Wednesday, April 7, 2021: Top stories from the Newcastle Herald, your trusted voice in the Hunter

The battle for Upper Hunter claimed its first victim yesterday when Malcolm Turnbull was dumped as chair of a new state government board advising on climate change. Newcastle Airport hopes to revive direct flights to New Zealand this summer after Kiwi leader Jacinda Ardern announced a travel bubble with Australia from April 19. Lake Macquarie environment groups are targeting pollution from the region's two power stations as part of a campaign calling for stronger action to improve air quality. JETS coach Craig Deans will consider promoting Kosovo international Liridon Krasniqi to the starting team for Saturday's crunch game against Melbourne Victory at McDonald Jones Stadium. STAFF at domestic violence and homelessness support service Carrie's Place are still in shock after receiving the biggest private donation in its history, $280,000.