-0926-4edc-8af2-5491fe409eac</guid>
      <title>Sand on the way for Stockton Beach</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has welcomed the news that a contract has been awarded to obtain and place 100,000 cubic metres of sand along the Stockton coastline from next month.</description>
      <pubDate>27 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sand-on-the-way-for-stockton-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ece1f600-bd39-4d8a-b6f6-5f7513eaa573</guid>
      <title>New Annual wraps up with weekend of free festival fun</title>
      <description>First Nations culture will take centre stage this weekend as City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s 10-day New Annual festival wraps up with a host of free events.</description>
      <pubDate>29 Sept 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-annual-wraps-up-with-weekend-of-free-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fec13cbb-66c1-4c63-af27-cd131dc9a829</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle delivers flood improvements for University Drive</title>
      <description>A $5 million project to reduce the risk of flooding on a major Newcastle roadway has been completed by City of Newcastle.</description>
      <pubDate>06 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-delivers-flood-improvements-for</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>de8c3f80-3560-4069-98c7-6585f9eba62a</guid>
      <title>National tourism conference headlines local events boom</title>
      <description>Newcastle will become the destination of choice for Australia&amp;#39;s regional tourism industry today, with more than 230 representatives from across the country travelling to the city for their annual conference.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/national-tourism-conference-headlines-local-events</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>01920df9-1868-439e-ada3-e9a5bf1ee8ef</guid>
      <title>Safer cycleway connections for Hunter Street</title>
      <description>Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s cycling network continues to grow, with City of Newcastle seeking community feedback on the second stage of the Hunter Street Trial Cycleway project.</description>
      <pubDate>11 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/safer-cycleway-connections-for-hunter-street</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>129204c6-58da-4af7-89a0-ab601f98bc4d</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle searching for unsung heroes</title>
      <description>Novocastrians have the chance to help a local champion become a legend, with nominations now open for City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s 2024 Citizen of the Year Awards.</description>
      <pubDate>12 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-searching-for-unsung-heroes</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>89b22440-819f-4793-84e3-b43bdffb6694</guid>
      <title>Rainbow of sand provides welcome sight off Stockton coastline</title>
      <description>Stockton residents are celebrating the arrival of a 75-metre-long dredger spraying a rainbow of sand off the coastline, as it works to buffer the area from further coastal erosion.</description>
      <pubDate>16 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/rainbow-of-sand-provides-welcome-sight-off-stockto</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a0cbb12f-a2d0-4e82-acb7-4fb79cf23e82</guid>
      <title>Have your say on plans to reduce traffic congestion in western corridor</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is moving forward with its commitment to reduce traffic congestion in the growing western corridor, seeking community feedback into plans to widen and upgrade Minmi Road.</description>
      <pubDate>20 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/have-your-say-on-plans-to-reduce-traffic-congestio</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6e3f4e31-8989-4aa4-a22d-f0de4afd42aa</guid>
      <title>Newcastle secures worldwide blockbuster musical The Rocky Horror Show</title>
      <description>One of the world&amp;rsquo;s most iconic and highest selling musicals of all time, The Rocky Horror Show, has been secured to launch at Newcastle&amp;#39;s Civic Theatre when it kicks off a new national tour in January 2024.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>25 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-secures-worldwide-blockbuster-musical-th</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c0117a0e-6c17-49eb-be47-43e6f326a26e</guid>
      <title>Work underway to improve Bar Beach access</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is continuing to remediate storm damage and improve accessibility at Bar Beach to ensure safe access for all beach users ahead of the busy summer season.</description>
      <pubDate>25 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/work-underway-to-improve-bar-beach-access</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8703f23b-3f01-4786-8966-140bb8377097</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle brings community together for World Stroke Day</title>
      <description>Stroke prevention will be on the menu next week when City of Newcastle (CN) serves up its annual community morning tea with world-leading researchers from the Hunter.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-brings-community-together-for-wo</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c8ade3c4-746b-4fa0-a4f1-7cd01308639b</guid>
      <title>Fans say let it be in Newcastle as McCartney highlights benefits of major events</title>
      <description>Newcastle&amp;#39;s reputation as a major events destination took centre stage this week as almost 30,000 fans packed McDonald Jones Stadium to watch Paul McCartney&amp;#39;s historic first concert outside an Australian capital city.</description>
      <pubDate>27 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/fans-say-let-it-be-in-newcastle-as-mccartney-highl</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>04e339ac-2126-4305-b2ad-9cfc2baab4d6</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle improving food security for students</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;At a time when the cost-of-living crisis in Australia is forcing some students to forgo basic necessities, City of Newcastle is providing funding to help alleviate the problem.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;The University of Newcastle Students&amp;rsquo; Association (UNSA) was selected to share in a pool of more than $600,000 from City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s annual grants and sponsorships funding for a grocery hub, giving the food-insecure and vulnerable weekly access to non-perishable groceries and essential sanitary items.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>27 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-improving-food-security-for-stud</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>96b94718-d4b5-47f9-b431-a8daa2622664</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle invests in the next wave of trainee lifeguards</title>
      <description>With predictions of a scorching summer, City of Newcastle (CN) is calling for new high school-aged trainee lifeguards to patrol Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s iconic beaches and baths.</description>
      <pubDate>30 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-invests-in-the-next-wave-of-trai</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1a66d2a6-5b62-4821-93b9-a03d947c278c</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle prioritises infrastructure investment and budget responsibility</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN)&amp;#39;s 2022-23 financial statements confirms the delivery of a record $117.8 million in key infrastructure projects across the city, following on from $100.6 million spent the year prior. &amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-prioritises-infrastructure-inves</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9961f035-d573-44c8-b5d4-51ba604ef384</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle charging towards environmental legacy</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is taking responsible action to reduce pollution by powering up electric alternatives for fuel-based vehicles and equipment as part of its landmark Newcastle Environment Strategy.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>31 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-charging-towards-environmental-l</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b207e094-5c11-46be-8667-c81fe431e011</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 31 October 2023 </title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 31 October 2023. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>31 Oct 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-31-october-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>97a973af-4629-4988-a11f-ac870115bb6b</guid>
      <title>New era for Adamstown Park as Masterplan approved</title>
      <description>Council has adopted a blueprint for the future of the city&amp;#39;s largest suburban sporting and recreation hub, ensuring a recent $1.25 million makeover is just the beginning for Adamstown Park.</description>
      <pubDate>01 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-era-for-adamstown-park-as-masterplan-approved</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7a47dd46-7bae-4f24-9b0b-6387a23ec806</guid>
      <title>New Annual delivering peak platform for arts and culture investment</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s flagship arts and culture festival New Annual has cemented its place in the events calendar, attracting 95,000 visitors across its first three years. &amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>01 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-annual-delivering-peak-platform-for-arts-and-c</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>98b242e2-e518-437f-85cf-4e809a2b6c49</guid>
      <title>Wallsend's rich history to be celebrated with 150th event</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will host a large-scale community event to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Wallsend&amp;#39;s municipality in 2024.</description>
      <pubDate>02 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/wallsend-s-rich-history-to-be-celebrated-with-150t</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c110ed16-0405-421c-9fd4-a22133948d14</guid>
      <title>Next steps in protecting Newcastle's cultural heritage</title>
      <description>The community is invited to help guide future heritage planning as the city continues to undergo significant revitalisation by identifying which streets, buildings and places contribute most to Newcastle&amp;#39;s cultural identity.</description>
      <pubDate>02 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/next-steps-in-protecting-newcastle-s-cultural-heri</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6bbd00fa-33be-4676-be67-276c4d426475</guid>
      <title>Call for tender to construct new community facility at Blackbutt Reserve</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is moving ahead with the creation of a new multipurpose community facility and kiosk at Blackbutt Reserve, with the contract for construction to open for tender tomorrow.</description>
      <pubDate>03 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/call-for-tender-to-construct-new-community-facilit</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9ee65083-396c-45a4-b0e7-758a5aa1ef42</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle celebrates sporting life of Deaf community through Australian-first exhibition</title>
      <description>Experiencing what it&amp;#39;s like for an athlete to watch lights instead of listening for the starter&amp;#39;s gun is just one of the features of Australia&amp;#39;s first major exhibition to explore the importance of sport in Deaf culture.</description>
      <pubDate>03 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-celebrates-sporting-life-of-deaf</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>811fa1f2-08d6-421c-8cfa-f9cd50fe6c9f</guid>
      <title>Anticipation grows ahead of Newcastle season for blockbuster The Rocky Horror Show</title>
      <description>Seats are being snapped up by audiences keen to do the time warp again when the 50&lt;sup&gt;th&lt;/sup&gt;&amp;nbsp;anniversary tour of The Rocky Horror Show heads to Newcastle&amp;#39;s Civic Theatre.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>06 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/anticipation-grows-ahead-of-newcastle-season-for-b</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>63934c1e-bc60-4bc0-8e7a-4e31f3509a03</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle ignites anticipation ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is getting fired up to farewell 2023, with more than 30,000 people expected to converge on Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s Queens Wharf precinct for the family-friendly event.</description>
      <pubDate>01 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-ignites-anticipation-ahead-of-ne</link>
    </item>
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      <guid>081c771d-ef6e-4114-b146-7ec1f9b1d329</guid>
      <title>2022/23 Annual Report highlights city on the grow</title>
      <description>The visit of global megastar Elton John, the rejuvenation of the Newcastle Ocean Baths and a record $117.8 million spent on key infrastructure projects are just some of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s (CN&amp;#39;s) achievements from another busy year.</description>
      <pubDate>01 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/2022-23-annual-report-highlights-city-on-the-grow</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>72152a7b-c58f-4340-911d-1f2c1e3f748d</guid>
      <title>Fifteen projects to boost vibrancy across the city in 2024</title>
      <description>The hugely popular Big Picture Fest will extend its artistic legacy across Newcastle in 2024 as one of 15 projects awarded a share of almost $1 million in funding by City of Newcastle (CN).&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>08 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/fifteen-projects-to-boost-vibrancy-across-the-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0ee52b08-d577-4ec6-8285-31bcb8ed673b</guid>
      <title>Community support for dual-lane road upgrades in Wallsend</title>
      <description>Community feedback has confirmed City of Newcastle is heading in the right direction with two planned road upgrade projects that will reduce traffic congestion in the western corridor.</description>
      <pubDate>08 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-support-for-dual-lane-road-upgrades-in-w</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b3efa8bc-b09e-4559-bca0-6c063db16a3b</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle swings into action with million-dollar investment into playgrounds</title>
      <description>Families across the city will have more reasons to plan a trip to their local park thanks to City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s million-dollar investment into upgraded playground equipment and new amenities.</description>
      <pubDate>10 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-swings-into-action-with-million</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f1fbdf0e-96b1-422a-9740-81b23d24e349</guid>
      <title>Funding boost for Newcastle Museum and Art Gallery</title>
      <description>Local stories and ambitious exhibitions will continue to take centre stage at two of Newcastle&amp;#39;s key cultural institutions thanks to an extended multiyear funding allocation from the NSW Government.</description>
      <pubDate>11 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/funding-boost-for-newcastle-museum-and-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1ef362a6-af20-4589-a522-c0012957910d</guid>
      <title>Media statement - Newcastle Basketball Stadium</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) wishes to respond to claims made by the State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery regarding Newcastle Basketball&amp;#39;s plans for a new regional-level indoor basketball facility in Newcastle.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>12 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-newcastle-basketball-stadium</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ca5c1020-25d1-4de3-878f-723477a56926</guid>
      <title>Updated planning and design guidelines set to future-proof the city</title>
      <description>Sustainability, access and inclusion are at the forefront of enhanced provisions for new developments that were endorsed by Councillors at tonight&amp;rsquo;s Ordinary Council Meeting.</description>
      <pubDate>12 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/updated-planning-and-design-guidelines-set-to-futu</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>020232ab-3fc3-4d3d-9fdf-a06bdfe55e36</guid>
      <title>Community invited to help shape revitalisation of Georgetown local centre</title>
      <description>Plans to enhance the village atmosphere of Georgetown&amp;rsquo;s neighbourhood shopping precinct have been placed on public exhibition as part of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s Local Centres program.</description>
      <pubDate>10 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-help-shape-revitalisation-of</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>92dda0c3-6d8b-4dd1-96af-efcb7e9dd97d</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 12 December 2023 </title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 12 December 2023. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions. </description>
      <pubDate>12 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-12-december-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f1a31e48-58a6-4b09-b0a7-bb392858a15e</guid>
      <title>Bee workshops helping to turn Newcastle into pollinator-friendly city</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) has created a buzz at the beginning of Australian Pollinator Week by hosting two fully booked native bee workshops at the Hunter Wetlands Centre.</description>
      <pubDate>11 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/bee-workshops-helping-to-turn-newcastle-into-polli</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>53c5a770-f1b2-4556-85cd-bb896376b099</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle rolls out plans to get Novocastrians on their bikes</title>
      <description>The push for more pedal power in Newcastle has gone up a gear following the elected Council&amp;#39;s decision to move ahead with an extension of the separated cycleway along part of Hunter Street.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-rolls-out-plans-to-get-novocastr</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8f66d498-3ac6-420c-b7ca-c40051f385a3</guid>
      <title>Newcastle secures Women's State of Origin match in 2024</title>
      <description>State of Origin football will make its debut in Newcastle next year when Game 2 of the 2024 Women&amp;#39;s series is played at McDonald Jones Stadium on June 6.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-secures-women-s-state-of-origin-match-in</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>adc74a42-8915-4701-8d74-6aa3ae0527d0</guid>
      <title>Local productions to UpStage the classics in Newcastle</title>
      <description>A day in the life of a modern café, inspired by Goldbergs on Darby Street, is a taste of the local flavour that features in the UpStage at the Playhouse program.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/local-productions-to-upstage-the-classics-in-newca</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f2681550-ea17-4f2a-8377-8f30ab83c072</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Williamtown Air Show will be the largest single day event in Newcastle history</title>
      <description>The sky&amp;#39;s the limit for families and aviation enthusiasts preparing for an exhilarating day out this Saturday with Newcastle set to welcome the largest single day event in the region&amp;#39;s history.</description>
      <pubDate>14 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-williamtown-air-show-will-be-the-largest</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>94f1a1e8-cbab-477e-9bca-9fbb93191e7d</guid>
      <title>Code of Conduct investigation</title>
      <description>An independent investigation has been undertaken into alleged Code of Conduct breaches by City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s (CN) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) following a resolution of Council on 25 July 2023 and a letter from the Minister for Local Government.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/code-of-conduct-investigation</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ae5febd0-b9aa-4c53-b5c2-0342e4d473cc</guid>
      <title>Out of this world exhibition touches down at Newcastle Museum</title>
      <description>Novocastrians can explore the surface of Mars and take the ultimate celestial selfie this summer thanks to the new hands-on exhibition at Newcastle Museum.</description>
      <pubDate>15 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/out-of-this-world-exhibition-touches-down-at-newca</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>aa5f24ee-a4ac-42ac-ae4a-d07d02e67e9b</guid>
      <title>Swimmers to return to Newcastle Ocean Baths</title>
      <description>Christmas will come early for swimmers keen to dive back into the upgraded Newcastle Ocean Baths, with the pool set to reopen on 21 December.</description>
      <pubDate>15 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/swimmers-to-return-to-newcastle-ocean-baths</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7f79110f-10c0-4cd8-9077-66207bf5becd</guid>
      <title>Lambton Pool celebrates 60th anniversary with grand re-opening</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has splashed out with a pool party at Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre to celebrate the completion of the new $2.2 million grandstand.</description>
      <pubDate>17 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/lambton-pool-celebrates-60th-anniversary-with-gran</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6a50f27f-7cf8-4259-85a1-76b6263db1cc</guid>
      <title>City makes progress toward boosting supply of affordable housing</title>
      <description>A planning proposal designed to increase the supply of affordable housing across the city was endorsed by Councillors for the next steps at Tuesday&amp;#39;s Ordinary Council Meeting.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>18 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-makes-progress-toward-boosting-supply-of-affo</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cf2cb1a2-7e82-4fc0-8365-37363c288918</guid>
      <title>Nuatali Nelmes marks milestone nine years as Lord Mayor</title>
      <description>Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes has become one of Newcastle&amp;#39;s longest serving Lord Mayors, officially reaching nine years in the role today. </description>
      <pubDate>15 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/nuatali-nelmes-marks-milestone-nine-years-as-lord</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>03dfdede-fdb7-4c28-ac67-1ac9c32d80d7</guid>
      <title>Safer crossing on the cards as City of Newcastle invests in popular coastal precinct</title>
      <description>Accessing one of Newcastle&amp;#39;s busiest coastal precincts will become safer and easier for pedestrians and cyclists under City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s plans to upgrade the Bar Beach crossing.</description>
      <pubDate>21 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/safer-crossing-on-the-cards-as-city-of-newcastle-i</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7c521537-44f9-4b77-9dc6-2206ac69d145</guid>
      <title>Accessibility on the agenda as City of Newcastle delivers amenities upgrade at Wallsend pool</title>
      <description>A new accessible changeroom at Wallsend Swimming Centre has been completed as part of an estimated $1.25 million of accessibility improvements for City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s inland pool network.</description>
      <pubDate>21 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/accessibility-on-the-agenda-as-city-of-newcastle-d</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>da7f7563-41de-4a5a-bc18-65243b13c43b</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle celebrates Japanese Sister City agreement</title>
      <description>The four-decade relationship between City of Newcastle (CN) and its Sister City in Japan has been commemorated in person thanks to the visit of a delegation from Ube City, Yamaguchi Prefecture.</description>
      <pubDate>22 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-celebrates-japanese-sister-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>84a9c670-cd35-490d-bd75-d2156384f723</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle trials new technology to improve parking and safety</title>
      <description>Innovative new technology is being trialled by City of Newcastle (CN) to help improve parking management and safety across the Local Government Area.</description>
      <pubDate>22 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-trials-new-technology-to-improve</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c88ebe9e-6666-4dfb-9664-9cd8453bcbab</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Ocean Baths pump tests signal progress toward swim-ready water</title>
      <description>Swimmers are one step closer to being back in the water at the Newcastle Ocean Baths, with the testing and commissioning of the newly installed pump system about to kick off.</description>
      <pubDate>24 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-ocean-baths-pump-tests-signal-progress-t</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3b65ffab-b831-4d99-a705-99f822caae56</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle makes tree-mendous start to festive season</title>
      <description>Santa Claus and his elves made a flying visit to Newcastle last night to help Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes light up the city&amp;#39;s biggest Christmas tree in Wheeler Place.</description>
      <pubDate>28 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-makes-tree-mendous-start-to-fest</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>64475d0e-83df-4a23-87a0-3b7b9fc23c3a</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle leading the state in prioritising housing diversity</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) Councillors will be asked to reaffirm their support to planning for housing supply at tonight&amp;#39;s Ordinary Council Meeting in support of the Minns Government&amp;#39;s reforms to confront the housing crisis.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-leading-the-state-in-prioritisin</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1d02c2df-9e51-43f1-a09c-012c3e51e3b3</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 28 November 2023 </title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 28 November 2023. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-28-november-2023</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a3a2bece-a930-45fe-983c-b7ca5301db97</guid>
      <title>Five-year investment secures long-term future for flagship New Annual festival</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has reaffirmed its support for the region&amp;#39;s creative arts industry, locking in a five-year commitment for the New Annual festival and opening expressions of interest for local artists.</description>
      <pubDate>29 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/five-year-investment-secures-long-term-future-for</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3ab2f6ca-ce2e-45fa-a231-14a516170439</guid>
      <title>Hamilton's green heart prepares for reimagined playspace</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will invest more than $3 million into a new inclusive playspace at Hamilton&amp;#39;s historic Gregson Park, with construction set to kick off early next year.</description>
      <pubDate>30 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hamilton-s-green-heart-prepares-for-reimagined-pla</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>34cf99f3-d688-4033-bc4b-ad08391e9c21</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Art Gallery expansion reaches new heights</title>
      <description>The expansion of the Newcastle Art Gallery will reach new heights today with the installation of a 33 metre high hammerhead tower crane on site.</description>
      <pubDate>30 Nov 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-art-gallery-expansion-reaches-new-height</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bc5ad923-0e25-4159-b331-84bc33ea12d6</guid>
      <title>Perkins Street stairs open to public</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has completed restoration works on the heritage sandstone retaining wall and stairs linking Church Street and Perkins Street, Newcastle.</description>
      <pubDate>08 Jan 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/perkins-street-stairs-open-to-public</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7f07722b-0598-47bf-ad1b-62f0186a7081</guid>
      <title>Splash into summer at reopened Newcastle Ocean Baths</title>
      <description>Santa wasn&amp;rsquo;t the only one ticking items off Novocastrians&amp;rsquo; wish lists today as City of Newcastle welcomed swimmers back into the water at the Newcastle Ocean Baths.</description>
      <pubDate>21 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/splash-into-summer-at-reopened-newcastle-ocean-baths</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1233ac35-f538-487c-ba8f-b927a193cd4c</guid>
      <title>Record capital works and a booming visitor economy as City of Newcastle wraps up 2023</title>
      <description>Delivering a record $117.8 million capital works program, hosting two of the greatest musicians of all time, beginning the rejuvenation of Stockton Beach and a return to swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths are just some of the highlights City of Newcastle (CN) is celebrating following another big year of milestones and achievements.</description>
      <pubDate>22 Dec 2023</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/record-capital-works-and-a-booming-visitor-economy-as-city-of-newcastle-wraps-up-2023</link>
    </item>
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      <guid>7d08b2c6-617c-44ee-bea6-90ad7c4da251</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Museum offers chance to explore Indigenous stories of the stars</title>
      <description>Newcastle Museum is preparing to transport budding astronomers to the farthest reaches of the universe this month as part of its summer of space exploration.</description>
      <pubDate>09 Jan 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-museum-offers-chance-to-explore-indigenous-stories-of-the-stars</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0f6b59c2-f9dc-4d8c-84d2-614907c1a589</guid>
      <title>Jason Donovan in The Rocky Horror Show sets new box office record for Civic Theatre</title>
      <description>The cast and crew have taken to the Civic Theatre stage ahead of the first performance of&amp;nbsp;&lt;i&gt;The Rocky Horror Show&amp;nbsp;&lt;/i&gt;this evening and the official opening night on Saturday.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>12 Jan 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/jason-donovan-in-the-rocky-horror-show-sets-new-box-office-record-for-civic-theatre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
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      <title>Revitalised Harbour Foreshore Precinct to take shape this year</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is seeking tenders for the delivery of a key element of its revitalisation of the city&amp;#39;s much-loved Foreshore Park.</description>
      <pubDate>15 Jan 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/revitalised-harbour-foreshore-precinct-to-take-shape-this-year</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ac58bb9b-8262-4e43-9d0d-453a48ca4767</guid>
      <title>Major music festival making a moo-ve to Newcastle</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) has added another coup to its burgeoning stable of major events, with popular music festival Groovin the Moo set to stampede into Foreshore Park on 4 May.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>16 Jan 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/major-music-festival-making-a-moo-ve-to-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1f27508a-8b04-407d-8267-01e6ab27adc2</guid>
      <title>Newcastle leading the way in housing approvals</title>
      <description>Newcastle is at the forefront of the State&amp;#39;s housing supply pipeline, recording the third highest number of building approvals for new dwellings in NSW this financial year.</description>
      <pubDate>19 Jan 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-leading-the-way-in-housing-approvals</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>335206ac-df99-4ed8-be79-255f9580330b</guid>
      <title>Make a natural connection with Newcastle's coastline this summer</title>
      <description>Discovering which tiny critters live between grains of sand on our beaches is just one of the activities on offer during City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s Natural Connection Program in January.</description>
      <pubDate>19 Jan 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/make-a-natural-connection-with-newcastle-s-coastline-this-summer</link>
    </item>
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      <guid>f2fac248-4627-4c2c-ab41-09a9333ce661</guid>
      <title>Citizen of the Year honoured for pioneering COVID-19 treatment</title>
      <description>A dedicated medical researcher who helped develop an effective preventative treatment for respiratory viral diseases including COVID-19 has been selected as Newcastle&amp;#39;s 2024 Citizen of the Year.</description>
      <pubDate>22 Jan 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/citizen-of-the-year-honoured-for-pioneering-covid-19-treatment</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>02d1b44b-258d-4e5c-90da-0ff5d4159c07</guid>
      <title>Arts Minister marks milestone as Gallery expansion lays the foundation for cultural tourism boom</title>
      <description>NSW Arts Minister John Graham officially unveiled the foundation stone for the expansion of Newcastle Art Gallery today as work on City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s landmark infrastructure project continues.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>23 Jan 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/arts-minister-marks-milestone-as-gallery-expansion-lays-the-foundation-for-cultural-tourism-boom</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>20ed02e5-5100-4026-98f0-4f5a18ca331e</guid>
      <title>New Novocastrians reflect on road to Australian citizenship</title>
      <description>Twin sisters have spoken about their incredible journey from the rugged mountains of Afghanistan to Australia&amp;#39;s sunny shores during City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s first citizenship ceremony for 2024.</description>
      <pubDate>24 Jan 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-novocastrians-reflect-on-road-to-australian-citizenship</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9bc2aab3-c375-4dc4-86fd-0998c5c8744c</guid>
      <title>The Rocky Horror Show wraps up astounding season at Civic Theatre</title>
      <description>Newcastle theatregoers rose to their feet to perform one final &amp;#39;Time Warp&amp;#39; and a standing ovation as the curtains went down on&amp;nbsp;&lt;i&gt;The Rocky Horror Show&amp;#39;s&amp;nbsp;&lt;/i&gt;record-breaking season at the Civic Theatre.</description>
      <pubDate>05 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/the-rocky-horror-show-wraps-up-astounding-season-at-civic-theatre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b753cfc9-5fdb-4e0e-8ea8-78f03d6bcaa3</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle kicking goals with strategic approach to sports facilities</title>
      <description>More than $20 million has been invested into upgrading and expanding Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s sporting facilities during the past three years as City of Newcastle moves forward with the delivery of its Strategic Sports Plan.</description>
      <pubDate>08 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-kicking-goals-with-strategic-approach-to-sports-facilities</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0642bb27-d381-4bb3-8fd6-dfb8502f6302</guid>
      <title>Newcastle ready to get the party started for global popstar Pink</title>
      <description>Newcastle is set to paint the town &amp;quot;Pink&amp;quot; in preparation for the global pop sensation&amp;#39;s sold-out concert in the city next week.</description>
      <pubDate>08 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-ready-to-get-the-party-started-for-global-popstar-pink</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>81ab1fe2-9bf0-4310-80c3-442e703a7f33</guid>
      <title>Roadworks to enhance safety and amenity around former Supercars circuit</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will shortly commence work to reinstate permanent road infrastructure on the former Newcastle 500 track. </description>
      <pubDate>11 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/roadworks-to-enhance-safety-and-amenity-around-former-supercars-circuit</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>448dda7e-188e-4be4-b1e9-825df9526164</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle kicks off multimillion-dollar investment into playgrounds</title>
      <description>Construction will begin on the upgrade or replacement of five playgrounds across Newcastle in the coming weeks as part of a $4 million investment into enhanced recreation spaces for the community.</description>
      <pubDate>12 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-kicks-off-multimillion-dollar-investment-into-playgrounds</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ed16b08d-33dd-419a-8faf-42970ef8e846</guid>
      <title>Connection and lifelong learning in focus for 2024 Seniors Festival</title>
      <description>Community connection and lifelong learning is at the heart of Newcastle&amp;#39;s annual festival celebrating seniors as part of the state-wide NSW Senior&amp;#39;s Festival.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/connection-and-lifelong-learning-in-focus-for-2024-seniors-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>999f47de-161f-497c-8dce-0735bd2c5ce1</guid>
      <title>Wallsend set to shine for 150th anniversary celebrations</title>
      <description>The footpaths on Wallsend&amp;rsquo;s main street and around the town&amp;#39;s 136-year-old rotunda are looking as good as new thanks to a pressure cleaning campaign.</description>
      <pubDate>15 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/wallsend-set-to-shine-for-150th-anniversary-celebrations</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7e402d95-dfa4-4e81-925a-3756a1c42c2f</guid>
      <title>Record road investment drives projects forward across the city's west</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) is moving ahead with a program of road and footpath upgrades across Newcastle&amp;#39;s bustling western suburbs as the population in the area continues to grow.</description>
      <pubDate>16 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/record-road-investment-drives-projects-forward-across-the-city-s-west</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>50280380-ee47-4b80-b73c-c290bb6a1c03</guid>
      <title>New cafe on the horizon as part of Newcastle Art Gallery expansion</title>
      <description>Interest is being sought from potential operators of a one-of-a-kind cafe to be located at the reimagined Newcastle Art Gallery.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>21 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-cafe-on-the-horizon-as-part-of-newcastle-art-gallery-expansion</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f0a20552-5c09-457e-83b7-6e8787f9f72a</guid>
      <title>Future investment on the agenda as City of Newcastle seeks long-term vision along the coast </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is developing a plan to guide investment along the Newcastle coast over the next 25 years.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>22 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/future-investment-on-the-agenda-as-city-of-newcastle-seeks-long-term-vision-along-the-coast</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>96063716-bb16-44e3-a880-65b3a2fae3f0</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle set to breathe new life into Lambton Park cafe</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is preparing to revamp a former café site at one of the city&amp;#39;s most popular parks as it seeks expressions of interest from potential new operators.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>23 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-set-to-breathe-new-life-into-lambton-park-cafe</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ea6a80c6-9f9b-42d2-a72b-d0e51d6b9895</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 27 February 2024</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 27 February 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>28 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-27-february-20234</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4bbc448a-2edb-4da7-8117-e88147f46976</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle and University expand region’s art and culture commitment</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle and the University of Newcastle have today announced a new cultural partnership that will see the two organisations working together to expand the region&amp;#39;s art capabilities. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-and-university-expands-region’s-art-and-culture-commitment</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c389be93-3352-465b-a310-366242bac0d3</guid>
      <title>Multimillion-dollar community facility coming soon to Blackbutt Reserve</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:105%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;Food for the body and the mind will be on the menu at Blackbutt Reserve as part of a $3 million community-focused project set to get underway next month.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/multimillion-dollar-community-facility-coming-soon-to-blackbutt-reserve</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d987a388-7bf5-4dfd-8796-4b0984c6096c</guid>
      <title>Cliff works underway at South Newcastle Beach to enhance public safety</title>
      <description>With work on the lower promenade at South Newcastle Beach now complete, specialist contractors have today begun final work to stabilise a section of the cliff face located to the south of the Bathers Way upgrade.</description>
      <pubDate>29 Feb 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/cliff-works-underway-at-south-newcastle-beach-to-enhance-public-safety</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>04837fc7-6d97-4c24-b190-aceb60fce1b6</guid>
      <title>Community paws-itively thrilled as Tessa the guide dog returns home to Stockton</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Tails were wagging today as City of Newcastle unveiled a new Tessa the guide dog statue in Stockton to replace the much-loved original, which was stolen over a year ago.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>03 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-paws-itively-thrilled-as-tessa-the-guide-dog-returns-home-to-stockton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0d5ecb51-72e0-4f7d-867b-541d280da284</guid>
      <title>Gallery takes art to the community as expansion continues</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Art and storytelling of two local artists have launched a new year of off-site programming for Newcastle Art Gallery as the expansion of the cultural institution continues to progress.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>04 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/gallery-takes-art-to-the-community-as-expansion-continues</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>700a5b15-a774-4846-b803-af3fa8d3cd70</guid>
      <title>Visitor numbers surge as community embraces revitalised Newcastle Ocean Baths</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Visitation to the Newcastle Ocean Baths has skyrocketed since the refurbished pool was reopened to the public, with almost 56,000 swimmers taking a dip in the past two months.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>05 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/visitor-numbers-surge-as-community-embraces-revitalised-newcastle-ocean-baths</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>43fe34c0-6611-4a41-8ed7-ab01978164f8</guid>
      <title>Memorial Drive bank set to be stabilised via $5 million project </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Work is expected to begin in April on a $5 million project to stabilise an embankment alongside Memorial Drive, which is used by more than 10,000 cars every day.&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>06 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/memorial-drive-bank-set-to-be-stabilised-via-$5-million-project</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cc51f99a-7ec0-4075-9c6f-8fd1f9c0737b</guid>
      <title>New ambassador program welcomes international students to Newcastle with open arms</title>
      <description>A new International Student Ambassador initiative launched today in Newcastle aims to foster a culture of inclusion and belonging for all international students living and studying in the Hunter.</description>
      <pubDate>07 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-ambassador-program-welcomes-international-students-to-newcastle-with-open-arms</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>75a38b0f-3fba-4538-99c5-a0f12b0f6ff6</guid>
      <title>Call for tender for first stage of Smith Park upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:13.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is pushing ahead with improvements at Smith Park in Hamilton North, with the contract for construction now open for tender.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/call-for-tender-for-first-stage-of-smith-park-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>62377989-52ee-4ba3-8af2-be07defd2852</guid>
      <title>Female football in focus at new-look Darling Street Oval</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Darling Street Oval is better equipped to cater for the growth of women&amp;#39;s football in our region thanks to the completion of an upgrade at Hamilton South valued at over $3 million.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>13 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/female-football-in-focus-at-new-look-darling-street-oval</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3beb23ad-e925-487c-b562-0e7b6a5b3764</guid>
      <title>New online tool to simplify development controls in Newcastle</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) is making it easier to access design or development guidelines with the introduction of an innovative, interactive online tool.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>14 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-online-tool-to-simplify-development-controls-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>774d4ecc-98d9-4b80-bc55-c7827589b4fa</guid>
      <title>Pups put their paws up for free microchipping at Lambton Park</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has stepped up its campaign to ensure lost dogs can be more quickly reunited with their owners.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>16 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/pups-put-their-paws-up-for-free-microchipping-at-lambton-park</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2d4a013d-944f-45e3-957b-9f15d76bbcbc</guid>
      <title>Media statement - Minmi development application</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has finalised its assessment report for an 858-lot residential subdivision proposed for Woodford Street, Minmi, by the Winten Property Group.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>19 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-minmi-development-application</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>90abb3ba-4198-48e1-bdb9-772136746eb0</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle creates striking new chapter in artistic legacy of iconic beach-side walkway</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Internationally recognised graffiti artist Nickolas Stuart has dived deep into his love of the ocean to inspire a new mural set to transform the iconic pedestrian tunnel at Newcastle Beach.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>20 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-creates-striking-new-chapter-in-artistic-legacy-of-iconic-beach-side-walkway</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>945d5328-5550-4923-bab1-0dd58fa29322</guid>
      <title>Bright future ahead for Shepherds Hill Cottage</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;The community will be given a chance to enjoy one of the city&amp;#39;s best vantage points as City of Newcastle moves to finalise the renewal of Shepherds Hill Cottage.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>22 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/bright-future-ahead-for-shepherds-hill-cottage</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cd93016b-f7b0-438d-99db-5ad3395a2847</guid>
      <title>Selfless volunteer rewarded with City of Newcastle's highest honour</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;More than 50 years of service to the community has earned Father &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Nicolaos &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Zervas OAM&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt; the honour of becoming &lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;the 17&lt;sup&gt;th&lt;/sup&gt; Freeman of the City of Newcastle.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/selfless-volunteer-rewarded-with-city-of-newcastle-s-highest-honour</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f66c8081-ed89-426e-aae3-c32d7450a542</guid>
      <title>Interim orders issued to protect city's heritage </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle has stepped in for the second time in as many months to protect the city&amp;#39;s built heritage from being lost to potentially inappropriate developments.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>25 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/interim-orders-issued-to-protect-city-s-heritage</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3f1f2593-143e-42ed-9cee-1c6834b9eaed</guid>
      <title>Sparkly addition to Newcastle skyline as Art Gallery expansion progresses</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Five-year-old Mabel Read swapped the playground for a construction site today as she helped officially name the crane being used to deliver the expanded Newcastle Art Gallery.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>26 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sparkly-addition-to-newcastle-skyline-as-art-gallery-expansion-progresses</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>92e0f2a6-c40e-49ef-9a29-6859e7a6759a</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 26 March 2024</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 26 March 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>26 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-26-march-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>312e482f-0c99-46d5-91e4-befcef38a56f</guid>
      <title>Beachside crossing upgrade to enhance access for pedestrians and cyclists</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is improving access to one of its most popular coastal precincts, with plans to&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;upgrade the pedestrian crossing on Memorial Drive at Bar Beach.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/beachside-crossing-upgrade-to-enhance-access-for-pedestrians-and-cyclists</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7c95e402-f5d7-4198-a020-375979266b77</guid>
      <title>Newcastle youth take centre stage for week of celebration and self-expression</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Ice skating, hip hop and graffiti workshops, and an evening museum &amp;#39;takeover&amp;#39; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;are among the activities on offer for the city&amp;#39;s teens and young adults during Youth Week 2024.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-youth-take-centre-stage-for-week-of-celebration-and-self-expression</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f8382215-0b54-4574-a7b3-d349d8e49f97</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle facilitates vital emergency response training</title>
      <description>Newcastle&amp;#39;s Local Emergency Management Committee has tested the city&amp;#39;s preparedness for a major emergency while also familiarising themselves with City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s purpose-built emergency operations centre.</description>
      <pubDate>28 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-facilitates-vital-emergency-response-training</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>01199650-e199-402f-919b-eb0169effd20</guid>
      <title>Surge in public art cement's Newcastle's reputation as a cultural destination </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s reputation as an arts and cultural destination continues to grow thanks to an array of significant public art projects bringing colour to the city&amp;rsquo;s streets.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 Mar 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/surge-in-public-art-cement-s-newcastle-s-reputation-as-a-cultural-destination</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4748b2e9-a4c3-4517-8cd0-30a859409666</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle moves forward with recycling options</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is investingating the development of a Material Recovery Facility at its Summerhill Waste Management Centre to cater for waste collected from both its kerbside pickup service as well as from construction and demolition sites.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>05 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-moves-forward-with-recycling-options</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>641154ef-b82b-4751-abc5-615bbd90c217</guid>
      <title>Newcastle inland pools smash visitor records</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;With a month of the season remaining, City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s (CN&amp;#39;s) inland pools have already experienced their busiest summer in almost 30 years, attracting more than 410,000 visitors.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>06 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-inland-pools-smash-visitor-records</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>983722a0-5cc1-418b-bb3b-e2607f6eecbc</guid>
      <title>Local artists create a feast for the senses at this  year's New Annual festival</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle (CN) has awarded five local creative organisations close to $100,000 in funding to bring their unique ideas to life at this year&amp;#39;s New Annual festival.</description>
      <pubDate>12 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/local-artists-create-a-feast-for-the-senses-at-this-year-s-new-annual-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a58d021f-c3e9-4e74-98a1-7a8cc97c044a</guid>
      <title>CEO Code of Conduct Report Released </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) has proactively released the full independent Investigation Report into the CEO Code of Conduct Review, which cleared Jeremy Bath of alleged wrongdoing.&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>17 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ceo-code-of-conduct-report-released</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>34af6c26-ab86-4a4a-b9bf-04dec925bcc3</guid>
      <title>Budget to deliver record infrastructure program as investment in community continues to grow  </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Almost $140 million will be invested into infrastructure projects across the city as part of a record Budget delivering essential services alongside a modest $4.1 million surplus.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>18 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/budget-to-deliver-record-infrastructure-program-as-investment-in-community-continues-to-grow</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2444a656-a780-4a9e-8a67-e8f2d6b4aec2</guid>
      <title>Newcastle leads the way with progressive urban planning, design and development </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) continues to raise the bar in urban planning and design, working with an independent panel of experts to&lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt; evaluate and critique more than $1.5 billion in developments during the past year. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>19 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-leads-the-way-with-progressive-urban-planning,-design-and-development</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f8f57631-bde5-4715-a8a2-dca4c614efad</guid>
      <title>New playgrounds open as City of Newcastle delivers multimillion-dollar investment into recreation</title>
      <description>&lt;h4 style="margin-bottom:16px"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:105%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Calibri Light&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:#2f5496"&gt;&lt;span style="font-weight:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="font-style:italic"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;&lt;span style="font-style:normal"&gt;City of Newcastle has delivered a school holiday boost for children across Newcastle, with four new or upgraded playgrounds now open as part of the annual playground replacement program.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h4&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>21 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-playgrounds-open-as-city-of-newcastle-delivers-multimillion-dollar-investment-into-recreation-ne</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6018bdfd-2541-4e2d-8980-0fac96448e0d</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle joins global fight against plastic pollution </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is helping to create a new generation of waste warriors, hosting a hands-on event at Newcastle Museum today as part of global environmental initiative, Earth Day.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>22 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-joins-global-fight-against-plastic-pollution</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1d8ffcf7-abcd-4347-a6c2-a92c27e3d879</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle issues call to arms for more green thumbs</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting Novocastrians to spend time enjoying Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s natural areas and help improve treasured green spaces by joining forces with Landcare groups and school students to plant more than 15,000 native grasses, shrubs and trees.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>23 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-issues-call-to-arms-for-more-green-thumbs</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>16559765-4c5c-42a7-890e-ff074de92d16</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 23 April 2024 </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 23 April 2024&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>23 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-23-april-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e1957adb-9d01-4b29-a632-ff61afcf55d4</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle moves forward with multimillion-dollar upgrade plans for Georgetown</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle plans to deliver a significant upgrade to improve pedestrian and cycling accessibility, create a safer environment, provide green space and improve amenity for residents and businesses in Georgetown.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>23 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-moves-forward-with-multimillion-dollar-upgrade-plans-for-georgetown</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>54e0d65c-e6c8-445f-9d45-61d284c161ac</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle takes next step in revitalisation of Harbour Foreshore precinct </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Work will begin next month on the delivery of a new kiosk and accessible public toilets in Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s popular Harbour Foreshore precinct.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-takes-next-step-in-revitalisation-of-harbour-foreshore-precinct</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8961822d-539c-4d71-a3d8-efef32fa1968</guid>
      <title>Research project aiming to prevent local extinction of threatened marsupial</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle, &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:12.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;the University of Newcastle &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;and &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:12.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;FAUNA Research Alliance &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;have joined forces to investigate ways to protect Squirrel Gliders in the Lower Hunter.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>26 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/research-project-aiming-to-prevent-local-extinction-of-threatened-marsupial</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bd2a8444-6894-47e5-82de-f6d895a969d9</guid>
      <title>New grandstand sets inclusive benchmark for Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Passmore Oval at Wickham has become a venue of choice for rugby union players and cricketers thanks to a &lt;span style="color:black"&gt;$2.6 million collaboration with &lt;/span&gt;City of Newcastle.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>29 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-grandstand-sets-inclusive-benchmark-for-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b8e34542-f8ee-4b60-8a8e-5916c05c2f18</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle celebrates gender pay equity this May Day </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle (CN) is leading the way in gender equity, with recent data showing its employees experience almost no gender pay gap.&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 Apr 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-celebrates-gender-pay-equity-this-may-day</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2fa64b86-099a-4606-9a2d-af06aa0fe2c1</guid>
      <title>Young Novocastrians encouraged to drive climate solutions</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle has secured more than $75,000 in funding to help residents aged &lt;span style="border:none windowtext 1.0pt; color:black; padding:0cm"&gt;15 to 24 deliver urgent climate change solutions for our city.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>01 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/young-novocastrians-encouraged-to-drive-climate-solutions</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c2934377-8047-4709-9a47-ab6827d95521</guid>
      <title>Community invited to help update shared vision for Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting the community to have a say on its ambitious long-term vision for Newcastle.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>06 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-help-update-shared-vision-for-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>01a7041b-e7f8-46f3-8eb9-6f08fb7f0f25</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle welcomes its newest citizens home</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle welcomed more than 160 new citizens from 41 countries today to take the pledge of commitment to Australia alongside family, friends and dignitaries.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>07 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-welcomes-its-newest-citizens-home</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b32383e1-8f48-4110-9b15-2859b5008bda</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle Councillor information sessions</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;City of Newcastle is hosting a candidate information session on Monday 27 May 2024.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/news-title</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c54f7c00-d104-4357-9b74-4cae6ea15af4</guid>
      <title>Champion for women's sport recognised with City of Newcastle's highest honour</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Netball player, administrator and Hunter sports and civic luminary Adele Saunders OAM has been inducted as the 18&lt;sup&gt;th&lt;/sup&gt; Freeman of the City of Newcastle.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>11 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/champion-for-women-s-sport-recognised-with-city-of-newcastle-s-highest-honour</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>89a411db-ec82-46f5-b6e0-676de1219eb8</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle progresses dual-lane road upgrades in Wallsend</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is moving forward with plans to ease congestion in the growing western corridor, seeking expressions of interest from contractors to deliver two dual-lane road upgrades.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-progresses-dual-lane-road-upgrades-in-wallsend</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>95b75792-efed-427e-8d21-43764fa8ee76</guid>
      <title>Community input needed to make Newcastle a more walkable city</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="layout-grid-mode:char"&gt;&lt;span style="text-autospace:none"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting Novocastrians to share their thoughts on the &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;safety and accessibility&lt;span style="background:white"&gt; of pedestrian crossings to help guide future installations and upgrades &lt;/span&gt;across the city&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>21 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-input-needed-to-make-newcastle-a-more-walkable-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0051278f-391c-4503-9737-75f85fef442e</guid>
      <title>Volunteers celebrated for dedicated service to the city</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;City of Newcastle has recognised the dedication of more than 250 volunteers who contributed over 6000 hours of their time to the community during the past year.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>23 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/volunteers-celebrated-for-dedicated-service-to-the-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>23f0e0c4-e5b9-40ed-ae78-931e8c7500cd</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle celebrates harmony during Reconciliation Week</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Novocastrians can add their voices to reconciliation by joining City of Newcastle in a pop-up choir in Museum Park next week to sing the &lt;span style="color:black"&gt;Warumpi Band&amp;#39;s famous anthem, &amp;lsquo;Blackfella/Whitefella&amp;rsquo;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>24 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-celebrates-harmony-during-reconciliation-week</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>39f13efd-b135-44de-a9d3-80b560b380a3</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle offers $900,000 to fund fresh ideas</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Community groups, residents and business owners are being given the chance to share in almost $900,000 from City of Newcastle to enhance the culture, environment, and economy of Newcastle.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>24 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-offers-$900,000-to-fund-fresh-ideas</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>42786be5-efb3-4f4e-9156-6c350e1f179e</guid>
      <title>Tenders called for next stage of Bar Beach repair work</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is moving forward with remediation and accessibility improvements at Bar Beach, inviting tenders for the next stage of rehabilitation works at the popular coastal destination.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>26 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/tenders-called-for-next-stage-of-bar-beach-repair-work</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3dd2d325-9bfe-45ee-8007-64643a3256f5</guid>
      <title>EV investment charges up city-wide net zero vision</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is investing almost $450,000 to triple the number of public electric vehicle (EV) charger ports across the city. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ev-investment-charges-up-city-wide-net-zero-vision</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6e086e0e-6a4b-4690-86bd-e377f72663d7</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 28 May 2024 </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 28 May 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-28-may-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>85bbb86f-9b01-477a-9dab-c3e85878059b</guid>
      <title>Community invited to have their say on the future of Broadmeadow</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting the community to provide feedback on a 30-year plan that outlines how housing, employment opportunities and public spaces are developed in Broadmeadow.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>29 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-have-their-say-on-the-future-of-broadmeadow</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>36a38fde-e13e-48bb-9e20-45afa1c8d08b</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle backs zero emissions future with hydrogen truck trial</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Bin morning will become quieter and cleaner for Newcastle residents after Councillors voted to add a hydrogen-powered truck to the City of Newcastle waste collection fleet.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-backs-zero-emissions-future-with-hydrogen-truck-trial</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cae922b3-f04b-4188-ad6c-122bc796690e</guid>
      <title>Improvements on the way for Smith Park </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Work will get underway at Smith Park next month as part of a multimillion-dollar upgrade of the popular Hamilton North sportsground.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>30 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/improvements-on-the-way-for-smith-park</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a75e74d9-78b2-4ad3-a067-d7ede0dd13cc</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle secures future of key biodiversity corridor</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle has secured the long-term protection of a significant wetland and woodland area, which forms an essential link in the biodiversity corridor between Stockton and the Watagans.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>31 May 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-secures-future-of-key-biodiversity-corridor</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>50caf129-c155-409d-b344-493907ffefeb</guid>
      <title>Beresfield students join generation restoration on World Environment Day</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Beresfield Public School students have pulled on their gardening gloves for a hands-on lesson in urban biodiversity delivered by City of Newcastle to celebrate World Environment Day.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>05 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/beresfield-students-join-generation-restoration-on-world-environment-day</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1326836c-88b0-48c1-9b79-791af5a3745f</guid>
      <title>Working around the clock to future-proof landmark</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is investing in the future of the historic City Hall clock, investigating an upgrade that will ensure it continues to keep time for generations of Novocastrians.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>06 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/working-around-the-clock-to-future-proof-landmark</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>900bb0c7-f465-48ac-9a43-22fec89edcbf</guid>
      <title>Road renewal paves the way for the next stage of Wallsend town centre</title>
      <description>The latest stage of a $6 million investment into roads and footpath improvements across the western suburbs has seen extensive road resurfacing wrap up along a section of Wallsen&amp;#39;s bustling Nelson Street.</description>
      <pubDate>11 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/road-renewal-paves-the-way-for-the-next-stage-of-wallsend-town-centre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c3c24423-a394-44bf-885f-60d9c6a6a447</guid>
      <title>Community invited to have their say on final stage of upgraded Newcastle Ocean Baths </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle has unveiled a vision for the final stage of the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade, which preserves the heritage of the facility while ensuring it is fit-for-purpose for future generations.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>18 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-have-their-say-on-final-stage-of-upgraded-newcastle-ocean-baths</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>78401094-17a7-4b12-98c0-a5f5d26830be</guid>
      <title>Lord Mayor unveils vision for key link in her  Bathers Way project</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Novocastrians are being given their first look at the concept designs for a key link in the city&amp;#39;s iconic coastal walkway. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>19 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/lord-mayor-unveils-vision-for-key-link-in-her-bathers-way-project</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1284d30b-2c56-43c2-a797-96e033a9638f</guid>
      <title>Work continues to protect Stockton's coastline</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is continuing to shore up the much-loved Stockton coastline, building the infrastructure required to shield the area and reduce the risk of inundation during large swells.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>19 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/work-continues-to-protect-stockton-s-coastline</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8106f072-5d17-4afe-a796-d7f8a4d20496</guid>
      <title>Record Budget to deliver widespread  community benefits</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle will support local communities, jobs, businesses and the economy as part of a record Budget designed to deliver everyday benefits alongside major infrastructure projects.&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>20 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/record-budget-to-deliver-widespread-community-benefits</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c57c15f1-984b-4369-9948-6a33f8775068</guid>
      <title>New link to extend safer connections across Newcastle’s cycleway network</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Novocastrians will be invited to have their say on a proposal to add to City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s cycling network along Chinchen and Hubbard streets in Islington.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>22 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-link-to-extend-safer-connections-across-newcastle’s-cycleway-network</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e0a34840-993e-4335-beed-c01334e23491</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle ready to revitalise next stage of  Hunter Street Mall</title>
      <description>Another section of the Hunter Street Mall will undergo its most significant beautification in several decades as works start today with local contractor Daracon.</description>
      <pubDate>24 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-ready-to-revitalise-next-stage-of-hunter-street-mall</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7ca1a5d1-39d6-4fd8-9fcd-706b23417836</guid>
      <title>Sneak peek inside expanded Newcastle Art Gallery</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is giving Novocastrians their first look inside the expanded Newcastle Art Gallery as construction progresses on the landmark project.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>25 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sneak-peek-inside-expanded-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8381cda8-5bf4-4599-be41-1efc52e90deb</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 25 June 2024</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 25 June 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>25 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-25-june-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fb53b809-8406-4333-895c-d8847b6b6c35</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle backs heritage protection for three suburban gems</title>
      <description>Newcastle&amp;#39;s heritage is set for a triple win this week with City of Newcastle to pave the way for added protections for architectural sites in Hamilton, Broadmeadow and Mayfield.</description>
      <pubDate>25 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-backs-heritage-protection-for-three-suburban-gems</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>aae2854a-7614-422b-8812-6de1a2428509</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle balances the books with third straight Budget surplus</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is set to deliver a modest surplus for the third consecutive year as part of its $415 million Budget adopted by Councillors last night.</description>
      <pubDate>26 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-balances-the-books-with-third-straight-budget-surplus</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1095d9c9-3d06-495e-8a0e-6b1391fef598</guid>
      <title>Residents to pave the way to a more walkable Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="layout-grid-mode:char"&gt;&lt;span style="text-autospace:none"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;Novocastrians are being invited to have their say on a 10-year plan designed to increase pedestrian activity in Newcastle by building and supporting walkable neighbourhoods.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>26 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/residents-to-pave-the-way-to-a-more-walkable-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ef8cfaa7-b795-4ab2-8eae-af6304b803c3</guid>
      <title>Street party to kick off bumper New Annual program</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;Newcastle City Hall&amp;#39;s iconic balcony will be transformed into a stage this September as renowned First Nations singer Mitch Tambo officially kicks off the 10-day New Annual festival.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/street-party-to-kick-off-bumper-new-annual-program</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4f408b18-e55e-47b2-b11e-9faf765ee5be</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle MEDIA STATEMENT</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;A significant incident occurred yesterday at City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s facility, Newcastle Museum. All staff and community members in the building at the time remained safe and unharmed.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>27 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-media-statement</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>acf32549-9b6e-4946-99b4-3e218d1b2356</guid>
      <title>Energy crusader hoping to spark change in Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is leading the charge towards a net zero emissions city, inviting world renowned entrepreneur, author, and inventor Dr Saul Griffith to share his passion for power with Novocastrians.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>28 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/energy-crusader-hoping-to-spark-change-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3b003d4c-fae8-4c7c-b2d8-d63bb378b471</guid>
      <title>Predicted population increase drives changes to Social Infrastructure Strategy</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle will conduct a review of how it delivers and maintains valuable community assets to ensure it can cater for a predicted population boom.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>30 June 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/predicted-population-increase-drives-changes-to-social-infrastructure-strategy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6e17a900-9591-4c01-aec0-8641c6b2b5d7</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle strengthens ties with three of its neighbours </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle will take on greater leadership in NSW through new accords with Upper Hunter, Muswellbrook and City of Coffs Harbour councils.&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>01 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-strengthens-ties-with-three-of-its-neighbours</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c44c1abe-263a-4d3b-9bf5-70ab736e6520</guid>
      <title>Festivities, film and food headline City of Newcastle's NAIDOC Week 2024</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Newcastle will celebrate the cultural richness of its First Nations during NAIDOC Week with a march from Civic Park and a City of Newcastle program for the senses.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>05 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/festivities,-film-and-food-headline-city-of-newcastle-s-naidoc-week-2024-66d8357a4e31a030a348527bd0ac2bf6</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c5482d2f-230c-48fa-9d25-5f66521b773d</guid>
      <title>Indoor pool plans move forward with community consultation</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is moving forward with plans for a year-round aquatic facility at Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>08 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/indoor-pool-plans-move-forward-with-community-consultation</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2e3711c9-fc48-49b8-b970-9e4875e3a2a0</guid>
      <title>New program to enhance inclusive tourism offering</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:13.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting businesses to participate in a program designed to grow Newcastle&amp;#39;s position as an inclusive tourism destination and its share of the $6.8 billion accessible tourism market.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>10 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-program-to-enhance-inclusive-tourism-offering</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e73bcc9f-cc3e-400d-8616-2085f1a539e9</guid>
      <title>Revitalisation of iconic harbourside precinct  swings into action</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is progressing the centrepiece of its Harbour Foreshore Masterplan, seeking expressions of interest for contractors to deliver the city&amp;#39;s largest playground.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>12 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/revitalisation-of-iconic-harbourside-precinct-swings-into-action</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>823616b8-abb0-4ef2-b54e-b1295b2b4b9f</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle investigates affordable housing on inner city site </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Investigations are underway into the potential for affordable housing on a parcel of land owned by City of Newcastle in Hunter Street.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>14 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-investigates-affordable-housing-on-inner-city-site</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>74f3c746-d148-4429-a54a-1ebc171d1080</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle kicks off campaign for inclusion with Count Us In Sport events</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Former Newcastle Knight Alex McKinnon and Paralympian Rae Anderson will join forces with City of Newcastle next month to champion the importance of making sport accessible for all.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>16 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-kicks-off-campaign-for-inclusion-with-count-us-in-sport-events</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>35eba1ca-03ca-4584-b9eb-88cc3d7edbc6</guid>
      <title>Wallsend preparing for a party 150 years in the making</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="layout-grid-mode:char"&gt;&lt;span style="text-autospace:none"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;The past, present and future will be celebrated next month with a family-friendly festival to mark the 150th anniversary of Wallsend being declared a municipality.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/wallsend-preparing-for-a-party-150-years-in-the-making</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6c0af8fc-a387-4a47-b212-e8111dc5debe</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle plans multimillion-dollar upgrades to support women's sport</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;Three Newcastle sports fields will share in more than $3.3 million worth of upgrades aimed at encouraging increased female participation while also catering for predicted population growth.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>19 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-plans-multimillion-dollar-upgrades-to-support-women-s-sport</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d7de8fda-f993-4f8c-b38d-fa163363ad75</guid>
      <title>$50 million investment in the future of Wallsend</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;City of Newcastle will invest more than $50 million into Wallsend during the next five years as part of a long-term vision to upgrade roads, reduce flood risks and create safer, more connected active transport links. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>21 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$50-million-investment-in-the-future-of-wallsend</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e3a0ad94-601e-458e-8966-fdcd425cd69f</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 23 July 2024 </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 23 July 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>23 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-update-ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-23-july-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>76eee1fa-b9a5-40c2-bbb6-46f2a65b1f0f</guid>
      <title>Lord Mayor's scholarship recipients honoured by City of Newcastle</title>
      <description>A nursing graduate who pivoted from a background in civil engineering is among nine Lord Mayor&amp;#39;s Scholarship recipients recognised by City of Newcastle.</description>
      <pubDate>24 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/lord-mayor-s-scholarship-recipients-honoured-by-city-of-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b474179e-1286-4a17-b9da-a22c938f9bce</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle clears the way for Bar Beach upgrades</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;Work will begin next month to improve access at Bar Beach, with more than $1.7 million being invested in upgrades including a new walkway and staircase from the main promenade across the front of Cooks Hill Surf Lifesaving Club to the sand.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-clears-the-way-for-bar-beach-upgrades</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bbc2c6d2-4992-4cd1-951a-8b52671f8d29</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle honours research legacy of Distinguished Laureate Professor Roger Smith</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;An internationally recognised researcher who has advanced our understanding of &lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;human birth &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;has been named the 19&lt;sup&gt;th&lt;/sup&gt; Freeman of the City of Newcastle.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>25 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-honours-research-legacy-of-distinguished-laureate-professor-roger-smith</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a4b7a52c-b804-453c-8050-0250073d528d</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle celebrates powerful turnout for 'Electrify Everything'</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;The atmosphere was electric at City Hall last night as more than 800 people came to listen to world renowned entrepreneur, author, and inventor Dr Saul Griffith.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>26 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-celebrates-powerful-turnout-for-electrify-everything</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ada080ab-4e06-42a0-b50e-8d0539ed4765</guid>
      <title>Many hands make light work to improve habitat on National Tree Day</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle has celebrated National Tree Day by joining forces with residents to plant 7000 native wetland species at Tarro Reserve today.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/many-hands-make-light-work-to-improve-habitat-on-national-tree-day</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>da9eb633-14c4-442e-9d08-8e7d5e5ba80c</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle books top spot with State’s most popular libraries</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:105%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle Libraries are the best in NSW according to the State Library of NSW, out-performing library services across the state with loans of more than 1.5 million items annually.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>25 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-books-top-spot-with-state’s-most-popular-libraries</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>aa9e8f9b-fe1f-4886-8242-f7f663d42a86</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle delivers a splash of colour to Blackbutt Village</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;The first of three public art murals at Blackbutt Village is taking shape this week as part of the $4.5 million upgrade of Orchardtown Road shopping precinct.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-delivers-a-splash-of-colour-to-blackbutt-village</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>36089131-ceb9-4dcb-a164-1f6cc0002a26</guid>
      <title>Students unleash creativity to promote water safety</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Local primary school students will have the chance to design the city&amp;#39;s next water safety poster as part of a City of Newcastle program that has been saving lives for almost 60 years.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>31 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/students-unleash-creativity-to-promote-water-safety</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0fb79784-d3cd-461e-a66d-02aba9d29471</guid>
      <title>First new work commissioned for expanded Newcastle Art Gallery</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Art lovers are being given an early glimpse of the six-metre-wide suspended sculpture that will eventually fill the atrium and greet visitors at the new-look Newcastle Art Gallery.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>01 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/first-new-work-commissioned-for-expanded-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1884080f-6b3d-4768-bd39-2b711ac4d01d</guid>
      <title>Community invited to drop in and enjoy world-class walk overlooking South Newcastle Beach</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has delivered the next stage of its landmark Bathers Way coastal revitalisation project, transforming South Newcastle Beach into a vibrant hub for community activity.</description>
      <pubDate>02 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-drop-in-and-enjoy-world-class-walk-overlooking-south-newcastle-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fdb808da-87f5-4fe1-b944-cad114815c29</guid>
      <title>Renewable energy decision-makers and community unite to empower Newcastle towards net zero future</title>
      <description>A keynote address by NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe will lead discussions on clean energy, jobs and investment as City of Newcastle urges Novocastrians to become net zero champions.</description>
      <pubDate>04 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/renewable-energy-decision-makers-and-community-unite-to-empower-newcastle-towards-net-zero-future</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>44686053-c2b3-42ae-88ac-be841489f31f</guid>
      <title>Exhibition unearths treasured memories of  A Place Called Hollywood</title>
      <description>&lt;span&gt;&lt;span&gt;&lt;span&gt;&lt;span&gt;&lt;span&gt;A Depression-era suburb born out of hardship and built by resilience will be preserved for future generations as part of a new exhibition set to open at Newcastle Museum tomorrow.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>05 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/exhibition-unearths-treasured-memories-of-a-place-called-hollywood</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5af20014-6d8a-4d83-a478-a182eb53e7fd</guid>
      <title>Hunter Indoor Sports Centre </title>
      <description>The NSW Government, through the NSW Office of Sport, has provided Newcastle Basketball with $25 million in NSW Government funding to deliver the Hunter Indoor Sports Centre. Newcastle Basketball is the grant recipient, applicant for the development, and operator of the proposed facility.</description>
      <pubDate>09 July 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hunter-indoor-sports-centre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0504dae1-85e1-4f2b-8dc4-9e4cbdba6002</guid>
      <title>Swing into New Annual's packed program of free events</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;A nine-metre-tall swing that reimages the popular playground equipment on a grand scale will be a highlight of the free and family-friendly events on offer at this year&amp;#39;s award-winning New Annual festival.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>13 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/swing-into-new-annual-s-packed-program-of-free-events</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fc30ba90-950f-44b7-af14-425190bacc5d</guid>
      <title>Events and exhibitions give Newcastle Museum two million reasons to celebrate </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Newcastle Museum has welcomed the two millionth visitor to its Honeysuckle site as it prepares for one of its busiest events of the year.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>14 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/events-and-exhibitions-give-newcastle-museum-two-million-reasons-to-celebrate</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9b242f17-73e8-4d82-b538-90c232c60202</guid>
      <title>Free community event to celebrate renewed coastal precinct</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Residents and visitors are being encouraged to drop in and enjoy a free community event this weekend to celebrate the reopening of the renewed Bathers Way precinct at South Newcastle Beach.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>15 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/free-community-event-to-celebrate-renewed-coastal-precinct</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e15fc479-90f3-4d0a-958f-5714f96b5cce</guid>
      <title>Community invited to take first steps towards Mayfield local centre upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting Mayfield residents and businesses to take part in a series of &amp;quot;walk-shops&amp;quot; to uncover ideas for the future of their suburb. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>15 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-take-first-steps-towards-mayfield-local-centre-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>25540948-625e-4839-a0e8-f211de5e41a6</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Museum issues call to arms to rugby league fans</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Knights&amp;#39; superstars Kalyn Ponga and Hannah Southwell have kicked off Newcastle Museum&amp;#39;s crusade to immortalise the history of rugby league in the region.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>16 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-museum-issues-call-to-arms-to-rugby-league-fans</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ebdda2ff-65d6-4946-a919-ddb3a53add00</guid>
      <title>Community comes together as Wallsend celebrates milestone moment</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;More than 7500 people enjoyed the sights, sounds and side shows of the family-friendly festival that helped mark the 150th anniversary of Wallsend being declared a municipality.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>18 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-comes-together-as-wallsend-celebrates-milestone-moment</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0bb2f75d-256d-4bfb-8405-d12aff90a316</guid>
      <title>Community invited to dive into consultation on year-round pool facility</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Locals are being invited to help shape the delivery of Newcastle&amp;#39;s first indoor public pool as City of Newcastle welcomes swimmers back into the water at Lambton today for the new season.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>19 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-dive-into-consultation-on-year-round-pool-facility</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>df862ed7-9149-4717-95ba-eae786311f0b</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Art Gallery unveils sculptural solution to accessibility issue</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Internationally renowned artist Fayen d&amp;#39;Evie has been commissioned to create two groundbreaking sculptures to help improve the accessibility of the expanded Newcastle Art Gallery.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>21 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-art-gallery-unveils-sculptural-solution-to-accessibility-issue</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>49fe344b-f8c7-4dfd-8844-feb2cd72020d</guid>
      <title>City charged up to make the switch towards net zero</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;More than 1,500 Novocastrians have plugged into the Hunter&amp;#39;s renewable energy future after being given front-row access by City of Newcastle to key thinkers, stakeholders and decision-makers.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>22 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-charged-up-to-make-the-switch-towards-net-zero</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4aef2975-e315-4de0-97a5-4bf23aca70c2</guid>
      <title>Work begins on renewal of Georgetown's village centre</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;A multimillion-dollar upgrade to revitalise the heart of Georgetown has kicked off today, designed to enhance the safety, accessibility and amenity of the neighbourhood shopping precinct.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/work-begins-on-renewal-of-georgetown-s-village-centre</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a228b677-e4f1-42bd-a72a-ad3feb309a11</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 27 August 2024 </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 27 August 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-27-august-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>aaf17b31-4f69-4474-9267-580dc6a3b004</guid>
      <title>Major investment to boost apprentice and trainee numbers in Newcastle</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has celebrated the NSW Government&amp;#39;s announcement of $252.2 million to employ more apprentices and trainees in the local government sector across the state.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>29 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/major-investment-to-boost-apprentice-and-trainee-numbers-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>81c67811-0173-4b46-80df-f880e735b1cd</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle unveils vision for Waratah Park</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;A draft plan to maximise year-round use of the sporting fields at Waratah Park and enhance its accessibility, amenities and recreation opportunities has been developed to guide future upgrades.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-unveils-vision-for-waratah-park</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>05030985-6b9d-4b72-8ddc-dd7c725785e3</guid>
      <title>Big ideas for Newcastle backed by SBR city centre funding</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Newcastle&amp;#39;s brightest minds in business, placemaking and culture will share in $850,000 of City of Newcastle funding that has delivered homegrown hits Shakespeare under the Stars, Sculptures at Scratchley and Big Picture Fest. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 Aug 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/big-ideas-for-newcastle-backed-by-sbr-city-centre-funding</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>99e42955-244a-4fcc-9ade-53af9c09d7ce</guid>
      <title>First Nations art to take pride of place in Newcastle Art Gallery</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;First Nations culture will be celebrated at the heart of the expanded Newcastle Art Gallery following the acquisition of a significant work of art by internationally acclaimed Quandamooka artist Megan Cope.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>01 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/first-nations-art-to-take-pride-of-place-in-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b722fc69-3fe1-40ef-a9cd-98d4e58f1731</guid>
      <title>Quest to bring international surfing event to Newcastle gathers momentum</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:105%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle has thrown its support behind discussions to transform Surfest into one of the top 16 surfing contests in the world.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>01 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/quest-to-bring-international-surfing-event-to-newcastle-gathers-momentum</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c44301bf-427c-4192-9bad-756a86a01ab1</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle secures $1 million grant to roll out innovative development assessment process</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;A groundbreaking planning tool designed by City of Newcastle, which has slashed determination times for simple developments by more than 75 per cent, will be rolled out across two Hunter councils.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>02 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-secures-$1-million-grant-to-roll-out-innovative-development-assessment-process</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>33bbe97c-45dd-48a0-af98-231995f94e9c</guid>
      <title>Maud Street upgrades rolling out to create safer cycling connections</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Thousands of cyclists and pedestrians will find it safer and easier to navigate a busy Newcastle intersection thanks to a $2 million upgrade being delivered by City of Newcastle.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>03 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/maud-street-upgrades-rolling-out-to-create-safer-cycling-connections</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6607a9e5-9cf9-4c8f-92a8-bb3c54a088d3</guid>
      <title>Construction boom sparks interest in development review panel</title>
      <description>Highly qualified professionals from all over Australia expressed interest in being part of Newcastle&amp;#39;s growth as a member of the City&amp;#39;s Urban Design Review Panel.</description>
      <pubDate>04 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/construction-boom-sparks-interest-in-development-review-panel</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>48aa77a2-3a59-47ae-9e22-adfadca8fa64</guid>
      <title>Newcastle's newest citizens take the pledge of a lifetime</title>
      <description>&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle welcomed more than 180 new Australians from six continents as they took the pledge of commitment to their new home in a moving citizenship ceremony at City Hall.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>06 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-s-newest-citizens-take-the-pledge-of-a-lifetime</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d0be3864-a0f3-4e76-9349-3739c7f4fa80</guid>
      <title>Man's best friend digs new temporary home</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Lost dogs are enjoying a more comfortable stay as they wait to be returned to their owners or re-homed thanks to major upgrades at City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s Animal Facility.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>06 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/man-s-best-friend-digs-new-temporary-home</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>25aae108-346e-4fc2-84d8-b434f2361840</guid>
      <title>Inclusivity at the heart of Hamilton playground upgrade</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;City of Newcastle is getting ready to welcome children of all ages and abilities to play, learn and connect at Hamilton&amp;rsquo;s historic Gregson Park following a significant playground upgrade.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>09 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/inclusivity-at-the-heart-of-hamilton-playground-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>33f4a3ce-1b0a-42b3-9b1d-1c73fa27c99d</guid>
      <title>Major grants boost to help Newcastle's most vulnerable</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is providing almost $240,000 to fund activities that will strengthen the community by helping to alleviate food insecurity, create social connections, and support women&amp;#39;s health.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>10 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/major-grants-boost-to-help-newcastle-s-most-vulnerable</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>66588b38-3984-46a4-a241-c1ada61f6ccf</guid>
      <title>Newcastle proves fit for a queen (or six) with blockbuster musical to debut in 2025 </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle will be rolling out the red carpet for a much-anticipated royal visit next year, with global phenomenon SIX The Musical set for a three-week reign at the Civic Theatre.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>11 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-proves-fit-for-a-queen-(or-six)-with-blockbuster-musical-to-debut-in-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7d821e4f-dea0-4af2-bbf1-4b0a0acd2f7f</guid>
      <title>Surfest rides wave of support back onto international stage</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Newcastle will receive unprecedented exposure in 2025 when Surfest is upgraded to become one of the top 16 surfing contests in the world as part of the Challenger Series.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>11 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/surfest-rides-wave-of-support-back-onto-international-stage</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>09a5be7f-f43b-4568-92c5-0f98a9d752a8</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle funds youth-led climate action projects to empower next generation</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is amplifying the voices and actions of the next generation to drive local climate solutions, by awarding a total of $75,000 for 12 innovative, youth-led climate action projects.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>12 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-funds-youth-led-climate-action-projects-to-empower-next-generation</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>972dcfd3-f9e9-4869-956b-9cdbfdf01e91</guid>
      <title>Making it easier to get the party started in streets across Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Street parties and festivals could become a more regular fixture in five locations across Newcastle as part of a pilot program designed to create vibrant, activated spaces for the community to enjoy.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>13 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/making-it-easier-to-get-the-party-started-in-streets-across-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9638f439-0083-4f94-a662-1264269d5ec9</guid>
      <title>Exhibition’s international debut for prehistoric summer at Newcastle Museum</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Newcastle Museum is hatching a world premiere 145 million years in the making, as &lt;i&gt;Dinosaurs: Surviving Extinction &lt;/i&gt;showcases the giants and babies of the Cretaceous from the brink of oblivion to the skies of today.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>20 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/exhibition’s-international-debut-for-prehistoric-summer-at-newcastle-museum</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>34bcaf26-3bc6-4459-9058-595c427c0ef5</guid>
      <title>New Annual delivers hands-on festival experience</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is giving Novocastrians the chance to become part of the performance and immerse themselves in this year&amp;#39;s New Annual experience&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>25 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-annual-delivers-hands-on-festival-experience</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>00a18a0b-8af4-49d5-8f60-114508750ffc</guid>
      <title>Emergency repair works at Stockton Beach</title>
      <description>We are carrying out emergency repair works on the rock bag structure at the northern end of Barrie Crescent, Stockton.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/emergency-repair-works-at-stockton-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>72ca1282-de2a-4ff3-be62-b51f77004f5e</guid>
      <title>New Annual opens with a celebration of music and movement</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s flagship cultural festival is making a song and dance about its opening weekend by hosting a range of unique performances at iconic venues.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-annual-opens-with-a-celebration-of-music-and-movement</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4bd1c27c-4065-4ae6-b230-e20cecc74389</guid>
      <title>Step into September school holiday events and activities </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;Families are&amp;nbsp;spoilt for choice with City of Newcastle set to host a wide range of activities across its venues during the upcoming September school holidays.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>29 Sept 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/step-into-september-school-holiday-events-and-activities</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6839c815-a49b-4a40-a39c-652c487f9884</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle calls for next wave of trainee lifeguards </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;With beaches that attract over one million swimmers and sunseekers each year, City of Newcastle is calling for high-school aged trainee lifeguards to patrol our coastline alongside our professional lifeguards.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>01 Oct 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-calls-for-next-wave-of-trainee-lifeguards</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4c4ea379-7a85-4b61-b153-e49dc13ec5e6</guid>
      <title>Grant paves way for Paralympian to champion NSW’s first wheelchair-accessible skate bowl</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;City of Newcastle is dropping into history to support Paralympian Paul Nunnari activate NSW&amp;rsquo;s first wheelchair-accessible skate bowl as part of a $20,000 boost for local inclusive sports events.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>02 Oct 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/grant-paves-way-for-paralympian-to-champion-nsw’s-first-wheelchair-accessible-skate-bowl</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>82104b91-a754-4223-9741-8d7aa3659bf8</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle election results 2024 </title>
      <description>The NSW Electoral Commission has finalised the count for the local government election held on 14 September 2024, with Dr Ross Kerridge elected as Lord Mayor.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>03 Oct 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-election-results-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ae8b2099-5b3e-4c7f-a8e5-e972d1021c58</guid>
      <title>New Annual in full swing ahead of grand finale</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;A nine-metre-tall version of the traditional playground swing will give locals and visitors a new perspective on Newcastle as part of the final weekend of New Annual.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>03 Oct 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-annual-in-full-swing-ahead-of-grand-finale</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a3e78f5b-13b7-43a0-b650-e05055eef8a9</guid>
      <title>Community invited to spring into Gregson Park’s reimagined playspace </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="background:white"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;City of Newcastle &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="-webkit-user-drag:none"&gt;&lt;span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color:transparent"&gt;&lt;span style="user-select:text"&gt;is &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="-webkit-user-drag:none"&gt;&lt;span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color:transparent"&gt;&lt;span style="user-select:text"&gt;ready to celebrate the completion of the $3.5 million playground upgrade at Gregson &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="-webkit-user-drag:none"&gt;&lt;span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color:transparent"&gt;&lt;span style="user-select:text"&gt;Park with &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="-webkit-user-drag:none"&gt;&lt;span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color:transparent"&gt;&lt;span style="user-select:text"&gt;a family friendly community&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; &lt;span style="-webkit-user-drag:none"&gt;&lt;span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color:transparent"&gt;&lt;span style="user-select:text"&gt;event.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>04 Oct 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-spring-into-gregson-park’s-reimagined-playspace</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>39ff917f-68e4-40dc-9b09-a0ef5545e75d</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 8 October 2024 </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 8 October 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>08 Oct 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-8-october-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2ed59b82-beea-4ebd-b63f-6b3f7d80aa81</guid>
      <title>Community invited to share feedback on Newcastle Show public holiday</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting Novocastrians to help determine whether the first day of the 2025 Newcastle Show should be declared a local public holiday.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>09 Oct 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-share-feedback-on-newcastle-show-public-holiday</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5bf865c9-f146-4041-b0fa-3657803af55e</guid>
      <title>Community unites for World Stroke Day Morning Tea</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Aptos&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle, in collaboration with the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), held its annual Lord Mayor&amp;rsquo;s World Stroke Day Morning Tea at Newcastle Museum this morning.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 Oct 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-unites-for-world-stroke-day-morning-tea</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>aea21ea3-9440-4417-a72c-8a939a35af6a</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 29 October 2024</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 29 October 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>29 Oct 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-29-october-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>604f5e11-946d-4048-b73f-82fe86662c9d</guid>
      <title>Community and councillors back Islington cycleway connection</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;A new cycleway and shared footpath along Chinchen Street and Hubbard Street in Islington has been endorsed by the elected Council after City of Newcastle received overwhelming community support for the project.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>30 Oct 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-and-councillors-back-islington-cycleway-connection</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>835b22fb-22a2-452b-a670-17a68a329af6</guid>
      <title>Program to increase access to renewable energy in Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle wants to make it easier for Novocastrians to save on energy costs while also helping reduce the ongoing impacts of climate change.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>01 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/program-to-increase-access-to-renewable-energy-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d63c85ab-0a80-4ff4-8877-10220294b46e</guid>
      <title>Road works underway ahead of dual lane upgrades </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle has commenced work on road improvements needed to pave the way for two significant dual lane upgrades in the growing western corridor&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>04 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/road-works-underway-ahead-of-dual-lane-upgrades</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>72607da7-265d-49e2-9285-baca1190cdfc</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle to open up more green space in heart of the city</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;An underutilised section of National Park will be transformed into open green space with shaded picnic tables, public amenities and additional trees under a proposal by City of Newcastle.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>04 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-to-open-up-more-green-space-in-heart-of-the-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>dbd63b82-dae3-47a2-9a90-70cd992fb714</guid>
      <title>Statement from the Rufo family and City of Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;The Rufo family and City of Newcastle regret to inform you of the passing of former councillor Andrea Rufo.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>04 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-from-the-rufo-family-and-city-of-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9455c046-9998-4b35-9b23-69d17a83a6a4</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Ocean Baths'   nomination on State Heritage register</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is attending the State Heritage Register Committee today to discuss the nomination to list Newcastle Ocean Baths on the State Heritage Register.&amp;nbsp; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>05 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-ocean-baths-nomination-on-state-heritage-register</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1804f34f-4c13-4584-ac68-96e191aaf95e</guid>
      <title>Independent financial audit affirms City of Newcastle’s transparency and strong governance</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;The Audit Office of NSW has given both City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s financial statements and its Roads to Recovery Grant Program its formal tick of approval for the past twelve months.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>05 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/independent-financial-audit-affirms-city-of-newcastle’s-transparency-and-strong-governance</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>41870c03-0ffa-4959-b0f1-668e14be4d90</guid>
      <title>Nominations open for Newcastle Citizen of the Year Awards</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is giving the community a chance to recognise&amp;nbsp;and celebrate the outstanding contributions of Novocastrians&amp;nbsp;as part of the 2025 Citizen of the Year Awards.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>08 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/nominations-open-for-newcastle-citizen-of-the-year-awards</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>673b1c7d-5f6a-4609-b720-0667caf0d636</guid>
      <title>Newcastle residents urged to join war on textile waste during National Recycling Week </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is tapping into world-first technology to help residents stop some of the one million tonnes of textile waste Australia contributes to landfill each year.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>11 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-residents-urged-to-join-war-on-textile-waste-during-national-recycling-week</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fd5be940-81fb-4440-9276-019e06dfe512</guid>
      <title>Best-selling authors serve up a sizzling summer of reading in Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is set to transport readers beyond the page and into the minds of their favourite writers with a packed summer program of free author talks.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>12 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/best-selling-authors-serve-up-a-sizzling-summer-of-reading-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e5259f26-67d8-4844-a32a-1807d1e2bb16</guid>
      <title>Media Statement - Rising Tide event</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:10pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;City of Newcastle notes the ruling of the NSW Supreme Court last Thursday regarding a planned protest on Newcastle Harbour and at Camp Shortland.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>13 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-rising-tide-event</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b16c27cc-5c2f-4266-8229-c6f70d5658d0</guid>
      <title>It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;The unveiling of a giant present in Hunter Street Mall has heralded the start of festive fun as City of Newcastle kicks off its annual Christmas activities for the community.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>15 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/it-s-beginning-to-look-a-lot-like-christmas-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e59c4863-2c68-4f96-acf5-879e042b3928</guid>
      <title>Statement from Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge about Rising Tide event location change</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following a further meeting with Rising Tide, I have negotiated a compromise outcome for the Protestival event set to be staged this week at Camp Shortland.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>19 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-from-lord-mayor-ross-kerridge-about-rising-tide-event-location-change</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c7027f02-2447-478a-9446-87d3a28eba3b</guid>
      <title>Novocastrians invited to have their say on future of affordable housing</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is a step closer to increasing the range of residential options across the city with its Affordable Housing Contributions Scheme now on public exhibition.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>22 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/novocastrians-invited-to-have-their-say-on-future-of-affordable-housing</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b380da50-abf7-48af-b879-497f76dc854c</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle shores up future for harbourside site </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is taking the next step towards a new future for Queens Wharf, with site investigations to pave the way for redevelopment of the vacant western building.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>26 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-shores-up-future-for-harbourside-site</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a88aa52b-fafa-406c-9a3f-480c2c726fe7</guid>
      <title>Council update: Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 26 November 2024 </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 26 November 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>26 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-update-ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-26-november-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0962ff0e-ca54-47eb-950c-01f54089cb49</guid>
      <title>Tender awarded for record roadworks project </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is moving forward with the largest roadworks project in its history after awarding a $38.7 million tender for crucial dual lane upgrades in the growing western corridor&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Nov 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/tender-awarded-for-record-roadworks-project</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cc7df348-f4c1-4926-af9d-d45254d0d952</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle setting new accessibility benchmark on New Year's Eve</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;An explosive chorus of crackles and bangs won&amp;#39;t be the only sounds bringing Newcastle&amp;#39;s annual fireworks display to life this New Year&amp;#39;s Eve.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>02 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-setting-new-accessibility-benchmark-on-new-year-s-eve</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f121382b-48fe-492b-9da0-a18999bb844f</guid>
      <title>Council update: Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 3 December 2024</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 3 December 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>03 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-update-ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-3-december-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9e31825b-6f12-4d4d-a380-a5f527491fc9</guid>
      <title>UpStage to scale dramatic new heights following successful 2024 season</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;A new cohort of artists and creatives will get the chance to share the limelight when City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s UpStage at the Playhouse live performance program returns to the Civic Theatre in 2025.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>05 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/upstage-to-scale-dramatic-new-heights-following-successful-2024-season</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>abb650d7-aab3-4d4f-a3bf-ead3e503dc76</guid>
      <title>Multimillion-dollar project delivers renewed stability for Memorial Drive</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle has wrapped up a $5 million project to improve the safety and accessibility of a key coastal route used by more than 10,000 cars every day.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>05 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/multimillion-dollar-project-delivers-renewed-stability-for-memorial-drive</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9c182430-f4fe-45de-a98c-04106aa800a4</guid>
      <title>Community use of coastal buildings in focus to aid future planning</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is leading the way in coastal infrastructure planning by kicking off consultation with the community on its Coastal Buildings Revitalisation Plan, the first of its kind in the state.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>09 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-use-of-coastal-buildings-in-focus-to-aid-future-planning</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c11874b7-a027-4a74-a8e4-7f1af9f75c3d</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Art Gallery gets official reopening date</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;Newcastle Art Gallery will reopen its doors next year in time for City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s flagship arts and culture festival, New Annual, to be held in late September.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-art-gallery-gets-official-reopening-date</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>828b7251-3d4a-4a52-80ac-54d5123e4051</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 10 December 2024 </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:normal"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 10 December 2024. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>11 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-10-december-2024</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>42b3c694-b671-4f98-a556-0504bb991579</guid>
      <title>One step closer to a more pedestrian-friendly city</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is investing $2 million into footpaths this year as it takes the next step to make walking and active transport the preferred choice for short trips by 2034.</description>
      <pubDate>12 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/one-step-closer-to-a-more-pedestrian-friendly-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a778d667-b10a-44fc-b27d-8949f074a27f</guid>
      <title>Community invited to have a say on the future of Newcastle </title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting the community to provide feedback on its long-term vision for the city, with the update of its Community Strategic Plan, &lt;i&gt;Newcastle 2040&lt;/i&gt;,&lt;i&gt; &lt;/i&gt;now on public exhibition. &lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>13 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-have-a-say-on-the-future-of-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b21e4122-4685-4899-98df-fb5bf42091d0</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle seeks partner for landmark affordable housing project</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;A multi-storey affordable housing apartment building will be developed on a key Hunter Street site as City of Newcastle moves forward with a landmark mixed-use project.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>15 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-seeks-partner-for-landmark-affordable-housing-project</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fbf27be5-f92c-4160-8464-4beea3e96edd</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Art Gallery opinion piece</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;Newcastle Art Gallery is extremely fortunate to be the custodian of one of the most significant art collections in Australia.&amp;nbsp; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>16 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-art-gallery-op-ed</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4995d67f-56d6-487a-89de-576fb1b4c93b</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle celebrates 2024 as a year of achievement</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Record infrastructure investment, major sustainability milestones and significant cultural and community projects have capped off a successful year of collaboration and commitment to the community by City of Newcastle.&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>20 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-celebrates-2024-as-a-year-of-achievement</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>abe186fa-9781-4e44-86a9-c61aa983ea0f</guid>
      <title>Explore wonders of the natural world this school holidays</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is inviting families to dive into a series of hands-on activities across its venues during January that will help create connections with the natural environment. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Dec 2024</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/explore-wonders-of-the-natural-world-this-school-holidays</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4edf4024-67b9-4628-98a0-d6d620839b6d</guid>
      <title>Free fitness station puts active ageing on the agenda</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Older Novocastrians have a new way to enjoy the benefits of getting fit and staying active thanks to a collaboration between City of Newcastle, Port Waratah and the Hunter Ageing Alliance.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>03 Jan 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/free-fitness-station-puts-active-ageing-on-the-agenda</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a2df8bc7-ba6f-4a89-b5f7-28a51c78183f</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle committees seeking fresh voices</title>
      <description>Young Novocastrians are being given the chance to raise awareness of the issues that affect their lives and provide strategic advice on how to make Newcastle a better place to live.</description>
      <pubDate>08 Jan 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-committees-seeking-fresh-voices</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>776057f7-7600-491e-881e-d34b2703affe</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle moves forward with independent review</title>
      <description>Community members are being invited to have their say on the terms of reference that will guide an independent review of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s processes, procedures and performance.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Jan 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-moves-forward-with-independent-review</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e5c531b6-5ae6-488d-b929-f23c9faff048</guid>
      <title>Extraordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 14 January 2025</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 14 January 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>14 Jan 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/extraordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-14-january-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ca6a3160-032e-4513-9c0e-621d4e1e0ed8</guid>
      <title>Search begins for local programming as new Festival Director announced</title>
      <description>It&amp;#39;s a new year in more ways than one for City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s flagship cultural festival, New Annual.</description>
      <pubDate>17 Jan 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/search-begins-for-local-programming-as-new-festival-director-announced</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2e4cfa93-ce4a-4297-a3e1-c06d840ce44d</guid>
      <title>New citizens make it a happy new year in Newcastle</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;A scientist passionate about the environment was one of 170 new citizens to pledge commitment&amp;nbsp;at City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s first citizenship ceremony of 2025.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>24 Jan 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-citizens-make-it-a-happy-new-year-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4d012453-35ee-4217-8813-c63d0e9e26bd</guid>
      <title>Residents encouraged to have their say on council review</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:11pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Aptos,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;The opportunity for public submissions guiding the independent review of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s processes, procedures and performance will close this Wednesday, 29 January.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Jan 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/residents-encouraged-to-have-their-say-on-council-review</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4b7b9e16-49a1-4c1b-a65a-c38b90b364a1</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle seeks partner for landmark affordable housing project</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is seeking a development partner for its landmark affordable housing project located on vacant land in the Newcastle CBD.</description>
      <pubDate>30 Jan 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-seeks-partner-for-landmark-affordable-housing-project-116aa2d46a8a035576c00eace6d060a9</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>173a1138-7f6a-40a6-bc0e-eb5bb1cadc56</guid>
      <title>Road safety improvements given green light at Adamstown</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has begun work on a $3.3 million project designed to improve the safety and accessibility of a notorious Adamstown black spot.</description>
      <pubDate>31 Jan 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/road-safety-improvements-given-green-light-at-adamstown</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>29c3651a-0700-4f03-b5ba-42d6c89efdc7</guid>
      <title>Nuatali Nelmes resigns from Newcastle City Council</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Councillor and former Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes has formally advised City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath of her resignation from Council.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>03 Feb 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/nuatali-nelmes-resigns-from-newcastle-city-council</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>96d49a72-e965-44de-861f-37b7e14db3b7</guid>
      <title>Community dives in to shape next steps of Newcastle Ocean Baths revitalisation</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is progressing the development of its plans for &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;the final stage of the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade following feedback from the community.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>05 Feb 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-dives-in-to-shape-next-steps-of-newcastle-ocean-baths-revitalisation</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5b545065-5144-4454-86d9-91ec5dd01ba1</guid>
      <title>Citizen of the Year leads the way for Indigenous literacy</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;A Worimi man who completed a 4,500km journey from Western Australia to Newcastle raising funds to improve Indigenous literacy has been selected as Newcastle&amp;#39;s Citizen of the Year 2025.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Twenty-three-year-old Bailey Myers received the award at City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s Citizen of the Year ceremony today for his solo walk in March 2024, which spanned almost six months and raised nearly $16,000 in donations.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>06 Feb 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/citizen-of-the-year-leads-the-way-for-indigenous-literacy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>20014b24-1ec2-48ec-8853-319c740f297a</guid>
      <title>Young waste warriors go behind-the-scenes at Summerhill</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has introduced a new generation to the benefits of waste minimisation and recycling during a tour designed specifically for children.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>08 Feb 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/young-waste-warriors-go-behind-the-scenes-at-summerhill</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bf7c34d3-9381-4eef-8c1c-63ad2d190c24</guid>
      <title>NSW Government commitment needed to deliver ongoing Stockton sand nourishment strategy</title>
      <description>The NSW Government is being urged to take ownership of a holistic strategy that will buffer Stockton&amp;#39;s coastline from erosion, following a meeting of the Stockton Community Liaison Group this week.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>12 Feb 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/nsw-government-commitment-needed-to-deliver-ongoing-stockton-sand-nourishment-strategy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>091bfe3a-b209-4e48-ac1a-a4c30a241971</guid>
      <title>Major international skateboarding event heading to Newcastle</title>
      <description>South Newcastle Skate Park will be launched onto the world stage when the Jackalope Block Party rolls into town in November with support from City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s Special Business Rate funding.</description>
      <pubDate>18 Feb 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/major-international-skateboarding-event-heading-to-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7d8a2acd-f34a-4389-af2c-8dda9aa79961</guid>
      <title>Strategic push to secure major events delivers multimillion-dollar windfall for Newcastle</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is looking to up the ante on its investment into major events, which have already injected more than $2.5 million into the local economy during the first two months of 2025.</description>
      <pubDate>21 Feb 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/strategic-push-to-secure-major-events-delivers-multimillion-dollar-windfall-for-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>20260aa3-4f19-435c-94be-d66b9b192c13</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 25 February 2025 </title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 25 February 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>25 Feb 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-25-february-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>46e64d5a-9016-4714-b75f-d57f216cc708</guid>
      <title>Newcastle City Council appoints new Directors to Airport Boards</title>
      <description>Newcastle City Council has appointed Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull to the Boards of Newcastle Airport.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>26 Feb 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-city-council-appoints-new-directors-to-airport-boards</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>10ca2826-ed51-4587-81a9-92fd37fb4b82</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle shines a light on seniors  for statewide festival</title>
      <description>Newcastle high school students will be talking tech with seniors as part of an intergenerational IT lesson being rolled out at Newcastle Museum next week during the NSW Seniors Festival.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Feb 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-shines-a-light-on-seniors-for-statewide-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7ad5b778-acd4-4d22-b765-7168cc701d63</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle doubles down on youth-led climate action</title>
      <description>Young Novocastrians have another chance to design and deliver local solutions to climate change with applications opening tomorrow for $150,000 in funding through City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s Youth Climate Action grants program.</description>
      <pubDate>11 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-doubles-down-on-youth-led-climate-action</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>de21d372-25f9-4896-83db-a289a2df2f9a</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle launches plan to develop 10-year cultural roadmap </title>
      <description>Newcastle&amp;#39;s cultural credentials will take centre stage as part of a 10-year strategy that will guide City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s commitment to the local arts, culture and creative industries.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>12 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-launches-plan-to-develop-10-year-cultural-roadmap</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>76706297-0056-467c-985a-cf8640da544d</guid>
      <title>Increasing female participation prompts strategic sports update</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will reshape its Strategic Sports Plan to meet the needs of an expanding population and enable more women and girls to train and compete.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/increasing-female-participation-prompts-strategic-sports-update</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7ee09ed0-051b-4ac4-9d65-3bd916a37072</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle invests in future of coastal precinct</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will begin work next week to ensure the safety and longevity of one of its most popular coastal precincts.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>14 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-invests-in-future-of-coastal-precinct</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>850da8f0-737f-4b81-979a-aa4c26412004</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting (items adjourned from 25 February) - 18 March 2025</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting (items adjourned from 25 February) of Tuesday 18 March 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>18 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-(items-adjourned-from-25-february)-18-march-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a8c7a371-8444-4919-9621-cf1d551bfd7d</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle overcomes language barriers to keep beachgoers safe in the surf</title>
      <description>A rise in beach rescues among non-English speaking residents and visitors has prompted City of Newcastle to provide translations of vital water safety information.</description>
      <pubDate>19 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-overcomes-language-barriers-to-keep-beachgoers-safe-in-the-surf</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>266dc6c4-36a5-46bb-b1ac-472edff02529</guid>
      <title>Shared vision for Broadmeadow reaches new milestone</title>
      <description>A once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of Broadmeadow will reach a milestone next week, with Councillors to vote on the adoption of a 30-year strategy for the 313-hectare precinct.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>21 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/shared-vision-for-broadmeadow-reaches-new-milestone</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8da41be0-4a75-4467-a270-6e218ca4e388</guid>
      <title>Foreshore Park playspace to become flagship destination for inclusive recreation</title>
      <description>Construction will begin this year on Newcastle&amp;#39;s first purpose-built inclusive playspace and waterplay area should councillors award a tender for the Foreshore Park project on Tuesday evening.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>23 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/foreshore-park-playspace-to-become-flagship-destination-for-inclusive-recreation</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c259235a-fa1c-4c0c-8c02-1a3e1a1ebfbf</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle welcomes State recognition  of coastal heritage icon</title>
      <description>The historic significance of Newcastle&amp;#39;s much-loved ocean baths has been acknowledged by the NSW Government, which today announced it would list the site on the State Heritage Register.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>22 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-welcomes-state-recognition-of-coastal-heritage-icon</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>644f8642-d33b-4946-8530-3a4f42f072f3</guid>
      <title>Newcastle creators invited to help shape new library collection</title>
      <description>Library lover and illustrator Laura Baker is being given the chance to combine her passions as part of a call for community contributions to a dedicated &amp;ldquo;zine&amp;rdquo; zone.</description>
      <pubDate>24 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-creators-invited-to-help-shape-new-collection</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>40415544-3c46-486b-a1e3-5c23a469c373</guid>
      <title>Council update: Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 25 March 2025</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 25 March 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>26 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-update-ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-25-march-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>70245238-fda8-451b-88cd-450846faa41d</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle strengthens commitment to boost supply of affordable housing</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s Affordable Housing Contribution Scheme reached a major milestone after Councillors endorsed a planning proposal at last night&amp;#39;s Ordinary Council Meeting to bring it into effect.</description>
      <pubDate>26 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-strengthens-commitment-to-boost-supply-of-affordable-housing</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e6cf61f3-8e73-4ab1-a467-3d209237513e</guid>
      <title>Plans unveiled for a more welcoming Hamilton Station Park</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is asking the NSW Government to part fund a project worth up to $250,000 to help address anti-social behaviour on Beaumont Street.</description>
      <pubDate>27 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/plans-unveiled-for-a-more-welcoming-hamilton-station-park</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4ff10b74-4fef-4ced-80d7-d595a447caae</guid>
      <title>Work underway on critical western corridor road upgrades</title>
      <description>Construction has kicked off in Wallsend as City of Newcastle moves forward with dual lane upgrades to improve traffic flow along notorious bottlenecks on Minmi Road and Longworth Avenue.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>31 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/work-underway-on-critical-western-corridor-road-upgrades</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ba6f793a-6d3e-4602-9ead-50fed5287b8b</guid>
      <title>Raising flags and awareness on Transgender Day of Visibility</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has raised the Transgender Pride flag at City Hall and its City Administration Centre today to demonstrate support and acceptance of the trans and gender diverse community.</description>
      <pubDate>31 Mar 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/raising-flags-and-awareness-on-transgender-day-of-visibility</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7f3c164c-2a40-4e53-be54-e5e2d061f75d</guid>
      <title>Putting Newcastle on the national cricket map</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has thrown its support behind the second stage of planned improvements to Newcastle&amp;#39;s No.1 Sportsground, which would deliver the upgrades required to host elite national level competition.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>04 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/putting-newcastle-on-the-national-cricket-map</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>219217d4-f97d-4fe4-8aa7-b8f45eda088b</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Museum transforms into hub for  youth-led innovation</title>
      <description>Young Novocastrians will dive into a vibrant mix of local live music, creative workshops and climate and activism activities this Saturday as they &amp;#39;takeover&amp;#39; Newcastle Museum during City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s feature Youth Week event.</description>
      <pubDate>07 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-museum-transforms-into-hub-for-youth-led-innovation</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>41c7a530-209f-454c-a728-f004ee452625</guid>
      <title>Strong demand powers Newcastle's first climate champions program</title>
      <description>More than 50 community members have graduated from City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s inaugural net zero training initiative, highlighting a growing appetite for local climate action.</description>
      <pubDate>11 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/strong-demand-powers-newcastle-s-first-climate-champions-program</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6891f7f6-dd96-4887-81b1-941b4c3a08b8</guid>
      <title>Queens reign supreme in Newcastle as blockbuster musical SIX takes the stage </title>
      <description>It&amp;#39;s been almost 40 years since an English Queen last visited Newcastle, but Novocastrians are giving a royal welcome to SIX of history&amp;#39;s sassiest for their three-week reign in the city.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>11 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/queens-reign-supreme-in-newcastle-as-blockbuster-musical-six-takes-the-stage</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>bbcb2236-1900-4440-9875-8cd293b521da</guid>
      <title>Grass is greener at Smith Park following major upgrade</title>
      <description>The sights and sounds of sport will soon return to Smith Park following City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s delivery of a multimillion-dollar upgrade of the Hamilton North site.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/grass-is-greener-at-smith-park-following-major-upgrade</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4e667b12-98aa-4906-b198-9c0c1908a21e</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle looks to the future with strategic investments </title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has taken another step in its long-term financial plans to ensure it can meet the need for infrastructure and services across the city into the future.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>14 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-looks-to-the-future-with-strategic-investments</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4e9eb201-9df2-4323-a0b0-6cdb20f2103a</guid>
      <title>Council update: Ordinary Council Meeting (items adjourned from 25 March) - Tuesday 15 April 2025</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting (items adjourned from 25 March) of Tuesday 15 April. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>15 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-update-ordinary-council-meeting-(items-adjourned-from-25-march)-tuesday-15-april-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>de5fb1b0-1bab-418c-8d7a-cf24f552db26</guid>
      <title>Community input needed to protect and enhance Newcastle's cultural heart</title>
      <description>A new lawn area and event screen in Wheeler Place, better pedestrian and cycling connections, and more green spaces are being proposed under a concept plan for Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s historic Civic Precinct.</description>
      <pubDate>16 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-input-needed-to-protect-and-enhance-newcastle-s-cultural-heart</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3886d53f-01e5-4ae4-86d1-a281978cd467</guid>
      <title>Council endorses milestone community vision</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is looking to the future with a long-term framework that will guide Newcastle&amp;#39;s development over the next decade.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>16 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-endorses-milestone-community-vision</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>874472fb-bada-40c2-bf13-9f63a01c18d3</guid>
      <title>Community invited to have their say on Camp Shortland open space</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is inviting feedback from the community as it finalises plans for Camp Shortland as part of the staged remediation of the former Newcastle 500 track.</description>
      <pubDate>17 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-have-their-say-on-camp-shortland-open-space</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2787ef23-161c-46d1-8e6d-f0d10712c599</guid>
      <title>Statement retracting claims of bullying by the Lord Mayor</title>
      <description>A statement from the Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge and CEO Jeremy Bath.</description>
      <pubDate>17 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-retracting-claims-of-bullying-by-the-lord-mayor</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>eba445a4-9ca7-460e-8467-3a8159ff4738</guid>
      <title>New fans flock to see SIX Queens tell their story</title>
      <description>Global phenomenon SIX the Musical has attracted a host of new visitors to Newcastle&amp;#39;s Civic Theatre with almost 23,000 tickets already snapped&amp;nbsp;up midway through the show&amp;#39;s purple reign.</description>
      <pubDate>24 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-fans-flock-to-see-six-queens-tell-their-story</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5151a559-bed8-4672-a647-6252ebd625f7</guid>
      <title>Council Budget continues to support growth of Newcastle</title>
      <description>One hundred and fifty-nine million dollars will be invested into infrastructure projects as part of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s draft Budget for 2025-26.</description>
      <pubDate>24 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-budget-continues-to-support-growth-of-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>05d0f159-2366-4757-99ec-1104b3515b01</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 29 April 2025 </title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 29 April 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>29 Apr 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-28-april-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4c7876da-d1ca-4434-a880-96ca6d4875c1</guid>
      <title>Construction progress reveals first view of expanded Newcastle Art Gallery</title>
      <description>Novocastrians are being given their first view of Newcastle Art Gallery&amp;#39;s significantly expanded footprint as the scaffolding starts to come down around the once-in-a-generation project.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>01 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/construction-progress-reveals-first-view-of-expanded-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>97b1acde-6aee-401b-b7f7-55ca42d67bb8</guid>
      <title>Neighbourly Newy celebrates the best ingredients of multiculturalism</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has cooked up a series of special events to commemorate the 10th anniversary of being formally recognised as a Refugee Welcome Zone.</description>
      <pubDate>03 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/neighbourly-newy-celebrates-the-best-ingredients-of-multiculturalism</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>292aa6f0-7275-46b8-bcdb-6504ec266207</guid>
      <title>Media statement - independent review public briefing </title>
      <description>A Public Briefing Committee will be held on Thursday on the final report for the independent review of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s processes, procedures and performance.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>05 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-independent-review-public-briefing</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e4470b84-eecc-4b9c-ac00-49c62834e760</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle seeks feedback on $2 pool entry fee </title>
      <description>Swimmers are being invited to dive into discussions around a proposal to trial reduced entry fees at City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s five inland pools next season.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>08 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-seeks-feedback-on-$2-pool-entry-fee</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9d70e92d-df9d-4f80-a9ae-aa8ec81ccb74</guid>
      <title>Public briefing hears outcome of independent review </title>
      <description>Davidson Business Advisory has confirmed in a Public Briefing to Councillors and the community that its independent review of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s processes, procedures and performance has found no instances of fraud, corruption, breaches of legislation or maladministration.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>09 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/public-briefing-hears-outcome-of-independent-review</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0be87c73-9bfe-4566-8042-a2ccbfc56311</guid>
      <title>Work set to begin to maintain long-term future of historic recreation destination</title>
      <description>One of the Hunter&amp;#39;s most popular community assets will remain open to the public during vital maintenance work that will improve the safety, longevity and functionality of the Fernleigh Track tunnel.</description>
      <pubDate>12 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/work-set-to-begin-to-maintain-long-term-future-of-historic-recreation-destination</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a63d7601-8972-4349-87b2-c07e0f455e51</guid>
      <title>Updated plans approved for revitalisation of Newcastle landmark</title>
      <description>The long-awaited restoration of the historic Newcastle Post Office has been given the green light by City of Newcastle following the approval of a modified development application.</description>
      <pubDate>13 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/updated-plans-approved-for-revitalisation-of-newcastle-landmark</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d143a497-8852-40ff-8dbe-e4937ab33c5c</guid>
      <title>Wallsend Library access updated to provide safer visitor experience</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has been forced to change the way people enter Wallsend Library after 3pm weekdays following a series of ongoing threatening and violent attacks towards staff and the general public.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/wallsend-library-access-updated-to-provide-safer-visitor-experience</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8b5567a3-e667-4d9f-9a8f-d85a499d2454</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle invites community to share in almost $1 million in funding</title>
      <description>Projects that support Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s social, cultural, environmental and economic development are set to benefit from almost $1 million from City of Newcastle.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-invites-community-to-share-in-almost-$1-million-in-funding</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>afec2867-46db-4e56-84a8-36863cd9f20b</guid>
      <title>Revitalisation of Hunter Street moves to next stage</title>
      <description>Work is ready to commence on the next stage of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s East End Village project, with onsite crews mobilising next week for the section of Hunter Street between Thorn and Wolfe streets, and on Wolfe Street between King and Scott streets.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>21 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/revitalisation-of-hunter-street-moves-to-next-stage</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>40902fba-b884-498b-81cc-f1f84e71f4b1</guid>
      <title>Council to consider independent review report </title>
      <description>The outcomes of the independent review into City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s processes, procedures and performance will be tabled for endorsement at next week&amp;#39;s Council meeting.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>22 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-to-consider-independent-review-report</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>80df5a1a-beb1-4616-b121-1b8234340461</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle keen to keep Surfest on the international stage</title>
      <description>As Surfest prepares to make its debut on the World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series in less than two weeks, one of the contest&amp;#39;s foundation sponsors is looking to ensure it stays there until at least 2028.</description>
      <pubDate>23 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-keen-to-keep-surfest-on-the-international-stage</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>75e2cdb3-2c50-4c32-9607-ecaabb4b971c</guid>
      <title>Council update: Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 27 May 2025</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 27 May 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>27 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-update-ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-27-may-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a07c42e3-325a-4f8c-b188-4588df5a558d</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle moves to protect natural assets for future generations</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is working to ensure the ongoing protection of more than 80 hectares of bushland and wetlands, which are home to threatened species and ecologically significant habitats.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 May 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-moves-to-protect-natural-assets-for-future-generations</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3e0c267a-7461-4aae-809b-77f0ce199867</guid>
      <title>Community invited to provide feedback on proposed Rising Tide event  </title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is seeking feedback about the proposed use of community land by Rising Tide for its People&amp;#39;s Blockade event in November.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>01 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-provide-feedback-on-proposed-rising-tide-event</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>61ae91ad-6737-4011-a41c-23011d39a1aa</guid>
      <title>Community invited to learn more and have their say on Astra Aerolab plans</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is kicking off consultation to capture insights into the community&amp;#39;s views and knowledge of future plans for the Newcastle Airport precinct.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>02 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-learn-more-and-have-their-say-on-astra-aerolab-plans</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>aee70c42-d5e9-4946-ada0-0657516308d3</guid>
      <title>Newcastle riding closer to connected cycling network on World Bicycle Day</title>
      <description>As the world celebrates the many benefits of bikes today, City of Newcastle is pedalling ahead with a proposed record investment of more than $6.1 million into cycleway projects.</description>
      <pubDate>03 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-riding-closer-to-connected-cycling-network-on-world-bicycle-day</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>361d03b2-8baa-4af5-844c-4d2edd809239</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle dishes up new community facility and café at Blackbutt Reserve</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has delivered the last major milestone in a shared vision for Blackbutt Reserve after officially opening the doors today on its new $3.2 million multipurpose community facility.</description>
      <pubDate>06 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-dishes-up-new-community-facility-and-cafe-at-blackbutt-reserve</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>afd45854-ef42-4d04-9c46-2db1bd3d88ac</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle driving major EV charging expansion</title>
      <description>A project to triple Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s public electric vehicle (EV) charging network is nearing completion, with 34 new charging ports being added across 11 locations citywide.</description>
      <pubDate>11 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-driving-major-ev-charging-expansion</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>883d050d-e113-46db-8542-268fbab406cc</guid>
      <title>Council to consider proposed $2 pool entry trial</title>
      <description>Councillors will vote next week on implementing a $2 entry fee trial at Beresfield, Mayfield, Stockton and Wallsend swimming centres for the 2025/26 swimming season while retaining a $6 all-day entry fee for Lambton Pool.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>12 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-to-consider-proposed-$2-pool-entry-trial</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9d2f7885-4e9b-4954-8ec2-6d1aaaed8101</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle prioritises asset renewal in record Budget</title>
      <description>Councillors will vote on the adoption of the 2025/26 Budget and Delivery Program at Tuesday night&amp;#39;s Council meeting, which will see more than $154 million invested across 344 projects.&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>13 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-prioritises-asset-renewal-in-record-budget</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8250c976-c320-4562-91a4-da92bea08f36</guid>
      <title>Four times the fun as City of Newcastle begins $750,000 playground upgrades</title>
      <description>Work will begin tomorrow on a new playground and half-court basketball area at Beauford Avenue Reserve in Maryland as part of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s annual Playground Replacement Program.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>15 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/four-times-the-fun-as-city-of-newcastle-begins-$750,000-playground-upgrades</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>dc3fb31e-a017-4171-ace0-63457160a962</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Museum exhibition highlights history of German-speakers in the Hunter </title>
      <description>Margarete Ritchie was just three years old when she and her family left Austria in 1955 to make a new life on the other side of the world.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>16 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-museum-exhibition-highlights-history-of-german-speakers-in-the-hunter</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>84e8b4b6-62ef-4828-bbb9-6b717838fcd9</guid>
      <title>$1 million funding boost to support new life for Lambton Park cafe</title>
      <description>A renovation of a former café site at one of the city&amp;#39;s most popular parks will kick off later this year as City of Newcastle breathes new life into the historic Lambton Park building.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$1-million-funding-boost-to-support-new-life-for-lambton-park-cafe</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b2974ecc-e8d3-4b9e-ba74-1637ee485bbf</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 17 June 2025</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 17 June 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-17-june-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0939f31b-b8f8-41c0-b339-072be5aeddbd</guid>
      <title>Media statement - Councillor Sinead Francis-Coan</title>
      <description>It is with profound sadness that City of Newcastle and the family of Councillor Sinead Francis-Coan announce her sudden and unexpected passing on Monday morning.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-councillor-sinead-francis-coan</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>709afb7e-8042-4541-b39f-7891b6487682</guid>
      <title>Media statement - Jeff McCloy</title>
      <description>It is with great sadness that City of Newcastle acknowledges the passing of former Lord Mayor Jeff McCloy following his battle with motor neurone disease.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-jeff-mccloy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>10dfb68a-de13-4211-a867-d94d6e9f9aab</guid>
      <title>Valuation increase delivers priceless boost for Newcastle Art Gallery collection</title>
      <description>Newcastle Art Gallery is home to the most valuable public art collection in Australia outside of a capital city following an independent valuation of $145 million.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 June 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/valuation-increase-delivers-priceless-boost-for-newcastle-art-gallery-collection</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>923af2ce-8995-4bbc-bd7b-5dbc9bcd1265</guid>
      <title>Construction of landmark inclusive playspace at Foreshore Park swings into action</title>
      <description>Work has begun on the construction of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s highly anticipated regional level accessible playspace and waterplay area at Foreshore Park.&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>01 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/construction-of-landmark-inclusive-playspace-at-foreshore-park-swings-into-action</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d0cf54fa-25f9-4bf4-add4-af98c5ba1c10</guid>
      <title>Anti-social behaviour forces temporary closure of Wallsend Library </title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has been forced to close Wallsend Library today in the wake of heightened violence and threatening attacks towards staff and the general public.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>01 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/anti-social-behaviour-forces-temporary-closure-of-wallsend-library</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b8b2c292-3347-4a2c-881e-d79d258a8c1d</guid>
      <title>New operator needed to drive Beresfield Golf Course into the future</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is looking to ensure Beresfield Golf Course remains a sustainable and successful community asset by appointing a new operator for the popular Council-owned facility.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>02 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-operator-needed-to-drive-beresfield-golf-course-into-the-future</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b026f678-ae8c-4924-ae76-e6381965cbb5</guid>
      <title>Young leaders drive climate solutions with $150,000 funding boost</title>
      <description>Students from Alesco Senior College are leading a large-scale ecosystem restoration project as one of 18 local climate action initiatives to receive a share of funding from City of Newcastle.</description>
      <pubDate>03 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/young-leaders-drive-climate-solutions-with-$150,000-funding-boost</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d7b1f26e-66bb-4554-8830-eb1eb25ecce9</guid>
      <title>Teenagers take centre stage at the Playhouse this school holidays</title>
      <description>A musical comedy about the anxiety of high school, performed by young Novocastrians, is just one of the offerings being presented by City of Newcastle during the July school holidays.</description>
      <pubDate>04 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/teenagers-take-centre-stage-at-the-playhouse-this-school-holidays</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fdac671d-de40-4594-a24e-9c465f8f2cf7</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle’s library services named number one in state</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle libraries have taken the top spot when ranked against other councils in NSW.</description>
      <pubDate>10 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle’s-library-services-named-number-one-in-state</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e07195f1-5afa-4842-9903-a6da9627656e</guid>
      <title>Media statement - Extraordinary Council Meeting to be held on 12 August 2025</title>
      <description>Lord Mayor Dr Ross Kerridge has called an Extraordinary Council Meeting for Tuesday 12 August 2025 to ensure the proposed use of community land by Rising Tide for its People&amp;#39;s Blockade can be considered and debated by Council.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-extraordinary-council-meeting-to-be-held-on-12-august-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>067d4af5-a75b-4112-bb2c-c809c11c72ac</guid>
      <title>Urban design experts balance supply and demand for City of Newcastle</title>
      <description>Tackling the housing shortage while ensuring quality of life for residents guided the Urban Design Review Panel&amp;#39;s decision making as they assessed $1.45 billion in developments in Newcastle during the past 12 months.</description>
      <pubDate>17 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/urban-design-experts-balance-supply-and-demand-for-city-of-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>50223595-4da1-4c85-8ff0-a4f5dab9c0f0</guid>
      <title>Local creatives make a splash as City of Newcastle launches vibrant New Annual program</title>
      <description>The Newcastle Ocean Baths will become the backdrop for two of New Annual&amp;#39;s signature events as part of a 10-day program bringing iconic spaces to life with local stories.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>18 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/local-creatives-make-a-splash-as-city-of-newcastle-launches-vibrant-new-annual-program</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b0828690-45c5-4be1-aa83-57f47617eb1a</guid>
      <title>Key to the City marks 60 years of the  University of Newcastle's impact</title>
      <description>The University of Newcastle has been presented with the Key to the City in recognition of the Institution&amp;rsquo;s historic and ongoing contribution to Newcastle&amp;#39;s cultural, economic and social life.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>18 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/keys-to-the-city-marks-60-years-of-the-university-of-newcastle-s-impact</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8e45d33c-0309-4093-a8b3-e511c6be46d2</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle puts public holiday on the agenda</title>
      <description>Novocastrians are being asked whether they think the first day of the Newcastle Show should be a local public holiday for the next two years.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>22 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-puts-public-holiday-on-the-agenda</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3c597684-e502-407b-b4d4-470395388afe</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 22 July 2025</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 22 July 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>22 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-22-july-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2055e188-2252-4d59-9dde-fa92523fd617</guid>
      <title>Flood study to help build understanding and community resilience in Newcastle</title>
      <description>Residents in Newcastle&amp;#39;s western suburbs are being invited to share their experiences of local flooding to help City of Newcastle develop an updated study to inform mitigation and management strategies for the area.</description>
      <pubDate>24 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/flood-study-to-help-build-understanding-and-community-resilience-in-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f0229103-4617-4692-a24d-e8a0d1bdd4e0</guid>
      <title>Newcastle community invited to consider Council meeting guidelines</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is asking community members to provide feedback on the rules that guide Council meetings.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-community-invited-to-consider-council-meeting-guidelines</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>726412c7-4345-461d-a30d-6594336b58a1</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle celebrates conservation, community and culture for National Tree Day</title>
      <description>Novocastrians have the chance to help name a wetland in Wallsend as they dig in to rehabilitate a nearby section of land and improve habitat for multiple endangered species.</description>
      <pubDate>25 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-celebrates-conservation,-community-and-culture-for-national-tree-day</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c0255a34-ab8d-4e05-9533-1c18f34f0859</guid>
      <title>International exhibition shines spotlight on works from Newcastle Art Gallery collection</title>
      <description>Newcastle Art Gallery has taken a significant First Nations series of work out of storage and onto the world stage as part of a major exhibition at a prestigious London institution.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/international-exhibition-shines-spotlight-on-works-from-newcastle-art-gallery-collection</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5c0604ce-1183-4789-be53-2101a9566c0b</guid>
      <title>Support rolls in for Adamstown road safety improvements</title>
      <description>The finishing touches have been completed on a $3.3 million project designed to improve the safety and accessibility of a notorious Adamstown black spot.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>31 July 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/support-rolls-in-for-adamstown-road-safety-improvements</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b1c9a04f-bd9e-4115-a736-7d7fd8813f8a</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle shines spotlight on science with AI, robots and free community events</title>
      <description>Media personality and maths whiz Adam Spencer will put artificial intelligence under the microscope in Newcastle this month to celebrate National Science Week.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>01 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-shines-spotlight-on-science-with-ai,-robots-and-free-community-events</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7e60c9dd-ce10-4ff4-a42a-13f0a6a4f5ad</guid>
      <title>SBR funding helps to warm the hearts of Novocastrians</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is offering a share of $880,000 for innovative projects that promote and activate the city centre, as it supports the return of the popular WinterHeat Festival.</description>
      <pubDate>05 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sbr-funding-helps-to-warm-the-hearts-of-novocastrians</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>55217b41-e59f-4c72-afb3-5070d1094c5e</guid>
      <title>Community invited to help shape future of harbourside landmark</title>
      <description>Novocastrians are being asked to share their memories and put forward new ideas for the future of Queens Wharf.Novocastrians are being asked to share their memories and put forward new ideas for the future of Queens Wharf.</description>
      <pubDate>07 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-help-shape-future-of-harbourside-landmark</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9fc5c8ef-47a7-4ba0-b437-3fef3ad4c918</guid>
      <title>Youth take a seat in Council Chambers for Local Government Week</title>
      <description>Students from seven high schools across Newcastle were given a chance to go behind the scenes to get a taste of life on the elected council as part of Local Government Week.</description>
      <pubDate>11 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/youth-take-a-seat-in-council-chambers-for-local-government-week</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3fc0fe5c-d0f4-42f5-8c87-5cdc5ac2735c</guid>
      <title>Council confirms decision on Rising Tide event</title>
      <description>The elected Council has voted to approve an amended motion to allow Rising Tide&amp;rsquo;s application to use community land for its People&amp;#39;s Blockade event in November. &amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>12 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/council-confirms-decision-on-rising-tide-event</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ad5346da-5e66-4a1c-9216-2a94ce6351ff</guid>
      <title>Safety improvements on the way for Hamilton South black spots</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has started work on a $2.1 million project that will make it safer and easier for pedestrians, cyclists, and all other road users to navigate two key intersections on Parkway Avenue.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/safety-improvements-on-the-way-for-hamilton-south-black-spots</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>16ad82ba-fe6a-404d-8f56-9d2b8f178ef8</guid>
      <title>Winter upgrades prepare pools for busy summer season</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has used the winter closure period to complete more than $1 million worth of upgrades across its network of five inland swimming pools.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>14 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/winter-upgrades-prepare-pools-for-busy-summer-season</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3d940110-839c-44fd-ab11-551475fc35c1</guid>
      <title>First Nations focus as Newcastle Art Gallery prepares to unveil new spaces</title>
      <description>First Nations culture will be at the heart of the community&amp;rsquo;s first look inside the expanded Newcastle Art Gallery next month.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>15 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/first-nations-focus-as-newcastle-art-gallery-prepares-to-unveil-new-spaces</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>87eb96d3-b150-435f-a1bc-b4d0b7a1f89e</guid>
      <title>$1 million funding boost to deliver safe accessible paths on popular coastal stretch</title>
      <description>People walking and cycling will soon share safer access to a popular beachside precinct following upgrades from City of Newcastle.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>25 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$1-million-funding-boost-to-deliver-safe-accessible-paths-on-popular-coastal-stretch</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5ce96dad-b90b-4ff8-9bb9-fe05e2be2229</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 26 August</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 26 August 2025. NB. It is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>26 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-26-august</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b0c39485-fad6-4a20-9f84-d5b5839fd658</guid>
      <title>Milestone paves the way for critical long-term beach protection at Stockton</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will seek the final tick of approval from the NSW Government for a $63 million plan to buffer Stockton&amp;rsquo;s coastline from erosion.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/milestone-paves-the-way-for-critical-long-term-beach-protection-at-stockton</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>07ba3a9e-f99f-40f3-88cf-d70ea5c0f8a5</guid>
      <title>Media statement – Office of Local Government review into Newcastle Airport</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle and Port Stephens Council welcome confirmation today from the Office of Local Government (OLG) that ratepayers are not exposed to any financial risk associated with Newcastle Airport.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>29 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-–-office-of-local-government-review-into-newcastle-airport</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>189f8d23-67a2-4c58-beb4-a36e74475c8a</guid>
      <title>Statement regarding unauthorised rally, Newcastle Foreshore</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is aware of a rally being promoted for Newcastle Foreshore on Sunday 31 August.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 Aug 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/statement-regarding-unauthorised-rally,-newcastle-foreshore</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>064fd147-bebc-4d09-8e38-1248f817c1a3</guid>
      <title>Draft plans revealed for new sporting precinct</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will transform an undeveloped five-hectare site in Maryland into the first new district level sports facility in more than two decades to be delivered from the ground up.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>02 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/draft-plans-revealed-for-new-sporting-precinct</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>57cffc7c-fb65-426d-b782-40bdd3e29644</guid>
      <title>Finishing touches added to program as excitement builds for New Annual festival</title>
      <description>The countdown is on to this year&amp;rsquo;s New Annual festival, with City of Newcastle revealing the final additions to the 2025 program three weeks out from the opening weekend.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>04 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/finishing-touches-added-to-program-as-excitement-builds-for-new-annual-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b7ae3841-8c2e-4ef1-8fec-d45d6cdd762c</guid>
      <title>Councils launch innovative solar and battery program for local residents</title>
      <description>Making the switch to renewable energy at home will become easier and more affordable for Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Maitland residents following the launch of a new council-led program this month.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>05 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/councils-launch-innovative-solar-and-battery-program-for-local-residents</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e7b6cf9d-1b07-4065-a3c9-c3843314f211</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle offering fresh start for more apprentices and trainees</title>
      <description>Novocastrians looking for a new career path still have time to apply for one of 14 roles as part of City of Newcastle&amp;#39;s annual intake of apprentices and trainees.</description>
      <pubDate>10 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-offering-fresh-start-for-more-apprentices-and-trainees</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3d2638a5-5d39-4287-872a-5b27d853dbbc</guid>
      <title>Update: New Lambton landslip</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;&lt;span style="color:black"&gt;City of Newcastle acknowledges the ongoing impact to residents in the area affected by the New Lambton landslip, which occurred in May 2025. We recognise the hardship faced by both residents who have had to leave their homes and those who are living nearby.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>11 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/update-new-lambton-landslip</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>33518583-a9a2-4e72-8a08-a909027fd6a9</guid>
      <title>Early works pave the way for affordable housing in Newcastle’s CBD</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has turned its focus underground as part of a new milestone in its landmark affordable housing project on Hunter Street.</description>
      <pubDate>19 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/early-works-pave-the-way-for-affordable-housing-in-newcastle’s-cbd</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>45dc0bdb-c374-46db-af93-8bcb8e6073e3</guid>
      <title>Miniature masterpieces to deliver maximum impact at Newcastle Museum  </title>
      <description>Newcastle Museum has unveiled a sneak peek of its next major exhibition and there&amp;rsquo;s one minor difference to the items on display &amp;ndash; their size.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>19 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/miniature-masterpieces-to-deliver-maximum-impact-at-newcastle-museum</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9b60eefc-80f9-4049-9198-5e11ee9f63af</guid>
      <title>Swimming season returns with $2 entry trial at four inland pools</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will launch a trial of reduced entry fees for all visitors at four of its five inland pools when the new swimming season begins on Saturday.</description>
      <pubDate>22 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/swimming-season-returns-with-$2-entry-trial-at-four-inland-pools</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9cb5a39a-353c-46f5-8aaf-3f2b53ff81de</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 23 September</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 23 September 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>23 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-23-september</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5d40c946-4291-4712-bb64-e4a47cfa8d74</guid>
      <title>Georgetown village centre renewal enters next stage</title>
      <description>New road surfaces, more green space and improved footpaths are on the way in Georgetown as City of Newcastle begins work on the latest upgrades to the neighbourhood&amp;rsquo;s shopping precinct.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/georgetown-village-centre-renewal-enters-next-stage</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>77cdbbc5-f5a0-4d20-a374-9215456c6496</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle transforms iconic spaces for New Annual’s opening weekend</title>
      <description>Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s coastline and civic spaces have been reimagined as vibrant stages for art, performance and community connection ahead of the New Annual festival, which kicks off on Friday.&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>25 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-transforms-iconic-spaces-for-new-annual’s-opening-weekend</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5d2a8ca0-00c2-4753-a6de-4742e6029f46</guid>
      <title>Milestone moment as Newcastle Art Gallery reopens its doors for first look inside expanded building </title>
      <description>City of Newcastle welcomed the community back into the Newcastle Art Gallery today, unveiling the first new spaces completed as part of its landmark expansion project.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>26 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/milestone-moment-as-newcastle-art-gallery-reopens-its-doors-for-first-look-inside-expanded-building</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b28297de-50db-4ce1-8230-41cea2f4d55c</guid>
      <title>Community input required to shore up beloved coastline</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is calling on the community to help shape the future of the coastline between Bar Beach and Merewether by providing feedback on potential management strategies.</description>
      <pubDate>28 Sept 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-input-required-to-shore-up-beloved-coastline</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>998b5402-9ba9-4946-8e26-f1d7247bf2cc</guid>
      <title>Audiences soak up exclusive performances as New Annual festival heads towards closing weekend</title>
      <description>Global social media sensation and pop violinist Joel Sunny will deliver an exclusive Australian performance at the Newcastle Ocean Baths tomorrow as part of City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s flagship arts festival.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>01 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/audiences-soak-up-exclusive-performances-as-new-annual-festival-heads-towards-closing-weekend</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1bdb432d-f8b0-4576-9354-feba4002de37</guid>
      <title>Community feedback shaping next steps for harbourside landmark</title>
      <description>Novocastrians have thrown their support behind the revitalisation of the Queens Wharf precinct.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>03 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-feedback-shaping-next-steps-for-harbourside-landmark</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6d2a2484-b303-49f5-9c4b-9d021adb7e33</guid>
      <title>City’s highest honour awarded for civic leadership</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has named civic leader Carol Duncan OAM as the 21st Freeman of the City for a community-focused career with international impact.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>03 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city’s-highest-honour-awarded-for-civic-leadership</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6ca5c031-26cd-4f02-9f0b-bed29ec61ec8</guid>
      <title>Next chapter dawns bright for Lambton Park cafe </title>
      <description>Construction is underway to transform a locally significant building in one of the city&amp;rsquo;s most popular parks into a vibrant, accessible café at the heart of Lambton.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>07 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/next-chapter-dawns-bright-for-lambton-park-cafe</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>20d39b8d-c267-480d-93d4-c315c6f42e0a</guid>
      <title>Camp Shortland shifts gears from racetrack to recreation following community feedback</title>
      <description>Overwhelming community support for free and accessible active recreation at Camp Shortland is helping drive the design for the future of the popular coastal site.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>09 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/camp-shortland-shifts-gears-from-racetrack-to-recreation-following-community-feedback</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1dd80111-3b57-44e6-b25f-2e1dae5bb0dc</guid>
      <title>Ceremony celebrates Councillors’ commitment to share civic honour</title>
      <description>Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s youngest Deputy Lord Mayor has passed the baton of civic leadership to the first Greens councillor to hold the role in almost a decade during a ceremony at City Hall today.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ceremony-celebrates-councillors’-commitment-to-share-civic-honour</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8e4bb7ba-6ccc-4f6b-b82a-074d70ac14a9</guid>
      <title>Media statement - Rising Tide event application</title>
      <description>Rising Tide&amp;rsquo;s application to use Foreshore Park as a campsite from 25 November to 2 December has been approved by City of Newcastle following in principle support from the elected Council at an Extraordinary Council Meeting on 12 August 2025. &amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>14 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-rising-tide-event-application</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fff6a562-39bd-4490-a2bd-a9197a245edf</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Museum Director to help lead   national cultural agenda </title>
      <description>Newcastle Museum Director Julie Baird will take the reins of one of Australia&amp;rsquo;s peak cultural bodies after being named President of the Australian Museums and Galleries Association (AMaGA) last night.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>16 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-museum-director-to-help-lead-national-cultural-agenda</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>2f4cfe11-da6b-465d-af00-c92a80924a9e</guid>
      <title>Media statement - submission to NSW Parliament’s review into NSW Reconstruction Authority operations</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle welcomes the &lt;a href="https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.parliament.nsw.gov.au%2Fladocs%2Finquiries%2F3136%2FTerms%2520of%2520reference%2520-%2520Review%2520of%2520East%2520Coast%2520severe%2520weather%2520from%2520May%25202025.pdf&amp;amp;data=05%7C02%7Csaryan%40ncc.nsw.gov.au%7C8b61d21410f54326bdd408de0b8832ff%7Cd38e1603ee69457d96f393864cf2a511%7C0%7C0%7C638960876773727406%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;amp;sdata=GoEusGTaaSpZnxqyXTNKAL92KQYsSOSHgqePfyteJ9s%3D&amp;amp;reserved=0"&gt;NSW Parliament review of the operations of the NSW Reconstruction Authority&lt;/a&gt; (RA) following the NSW East Coast Severe Weather from May 2025.&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="line-height:107%"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>16 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-submission-to-nsw-parliament’s-review-into-nsw-reconstruction-authority-operations</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>67577c8f-44c2-4c00-99eb-cf7c5fe77108</guid>
      <title>Property purchase enhances financial futureproofing </title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has looked close to home for its latest strategic investment, purchasing a significant industrial property in Sandgate to augment its long-term financial plans.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/property-purchase-enhances-financial-futureproofing</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cc171175-e551-4f05-8dfc-2a0cef91e21f</guid>
      <title>Merewether Surf Club maintenance works are complete</title>
      <description>We love our coast, and we are happy to announce the successful completion of the Merewether Surf Club roof replacement and electrical maintenance works project.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>23 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/merewether-surf-club-maintenance-works-are-complete</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>24a6e883-6d80-4d7d-8789-ebd39e7abc4c</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle balances budget surplus with record infrastructure spend</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has further cemented its position as the Hunter&amp;rsquo;s most financially sustainable council.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-balances-budget-surplus-with-record-infrastructure-spend</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>857a5740-e9a5-4ce4-a762-696656ef10db</guid>
      <title>Increased infrastructure investment needed  to fast track housing growth</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is calling on the NSW Government to significantly increase investment into critical infrastructure to help councils meet their ambitious housing targets.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>23 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/increased-infrastructure-investment-needed-to-fast-track-housing-growth</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0caa7ddf-a416-4e27-a621-6a51d02d50ba</guid>
      <title>Nuatali Nelmes honoured for outstanding service to Newcastle</title>
      <description>Local Government NSW (LGNSW) will this Sunday present the prestigious Emeritus Mayor Award to Nuatali Nelmes, former Lord Mayor of Newcastle, in recognition of her outstanding service to local government and her enduring legacy of leadership, innovation and advocacy.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/nuatali-nelmes-honoured-for-outstanding-service-to-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>80d44c12-daff-468a-9a89-3f75f35abf37</guid>
      <title>City Hall dishes up shot at national glory in prestigious hospitality awards</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s iconic City Hall will be up against the cream of Australia&amp;rsquo;s hospitality venues next week as it vies for the honour of being named the national Caterer of the Year.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>23 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-hall-dishes-up-shot-at-national-glory-in-prestigious-hospitality-awards</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>754624f6-e86d-41cb-bca9-fb79986a5dbd</guid>
      <title>Media Statement - Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge</title>
      <description>Newcastle Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge has recently been diagnosed with a serious medical condition that requires ongoing treatment.&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.0pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-lord-mayor-ross-kerridge</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>cf98d7f6-fa00-4421-bf17-b5c78cdebaa1</guid>
      <title>New playgrounds swing into action across Newcastle</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is delivering new places to play across the city, with the first two playground upgrades now open as part of a $750,000 investment this financial year.</description>
      <pubDate>25 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-playgrounds-swing-into-action-across-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a06db136-22dd-4675-8686-51f550c19608</guid>
      <title>Newcastle and Ube celebrate 45 years of friendship and collaboration</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will celebrate the 45th anniversary of its Sister City relationship with Ube City in Japan next month, recognising a long-standing partnership founded on goodwill, mutual understanding and friendship.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-and-ube-celebrate-45-years-of-friendship-and-collaboration</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>5874804d-d624-4b6a-8293-25e3457a1122</guid>
      <title>Construction to kick off new era for Shepherds Hill Cottage</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is moving forward with its plans to renew and re-open the historic Shepherds Hill Cottage to the community.&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/construction-to-kick-off-new-era-for-shepherds-hill-cottage</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d6358036-65ed-4bd6-a953-b596f9bf56be</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 28 October 2025</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 28 October 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-28-october-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>82319fb8-0b44-4af4-b025-608913cb4fcd</guid>
      <title>Shine a light on Newcastle’s local legends for  2026 Citizen of the Year Awards</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is providing the opportunity to honour the hard work of outstanding Novocastrians as part of the 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/shine-a-light-on-newcastle’s-local-legends-for-2026-citizen-of-the-year-awards</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>afccece2-e3da-4a42-93ba-f6972174c770</guid>
      <title>Scholarship to continue legacy of  Councillor Sinead Francis-Coan</title>
      <description>Applications have now opened for a new annual scholarship established to honour former Councillor Sinead Francis-Coan&amp;rsquo;s lifelong commitment to the environment and climate justice.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>31 Oct 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/scholarship-to-continue-legacy-of-councillor-sinead-francis-coan</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b37b17c1-ed44-4849-b02b-0a165373a33b</guid>
      <title>AI technology to help lifeguards keep swimmers safer this summer</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is leading a Hunter-first trial of AI technology to help pool lifeguards respond to potential incidents up to six times faster.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>02 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ai-technology-to-help-lifeguards-keep-swimmers-safer-this-summer</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6968420b-a66b-4028-8fa4-03653ceeafde</guid>
      <title>Collaborative approach to celebrate significance of cultural landmarks</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;City of Newcastle is taking the first steps towards engaging local Aboriginal communities to develop public art at four of the city&amp;rsquo;s significant cultural landmarks.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>05 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/collaborative-approach-to-celebrate-significance-of-cultural-landmarks</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fa02f846-1674-415d-9051-e5a077285e75</guid>
      <title>Newcastle’s city centre in the spotlight with $750,000 in funding</title>
      <description>Darby Street will come alive this weekend with live music, street performers, and family-friendly activities thanks to City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s annual Special Business Rates (SBR) program.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>06 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle’s-city-centre-in-the-spotlight-with-$750,000-in-funding</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>95ee525b-fae0-4ff8-8e10-0aa1080b62c9</guid>
      <title>Tenders called to deliver next stage of East End Village transformation</title>
      <description>The revitalisation of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s city centre is set to continue with City of Newcastle today calling for tenders to deliver the next stage of the East End Village project.</description>
      <pubDate>07 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/tenders-called-to-deliver-next-stage-of-east-end-village-transformation</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ae4ad24f-a7d3-4275-ab69-5bff70824430</guid>
      <title>Funding boost to support Newcastle communities in need</title>
      <description>Local initiatives designed to promote cultural diversity, tackle food insecurity and foster social connections have received a $220,000 boost from City of Newcastle.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/funding-boost-to-support-newcastle-communities-in-need</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>37101507-d43c-414e-915b-40b4e026f62e</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting (items adjourned from 28 October) Tuesday 11 November 2025 </title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting (items adjourned from 28 October) of Tuesday 11 November 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>11 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-(items-adjourned-from-28-october)-tuesday-11-november-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ff27607d-90f3-4c38-a4ec-73fc9329bf5b</guid>
      <title>Festive fun returns to Newcastle’s Civic precinct</title>
      <description>Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s Civic precinct is set to sparkle this month as City of Newcastle lights up the season with the return of its much-loved Christmas tree and festive program of free, family-friendly fun.</description>
      <pubDate>12 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/festive-fun-returns-to-newcastle’s-civic-precinct</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ed54f681-8718-4ab5-b292-d6e4261151df</guid>
      <title>Community shows powerful interest in Council-led solar and battery program</title>
      <description>Residents of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Maitland have invested almost $3 million in renewable energy as part of a joint-Council program to improve solar and home battery uptake.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-shows-powerful-interest-in-council-led-solar-and-battery-program</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0509302d-69c9-4bac-bd6c-c6588072c41a</guid>
      <title>Triple J favourites to headline Newcastle’s new youth-focused event</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Foreshore Park will become a hub for youth conversation, connection and creativity this month as part City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s inaugural Down the Park event.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
      <pubDate>13 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/triple-j-favourites-to-headline-newcastle’s-new-youth-focused-event</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1c51e98c-3b29-463f-a225-0d2b36bffbb3</guid>
      <title>Community singers expected to flock to Last Christmas mashup in Wheeler Place </title>
      <description>Registrations are now open for Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s favourite festive community chorus, with Civic Theatre&amp;rsquo;s One Song Sing event returning to Wheeler Place next month.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>14 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-singers-expected-to-flock-to-last-christmas-mashup-in-wheeler-place</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e06c3315-c906-4f35-8b00-27f8f7104832</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 18 November 2025</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 18 November 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>18 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-18-november-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b17374ed-6c3c-47d3-88b6-bdb23ba1e1a9</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Museum invites adults to rediscover creativity through new workshop series</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle has launched a new hands-on program designed to spark curiosity, creativity and connection at Newcastle Museum.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>19 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-museum-invites-adults-to-rediscover-creativity-through-new-workshop-series</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f229289d-ad24-4b1e-8ec5-7c115c58eeef</guid>
      <title>Milestone moment as development application lodged for Newcastle Ocean Baths</title>
      <description>The final stage of the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade will enhance comfort, convenience and opportunities for connection for visitors while preserving the site&amp;rsquo;s heritage.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>22 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/milestone-moment-as-development-application-lodged-for-newcastle-ocean-baths</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>aff8f6f9-0a25-49e1-b3f3-681c0b0f9e5b</guid>
      <title>Local businesses looking to serve up more reasons to visit Newcastle</title>
      <description>A Tighes Hill cooking school is working to tap into Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s $1.5 billion annual tourism market with tasty new experiences aimed at attracting more visitors from outside the region.</description>
      <pubDate>26 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/local-businesses-looking-to-serve-up-more-reasons-to-visit-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>015fa323-79dd-4af3-afc0-5266694aaedb</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle dials up the excitement to farewell 2025</title>
      <description>A phone booth that transforms New Year&amp;rsquo;s resolutions into a glowing LED installation will be a quirky addition to City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s end-of-year celebrations on the Foreshore next month.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-dials-up-the-excitement-to-farewell-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>1c4994ac-ef31-4e09-916a-06e465eceea3</guid>
      <title>Bar Beach to receive dune remediation ahead of long-term solution</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will undertake short-term remediation work at Bar Beach next week to combat erosion threatening the stability of the sand dunes, following recent severe storm events and large swells.</description>
      <pubDate>28 Nov 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/bar-beach-to-receive-dune-remediation-ahead-of-long-term-solution</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0a46e231-509b-4c1b-8484-e9d50e3e9089</guid>
      <title>Media statement – Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre dive tower</title>
      <description>Following a resolution of the elected Council in December 2024, City of Newcastle has been reviewing the use and operation of the dive tower at Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre.</description>
      <pubDate>01 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-–-lambton-park-war-memorial-swimming-centre-dive-tower</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4a0335b5-ce9f-47a6-a9c1-f450022cb6a8</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle using groovy technique to upgrade local grounds</title>
      <description>Ten sporting fields across Newcastle will be better equipped to handle wet weather next winter thanks to a $500,000 investment into improved drainage being rolled out by City of Newcastle.</description>
      <pubDate>02 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-using-groovy-technique-to-upgrade-local-grounds</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7527e5b3-d3ce-4fd2-8c4b-212b828df987</guid>
      <title>After-hours event to celebrate more to come at Newcastle Art Gallery</title>
      <description>Christmas will come early for local art lovers on December 19 when City of Newcastle unveils iconic pieces of Australian art valued at more than $30 million as part of the opening of the fourth new exhibition space in the expanded Newcastle Art Gallery.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>04 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/after-hours-event-to-celebrate-more-to-come-at-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c3bf7388-d1f9-4cdc-a883-bb58b7b59366</guid>
      <title>Creek Road sporting precinct receives overwhelming community support</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has begun determining the preferred layout for a new district level sports facility in Maryland,&amp;nbsp;using community feedback to inform the final masterplan.</description>
      <pubDate>08 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/creek-road-sporting-precinct-receives-overwhelming-community-support</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>d247ef11-adf0-49be-a6e9-aec5fc4c1ebc</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 9 December 2025</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting on Tuesday 9 December 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>09 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-9-december-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ddb9abd2-d23e-4a8f-8f9e-f0242275be36</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle selects partner to deliver  landmark affordable housing project</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Forty-eight affordable housing units are proposed to be developed on what is the last remaining parcel of land to be developed of the former heavy rail line into Newcastle.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>11 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-selects-partner-to-deliver-landmark-affordable-housing-project</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8f54ffba-7dff-4aca-9d03-9f284e56547f</guid>
      <title>Local talent given chance to shine on stage in 2026</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is putting local theatre makers in the spotlight with four dynamic productions as part of the 2026 season of Upstage at the Playhouse.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>11 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/local-talent-given-chance-to-shine-on-stage-in-2026</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8501d027-b5d7-464a-9a1c-0ef064b22bd7</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Museum exhibition dives into mystery of the World Pool</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;Newcastle Museum will delve into one the city&amp;rsquo;s most intriguing pieces of coastal history as part of a new exhibition exploring the rise and disappearance of the iconic World Pool.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>11 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-museum-exhibition-dives-into-mystery-of-the-world-pool</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0013fd11-ab44-4a84-9629-f74ac0e86b65</guid>
      <title>Date announced to celebrate landmark reopening of Newcastle Art Gallery</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will transform Laman Street into a temporary sculpture park and street party on Friday 27 February to celebrate the once-in-a-lifetime expansion of the Newcastle Art Gallery.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>12 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/date-announced-to-celebrate-landmark-reopening-of-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e0cf7b01-ae1b-46ab-bd9c-8aa608e71068</guid>
      <title>Former landfill could help power Newcastle’s net zero future</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has unveiled a plan to transform part of the remediated landfill at Shortland into a solar farm, battery hub and heavy vehicle EV charging facility.</description>
      <pubDate>15 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/former-landfill-could-help-power-newcastle’s-net-zero-future</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>516ca786-088b-4340-b58b-3e37e90cf3d8</guid>
      <title>Extraordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 16 December 2025</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Extraordinary Council Meeting of Tuesday 16 December 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>16 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/extraordinary-council-meeting-tuesday-16-december-2025</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>eeec0659-2231-4c42-ac87-cb4339964a37</guid>
      <title>Beresfield Golf Course to reopen in fore weeks under new management</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has appointed a new operator to run Beresfield Golf Course, with the popular Council-owned facility set to welcome back players on 14 January.</description>
      <pubDate>17 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/beresfield-golf-course-to-reopen-in-fore-weeks-under-new-management</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7d2dd1ba-8302-43cc-9115-17a7d352465b</guid>
      <title>Sunny start to 2026 forecast with new kiosk and amenities set to open in Foreshore Park</title>
      <description>A free community event will be held at Foreshore Park next month to celebrate the completion of a key element of the Harbour Foreshore Masterplan.&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size:11.5pt"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>18 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/sunny-start-to-2026-forecast-with-new-kiosk-and-amenities-set-to-open-in-foreshore-park</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f9d8617b-7851-40eb-b3a4-6b107c8717f3</guid>
      <title>Grants hit the right note for emerging talent</title>
      <description>Early-career and young artists across Newcastle will have the chance to develop their creative skills thanks to support from City of Newcastle.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>22 Dec 2025</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/grants-hit-the-right-note-for-emerging-talent</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ff9a80e8-912e-4150-98f9-449302b1495c</guid>
      <title>Community invited to explore, learn and  protect the coastline this summer</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is encouraging Novocastrians to discover the hidden wonders of our local coastline this summer through a free, hands-on coastal education program.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>08 Jan 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-explore,-learn-and-protect-the-coastline-this-summer</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ad4e9d0b-3d17-4465-8ed9-af48fd3f5de9</guid>
      <title>Boats, books and building activities deliver hands-on fun for City of Newcastle’s holiday program</title>
      <description>Families are invited to dive into a world of miniature marine craft when the three-day Model Newcastle Regatta sets sail on a giant pond at Newcastle Museum this month.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>08 Jan 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/boats,-books-and-building-activities-deliver-hands-on-fun-for-city-of-newcastle’s-school-holiday-pro</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>dfc9867a-0c1b-49a9-b144-ea5e540d548b</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle trainee lifeguards make a splash  in coastal careers</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is supporting four local teens turn their surf lifesaving skills into real-world experience with an innovative trainee lifeguard program.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>09 Jan 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-trainee-lifeguards-make-a-splash-in-coastal-careers</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0080c899-05d2-44aa-a698-e1311214bfed</guid>
      <title>New Annual searches for fresh homegrown programming following record 2025 festival</title>
      <description>Local artists are being offered the chance to shine at New Annual in 2026 as City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s flagship arts festival continues to elevate Newcastle&amp;#39;s profile as a thriving creative city.</description>
      <pubDate>12 Jan 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-annual-searches-for-fresh-homegrown-programming-following-record-2025-festival</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>938ffce6-6b40-40d6-91cc-abbb3d1d7bb2</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle backs local events to make a splash for visitor economy</title>
      <description>Almost 400 paddlers will put their power to the test in Newcastle this weekend as the city hosts the state&amp;rsquo;s largest regatta for outrigger canoes.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>14 Jan 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-backs-local-events-to-make-a-splash-for-visitor-economy</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>169ffb24-84a7-4e57-a9df-72869a753ba1</guid>
      <title>Australia Day in Newcastle to feature family fun and free pool entry</title>
      <description>Novocastrians can make a splash on 26 January without dipping into their pockets with City of Newcastle offering free entry to its inland pools from 1pm.</description>
      <pubDate>22 Jan 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/australia-day-in-newcastle-to-feature-family-fun-and-free-pool-entry</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>29868cca-3f80-4b55-bbdd-24d3d97ba800</guid>
      <title>Parkway Avenue cycling and safety improvements ready for new school year</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is adding the finishing touches to a $2.1 million project which is improving safety for all road users at two key intersections in Hamilton South.</description>
      <pubDate>24 Jan 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/parkway-avenue-cycling-and-safety-improvements-ready-for-new-school-year</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f56d756a-e92f-454d-9274-86d03df44fc7</guid>
      <title>Two selfless seniors share City of Newcastle Senior Citizen of the Year award</title>
      <description>For the first time in history, City of Newcastle has honoured two seniors as joint winners of a top award, acknowledging their decades of service to vulnerable communities.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>27 Jan 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/two-selfless-seniors-share-city-of-newcastle-senior-citizen-of-the-year-award</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b303cb5b-4a92-455b-9cd4-4aaba50ab552</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle receives national recognition for leadership in equitable workplaces</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is one of only two councils in Australia to be recognised as an Inclusive Employer by the peak national body for diversity in the workplace.</description>
      <pubDate>28 Jan 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-receives-national-recognition-for-leadership-in-equitable-workplaces-25d09448504a2b2606a227accf9f33e5</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>fa7f991e-506a-4eb2-b848-a233ad9953d4</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle receives national recognition for leadership in equitable workplaces</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;City of Newcastle is one of only two councils in Australia to be recognised as an Inclusive Employer by the peak national body for diversity in the workplace.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>28 Jan 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-receives-national-recognition-for-leadership-in-equitable-workplaces</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>a71d16ec-6678-4249-8db9-08c868aff92d</guid>
      <title>All roads lead to Newcastle as city takes centre stage as events destination</title>
      <description>A stacked line-up of world-class sport, music and stage performances is ensuring Newcastle continues to be the hottest ticket in town for fans and promoters of live events.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>04 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/all-roads-lead-to-newcastle-as-city-takes-centre-stage-as-events-destination</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ee6733e6-8ad6-4ac2-95f3-5e3f2f6a8b63</guid>
      <title>Media statement – Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge resignation</title>
      <description>Cr Ross Kerridge has resigned from his role as Lord Mayor of Newcastle, effective immediately.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>09 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-–-lord-mayor-ross-kerridge-resignation</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c804556a-7119-4c3c-a98e-84673fa5c9f3</guid>
      <title>Newcastle Art Gallery set to make its mark with opening weekend celebrations </title>
      <description>Three art&amp;nbsp;lovers&amp;nbsp;are being given&amp;nbsp;the chance to walk away with a permanent reminder of&amp;nbsp;Newcastle Art Gallery&amp;rsquo;s&amp;nbsp;nationally significant&amp;nbsp;collection as part of the&amp;nbsp;opening weekend celebrations.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-art-gallery-set-to-make-its-mark-with-opening-weekend-celebrations</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ab48fe0a-0961-4e92-bd61-bc151e492a44</guid>
      <title>Media statement: New Lambton landslip</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle expresses its disappointment following confirmation the NSW Government will not provide rate relief to the residents displaced by the 2025 New Lambton landslip.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/media-statement-new-lambton-landslip</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>162ff70a-c39a-4dfa-9fb4-5e266794370c</guid>
      <title>Aboriginal artists invited to help celebrate Newcastle’s cultural identity</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is seeking expressions of interest from Aboriginal artists to develop public art that reflects local stories and contributes to the city&amp;rsquo;s identity as an arts and cultural destination.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/aboriginal-artists-invited-to-help-celebrate-newcastle’s-cultural-identity</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9eddf659-2eb5-411c-8152-562d21a29b70</guid>
      <title>Surfest milestone to be immortalised at Merewether</title>
      <description>The colour, characters and locations that have become synonymous with Surfest have inspired a special mural that will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the iconic event.</description>
      <pubDate>13 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/surfest-milestone-to-be-immortalised-at-merewether</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c68de446-c59d-4e7d-a945-4767f7721a67</guid>
      <title>Art and environment combine to create community connections to Newcastle creek</title>
      <description>A group of junior football players have kicked off a community art project designed to strengthen Newcastle residents&amp;rsquo; relationships with their local waterways.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>15 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/art-and-environment-combine-to-create-community-connections-to-newcastle-creek</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8a0119b3-1486-436b-96e2-7dcfb4977d78</guid>
      <title>NSW Government to trial council developed system that slashes DA times by 50%</title>
      <description>&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,sans-serif"&gt;The NSW Government has provided funding of $2 million to City of Newcastle for a DA approval process that has seen the council slash its DA times by more than 50%.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>16 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/nsw-government-to-trial-council-developed-system-that-slashes-da-times-by-50</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6a32c84a-9546-40a5-a154-bcc123ab8365</guid>
      <title>Half a million reasons to celebrate new era for Newcastle Art Gallery</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has kicked off 2026 with a $500,000 boost from the Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation as final preparations occur before the opening of the $48 million expansion project.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/half-a-million-reasons-to-celebrate-new-era-for-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>0679cf55-4370-47df-9bdc-9111e6f76c0e</guid>
      <title>Foo Fighters are coming to Foocastle</title>
      <description>Legendary rock band Foo Fighters have been confirmed to headline Foocastle&amp;rsquo;s McDonald Jones Stadium on November 12 as part of their Take Cover Tour, in a major coup for Newcastle and the Hunter&amp;rsquo;s booming visitor economy.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>18 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/foo-fighters-are-coming-to-foocastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3eb60eba-891f-4d5e-8902-c835c09130a5</guid>
      <title>Kids given chance to add own touch to Foreshore Park playspace</title>
      <description>One of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s youngest residents will become the king, or queen, of the castle by permanently naming the cubby house being built as part of the Foreshore Park playspace.</description>
      <pubDate>21 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/kids-given-chance-to-add-own-touch-to-foreshore-park-playspace</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8231d50b-c8b0-46a5-8c98-577fc4f6760b</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle leads new initiative to elevate international talent </title>
      <description>Skilled migrants, refugees and international students will connect with potential employers next month at the region&amp;rsquo;s first International Careers Day.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>23 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-leads-new-initiative-to-elevate-international-talent</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>ddf41b12-5f52-4970-9ca9-34deaf90f941</guid>
      <title>Geotechnical findings confirm cause and significance of 2025 New Lambton landslip</title>
      <description>An independent, geotechnical report has confirmed the 2025 New Lambton landslip is the largest residential landslip in Australian history and was the result of a natural disaster following two days of intense rainfall.</description>
      <pubDate>24 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/geotechnical-findings-confirm-cause-and-significance-of-2025-new-lambton-landslip</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>6c4a7b36-89d8-4a8c-ad8f-31ee80c2d4d5</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting 24 February 2026 </title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 24 February 2026. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-24-february-2026</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>3e6ca49d-a326-4f8b-a886-2418985e001e</guid>
      <title>Community invited to have their say as culture emerges as economic powerhouse</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has thrown a spotlight on Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s thriving creative sector, which supports almost 3,500 jobs and generates around $565 million in direct value added to the local economy.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>25 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-invited-to-have-their-say-as-culture-emerges-as-economic-powerhouse</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>91540cf0-00e9-4655-862e-3906e45cd53d</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle facilities helping football’s Steel Roses bloom</title>
      <description>Players and officials from the Chinese women&amp;rsquo;s football team have praised two of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s premier sporting facilities as they ramp up preparations for the 2026 AFC Asian Cup.</description>
      <pubDate>25 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-facilities-helping-football’s-steel-roses-bloom</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e912bd51-434d-4052-8535-dba06098879a</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle kicking on with Creek Road concept</title>
      <description>A new district level sports facility in Maryland is a step closer to reality with City of Newcastle unveiling the preferred final layout for the undeveloped five-hectare site.</description>
      <pubDate>20 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-kicking-on-with-creek-road-concept</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>7f2660f6-82aa-4980-9193-3cfdbbfb6c48</guid>
      <title>Deadline looming for restoration of Newcastle landmark</title>
      <description>The development application (DA) for the revitalisation of the historic Newcastle Post Office will lapse in less than two months if construction or engineering work doesn&amp;rsquo;t commence in that time.</description>
      <pubDate>19 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/deadline-looming-for-restoration-of-newcastle-landmark</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>240dcaf6-7ea9-4f8b-879a-3ed6cd5778fe</guid>
      <title>Airport Board Chair flying high with Key to the City</title>
      <description>A historic period of growth and investment in Newcastle Airport has seen outgoing Chair of the Board, Jude Munro AO, recognised with a Key to the City.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>26 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/airport-board-chair-flying-high-with-key-to-the-city</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c58274fa-8e2b-4fdd-a911-f6886e44553f</guid>
      <title>Landmark moment as city celebrates reopening of Newcastle Art Gallery</title>
      <description>A new Newcastle Art Gallery will open its doors this weekend after more than 16 years of fundraising and perseverance, ushering in a new era of cultural tourism in the city.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>26 Feb 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/landmark-moment-as-city-celebrates-reopening-of-newcastle-art-gallery</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>705ccbd6-ec22-4789-9685-cd974db2b346</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle forging new bonds across generations at Newcastle Libraries</title>
      <description>Tiny hands and great wisdom are coming together as part of new program created by City of&lt;br /&gt;
Newcastle to encourage shared moments of connection between different generations.</description>
      <pubDate>05 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-forging-new-bonds-across-generations-at-newcastle-libraries</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>383f4b80-ff30-48d8-aebb-eace8c8c5efb</guid>
      <title>Guns N’ Roses Knockin’ on Newcastle’s door</title>
      <description>Newcastle has cemented itself as the home of rock and roll with Guns N&amp;rsquo; Roses secured to play at McDonald Jones Stadium on December 8.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>06 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/guns-n’-roses-knockin’-on-newcastle’s-door</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c8c49b4d-15a7-4321-8ee5-488ee53dc8bc</guid>
      <title>Surfest exhibition to offer Novocastrians a ride down memory lane</title>
      <description>Merewether won&amp;rsquo;t be the only place to enjoy the sights and sounds of Surfest this month as foundation sponsor City of Newcastle celebrates the iconic event&amp;rsquo;s 40th anniversary.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>06 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/surfest-exhibition-to-offer-novocastrians-a-ride-down-memory-lane</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e5f67589-642b-41be-9fc3-6a13dc985404</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting 10 March (items adjourned from 24 February 2026)</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 10 March (items adjourned from 24 February 2026). NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-10-march-(items-adjourned-from-24-february-2026)</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>73570af6-2a52-4275-bb9a-bbe2b48ecce5</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle drives high-quality urban design through independent review panel</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s independent urban design experts assessed almost $1 billion in developments during 2025, with a strong emphasis on high quality public domain design.</description>
      <pubDate>11 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-drives-high-quality-urban-design-through-independent-review-panel</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>228b0fea-caa3-4e9f-bc32-0b867622eb80</guid>
      <title>Planning begins for city’s future waste needs</title>
      <description>A new landfill cell capable of receiving up to three million cubic metres of waste will be built at Summerhill Waste Management Centre to cater for Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s growing population.</description>
      <pubDate>16 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/planning-begins-for-city’s-future-waste-needs</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>136c0223-c8a9-47c0-a0c4-3d8a491b07f1</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle leading the way to help businesses boom</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has developed a new Australian local-government first resource designed to support the growth of businesses across the LGA.</description>
      <pubDate>17 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-leading-the-way-to-help-businesses-boom</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>8a0fe53e-5d8c-459a-9b22-7c8c1b5cddd4</guid>
      <title>Let Robbie Williams entertain you, Newcastle</title>
      <description>Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s ready to be entertained like never before with Robbie Williams set to perform at McDonald Jones Stadium for the first time on 17 November 2026.</description>
      <pubDate>18 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/let-robbie-williams-entertain-you,-newcastle</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>dc9ff52a-0105-4d44-af02-7d6ff3fe4ca0</guid>
      <title>Councils collaborate on joint tender as plans for new FOGO service move forward</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle and Port Stephens Council have joined forces to progress the development of a new kerbside collection service designed to reduce the amount of food waste ending up in landfill.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>20 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/councils-collaborate-on-joint-tender-as-plans-for-new-fogo-service-move-forward</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>c733dea0-262f-48ae-808f-a777c064c2b0</guid>
      <title>Ordinary Council Meeting 24 March</title>
      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 24 March. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>24 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-24-march</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>b8a621ea-ab7c-4fde-bfbf-1425e9b26fd7</guid>
      <title>City of Newcastle to bolster rock solid defence of Stockton Beach</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will reinforce one of Stockton&amp;rsquo;s key coastal protection structures with 8,500 tonnes of rock to reduce the risk of the area being inundated during extreme weather events.</description>
      <pubDate>27 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-to-bolster-rock-solid-defence-of-stockton-beach</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>222de631-e5c1-4995-a08e-932d4484ad6a</guid>
      <title>Project to breathe new life into Wickham</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has shared a first look at its plans to renew Wickham&amp;rsquo;s village heart as it calls for tenders to deliver pedestrian and public domain upgrades on Union Street.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/project-to-breathe-new-life-into-wickham</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>f399373c-812e-414d-9295-ed1985bff5c8</guid>
      <title>East End Village evolution nears latest milestone</title>
      <description>A key section of Wolfe Street has been reopened as City of Newcastle puts the finishing touches on the latest phase of the East End Village revitalisation project.</description>
      <pubDate>31 Mar 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/east-end-village-evolution-nears-latest-milestone</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>483e1937-9091-45b6-9043-1c97d8789f1c</guid>
      <title>10 ways to save on fuel and household costs</title>
      <description>If&amp;nbsp;you&amp;rsquo;re&amp;nbsp;looking for ways to&amp;nbsp;use less fuel,&amp;nbsp;save money and take control of your energy costs, there are practical steps you can take right now.</description>
      <pubDate>01 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/10-ways-to-save-on-fuel-and-household-costs</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>78b37d8e-46e8-47dc-9b6b-58efe3ff6b1a</guid>
      <title>Rise in recreation increases demand for City of Newcastle sportsfields</title>
      <description>Balancing the needs of organised sport with a growing number of casual users will be a key consideration in the development of a new Strategic Sports Plan for Newcastle.</description>
      <pubDate>01 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/rise-in-recreation-increases-demand-for-city-of-newcastle-sportsfields</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>e33417c1-6168-4ae0-8fcd-a68ffc667cef</guid>
      <title>Take a journey to a Land of Lost Things this school holidays</title>
      <description>A beloved children&amp;rsquo;s book will take centre stage during the April school holidays as City of Newcastle provides a range of activities to keep kids active and entertained.</description>
      <pubDate>02 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/take-a-journey-to-a-land-of-lost-things-this-school-holidays</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>9bbe1522-0f78-47b1-9fd9-cdd17873965c</guid>
      <title>Free school holiday workshops put Newcastle students on path to cycling confidence and creativity</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is&amp;nbsp;helping&amp;nbsp;high school students&amp;nbsp;shift into&amp;nbsp;a higher&amp;nbsp;gear&amp;nbsp;when it comes to cycling skills, bike&amp;nbsp;safety&amp;nbsp;and creative expression, with a series of&amp;nbsp;free holiday workshops on offer.&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>09 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/free-school-holiday-workshops-put-newcastle-students-on-path-to-cycling-confidence-and-creativity</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>178cf7dc-6f00-4404-a8e9-bf06a0c42b80</guid>
      <title>Page-turning start to City of Newcastle’s Youth Week festivities</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will kick off its annual Youth Week program by celebrating an initiative that has been bringing people together through their love of Young Adult fiction for the past five years.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>10 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/page-turning-start-to-city-of-newcastle’s-youth-week-festivities</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>4d7f30c4-70df-4123-881b-5a314acdc90b</guid>
      <title>Big John awarded big honour for charity efforts</title>
      <description>Almost 50 years of raising money, toys and awareness for families in need has earned Big John Young Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s greatest acknowledgement after being named a Freeman of the City today.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>14 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/big-john-awarded-big-honour-for-charity-efforts</link>
    </item>
    <item>
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      <title>Community united on need to protect Southern Beaches</title>
      <description>More than 2,200 people have had their say on how City of Newcastle should respond to threats to the coastline between Bar Beach and Merewether, demonstrating strong community interest in the future of the Southern Beaches.&lt;span style="font-size:12pt"&gt;&lt;span style="vertical-align:baseline"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,serif"&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>14 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/community-united-on-need-to-protect-southern-beaches</link>
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      <title>City of Newcastle climbs to new heights with $1.1 million playground investment</title>
      <description>A new benchmark for playground upgrades will be set this month when City of Newcastle starts work on the replacement and enhancement of the Lambton Park play space.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>15 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-climbs-to-new-heights-with-$1-1-million-playground-investment</link>
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      <title>Collaboration leads to unique Indigenous cultural experience</title>
      <description>A City of Newcastle program, which is designed to develop and promote new tourism products, has helped two local operators create a new First Nations experience for women.</description>
      <pubDate>16 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/collaboration-leads-to-unique-indigenous-cultural-experience</link>
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      <description>The largest road project funded by City of Newcastle has crossed the halfway mark, with dual lane upgrades set to ease traffic congestion in the western suburbs by Christmas.</description>
      <pubDate>16 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/$41-million-road-upgrade-cruises-past-midpoint</link>
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      <description>A new chapter in the history of Shepherds Hill Cottage is one step closer, with final touches underway to transform the 130-year-old building into a café with Newcastle&amp;rsquo;s most stunning views.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>17 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/revitalisation-of-shepherds-hill-cottage-enters-final-stage</link>
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      <title>Building transformation takes the cake as new café opens its doors at Lambton </title>
      <description>City of Newcastle has dished up a tasty transformation project to enhance the community&amp;rsquo;s experience of visiting one of the city&amp;rsquo;s most popular parks.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>21 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/building-transformation-takes-the-cake-as-new-cafe-opens-its-doors-at-lambton</link>
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      <title>Newcastle scores an early try in road to Rugby World Cup 2027</title>
      <description>Preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Newcastle will ramp up early, with Japan and Ireland&lt;br /&gt;
confirmed for an international rugby Test at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday 11 July 2026.</description>
      <pubDate>23 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/newcastle-scores-an-early-try-in-road-to-rugby-world-cup-2027</link>
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      <description>City of Newcastle is planning to deliver 274 projects and forecasting a fifth consecutive surplus as it releases its draft Budget for the upcoming financial year.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>24 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/balanced-budget-supports-strong-future-for-newcastle</link>
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      <description>Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 28 April. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.</description>
      <pubDate>28 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/ordinary-council-meeting-28-april</link>
    </item>
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      <description>Newcastle Museum is rolling out the red carpet for a new exhibition that celebrates the city&amp;rsquo;s connection to Australia&amp;rsquo;s fashion industry.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>30 Apr 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/glitz,-gowns-and-glamour-shine-a-light-on-newcastle’s-couture-connections</link>
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      <title>Cultural communities craft new opportunities as applications open for annual grants program</title>
      <description>Twenty‑eight women from Arabic, Afghan and Indian backgrounds have turned their creative skills into a source of income thanks to a mentoring program supported by City of Newcastle.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>02 May 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/cultural-communities-craft-new-opportunities-as-city-of-newcastle-invites-applications-for-annual-gr</link>
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      <title> City of Newcastle amplifies commitment to inclusion</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle is making live performance more inclusive for people who are hard of hearing thanks to new assisted listening technology at the Civic Theatre and Playhouse.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>04 May 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-amplifies-commitment-to-inclusion</link>
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      <description>The NSW Electoral Commission has this afternoon declared the result of the local government by-election held on 18 April, with Gavin Morris elected Lord Mayor of Newcastle.</description>
      <pubDate>05 May 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/new-lord-mayor-of-newcastle-confirmed</link>
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      <title>Accessibility through art broadening experiences at expanded Gallery </title>
      <description>Art lovers are being invited to celebrate two&amp;nbsp;groundbreaking commissions&amp;nbsp;that&amp;nbsp;are&amp;nbsp;creating&amp;nbsp;a more accessible and inclusive Newcastle Art Gallery for&amp;nbsp;thousands of visitors.</description>
      <pubDate>07 May 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/accessibility-through-art-broadening-experiences-at-expanded-gallery</link>
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      <title>Improvements underway as City of Newcastle prioritises safety in Hamilton</title>
      <description>Work has begun on a project to transform Hamilton Station Park into a more welcoming place for residents and commuters.</description>
      <pubDate>11 May 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/improvements-underway-as-city-of-newcastle-prioritises-safety-in-hamilton</link>
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      <title>Hidden details of Newcastle’s late 1800s revealed through digital preservation project</title>
      <description>Previously unseen details from thousands of historic photographs are being revealed for the first time following a five-year digitisation project by City of Newcastle.</description>
      <pubDate>12 May 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/hidden-details-of-newcastle’s-late-1800s-revealed-through-digital-preservation-project</link>
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      <title>Novocastrian knowledge needed to localise State housing reforms</title>
      <description>City of Newcastle will use community feedback to help plan for more housing near train stations at Hamilton, Adamstown, Kotara and the Newcastle Interchange.</description>
      <pubDate>14 May 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/novocastrian-knowledge-needed-to-localise-state-housing-reforms</link>
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      <title>Transformation of iconic harbourfront precinct takes next step </title>
      <description>Work has begun beneath Queens Wharf as preparations get underway for the safe demolition of the fire-damaged western building.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>15 May 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/transformation-of-iconic-harbourfront-precinct-takes-next-step</link>
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      <title>City of Newcastle directory set to open doors to participation and inclusion</title>
      <description>Hundreds of people hit the courts at an adaptive sports event today to mark the launch of a new community directory highlighting inclusive opportunities across sport, recreation and art.&lt;br /&gt;
&amp;nbsp;</description>
      <pubDate>21 May 2026</pubDate>
      <link>https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/about-us/news-and-updates/latest-news/city-of-newcastle-directory-set-to-open-doors-to-participation-and-inclusion</link>
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