Saturday, May 22, 2021: Top stories from the Newcastle Herald, your trusted voice in the Hunter

The campaigns of 13 candidates seeking election in the Upper Hunter have come to a close and voters in the electorate are set to go to the polls today to decide a by-election called seven weeks ago after Nationals MP Michael Johnsen resigned to fight a rape allegation. He has denied all wrongdoing.
A prospective opening date for the Hunter's first Costco has been set down for August 26.

Valentine Eleebana Junior Rugby League Football Club is reeling after being told its Under-10 and Under-11 teams would not compete against other clubs for the remainder of the season, amid an accusation The Devils have disobeyed an order not to grade teams in those age groups based on skill level.
Macquarie coach Steve Kidd says Maitland are clearly the team to beat for the Newcastle Rugby League title this season.
And a new video showcasing the assets and benefits of the Hunter has been launched for Newcastle businesses to promote themselves and the region.