Fears massive rock column was about to collapse onto coastal walkway
A technical report, obtained by the Newcastle Herald via a Government Information Public Access (GIPA) application, said the 10-metre-tall column and the adjacent section of the cliff face were perched on an unstable coal seam below.
"... the column has been detached from the main cliff face for many years," the report prepared by Tetra Tech Coffey says.
"The detached column rests upon a coal seam that was observed during various phases of construction works for the Bathers Way, the skatepark and the upgrade to the rockfall catchment fence."
The cliff face, known as 'Yirannali' by the local Awabakal community, meaning 'place of falling rocks', consists of weathered sandstone and siltstone. It has numerous joints that have weathered over time.
Its stability has been the subject of concern for geologists and engineers ever since a 20-tonne rock fell 15 metres onto the Shortland Esplanade in 2002, narrowly missing a security guard.
Affectionately known as 'The Rock', the boulder sat unmoved for more than two years while civic leaders debated whether to remove it and how to stabilise the cliff.
Since then, three anchors, ranging between two and four metres in length, have been driven into the nearby rock column in an effort to stabilise it. However, they did not penetrate into the cliff face.
Ongoing monitoring has shown the column has not shifted for about 10 years.
But University of Newcastle researchers detected significant movement during May's extreme weather event.
Rainfall records show that Newcastle received the expected monthly rainfall on May 19.
"The mechanism for the detachment appears to be primarily softening of the underlying coal seam and associated weak rock, resulting in outward rotation and settlement," the report says.
"There is also a wedging effect from the boulder wedged between the cliff face and the detached block."
It was concluded that the column's movement represented an elevated risk to nearby public amenities and the Bather's Way shared pathway.
The upper promenade was closed on May 31.
Contractors subsequently removed the top section of the column and used mechanical and hand scaling to remove loose rock around the area.
"The dislodged material, or at least a portion of it, would ideally be left near the toe of the sea cliff to lend a measure of support to the base of the cliff, given that the coal seam extends southward to the point it is truncated by the fault located approximately 15 metres south," the report says.
The report noted the removal of the large boulder wedged between the cliff face and column may, in turn, destabilise the upper portion of the cliff behind the column.
An assessment was carried out in collaboration with geotechnical experts following the work, and determined that no additional works were needed in the area at this time.
City of Newcastle renewed and increased the height of the full length of the rock catch fence from the southern extent of the cliff line to the rear of the skate park amenities building in 2023-24.
It also remediated the face of the southern cliff line, with specialists scaling the cliff face to remove loose rocks before installing drainage, shotcrete and additional rock anchors, as well as soft fall to reduce rocks bouncing into the rock catch fence.
A detached South Newcastle beach rock column weighing more than 1000 tonnes shifted almost a metre during heavy rain in May, prompting fears that it may collapse near the newly opened skate park and pathway.
A technical report, obtained by the Newcastle Herald via a Government Information Public Access (GIPA) application, said the 10-metre-tall column and the adjacent section of the cliff face were perched on an unstable coal seam below.
"... the column has been detached from the main cliff face for many years," the report prepared by Tetra Tech Coffey says.
"The detached column rests upon a coal seam that was observed during various phases of construction works for the Bathers Way, the skatepark and the upgrade to the rockfall catchment fence."
The cliff face, known as 'Yirannali' by the local Awabakal community, meaning 'place of falling rocks', consists of weathered sandstone and siltstone. It has numerous joints that have weathered over time.
Its stability has been the subject of concern for geologists and engineers ever since a 20-tonne rock fell 15 metres onto the Shortland Esplanade in 2002, narrowly missing a security guard.
Affectionately known as 'The Rock', the boulder sat unmoved for more than two years while civic leaders debated whether to remove it and how to stabilise the cliff.
Since then, three anchors, ranging between two and four metres in length, have been driven into the nearby rock column in an effort to stabilise it. However, they did not penetrate into the cliff face.
Ongoing monitoring has shown the column has not shifted for about 10 years.
But University of Newcastle researchers detected significant movement during May's extreme weather event.
Rainfall records show that Newcastle received the expected monthly rainfall on May 19.
"The mechanism for the detachment appears to be primarily softening of the underlying coal seam and associated weak rock, resulting in outward rotation and settlement," the report says.
"There is also a wedging effect from the boulder wedged between the cliff face and the detached block."
It was concluded that the column's movement represented an elevated risk to nearby public amenities and the Bather's Way shared pathway.
The upper promenade was closed on May 31.
Contractors subsequently removed the top section of the column and used mechanical and hand scaling to remove loose rock around the area.
"The dislodged material, or at least a portion of it, would ideally be left near the toe of the sea cliff to lend a measure of support to the base of the cliff, given that the coal seam extends southward to the point it is truncated by the fault located approximately 15 metres south," the report says.
The report noted the removal of the large boulder wedged between the cliff face and column may, in turn, destabilise the upper portion of the cliff behind the column.
An assessment was carried out in collaboration with geotechnical experts following the work, and determined that no additional works were needed in the area at this time.
City of Newcastle renewed and increased the height of the full length of the rock catch fence from the southern extent of the cliff line to the rear of the skate park amenities building in 2023-24.
It also remediated the face of the southern cliff line, with specialists scaling the cliff face to remove loose rocks before installing drainage, shotcrete and additional rock anchors, as well as soft fall to reduce rocks bouncing into the rock catch fence.
A detached South Newcastle beach rock column weighing more than 1000 tonnes shifted almost a metre during heavy rain in May, prompting fears that it may collapse near the newly opened skate park and pathway.
A technical report, obtained by the Newcastle Herald via a Government Information Public Access (GIPA) application, said the 10-metre-tall column and the adjacent section of the cliff face were perched on an unstable coal seam below.
"... the column has been detached from the main cliff face for many years," the report prepared by Tetra Tech Coffey says.
"The detached column rests upon a coal seam that was observed during various phases of construction works for the Bathers Way, the skatepark and the upgrade to the rockfall catchment fence."
The cliff face, known as 'Yirannali' by the local Awabakal community, meaning 'place of falling rocks', consists of weathered sandstone and siltstone. It has numerous joints that have weathered over time.
Its stability has been the subject of concern for geologists and engineers ever since a 20-tonne rock fell 15 metres onto the Shortland Esplanade in 2002, narrowly missing a security guard.
Affectionately known as 'The Rock', the boulder sat unmoved for more than two years while civic leaders debated whether to remove it and how to stabilise the cliff.
Since then, three anchors, ranging between two and four metres in length, have been driven into the nearby rock column in an effort to stabilise it. However, they did not penetrate into the cliff face.
Ongoing monitoring has shown the column has not shifted for about 10 years.
But University of Newcastle researchers detected significant movement during May's extreme weather event.
Rainfall records show that Newcastle received the expected monthly rainfall on May 19.
"The mechanism for the detachment appears to be primarily softening of the underlying coal seam and associated weak rock, resulting in outward rotation and settlement," the report says.
"There is also a wedging effect from the boulder wedged between the cliff face and the detached block."
It was concluded that the column's movement represented an elevated risk to nearby public amenities and the Bather's Way shared pathway.
The upper promenade was closed on May 31.
Contractors subsequently removed the top section of the column and used mechanical and hand scaling to remove loose rock around the area.
"The dislodged material, or at least a portion of it, would ideally be left near the toe of the sea cliff to lend a measure of support to the base of the cliff, given that the coal seam extends southward to the point it is truncated by the fault located approximately 15 metres south," the report says.
The report noted the removal of the large boulder wedged between the cliff face and column may, in turn, destabilise the upper portion of the cliff behind the column.
An assessment was carried out in collaboration with geotechnical experts following the work, and determined that no additional works were needed in the area at this time.
City of Newcastle renewed and increased the height of the full length of the rock catch fence from the southern extent of the cliff line to the rear of the skate park amenities building in 2023-24.
It also remediated the face of the southern cliff line, with specialists scaling the cliff face to remove loose rocks before installing drainage, shotcrete and additional rock anchors, as well as soft fall to reduce rocks bouncing into the rock catch fence.
A detached South Newcastle beach rock column weighing more than 1000 tonnes shifted almost a metre during heavy rain in May, prompting fears that it may collapse near the newly opened skate park and pathway.
A technical report, obtained by the Newcastle Herald via a Government Information Public Access (GIPA) application, said the 10-metre-tall column and the adjacent section of the cliff face were perched on an unstable coal seam below.
"... the column has been detached from the main cliff face for many years," the report prepared by Tetra Tech Coffey says.
"The detached column rests upon a coal seam that was observed during various phases of construction works for the Bathers Way, the skatepark and the upgrade to the rockfall catchment fence."
The cliff face, known as 'Yirannali' by the local Awabakal community, meaning 'place of falling rocks', consists of weathered sandstone and siltstone. It has numerous joints that have weathered over time.
Its stability has been the subject of concern for geologists and engineers ever since a 20-tonne rock fell 15 metres onto the Shortland Esplanade in 2002, narrowly missing a security guard.
Affectionately known as 'The Rock', the boulder sat unmoved for more than two years while civic leaders debated whether to remove it and how to stabilise the cliff.
Since then, three anchors, ranging between two and four metres in length, have been driven into the nearby rock column in an effort to stabilise it. However, they did not penetrate into the cliff face.
Ongoing monitoring has shown the column has not shifted for about 10 years.
But University of Newcastle researchers detected significant movement during May's extreme weather event.
Rainfall records show that Newcastle received the expected monthly rainfall on May 19.
"The mechanism for the detachment appears to be primarily softening of the underlying coal seam and associated weak rock, resulting in outward rotation and settlement," the report says.
"There is also a wedging effect from the boulder wedged between the cliff face and the detached block."
It was concluded that the column's movement represented an elevated risk to nearby public amenities and the Bather's Way shared pathway.
The upper promenade was closed on May 31.
Contractors subsequently removed the top section of the column and used mechanical and hand scaling to remove loose rock around the area.
"The dislodged material, or at least a portion of it, would ideally be left near the toe of the sea cliff to lend a measure of support to the base of the cliff, given that the coal seam extends southward to the point it is truncated by the fault located approximately 15 metres south," the report says.
The report noted the removal of the large boulder wedged between the cliff face and column may, in turn, destabilise the upper portion of the cliff behind the column.
An assessment was carried out in collaboration with geotechnical experts following the work, and determined that no additional works were needed in the area at this time.
City of Newcastle renewed and increased the height of the full length of the rock catch fence from the southern extent of the cliff line to the rear of the skate park amenities building in 2023-24.
It also remediated the face of the southern cliff line, with specialists scaling the cliff face to remove loose rocks before installing drainage, shotcrete and additional rock anchors, as well as soft fall to reduce rocks bouncing into the rock catch fence.
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The Advertiser
6 days ago
- The Advertiser
Fears massive rock column was about to collapse onto coastal walkway
A detached South Newcastle beach rock column weighing more than 1000 tonnes shifted almost a metre during heavy rain in May, prompting fears that it may collapse near the newly opened skate park and pathway. A technical report, obtained by the Newcastle Herald via a Government Information Public Access (GIPA) application, said the 10-metre-tall column and the adjacent section of the cliff face were perched on an unstable coal seam below. "... the column has been detached from the main cliff face for many years," the report prepared by Tetra Tech Coffey says. "The detached column rests upon a coal seam that was observed during various phases of construction works for the Bathers Way, the skatepark and the upgrade to the rockfall catchment fence." The cliff face, known as 'Yirannali' by the local Awabakal community, meaning 'place of falling rocks', consists of weathered sandstone and siltstone. It has numerous joints that have weathered over time. Its stability has been the subject of concern for geologists and engineers ever since a 20-tonne rock fell 15 metres onto the Shortland Esplanade in 2002, narrowly missing a security guard. Affectionately known as 'The Rock', the boulder sat unmoved for more than two years while civic leaders debated whether to remove it and how to stabilise the cliff. Since then, three anchors, ranging between two and four metres in length, have been driven into the nearby rock column in an effort to stabilise it. However, they did not penetrate into the cliff face. Ongoing monitoring has shown the column has not shifted for about 10 years. But University of Newcastle researchers detected significant movement during May's extreme weather event. Rainfall records show that Newcastle received the expected monthly rainfall on May 19. "The mechanism for the detachment appears to be primarily softening of the underlying coal seam and associated weak rock, resulting in outward rotation and settlement," the report says. "There is also a wedging effect from the boulder wedged between the cliff face and the detached block." It was concluded that the column's movement represented an elevated risk to nearby public amenities and the Bather's Way shared pathway. The upper promenade was closed on May 31. Contractors subsequently removed the top section of the column and used mechanical and hand scaling to remove loose rock around the area. "The dislodged material, or at least a portion of it, would ideally be left near the toe of the sea cliff to lend a measure of support to the base of the cliff, given that the coal seam extends southward to the point it is truncated by the fault located approximately 15 metres south," the report says. The report noted the removal of the large boulder wedged between the cliff face and column may, in turn, destabilise the upper portion of the cliff behind the column. An assessment was carried out in collaboration with geotechnical experts following the work, and determined that no additional works were needed in the area at this time. City of Newcastle renewed and increased the height of the full length of the rock catch fence from the southern extent of the cliff line to the rear of the skate park amenities building in 2023-24. It also remediated the face of the southern cliff line, with specialists scaling the cliff face to remove loose rocks before installing drainage, shotcrete and additional rock anchors, as well as soft fall to reduce rocks bouncing into the rock catch fence. A detached South Newcastle beach rock column weighing more than 1000 tonnes shifted almost a metre during heavy rain in May, prompting fears that it may collapse near the newly opened skate park and pathway. A technical report, obtained by the Newcastle Herald via a Government Information Public Access (GIPA) application, said the 10-metre-tall column and the adjacent section of the cliff face were perched on an unstable coal seam below. "... the column has been detached from the main cliff face for many years," the report prepared by Tetra Tech Coffey says. "The detached column rests upon a coal seam that was observed during various phases of construction works for the Bathers Way, the skatepark and the upgrade to the rockfall catchment fence." The cliff face, known as 'Yirannali' by the local Awabakal community, meaning 'place of falling rocks', consists of weathered sandstone and siltstone. It has numerous joints that have weathered over time. Its stability has been the subject of concern for geologists and engineers ever since a 20-tonne rock fell 15 metres onto the Shortland Esplanade in 2002, narrowly missing a security guard. Affectionately known as 'The Rock', the boulder sat unmoved for more than two years while civic leaders debated whether to remove it and how to stabilise the cliff. Since then, three anchors, ranging between two and four metres in length, have been driven into the nearby rock column in an effort to stabilise it. However, they did not penetrate into the cliff face. Ongoing monitoring has shown the column has not shifted for about 10 years. But University of Newcastle researchers detected significant movement during May's extreme weather event. Rainfall records show that Newcastle received the expected monthly rainfall on May 19. "The mechanism for the detachment appears to be primarily softening of the underlying coal seam and associated weak rock, resulting in outward rotation and settlement," the report says. "There is also a wedging effect from the boulder wedged between the cliff face and the detached block." It was concluded that the column's movement represented an elevated risk to nearby public amenities and the Bather's Way shared pathway. The upper promenade was closed on May 31. Contractors subsequently removed the top section of the column and used mechanical and hand scaling to remove loose rock around the area. "The dislodged material, or at least a portion of it, would ideally be left near the toe of the sea cliff to lend a measure of support to the base of the cliff, given that the coal seam extends southward to the point it is truncated by the fault located approximately 15 metres south," the report says. The report noted the removal of the large boulder wedged between the cliff face and column may, in turn, destabilise the upper portion of the cliff behind the column. An assessment was carried out in collaboration with geotechnical experts following the work, and determined that no additional works were needed in the area at this time. City of Newcastle renewed and increased the height of the full length of the rock catch fence from the southern extent of the cliff line to the rear of the skate park amenities building in 2023-24. It also remediated the face of the southern cliff line, with specialists scaling the cliff face to remove loose rocks before installing drainage, shotcrete and additional rock anchors, as well as soft fall to reduce rocks bouncing into the rock catch fence. A detached South Newcastle beach rock column weighing more than 1000 tonnes shifted almost a metre during heavy rain in May, prompting fears that it may collapse near the newly opened skate park and pathway. A technical report, obtained by the Newcastle Herald via a Government Information Public Access (GIPA) application, said the 10-metre-tall column and the adjacent section of the cliff face were perched on an unstable coal seam below. "... the column has been detached from the main cliff face for many years," the report prepared by Tetra Tech Coffey says. "The detached column rests upon a coal seam that was observed during various phases of construction works for the Bathers Way, the skatepark and the upgrade to the rockfall catchment fence." The cliff face, known as 'Yirannali' by the local Awabakal community, meaning 'place of falling rocks', consists of weathered sandstone and siltstone. It has numerous joints that have weathered over time. Its stability has been the subject of concern for geologists and engineers ever since a 20-tonne rock fell 15 metres onto the Shortland Esplanade in 2002, narrowly missing a security guard. Affectionately known as 'The Rock', the boulder sat unmoved for more than two years while civic leaders debated whether to remove it and how to stabilise the cliff. Since then, three anchors, ranging between two and four metres in length, have been driven into the nearby rock column in an effort to stabilise it. However, they did not penetrate into the cliff face. Ongoing monitoring has shown the column has not shifted for about 10 years. But University of Newcastle researchers detected significant movement during May's extreme weather event. Rainfall records show that Newcastle received the expected monthly rainfall on May 19. "The mechanism for the detachment appears to be primarily softening of the underlying coal seam and associated weak rock, resulting in outward rotation and settlement," the report says. "There is also a wedging effect from the boulder wedged between the cliff face and the detached block." It was concluded that the column's movement represented an elevated risk to nearby public amenities and the Bather's Way shared pathway. The upper promenade was closed on May 31. Contractors subsequently removed the top section of the column and used mechanical and hand scaling to remove loose rock around the area. "The dislodged material, or at least a portion of it, would ideally be left near the toe of the sea cliff to lend a measure of support to the base of the cliff, given that the coal seam extends southward to the point it is truncated by the fault located approximately 15 metres south," the report says. The report noted the removal of the large boulder wedged between the cliff face and column may, in turn, destabilise the upper portion of the cliff behind the column. An assessment was carried out in collaboration with geotechnical experts following the work, and determined that no additional works were needed in the area at this time. City of Newcastle renewed and increased the height of the full length of the rock catch fence from the southern extent of the cliff line to the rear of the skate park amenities building in 2023-24. It also remediated the face of the southern cliff line, with specialists scaling the cliff face to remove loose rocks before installing drainage, shotcrete and additional rock anchors, as well as soft fall to reduce rocks bouncing into the rock catch fence. A detached South Newcastle beach rock column weighing more than 1000 tonnes shifted almost a metre during heavy rain in May, prompting fears that it may collapse near the newly opened skate park and pathway. A technical report, obtained by the Newcastle Herald via a Government Information Public Access (GIPA) application, said the 10-metre-tall column and the adjacent section of the cliff face were perched on an unstable coal seam below. "... the column has been detached from the main cliff face for many years," the report prepared by Tetra Tech Coffey says. "The detached column rests upon a coal seam that was observed during various phases of construction works for the Bathers Way, the skatepark and the upgrade to the rockfall catchment fence." The cliff face, known as 'Yirannali' by the local Awabakal community, meaning 'place of falling rocks', consists of weathered sandstone and siltstone. It has numerous joints that have weathered over time. Its stability has been the subject of concern for geologists and engineers ever since a 20-tonne rock fell 15 metres onto the Shortland Esplanade in 2002, narrowly missing a security guard. Affectionately known as 'The Rock', the boulder sat unmoved for more than two years while civic leaders debated whether to remove it and how to stabilise the cliff. Since then, three anchors, ranging between two and four metres in length, have been driven into the nearby rock column in an effort to stabilise it. However, they did not penetrate into the cliff face. Ongoing monitoring has shown the column has not shifted for about 10 years. But University of Newcastle researchers detected significant movement during May's extreme weather event. Rainfall records show that Newcastle received the expected monthly rainfall on May 19. "The mechanism for the detachment appears to be primarily softening of the underlying coal seam and associated weak rock, resulting in outward rotation and settlement," the report says. "There is also a wedging effect from the boulder wedged between the cliff face and the detached block." It was concluded that the column's movement represented an elevated risk to nearby public amenities and the Bather's Way shared pathway. The upper promenade was closed on May 31. Contractors subsequently removed the top section of the column and used mechanical and hand scaling to remove loose rock around the area. "The dislodged material, or at least a portion of it, would ideally be left near the toe of the sea cliff to lend a measure of support to the base of the cliff, given that the coal seam extends southward to the point it is truncated by the fault located approximately 15 metres south," the report says. The report noted the removal of the large boulder wedged between the cliff face and column may, in turn, destabilise the upper portion of the cliff behind the column. An assessment was carried out in collaboration with geotechnical experts following the work, and determined that no additional works were needed in the area at this time. City of Newcastle renewed and increased the height of the full length of the rock catch fence from the southern extent of the cliff line to the rear of the skate park amenities building in 2023-24. It also remediated the face of the southern cliff line, with specialists scaling the cliff face to remove loose rocks before installing drainage, shotcrete and additional rock anchors, as well as soft fall to reduce rocks bouncing into the rock catch fence.
The Advertiser
18-07-2025
- The Advertiser
'This moment belongs to all of us': university honoured with keys to the city
IT has spent six decades shaping minds, driving innovation and supporting growth across the Hunter. Now, the University of Newcastle is being handed the keys to the city, a rare civic honour reserved for those who have made an undeniable mark. City of Newcastle lord mayor Ross Kerridge will present the keys at a graduation ceremony at City Hall on Friday, acknowledging the university's deep and enduring impact on Newcastle. "The university and its students have played a pivotal role in transforming Newcastle into a city of learning, aspiration and progress," he said. "Their influence is woven through our city and communities. "Over the past 60 years, the university has transformed lives and opened doors for tens of thousands of people in our city." University of Newcastle vice-chancellor professor Alex Zelinsky said the honour was a powerful symbol of the shared journey of progress between the institution and the city. "It's a symbol of our strong and enduring partnership with Newcastle, a city that has grown and evolved alongside its university for 60 years," he said. "The keys aren't just for the university, they're for all of us. Every student, every staff member, every teacher and graduate who has walked through our doors has played a part in shaping our story. "This moment belongs to our entire university community." From its humble beginnings teaching 1700 students in the mid-'60s, today the University of Newcastle educates more than 37,000 students each year and is ranked in the top one per cent of universities globally. More than one in 20 students at the university identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, the highest number of any university in Australia. The keys will be accepted on behalf of the University of Newcastle's chancellor, Patricia Forsythe. Aunty Cheryl Newton and Aunty Amanda Kelly, elders in residence at the university's Wollatuka Institute, will be at the ceremony alongside students and special guests from the university's 60-year history, including some who have been part of the community since its earliest days. Cr Kerridge said the honour particularly recognised the university's role in enabling many 'first in family' students to go to university, and its commitment to providing educational opportunities for all. A motion to bestow the keys to the city was put forward by Labor councillor Declan Clausen and supported by the elected council in May. It acknowledges the transformational power of education and the university's leadership in fostering access and equity through programs like Yapug and Open Foundation. Cr Clausen said the university had long been a leader in inclusive education. "Our ongoing collaboration continues to be a cornerstone of Newcastle's progress, from community health and sustainability to First Nations engagement and urban innovation," he said. "The university's central role in Newcastle's urban renewal, through developments like NUspace and the City Campus, has helped shape the vibrant city we are today." Professor Zelinsky said the honour reflected the collective efforts of the entire university community. "This is a proud moment for our institution," he said. "For 60 years, our staff, students and alumni have worked to deliver meaningful change, for Newcastle and across the world. "We're honoured to accept the keys to the city and will continue to be ambassadors for Newcastle and the values we share." The City of Newcastle ambassador program was established in 2017 to highlight individuals and organisations making a significant contribution to Newcastle. The university joins 13 other recipients who have been honoured with keys to the city. IT has spent six decades shaping minds, driving innovation and supporting growth across the Hunter. Now, the University of Newcastle is being handed the keys to the city, a rare civic honour reserved for those who have made an undeniable mark. City of Newcastle lord mayor Ross Kerridge will present the keys at a graduation ceremony at City Hall on Friday, acknowledging the university's deep and enduring impact on Newcastle. "The university and its students have played a pivotal role in transforming Newcastle into a city of learning, aspiration and progress," he said. "Their influence is woven through our city and communities. "Over the past 60 years, the university has transformed lives and opened doors for tens of thousands of people in our city." University of Newcastle vice-chancellor professor Alex Zelinsky said the honour was a powerful symbol of the shared journey of progress between the institution and the city. "It's a symbol of our strong and enduring partnership with Newcastle, a city that has grown and evolved alongside its university for 60 years," he said. "The keys aren't just for the university, they're for all of us. Every student, every staff member, every teacher and graduate who has walked through our doors has played a part in shaping our story. "This moment belongs to our entire university community." From its humble beginnings teaching 1700 students in the mid-'60s, today the University of Newcastle educates more than 37,000 students each year and is ranked in the top one per cent of universities globally. More than one in 20 students at the university identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, the highest number of any university in Australia. The keys will be accepted on behalf of the University of Newcastle's chancellor, Patricia Forsythe. Aunty Cheryl Newton and Aunty Amanda Kelly, elders in residence at the university's Wollatuka Institute, will be at the ceremony alongside students and special guests from the university's 60-year history, including some who have been part of the community since its earliest days. Cr Kerridge said the honour particularly recognised the university's role in enabling many 'first in family' students to go to university, and its commitment to providing educational opportunities for all. A motion to bestow the keys to the city was put forward by Labor councillor Declan Clausen and supported by the elected council in May. It acknowledges the transformational power of education and the university's leadership in fostering access and equity through programs like Yapug and Open Foundation. Cr Clausen said the university had long been a leader in inclusive education. "Our ongoing collaboration continues to be a cornerstone of Newcastle's progress, from community health and sustainability to First Nations engagement and urban innovation," he said. "The university's central role in Newcastle's urban renewal, through developments like NUspace and the City Campus, has helped shape the vibrant city we are today." Professor Zelinsky said the honour reflected the collective efforts of the entire university community. "This is a proud moment for our institution," he said. "For 60 years, our staff, students and alumni have worked to deliver meaningful change, for Newcastle and across the world. "We're honoured to accept the keys to the city and will continue to be ambassadors for Newcastle and the values we share." The City of Newcastle ambassador program was established in 2017 to highlight individuals and organisations making a significant contribution to Newcastle. The university joins 13 other recipients who have been honoured with keys to the city. IT has spent six decades shaping minds, driving innovation and supporting growth across the Hunter. Now, the University of Newcastle is being handed the keys to the city, a rare civic honour reserved for those who have made an undeniable mark. City of Newcastle lord mayor Ross Kerridge will present the keys at a graduation ceremony at City Hall on Friday, acknowledging the university's deep and enduring impact on Newcastle. "The university and its students have played a pivotal role in transforming Newcastle into a city of learning, aspiration and progress," he said. "Their influence is woven through our city and communities. "Over the past 60 years, the university has transformed lives and opened doors for tens of thousands of people in our city." University of Newcastle vice-chancellor professor Alex Zelinsky said the honour was a powerful symbol of the shared journey of progress between the institution and the city. "It's a symbol of our strong and enduring partnership with Newcastle, a city that has grown and evolved alongside its university for 60 years," he said. "The keys aren't just for the university, they're for all of us. Every student, every staff member, every teacher and graduate who has walked through our doors has played a part in shaping our story. "This moment belongs to our entire university community." From its humble beginnings teaching 1700 students in the mid-'60s, today the University of Newcastle educates more than 37,000 students each year and is ranked in the top one per cent of universities globally. More than one in 20 students at the university identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, the highest number of any university in Australia. The keys will be accepted on behalf of the University of Newcastle's chancellor, Patricia Forsythe. Aunty Cheryl Newton and Aunty Amanda Kelly, elders in residence at the university's Wollatuka Institute, will be at the ceremony alongside students and special guests from the university's 60-year history, including some who have been part of the community since its earliest days. Cr Kerridge said the honour particularly recognised the university's role in enabling many 'first in family' students to go to university, and its commitment to providing educational opportunities for all. A motion to bestow the keys to the city was put forward by Labor councillor Declan Clausen and supported by the elected council in May. It acknowledges the transformational power of education and the university's leadership in fostering access and equity through programs like Yapug and Open Foundation. Cr Clausen said the university had long been a leader in inclusive education. "Our ongoing collaboration continues to be a cornerstone of Newcastle's progress, from community health and sustainability to First Nations engagement and urban innovation," he said. "The university's central role in Newcastle's urban renewal, through developments like NUspace and the City Campus, has helped shape the vibrant city we are today." Professor Zelinsky said the honour reflected the collective efforts of the entire university community. "This is a proud moment for our institution," he said. "For 60 years, our staff, students and alumni have worked to deliver meaningful change, for Newcastle and across the world. "We're honoured to accept the keys to the city and will continue to be ambassadors for Newcastle and the values we share." The City of Newcastle ambassador program was established in 2017 to highlight individuals and organisations making a significant contribution to Newcastle. The university joins 13 other recipients who have been honoured with keys to the city. IT has spent six decades shaping minds, driving innovation and supporting growth across the Hunter. Now, the University of Newcastle is being handed the keys to the city, a rare civic honour reserved for those who have made an undeniable mark. City of Newcastle lord mayor Ross Kerridge will present the keys at a graduation ceremony at City Hall on Friday, acknowledging the university's deep and enduring impact on Newcastle. "The university and its students have played a pivotal role in transforming Newcastle into a city of learning, aspiration and progress," he said. "Their influence is woven through our city and communities. "Over the past 60 years, the university has transformed lives and opened doors for tens of thousands of people in our city." University of Newcastle vice-chancellor professor Alex Zelinsky said the honour was a powerful symbol of the shared journey of progress between the institution and the city. "It's a symbol of our strong and enduring partnership with Newcastle, a city that has grown and evolved alongside its university for 60 years," he said. "The keys aren't just for the university, they're for all of us. Every student, every staff member, every teacher and graduate who has walked through our doors has played a part in shaping our story. "This moment belongs to our entire university community." From its humble beginnings teaching 1700 students in the mid-'60s, today the University of Newcastle educates more than 37,000 students each year and is ranked in the top one per cent of universities globally. More than one in 20 students at the university identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, the highest number of any university in Australia. The keys will be accepted on behalf of the University of Newcastle's chancellor, Patricia Forsythe. Aunty Cheryl Newton and Aunty Amanda Kelly, elders in residence at the university's Wollatuka Institute, will be at the ceremony alongside students and special guests from the university's 60-year history, including some who have been part of the community since its earliest days. Cr Kerridge said the honour particularly recognised the university's role in enabling many 'first in family' students to go to university, and its commitment to providing educational opportunities for all. A motion to bestow the keys to the city was put forward by Labor councillor Declan Clausen and supported by the elected council in May. It acknowledges the transformational power of education and the university's leadership in fostering access and equity through programs like Yapug and Open Foundation. Cr Clausen said the university had long been a leader in inclusive education. "Our ongoing collaboration continues to be a cornerstone of Newcastle's progress, from community health and sustainability to First Nations engagement and urban innovation," he said. "The university's central role in Newcastle's urban renewal, through developments like NUspace and the City Campus, has helped shape the vibrant city we are today." Professor Zelinsky said the honour reflected the collective efforts of the entire university community. "This is a proud moment for our institution," he said. "For 60 years, our staff, students and alumni have worked to deliver meaningful change, for Newcastle and across the world. "We're honoured to accept the keys to the city and will continue to be ambassadors for Newcastle and the values we share." The City of Newcastle ambassador program was established in 2017 to highlight individuals and organisations making a significant contribution to Newcastle. The university joins 13 other recipients who have been honoured with keys to the city.
The Advertiser
09-07-2025
- The Advertiser
First findings released on crash that left Hunter stunt pilot seriously injured
EARLY findings into a Hunter stunt pilot's dramatic crash at an air show in Victoria have found no evidence of pre-flight defects in the plane's flight control system or fuselage. The Newcastle Herald has previously reported Glenn Collins was involved in the crash at Victoria's Avalon Airport during a March air show, suffering serious injuries. His teammates paid tribute to him in the aftermath, saying he was "a father and a friend" who had "thrilled audiences across Australia". Australian Transport Safety Bureau preliminary findings released on Wednesday said the incident occurred during a "triple avalanche manouvre". The plane performed three snap rolls and stabilised before entering the back half of the loop "however, the aircraft's descent rate was unable to be arrested before it collided with terrain". The impact left a 95-metre "scar" along the landscape. The ATSB findings said the training videos showed the manouvre usually began about 200 feet above ground level. "During entry to the triple avalanche, the indicated airspeed was approximately 165 knots and the altitude was 100 feet," the preliminary findings state, citing footage from the cockpit ahead of the crash. "Just before the aircraft reached its peak altitude, the altimeter was showing 700-800 feet. After this point, the altimeter was blocked from the camera's view by the pilot's body position just prior to the collision with terrain." The investigation found Mr Collins had more than 2200 hours of experience in an up-to-date log book. The area where the plane came to rest was a designated pyrotechnics box where there were "many boxes of fuel positioned ... that were planned to be ignited during the 'wall of fire' display later that evening". Pyrotechnicians who came to his aid "reported the pilot was wearing a five-point safety harness". The investigation has examined the wreckage, interviewed the pilot, and examined recordings of practice flights as well as GoPro footage from within the cockpit ahead of the crash. Ongoing investigations will examine components recovered from the aircraft, its maintenance records, the video recordings, the emergency response plan in play and "survivability factors". A final report will be issued at the end of the investigation. "Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate and timely safety action can be taken," the regulator said. EARLY findings into a Hunter stunt pilot's dramatic crash at an air show in Victoria have found no evidence of pre-flight defects in the plane's flight control system or fuselage. The Newcastle Herald has previously reported Glenn Collins was involved in the crash at Victoria's Avalon Airport during a March air show, suffering serious injuries. His teammates paid tribute to him in the aftermath, saying he was "a father and a friend" who had "thrilled audiences across Australia". Australian Transport Safety Bureau preliminary findings released on Wednesday said the incident occurred during a "triple avalanche manouvre". The plane performed three snap rolls and stabilised before entering the back half of the loop "however, the aircraft's descent rate was unable to be arrested before it collided with terrain". The impact left a 95-metre "scar" along the landscape. The ATSB findings said the training videos showed the manouvre usually began about 200 feet above ground level. "During entry to the triple avalanche, the indicated airspeed was approximately 165 knots and the altitude was 100 feet," the preliminary findings state, citing footage from the cockpit ahead of the crash. "Just before the aircraft reached its peak altitude, the altimeter was showing 700-800 feet. After this point, the altimeter was blocked from the camera's view by the pilot's body position just prior to the collision with terrain." The investigation found Mr Collins had more than 2200 hours of experience in an up-to-date log book. The area where the plane came to rest was a designated pyrotechnics box where there were "many boxes of fuel positioned ... that were planned to be ignited during the 'wall of fire' display later that evening". Pyrotechnicians who came to his aid "reported the pilot was wearing a five-point safety harness". The investigation has examined the wreckage, interviewed the pilot, and examined recordings of practice flights as well as GoPro footage from within the cockpit ahead of the crash. Ongoing investigations will examine components recovered from the aircraft, its maintenance records, the video recordings, the emergency response plan in play and "survivability factors". A final report will be issued at the end of the investigation. "Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate and timely safety action can be taken," the regulator said. EARLY findings into a Hunter stunt pilot's dramatic crash at an air show in Victoria have found no evidence of pre-flight defects in the plane's flight control system or fuselage. The Newcastle Herald has previously reported Glenn Collins was involved in the crash at Victoria's Avalon Airport during a March air show, suffering serious injuries. His teammates paid tribute to him in the aftermath, saying he was "a father and a friend" who had "thrilled audiences across Australia". Australian Transport Safety Bureau preliminary findings released on Wednesday said the incident occurred during a "triple avalanche manouvre". The plane performed three snap rolls and stabilised before entering the back half of the loop "however, the aircraft's descent rate was unable to be arrested before it collided with terrain". The impact left a 95-metre "scar" along the landscape. The ATSB findings said the training videos showed the manouvre usually began about 200 feet above ground level. "During entry to the triple avalanche, the indicated airspeed was approximately 165 knots and the altitude was 100 feet," the preliminary findings state, citing footage from the cockpit ahead of the crash. "Just before the aircraft reached its peak altitude, the altimeter was showing 700-800 feet. After this point, the altimeter was blocked from the camera's view by the pilot's body position just prior to the collision with terrain." The investigation found Mr Collins had more than 2200 hours of experience in an up-to-date log book. The area where the plane came to rest was a designated pyrotechnics box where there were "many boxes of fuel positioned ... that were planned to be ignited during the 'wall of fire' display later that evening". Pyrotechnicians who came to his aid "reported the pilot was wearing a five-point safety harness". The investigation has examined the wreckage, interviewed the pilot, and examined recordings of practice flights as well as GoPro footage from within the cockpit ahead of the crash. Ongoing investigations will examine components recovered from the aircraft, its maintenance records, the video recordings, the emergency response plan in play and "survivability factors". A final report will be issued at the end of the investigation. "Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate and timely safety action can be taken," the regulator said. EARLY findings into a Hunter stunt pilot's dramatic crash at an air show in Victoria have found no evidence of pre-flight defects in the plane's flight control system or fuselage. The Newcastle Herald has previously reported Glenn Collins was involved in the crash at Victoria's Avalon Airport during a March air show, suffering serious injuries. His teammates paid tribute to him in the aftermath, saying he was "a father and a friend" who had "thrilled audiences across Australia". Australian Transport Safety Bureau preliminary findings released on Wednesday said the incident occurred during a "triple avalanche manouvre". The plane performed three snap rolls and stabilised before entering the back half of the loop "however, the aircraft's descent rate was unable to be arrested before it collided with terrain". The impact left a 95-metre "scar" along the landscape. The ATSB findings said the training videos showed the manouvre usually began about 200 feet above ground level. "During entry to the triple avalanche, the indicated airspeed was approximately 165 knots and the altitude was 100 feet," the preliminary findings state, citing footage from the cockpit ahead of the crash. "Just before the aircraft reached its peak altitude, the altimeter was showing 700-800 feet. After this point, the altimeter was blocked from the camera's view by the pilot's body position just prior to the collision with terrain." The investigation found Mr Collins had more than 2200 hours of experience in an up-to-date log book. The area where the plane came to rest was a designated pyrotechnics box where there were "many boxes of fuel positioned ... that were planned to be ignited during the 'wall of fire' display later that evening". Pyrotechnicians who came to his aid "reported the pilot was wearing a five-point safety harness". The investigation has examined the wreckage, interviewed the pilot, and examined recordings of practice flights as well as GoPro footage from within the cockpit ahead of the crash. Ongoing investigations will examine components recovered from the aircraft, its maintenance records, the video recordings, the emergency response plan in play and "survivability factors". A final report will be issued at the end of the investigation. "Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate and timely safety action can be taken," the regulator said.
