A young woman had to be freed from her vehicle after crashing into a house on the Princes Highway at Milton.
Emergency Services, including NSW Ambulance, Police and the RFS were called around 7.30 last night.
She was flown by the Toll Air Ambulance to St George Hospital.
Police say she has serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
The NSW SES Ulladulla crew worked late into the night to stabilise the house, which was badly damaged in the crash.
Images: NSW SES Ulladulla
A man has died following a multi-vehicle crash on the Highlands yesterday.
Emergency services responded to reports of a crash involving up to 10 vehicles in the northbound lanes of the Hume Motorway at Wilton, just south of Picton Road at about 3 pm.
The driver of a Mitsubishi Fuso, a 43-year-old man, was trapped inside his vehicle.
He was released by Fire and Rescue NSW and treated by paramedics, however died at the scene.
Officers from Camden Police Area Command established a crime scene.
Five drivers from other vehicles involved in the crash were taken to Campbelltown Hospital for mandatory testing.
The Crash Investigation Unit has commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
Image: NSW Police
A man has been charged after allegedly attacking a female shop worker after he refused to wear a face mask in a shop.
Police allege the man entered a store on Lyndhurst Drive, Bomaderry, without a face mask on.
The man was asked by a staff member to put on a mask to comply with COVID-19 regulations before he placed his motorcycle helmet on.
He was again asked to put on a mask before he allegedly became aggressive and hit two panels of glass at the front of the store, causing them to smash.
The man left the store and was followed outside by a staff member, where they were involved in a verbal altercation before the man allegedly tackled the 50-year-old female employee to the ground.
A nearby witness attempted to stop the man, but he fled the scene on his motorcycle.
The woman was taken to Shoalhaven Hospital for treatment of a fractured pelvis.
Officers attached to South Coast Police District were notified and following inquiries, stopped the motorcycle on Meroo Road, Bomaderry, and arrested the 19-year-old rider.
He was taken to Nowra Police Station before being taken to hospital for assessment.
He is charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, possess a prohibited drug, destroy or damage property, and not wear a fitted face-covering in a business or retail premises.
He has been bailed to appear in Nowra Local Court on Monday 27 September 2021.
Images: Supplied
Anti-lockdown protestors have targeted Shoalhaven City Council offices at Nowra and Ulladulla.
At Graham Street in Nowra, a handful of people protested.
Police reportedly dispersed the crowd quickly.
Police also attended another unauthorised gathering at Deering Street Ulladulla, where an estimated 25 people turned up.
It was part of a state-wide orchestrated protest movement.
Police responded to 13 protests in the Southern region.
Across NSW 136 people have been arrested.
Shoalhaven Mayor Amanda Findley said she understands the frustration people feel about the NSW Government regional lockdown, but it's not local government locking down the state.
Kiama MP Gareth Ward criticised the protestors.
He said they could very well spread to the COVID-19 virus locking down regional NSW even longer.
Image : Supplied
UPDATE: All three men have been charged and have been refused bail to appear in Moss Vale Local Court today.
Three men have been arrested in connection with an alleged armed robbery at Buxton.
Just after nine o'clock last night, Police were called to a supermarket on East Parade.
Police says two employees – a 47-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman – closed the store and were leaving when they were allegedly threatened by three unknown men -
One was armed with a firearm and one with a knife.
The trio demanded cash before the male employee was allegedly stabbed in the hand.
Cash and personal belongings were allegedly stolen from the employees before the three men fled in a white Toyota SUV.
Just after 10pm, Police stopped a white Toyota RAV4 in an industrial estate on Lancaster Street, Ingleburn.
Three men – aged 38, 37 and 30 – were arrested and taken to Narellan Police Station.
The male employee didn't require medical treatment for a minor hand injury.
Image: NSW Police
A 23 year old man has been arrested at Nowra, and will reappear in Wollongong Local Court, after an attack at Mascot in Sydney last month.
Two men have been charged after a man suffered stab wounds following a break and enter at a unit block in Sydney’s south last month.
About 6am on Wednesday 29 December 2022, officers attached South Sydney Police Area Command were called to a unit on John Street, Mascot, where they located a man with multiple wounds to his upper body.
Police will allege two unknown men forced entry to the unit, when the 61 year old man, and only occupant of the unit, confronted the men.
An altercation ensued and the man was stabbed a number of times.
The two men fled the scene a short time later, taking items including cash and jewellery.
The injured man was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in a serious condition, he has since been released.
A crime scene was established at the unit and the surrounding neighbourhood was canvassed.
Following inquiries, about 9.45am Wednesday 5 January 2022, a 23 year old man was arrested at a home on Ferry Lane, Nowra.
The man was taken to Nowra Police Station where he was charged with specially aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence – wound.
The man appeared at Wollongong Local Court on Thursday, where he was refused bail, to reappear at Wollongong Local Court today, Friday 7 January 2022.
About 11.40am Thursday 6 January 2022, a 22 year old man was arrested on Wentworth Avenue, Sydney.
He was taken to Mascot Police Station, where he was charged with specially aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence – wound.
The man was refused bail, to appear at Parramatta Local Court today.
Image: NSW Police
Emergency services were called to Coomea Street, Bomaderry, following reports of a fire at about 11 pm last night.
On arrival, officers attached to South Coast Police District found the house well alight.
Fire and Rescue NSW attended and extinguished the blaze, however the building sustained significant damage.
NSW Police said no one was inside at the time of the fire and no injuries have been reported.
Initial inquiries suggest the fire is not suspicious.
Image: Fire and Rescue NSW
A man has been charged over an alleged robbery in Bomaderry earlier this week.
Just after 9 pm on Monday the 30th of August, a man entered a service station on the Princes Highway at Bomaderry and allegedly demanded cash from a female employee.
The man stole cash before leaving the area and was last seen heading north on the Princes Highway in a black Holden Commodore sedan.
Officers attached to the South Coast Police District attended a short time later and established a crime scene.
Following inquiries, a 30-year-old man attended Nowra Police Station just before 3 pm yesterday.
He was subsequently arrested and charged with robbery, and demand property with menaces with intent to steal.
The Bangalee man was refused bail to appear in Nowra Local Court today.
Image: Glenn Ellard
Emergency Services have been called to Tahmoor after a child got locked in a car.
The incident started around 10 o'clock this morning in the Food Works car park on Remembrance Drive.
About half an hour a spare set of keys were found and the child was released.
Police, Fire & Rescue NSW and NSW Paramedics responded.
Fire & Rescue NSW Superintendent Scott Dodson said it's a timely reminder not to leave children or pets in car.
"Even on mild days like today, the temperature can rise quite quickly,"he said.
Image: Fire & Rescue NSW 421
A Southern Region police officer has been charged for allegedly assaulting a man while on duty.
Officers from Lake Illawarra Police District began investigating the alleged incident at the start of the month and charged the 44-year-old senior constable with common assault yesterday.
He'll front Nowra Local Court on November 9.
Police said the officer's duty status currently is under review.
Image: Travis Winks
Police are urging the community to be on the lookout for counterfeit money circulating the Shoalhaven.
People should be on the lookout for counterfeit $50 and $100 notes.
Anyone who is handed one of these notes is asked to contact Police.
Tips in determining a fake or genuine note:
Police advise when checking a banknote, inspect a range of features from the list above and don’t rely on just one or two features.
Anyone with information about this incident should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page.
Image: NSW Police
South Coast Police have arrested a couple after they were allegedly caught in possession of methamphetamine.
Officers stopped a 44-year-old man in Nowra on Friday night who was allegedly riding a pushbike with no lights or helmet.
They searched him and allegedly found 20 grams of methamphetamine and $2,800 in cash while his 22-year-old female partner allegedly snatched a bag from police that contained prohibited drugs.
She is accused of bolting but officers chased her down and arrested her.
They've both been charged with various drug offences.
The man has spent the weekend in custody and will front Wollongong Local Court today while the women was released on conditional bail ahead of a court appearance next month.
Image: NSW Police
Homicide Squad, Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Walpole, thanked members of the public for their support and information provided to police following an appeal for information into the murder of 49-year-old David McArthur.
At about 8 pm on Sunday 25 July 2021, emergency services were called to a caravan park on Ethel Street at Sanctuary Point, following reports of a stabbing.
Upon arrival, officers entered a cabin and located David McArthur with a stab wound to his chest.
Officers attempted CPR however, he could not be revived and died at the scene.
A second man has been charged with murder following an investigation by Homicide Squad detectives.
The 41-year-old Nowra man was refused bail when he appeared before Nowra local court last week.
On Wednesday, October 20, detectives attended a correctional facility at Silverwater and charged a 39-year-old man with murder.
He remains before the courts.
“Detectives have worked tirelessly to put those responsible for David’s murder before a court, however the resulting arrests this week would not have been possible without the Sanctuary Point community’s ongoing assistance,” Det Ch Insp Walpole said.
He said, “David died because of an unnecessary act of violence and I’m hopeful his extended family and his parents, Susan and Stuart, feel as though some justice has taken place this week.”
Investigations under Strike Force Frawley continue.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Images: NSW Police, Glenn Ellard
A road safety blitz by South Coast police last weekend has seen 35 drivers test positive for drugs and five blow over the limit.
A 45-year-old Sanctuary Point woman, banned from driving until 2024 was randomly pulled over in Sussex Inlet.
She allegedly provided false details to the cops and returned a positive drug test.
Officers also allegedly found ice in her vehicle.
Police said they expect to lay charges while a motorcyclist had his licence suspended and vehicle sanctions imposed after allegedly being clocked doing 131km/h in an 80km/h zone at Bendelong.
Image: Traffic and Highway Patrol Command
Operation Christmas/New Year is now underway, with Police targeting the four d's including drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving.
Double demerit points will be in force up until January three, so if your caught using your phone whilst driving, you could lose your licence.
Inspector Jason Horne from the Southern Highlands Police Station said there'll likely be an increase in traffic on local roads.
"People have been restricted from travelling during the pandemic and haven't driven on our roads for a very long time,
"It's important we all take extra care,"Inspector Horne said.
Image: Southern Highlands Police
A man has been caught drink driving more than five times over the legal limit at Nowra.
Around 4pm yesterday, Emergency Services were called to the Princes Highway after a hatchback and an SUV – both travelling south collided on the Princes highway.
The 40 year old driver of the hatchback was taken to Nowra Police Station where he allegedly returned a blood alcohol reading point 258.
He was charged with High Range PCA and had his licence suspended and vehicle impounded
The man who's from Ryde will appear in Nowra Local Court next month.
Image: Simon_sees/Flickr
It's an under reported crime and exact statistics are impossible to gauge , but drink spiking is believed to occur anywhere from 3,000 to 4,000 times per year in Australia.
According to the NSW-based Rape and Domestic Violence Services Australia, there has been a spike in calls to its hot line since NSW came out of lockdown.
The victims of drink spiking are often the target of violence or sexual assault.
Statistics suggest one in three drink spiking cases involve sexual assault and most victims are women.
The NSW South Coast Police Facebook page has highlighted the crime of drink spiking in the lead-up to the Christmas New Year festive season.
Image: Alcohol and Drug Foundation
According to the NSW-based Rape and Domestic Violence Services Australia, there's been a spike in calls to the hot line since Sydney came out of lockdown.According to the NSW-based Rape and Domestic Violence Services Australia, there's been a spike in calls to the hot line since Sydney came out of lockdown.
About 4.30pm on Tuesday 18 January 2021, officers from South Coast Police District responded to the intersection of the Princes Highway and Twelve Mile Peg Road, Jerrawangala, after reports of a single-vehicle crash.
Police assisted the driver of a Holden Commodore after he had lost control and hit an embankment.
The 31-year-old man was treated by paramedics and taken to HMAS Albatross before being airlifted to Canberra Hospital.
Police inquiries continue.
Image: NSW Ambulance
A motorcycle rider has died following a two-vehicle crash at Picton.
Just after 1pm Emergency Services were called to Remembrance Drive, after reports a motorcycle and car had collided.
The rider of the motorcycle – a 71-year-old man – died at the scene.
The driver of the car – a 54-year-old man – was uninjured and taken to Campbelltown Hospital for mandatory testing.
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Image: NSW Police
A man has been charged with more than 30 child sex offences following an investigation into the historical alleged abuse of multiple teenage boys over more than two decades.
In July 2019, detectives from South Coast Police District commenced an investigation after receiving reports a teenage boy was sexually assaulted by a man who was known to him while at a youth group in the Nowra area on numerous occasions between 1968 and 1981.
During the course of the investigation, police received information that a further five boys had been sexually assaulted by a man while under his care at religious youth groups in Nowra, Bomaderry, and Kings Cross between 1968 and 1990.
Following extensive investigations, a 68-year-old man, who was a former youth worker, was issued a Court Attendance Notice on Thursday 10 June 2021 for 33 offences including buggery, indecent assault, sexual assault and incite indecent act on a person.
The man, from Northgate in Queensland, is due to appear at Nowra Local Court today.
Inquiries continue.
Image: Peter Andrea
A former teacher has been charged over the historical alleged sexual abuse of two young students in the Southern Highlands more than 35 years ago.
In September 2019, officers attached to The Hume Police District commenced an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse at a school at Burradoo in the late 1980’s.
Following extensive investigations, officers arrested a 74-year-old man at Campsie Police Station at about 10am on Tuesday 18 January 18.
He was charged with 13 offences, including five counts of sexual assault, assault and commit an act of indecency, six counts of sexual assault , incite an indecent act person under 16 years, and two counts of homosexual intercourse with male aged between 10 and 18 years.
Police will allege in court that the man sexually abused two male students, then aged 13 and 14, on numerous occasions between 1985 and 1987.
The Lakemba man was refused bail to appear at Bankstown Local Court today.
Images: Peter Andrea & Google Maps
A thousand dollar fine for a Freedom Warrior who allegedly breached public health orders at an anti-covid rally at Kiama yesterday.
The 31-year-old man was among a small group of protestors at the Kiama lighthouse after rally calls were sent out via social media posts.
Police, including the Public Order Riot team, was deployed.
He was detained by police after leaving allegedly Shellharbour in breach of stay-at-home orders.
Image: Glenn Ellard
The Nowra CBD and East Nowra have been targeted by graffiti vandals and Police are out to tag them.
It is an offence under the Graffiti Control Act to damage or deface property or be in possession of any graffiti implements.
The penalties include fines, clean-up orders, or a term of imprisonment.
Anyone who has information about illegal graffiti or can identify a ‘Tag’ should contact Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page.
Police said information will be treated in the strictest of confidence.
Images: NSW Police
After a weekend of big seas, surf and swell conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, boating, and swimming .
Authorities said people should consider staying out of the water and avoid walking near surf-exposed areas.
Rock fishers should avoid coastal rock platforms exposed to the ocean and seek a safe location that is sheltered from the surf.
Marine Area Command said Boaters planning to cross shallow water and ocean bars should consider changing or delaying their voyage.
(Jo, Mill and Rusty wave watch at Crookhaven Heads)
Boaters already on the water should carry the appropriate safety equipment and wear a lifejacket.
Boaters should remember to log on with their local Marine Rescue radio base, via VHF Radio or the Marine Rescue APP, and consider their safety management plan.
Images; Peter Andrea
Homicide Squad detectives investigating the stabbing murder of a man at a Sanctuary Point caravan park have released CCTV vision of a person and vehicle and commenced a coordinated search of waters at Sanctuary Point.
At about 8 pm on Sunday 25 July 2021, emergency services were called to a caravan park on Ethel Street at Sanctuary Point, following reports of a stabbing.
Upon arrival, officers entered a cabin and located 49-year-old David McArthur with a stab wound to his chest.
Officers attempted CPR on the man; however, he could not be revived and died at the scene.
Strike force detectives returned to the South Coast to conduct a public appeal for information as part of ongoing investigations.
Acting on information, Homicide Squad detectives, assisted by officers from South Coast Police District, coordinated a search of waters around the Sanctuary Point Boat Ramp on Wednesday, October 13.
They removed potential evidence discovered among rocks for further examination.
Police also released CCTV vision of a utility and person at the Sanctuary Point boat ramp on the night of David’s death.
Homicide Squad, Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Walpole, said the search formed part of investigations being conducted throughout the week.
“Today we have canvassed the waters around Sanctuary Point Boat Ramp, a location searched by investigators soon after David’s murder back in July,” Det Ch Insp Walpole said.
“We have also reviewed CCTV from the area, which depicts a utility and an unknown person at the location about 8pm on Sunday 25 July 2021.
“Investigators don’t believe the person or persons in this utility were involved in the murder of David McArthur, however, they may have crossed paths with those in the offending vehicle and we’re keen to speak with them," he said.
Detective Chief Inspector Walpole said, “We now have several new lines of inquiry which we are exploring.
"Our door remains open to anyone who wishes to speak with us and help David’s family get the answers they deserve," he said.
Investigations under Strike Force Frawley are continuing.
Images: NSW Police
Police have released an image of a vehicle of interest as investigations continue into the serious assault of a man at Tahmoor last month.
About 5am on Monday December 27 2021, emergency services were called to a carpark in Thirlmere Way.
Police found a 20-year-old man with serious head and facial injuries.
The man was taken to Liverpool Hospital, where he was placed in an induced coma.
He has since been released.
Officers from the Camden Police Area Command set up a crime scene and have started an investigation.
Police have released an image of a vehicle of interest, which is a small blue hatchback.
Police were told the vehicle was seen in the Tahmoor area at the time of the alleged assault.
It was later found burnt out.
Officers are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Image: NSW Police
A private jet has been forced to make an emergency landing near Nowra overnight.
Fire and Rescue NSW said the private Learjet with two people onboard made a mayday call just before 7pm last night because of a landing gear issue and requested to make an emergency landing at the HMAS Albatross airfield.
NSW Fire and Rescue, ambulance and police crews responded.
The aircraft was ordered to do a fly-over the Shoalhaven Bight and make an emergency fuel dump.
Emergency crews did a visual inspection of the plane's nose-wheel which was reportedly out-of-alignment before it made a safe touchdown at the Navy base.
The aircraft remains on the tarmac and will be assessed later this morning.
No-one was injured.
Images: Fire and Rescue NSW Nowra and Google Maps
A Kangaroo Valley cop is planning to put his body through ten hours of physical hell to help prevent youth suicide.
37-year-old Senior Constable Todd Cremer is raising money and awareness for the "Alive" youth suicide prevention program, which is looking to expand to the Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands.
Alive’s mission is to end youth suicide by providing in-house suicide prevention programs that build resilience, connection, and well-being that young people love.
Helping them not simply to survive, but to thrive and be fully alive!
He's hoping to raise 10-thousand dollars by doing 4-thousand burpees from dusk till dawn beginning on Friday the 10th of September.
Todd's fundraising page is Burpees for a Cause
Image: Supplied
Police are reminding the community of changed traffic conditions and road closures around the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions for L’Étape Australia this weekend.
In its fifth year, L’Étape Australia by Tour de France, is a world-class road cycling event for amateur cyclists run under professional conditions.
Four thousand cyclists are expected to compete in the event this Saturday (20 March 2021), which starts and finishes in Kiama.
Major road closures and contraflow arrangements will be in place.
With wet weather expected throughout the week and across the weekend, police are advising all road users to show extra caution and remain alert while on the road.
Lake Illawarra Police District Commander, Detective Superintendent Dean Smith, said safety is the number one priority for police.
“We are asking that the community remains respectful and courteous to other spectators, race participants, employees, volunteers at the event, police and local communities,” Det Supt Smith said.
“We will not tolerate any behaviour that deliberately disrupts the event or puts others in danger.
"It is important that everyone obeys the direction of police, traffic management crews, and event officials.
“If there is heavy rain or the roadway is flooded, pull over in a safe place and wait for the flood water to recede or find another way to your destination.”
There are two components to the event; ‘The Race’ that starts and finishes in Kiama – involving around 3,000 riders – and ‘The Ride’ which starts in Kiama and finishes in Berry – involving 1,000 riders.
The routes travel through the towns of Kiama, Gerringong, Gerroa, Shoalhaven Heads, Bomaderry, Berry, Kangaroo Valley, Robertson and Jamberoo.
The Race: Delays will be experienced along the Princes Highway north of Gerringong and south of Kiama. Road closures will include Kangaroo Valley Road, portions of the Illawarra Highway, Moss Vale Road and Jamberoo Mountain Road at Robertson.
There will also be closures down Jamberoo Mountain through the township of Jamberoo, Saddleback Mountain Road and Manning Street, Kiama.
The Ride: Road closures will be on place on Bolong Road and Coolangatta Road between Shoalhaven Heads and Bomaderry, as well as Coolangatta Road between Shoalhaven Heads and Berry.
Roads will begin closing at 4am and will progressively open throughout the day, with all closures expected to be lifted by 5pm.
A route map can be found via the L’Étape Australia website: https://letapeaustralia.com/routes/
In the interest of road safety, both pedestrians and motorists need to be aware of their responsibilities and make sure they obey all directions from police and traffic controllers.
For more detail about road closures and live traffic reports, refer to the live traffic website: www.livetraffic.com
In a bizarre incident, police stopped a Holden utility on Mount Ousley Road today when they noticed a man sitting on a garden chair in the tray of the ute, accompanied by his dog.
Police say the vehicle tray was loaded up with household items, as well as the man on a chair, and heading south from Airds to Ulladulla.
The male driver, his inside passenger and the man in the back of the ute claimed they weren't aware that what they were doing was wrong.
The driver copped a $349 fine and loss of three demerit points, while the man in the back was issued an infringement notice for travel in an unenclosed part of vehicle for carrying goods, and was also fined $349.
Photo South Coast Police
A man has been charged after allegedly defrauding an elderly woman of almost $25,000.
Earlier this month, an 81-year-old woman was contacted via a social media messaging service by a person claiming to be an agent from the Australian Federal Police
He allegedly instructed the woman to attend a bank on two separate occasions to withdraw a total of $24,000.
On each occasion, an agent named ‘Alex’ attended her home to collect the money.
The woman yesterday again went to a bank branch at Narellan and spoke to staff who notified police.
Detectives from Camden Police attended and commenced an investigation.
A 36-year-old man was arrested outside the woman’s Harrington Park home.
During a search of his vehicle, investigators allegedly located an envelope containing $12,800 cash, withdrawn from a Bowral bank branch.
He is charged with two counts of obtaining property by deception, attempt to obtain property by deception, and recklessly deal with proceeds of crime.
The Bankstown man was refused bail to appear at the Picton Local Court.
Police are warning the public not to provide any personal information over the phone and to contact their local police station should they receive a phone call from someone they don’t know requesting money.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Camden detectives or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Image: Peter Andrea
A man has been injured after an alleged glassing attack on the Southern highlands.
Just after 6pm Saturday officers attached to The Hume Police District were called to a licensed premises on Moss Vale Road, Burradoo, following reports a man had been injured in a fight.
Police have been told a 54-year-old man was sitting at the bar when he was approached by a man aged in his 40s and woman aged in her late teens, before an argument broke out between the older man and the woman.
The woman allegedly struck the older man in the face with a wine glass before the 47-year-old punched the older man in the face.
The 54 year old was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Bowral Hospital.
Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward and call Southern Highlands Police on 4868 1222 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Images: Pixabay & Bowral Hospital Facebook
A 53-year-old Cootamundra man who hasn't been seen since Thursday November 18 could be on the South Coast.
Police have concerns for the welfare of Shane Lloyd-Jones because of a medical condition and said his disappearance is out of character.
Police said while he lives in the Riverina, he has links to the South Coast.
"While extensive inquiries have been conducted, Shane has not been found," Police said.
Shane is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175cm-180cm tall with a large build, brown/grey shoulder-length hair and a beard.
Anyone information about his whereabouts can be provided by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Image: NSW Police
A Mollymook mother is appealing for people to be proactive about racism after her two Australian Egyptian sons were attacked in a Mollymook Park on Monday afternoon.
Emily Richardson says her sons, Ziad aged 18 and Nazar, 15, were set upon at a park in Mitchell Parade by two men and a woman who threw bottles and racially abused them before jumping on the bonnet of their car and smashing the windscreen.
Police were called and arrested one of the alleged attackers, a man in his 20s, who will face Milton Court in January.
Ms Richardson has received incredible support from the community, however she says it's not the first time her sons have been the victims of racism.
"I keep telling the boys take the high road - you can't react badly because that's just giving them what they want," she said.
"I tell them to just try and be the peacemaker.
"You can't change people's attitudes if you react in anger, but it's getting harder because they are angry when these things happen.
"How many more times will I have to tell them to de-escalate, to take the high road, that they can't control other people's actions, they can only control their own reactions?"
Ms Richardson said her sons were scared and jumped in their car to try and get away.
"They called them the N-word, they hurled racial slurs at them and threw beer bottles at them," she said.
"Then, for good measure, one of them jumped on our car and kicked in the windscreen."
Ms Richardson says she has had "incredible" support from the community, including Shoalhaven Mayor Amanda Findley who said she was "really shocked that this happened just down the road from where I live".
"I’m not that naive to think that racism doesn’t exist in our city - for it most certainly does - but we need to find a way to get rid of it - it serves only hateful purpose," Cr Findley added.
"Nazar and Ziad are beautiful young men respected by their peers and loved in this community."
Ms Richardson is calling for people in the community to take a stand against racism and be proactive.
"It's not enough anymore to say you're not racist," she said, "being not racist and being anti-racist is not the same thing - one is passive, the other is active.
"Don't think that this kind of stuff isn't happening, because it is. Regularly. Often. All the time."
Ziad was the 2020 vice captain at Ulladulla High School and was awarded the year 12 Citizenship Award on Monday.
He plays basketball with the Illawarra Hawkes and is a member of the Mollymook Surf Lifesaving Club.
He has been offered early entry into Wollongong University and, in his school leadership role, has advocated strongly against racism, encouraging students to show their support by wearing one black and one white sock.
Nazar is the former school captain of Milton Public School and both boys have been involved in the Milton Follies Theatre group and played in representative basketball teams.
Photo supplied.
A man arrested in Nowra yesterday has been charged over two break-ins, as well as an outstanding arrest warrant.
About 12.10am on Wednesday a hammer was thrown through the window of a store along the Princes Highway in Nowra and a man was seen inside, however no property was taken.
An hour later, a man attended a service station on Kinghorne Street, Nowra, allegedly damaging the glass doors before leaving without gaining entry.
Police investigating the incidents arrested a 33-year-old man at a home in Abergeldie Street, Nowra, about 10.15am yesterday (Thursday, January 13).
He was taken to Nowra Police Station where he was charged with an outstanding warrant for two counts of resisting an officer in execution of duty, as well as two counts of break and enter with intent.
He was refused bail to appear in Nowra Local Court today.
Image: 2ST newsroom
A man has been injured in an alleged stabbing in Nowra overnight.
Police and ambulance were called to a home at Schregel street at about 9oclock.
It's reported the man had a two stab wounds.
He was taken to Shoalhaven hospital in a stable condition.
Police are investigating.
Image; NSW Police
Robbery and Serious Crime Squad detectives are appealing for information after silver bullion valued at $1 million was stolen from a truck travelling between Sydney and Melbourne while on the Highlands.
Between 4.30pm on Friday 26 November 2021 and 8am on Monday 29 November 2021, a consignment of silver disappeared from a truck while in transit from Maldon, near Picton, to Melbourne in Victoria.
The theft was only discovered when the truck arrived in Melbourne.
Officers from Camden Police Area Command were notified.
The consignment, made up of 192 individual 5kg bars, was being transported by a Kenworth truck and silver Krueger trailer.
The silver bullion is estimated to be worth $1,015,000.
Following initial investigations by local police, State Crime Command’s Robbery and Serious Crime Squad detectives took carriage of the investigation under Strike Force Caimon.
Police are appealing for anyone with information about the incident, or who may have seen the Kenworth truck and Krueger trailer while in transit, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Images: NSW Police
The NSW Police Force will launch Operation STAY AT HOME from 12.01am Monday 16 August 2021, in a significant boost to public health order enforcement efforts across the state.
The operation will utilise resources from all Police Districts and Police Area Commands under Metropolitan and Regional Field Operations alongside officers attached to Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Police Transport Command, Dog and Mounted Unit, and a number of other specialist commands as required.
Significantly, 1400 officers attached to Traffic and Highway Patrol Command will be dedicated to both static and mobile COVID-19 compliance operations on the state’s roads.
A further 500 Australian Defence Force troops, in addition to the 300 already deployed, will assist with compliance checks and patrols.
Operation STAY AT HOME will be coordinated from the Police Operations Centre (POC) in Sydney under the command of Acting Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said the NSW Government was supporting the Commissioner’s call for assistance in the most practical way.
“The Commissioner asked for tighter Public Health Orders and the government agreed, the Commissioner asked for higher fines and the Government agreed, and the Commissioner asked for more ADF personnel and we have an additional 500 highly-trained ADF personnel arriving to assist,” Mr Elliott said.
“We’ve had to tighten the current public health orders because of the minority who exploited them. Enough is enough. If you do it, you will get fined.
“The only way out of this COVID-19 crisis is if we support each other and support the NSW Police-led compliance operation, Operation STAY AT HOME.”
Deputy Commissioner Mal Lanyon, Metropolitan Field Operations, said the operation would see more police on the ground across Greater Sydney, utilising some of the strongest powers ever given to police.
“The level of non-compliance by some members of the community is unacceptable and we will be doubling down with compliance and enforcement to make sure we get ahead of the Delta strain,” Deputy Commissioner Lanyon said.
“It only takes one person to do the wrong thing to facilitate considerable spread of the virus.
“We will be issuing $5000 fines to people and closing any businesses which continue to breach the health orders, and will not apologise for these increased enforcement efforts going forward.”
Deputy Commissioner Mick Willing, Regional NSW Field Operations, said preventing movement to regional areas from Sydney, and between regional areas, would be a key focus of the operation.
“There will be more roadblocks on main arterial roads and backroads from tomorrow, and these operations will continue to expand throughout this week in order to enforce the permit system announced by the NSW Government this morning,” Deputy Commissioner Willing said.
“There will be nowhere to hide if you are doing the wrong thing. If you travel anywhere beyond your LGA at the moment, you are putting everyone else in NSW at considerable risk.
“From the start, this has been about reducing movement across the state and protecting the health and safety of everyone, and this operation significantly strengthens those efforts.”
Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
Image: Supplied
Police are out in numbers during Operation Stay at Home, which is enforcing the NSW Government's statewide lockdown.
A checkpoint has been set up at Bombo near Kiama to prevent those locked down in Greater Sydney from trying to get to the Shoalhaven and South Coast.
Police will also be cruising arterial roads and back roads, as well as patrolling roadside rest stops and transport hubs, to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
Anyone traveling into the regions must apply for a permit.
There are fines ranging between $500 to $5000 for those caught breaching Public Health Orders.
Images: Supplied
An 18-year-old P plater has been busted doing 146km/h on the Princes Highway at Gerringong while being restricted to 90km/h an hour.
The young male driver told Lake Illawarra Highway patrol that he was heading to Nowra to collect some goods for work.
Police said he was fined $2547 for exceeding the speed limit greater than 45km/h and deducted six demerit points.
His licence was also suspended and confiscated by police for six months.
Image: Traffic and Highway Patrol Command
Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from the Minto area, who was last seen in Kiama.
Sathyendra Subbanna, 62, was reported missing to officers attached to Campbelltown City Police Area Command on January 13, after he failed to return to work after time off.
Initial inquiries revealed he was last seen leaving a home on Cochrane Street, Minto, on December 14.
He has since been seen on CCTV footage leaving a hotel on Bong Bong Street, Kiama, about 9am on Tuesday, January 18.
Police hold serious concerns for Sathyendra’s welfare.
Sathyendra is described as being of Indian Sub- Continental appearance, about 165cm tall, of medium build, with short grey hair and grey/white moustache.
He was seen wearing black button up shirt, black jacket, black long pants, black and white shoes, black hat and carrying a white/grey backpack with a large yellow smiley face.
He is known to frequent the Campbelltown area and areas of the South Coast including Kiama and Jervis Bay.
Anyone with information about Sathyendra’s whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Images: NSW Police
Police have released multiple images of man as part of an investigation into an incident at Kiama Train Station.
Wollongong Police Transit Command are appealing for public assistance to identify the male.
Police said they would like to speak with the man in relation to an incident at Kiama Station on Wednesday April 28.
Any information can be provided by calling Wollongong Transit Police on 4220 2405 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Images: Lake Illawarra Police District
Police are hunting a man after a robbery at a Bomaderry Service station on the Princes Highway overnight.
A female attendant was confronted by the offender who demanded money at about five past nine.
He took off with cash and was last seen heading north on the Princes Highway in a black Holden Commodore.
Police arrived a short time later and established a crime scene.
Investigations continue into the robbery.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
Image: Greg Ellard
A man has died following a stabbing at Sanctuary Point overnight.
About 8 pm on Sunday, July 25, emergency services were called to a caravan park on Ethel Street, Sanctuary Point, after reports of a stabbing.
Upon arrival, officers attached to South Coast Police District entered a cabin and located a man, aged 49, with a stab wound to the chest.
Officers attempted CPR on the man, however, he could not be revived and died at the scene.
Police were told a man was seen running from the caravan park, shortly after the incident.
A crime scene was established and an investigation has commenced into the circumstances surrounding the man’s death.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Bay and Basin Police Station or Nowra Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Inquiries continue.
Image: Supplied
A man is due before Nowra Local Court charged with seven offences after his arrest at Sanctuary Point.
Police were patrolling Idlewild Avenue on Tuesday evening when saw a motorcyclist riding on the footpath without a helmet.
It's alleged he was also carrying a long object wrapped in fabric.
Officers pulled him over to speak with him and noticed the 26-year-old no longer had the object with him.
Police were approached by a man who handed them the long object that had been discarded nearby, which was found to be an air rifle.
Further checks revealed the motorcycle was unregistered and the man was allegedly in possession of methylamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.
The alleged offender was taken to Nowra Police station and charged with seven offences including not keep a firearm safely, possess an unregistered firearm in a public place, and possess a prohibited drug.
Image: Peter Andrea
Police have allegedly discovered a cache of homemade weapons during a car search at Nowra yesterday.
Officers pulled over a vehicle just after midday at the intersection of McDonalds Avenue and Albatross road.
They searched the 24-year-old driver and allegedly found a live round of ammunition and a spent cartridge.
They then searched the car and seized a homemade handgun, a homemade rifle, a homemade shotgun and a machete.
The driver and a 28-year-old passenger were both taken to Nowra Police station - the 24-year-old charged with firearms offences and was refused bail.
The other man was released pending further inquiries.
Image: Glenn Ellard
Detectives have released CCTV images as they continue to investigate an armed robbery at an Ulladulla newsagency in late April.
Just before midday on Thursday April 29, a man – armed with a knife and with a stocking covering his face – entered the business on Wason Street and threatened a 53-year-old female employee.
Another employee, a 49-year-old man, intervened and handed the man cash before he fled.
Police believe the robber then took off in an older model red ford sedan.
The suspect is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander in appearance, aged in his late 20s, about 175cm to 180cm tall with stubble.
Any information can be provided by calling Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.
Images: NSW Police
South Coast Police District Commander and Region Sponsor for Domestic Violence, Superintendent Greg Moore, said there was no excuse for domestic and family violence as police launched a proactive operation targeting high-risk domestic-violence offenders.
The 16-day operation that started this week will ensure offenders are held accountable for their actions, according to Superintendent Moore.
As part of the operation South Coast police are putting repeat domestic violence offenders under the microscope.
“There is no excuse for domestic and family violence and our proactive operation will continue to target high-risk domestic-violence offenders and ensure they are held accountable for their actions,” Superintendent Moore said.
“Police remain committed to helping victims of domestic violence and will not hesitate in bringing offenders to justice.”
During the state-wide operation, police will implement a number of proactive strategies including, Apprehended Domestic Violence Order compliance checks, proactive checks targeting known offenders and providing additional support to at-risk victims.
The 16-day operation started yesterday, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
It will continue until World Human Rights Day on December 10.
Since this time last year, more than 16,000 checks have been conducted across Southern Region, to ensure apprehended domestic violence orders are being complied with.
In addition to policing strategies, officers from the Southern Region will be involved in community events being held across the local police districts.
If you, or anyone you know has experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence, contact your local police. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
Support is available via the following helplines –
Police from Strike Force Summer Safe are targeting the Shoalhaven's small villages and local roads as part of the crackdown on people doing the wrong thing.
And they say people breaking the law will be caught, regardless of where they are.
Police are focusing on the Four Ds - drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving to keep the community safe.
Highway Patrol Officers from Traffic South are involved in the strike force, and say their focus is shifting away from the highways and main roads and onto the Shoalhaven's small villages and local roads.
And with police active in small towns they warn anyone breaking the law will be caught - regardless of where they are.
Police are reminding road users to obey the road rules and slow down.
People who get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle with drugs or alcohol in their system pose a serious danger to themselves and other road users, and police will be taking all necessary action to stop people engaging in risky behaviour on the roads.
Police have released CCTV images and are appealing for public assistance after a man damaged the front entrance to Nowra's Roxy Cinema on Wednesday night.
The man poured petrol on the cinema's front doors just before 11.00pm and attempted to light it.
He then retrieved an axe from his vehicle and hit the doors, breaking them.
He then climbed on top of an air conditioning unit and damaged the CCTV camera.
The car is described as a white Mitsubishi Triton which was pulling a trailer.
The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance, thin build and unshaven.
He was wearing a navy-blue long-sleeved jumper and a navy-blue cap with black sunglasses on his head.
Officers from South Coast Police District are investigating and are appealing for anyone with information to contact the Nowra Police Station on 4421 9699 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Images: NSW Police
Police have released the name of a man who was allegedly murdered at a Shoalhaven caravan park earlier this year.
He's been formally identified as 49-year-old Sanctuary Point resident, David McArthur.
David's father Stuart McArthur is expected to speak publically about his son's murder today.
Emergency services were called to a caravan park on Ethel Street at Sanctuary Point at about 8 pm on Sunday 25 July 2021, following reports of a stabbing.
Upon arrival, officers entered a cabin and located Mr. McArthur with a stab wound to his chest.
Officers attempted CPR, however, he could not be revived and died at the scene.
A man was seen running from the Palm Beach caravan park at about the same time.
Initial inquiries were conducted by officers from South Coast Police District before detectives from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad took over the investigation, forming Strike Force Frawley.
Strike force detectives have returned to the region and are again appealing for public assistance into David’s murder.
Strike force officers and David's father Stuart McArthur will speak publically at a press conference later this morning.
Images: NSW Police
A three-year-old boy is still missing almost two days after his disappearance from his family's rural property in the NSW Hunter region.
Hundreds of volunteers and police have been scouring bushland for Anthony "AJ" Elfalak around his family's 260-hectare farm at Putty, near Singleton, since he went missing about 11.45 am on Friday.
Police were still searching for the toddler, who has autism and is non-verbal, as of 7 am on Sunday.
Officers were looking into whether an amber alert needed to be issued, indicating AJ had been abducted on Saturday, but are yet to do so.
"At this point in time AJ remains missing, and our search continues," Superintendent Tracy Chapman told reporters on Saturday.
AJ's relatives fear he may have been taken from the property, family friend Alan Hashem wrote in a Facebook post, appealing for community members to keep an eye out for the child.
"No words other than, 'broken' we will not stop, until we find this precious boy! AJ Elfalak," he wrote on Saturday night.
NSW police have issued a geo-targeted message asking people in the area to look out for the child.
More than 100 volunteers are assisting police on foot and on dirt bikes, but police discouraged any more volunteers from coming forward to search on Saturday.
Divers also searched a large dam on the property, which was also drained during the search.
AJ is believed to be wearing a grey jumper and pants, as well as sneakers, and is described as being of Mediterranean or Middle Eastern appearance, with short, dark hair.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
Image: NSW Police
A second man has been arrested over the stabbing murder of Sanctuary Point man David McArthur.
On Wednesday, October 20 detectives attended a correctional facility at Silverwater and charged a 39-year-old man with murder.
He remains before the courts.
Following further inquiries, a search warrant was executed at a home in Nowra about 7.30 am today.
During a search of the property, detectives seized a vehicle and clothing which will undergo further forensic examination.
A 41-year-old man was arrested at the property and taken to Nowra Police Station where it’s expected he will be charged with murder.
Emergency services were called to a caravan park on Ethel Street at Sanctuary Point on Sunday, July 25 at about 8 pm following reports of a stabbing.
Upon arrival, officers entered a cabin and located 49-year-old David McArthur with a stab wound to his chest.
Officers attempted CPR however he could not be revived and died at the scene.
Images: NSW Police
Despite repeated warnings about a traffic blitz, Police are amazed and angered about the number of motorists caught for drug driving in the Shoalhaven and South Coast during the June long weekend.
10 drivers were over-the-limit returning positive roadside breath tests and 22 tested positive for driving with drugs in their system.
South Region Traffic and Highway Patrol Command Chief Inspector Bob Pedersen said "It is extremely disappointing, it's becoming more prevalent than alcohol at this stage."
He said "The incidences of drug driving is abhorrent at this stage, all over the state."
"There have been masses of people who have been caught driving with drugs in their system." Chief Inspector Pedersen said.
He added "Anyone who is affected should not be behind the wheel of a motor vehicle."
There were no fatalities on Shoalhaven - South Coast roads and crashes were down on last year.
129 drivers were caught speeding and another 96 offences detected.
Images: supplied
South Coast Council areas have seen mixed results in the latest crime statistics report.
The Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands experienced a major increase in reports of sexual assault during March, according to the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.
The report released yesterday show the Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands had an average of 13 reported sexual assaults each month, but that nearly doubled to 25 during March.
Officials praised the courage of victims and survivors who have come forward.
They believe the increased number of reports has been influenced by several high-profile cases that have drawn intense media coverage.
Kiama has seen a drop in non-domestic violence-related assault, but there's been an increase in malicious damage to property.
There's an increase in sexual assault and fraud across Shellharbour, but a drop in break and enters, and steal from motor vehicle.
Images: Supplied
The body of a teenage boy has been located in the Shoalhaven River.
About 6.30pm on Friday 31 December 2021, two teenage boys, aged 15 and 16, went for a swim in the Shoalhaven River at Burrier, when one of the teens got into difficulty.
The pair attempted to get back to shore, before one of the boys, aged 15, disappeared below the water and emergency services were alerted as members of the public commenced a search.
A joint multi-agency search has been conducted involving officers from South Coast Police District, police divers, NSW Ambulance, the TOLL rescue helicopter and the State Emergency Service (SES).
Just before 1.30pm on Saturday January 1 2021, the body of the 15-year-old was recovered after being located by divers in the river.
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Image: Google Maps & Destination Shoalhaven
Emergency response in the South Coast region has been boosted after the handover of three state-of-the-art vehicles to the NSW State Emergency Service at Nowra and St Georges basin yesterday.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott joined the Member for South Coast Shelley Hancock and NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York to officially handover a $185,000 ‘Light Storm Vehicle’ to the NSW SES Nowra Unit, and to attend the NSW SES St Georges Basin Unit to handover a $185,000 ‘Light Storm Vehicle’ and a $90,000 ‘General Purpose’ vehicle.
Mr Elliott said the new equipment forms part of the $56.4 million NSW SES fleet replacement program funded by the NSW Government over four years.
“These volunteers are out in extreme weather events helping fellow community members during times of need,” Mr Elliott said.
“I am committed to supplying them with the tools they need to carry out their invaluable work,” Minister Elliott said.
Member for South Coast Shelley Hancock said the vehicles were a welcome addition for the local communities.
“These vehicles mean the Nowra and St Georges Basin communities are protected by the best possible equipment as we head into the storm season,” Mrs Hancock said.
“The vehicles and the SES Volunteers that man them will be a welcome sight during any emergency.”
NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York welcomed the new additions, saying the vehicles will be of great assistance to volunteers in emergency response situations.
“It is crucial that our volunteers have access to vehicles that are well-equipped to combat the difficult circumstances they face during an emergency,” said Commissioner York.
“These vehicles will be used daily by NSW SES volunteers as they work to prepare communities for severe weather and support those impacted by floods and storms,” Commissioner York said.
The minister also commissioned a new rescue vessel at the Sussex Inlet Marine Rescue headquarters.
Photos supplied.
A new Marine Rescue vessel was also commissioned at Sussex Inlet. Story HERE
A woman aged in her 50's is recovering in hospital after a crash on Kangaloon Road.
The incident took place around 8:30 yesterday morning just west of the public school.
The woman rolled her vehicle and hit a tree.
She was trapped for a period of time before Emergency crews got her out.
The woman was airlifted to Liverpool hospital in a serious but stable condition.
Image: Toll Rescue Helicopter
A serving police officer has been charged with drink driving on the state’s South Coast.
On Friday the 7th of May 2021, officers from South Coast Police District commenced an investigation after receiving reports a 40-year-old man allegedly drove his vehicle under the influence of alcohol while off-duty.
Following inquiries, the man, who is a detective senior constable attached to a command in the Southern Region, was issued a Future Court Attendance Notice for drive whilst under the influence of alcohol.
He is due to appear before Cooma Local Court on Wednesday 22 September 2021.
His employment status is under review and his driver’s licence has been suspended.
Image: Supplied
Police have arrested a suspect after an alleged armed holdup in the Shoalhaven.
Officers attended the IGA supermarket in Island Point Road, St Georges Basin on Friday night at about 6 pm after reports a man had threatened staff with a knife before running from the scene with an amount of cash.
The man was chased by several witnesses to the backyard of a house in St Georges Road.
The Dog Squad arrested a 19-year-old man at the scene, and he is assisting police with inquiries.
Detective from South Coast Police District have commenced an investigation.
Image: Peter Andrea
Strike Force Summer Safe is continuing over the Summer holiday period, with increased Police patrols across the Coast and Highlands.
Highway Patrol Officers from Traffic South will be focusing on the Four Ds, including drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving.
And they're not just patrolling highways and main roads, they're also keeping an eye on small towns and local roads.
Road users are being asked to obey the road rules and slow down.
Image: Hume Police District
Detectives from State Crime Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad have arrested eight men and seized mobile phones, electronic items and illicit drugs, as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged transmission of child abuse material through an adult telephone service.
Earlier this year, Child Exploitation Internet Unit investigators established Strike Force Hank to investigate an adult telephone chat service used by a number of men to allegedly arrange the dissemination of child abuse material and discuss the sexual abuse of children.
Detectives have executed seven search warrants at locations across NSW, including Petersham, Cranebrook, Coffs Harbour, Shoal Bay, Gerroa, Surry Hills, and Stanmore.
During a subsequent search of the homes at Stanmore and Coffs Harbour, police allegedly located and seized quantities of cannabis.
Additionally, mobiles phones and electronic devices were located and seized for further forensic analysis from all seven locations.
Seven men, aged between 34 and 71, were arrested and charged over their alleged involvement in the chat service.
They remain before the courts.
Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Jayne Doherty, said the investigation had uncovered alleged chat participants who were aggressive in their pursuit of child sex offending.
“We will allege that each of the men arrested by detectives over the past month expressed desires to engage in sexual activity with children, and in some cases, attempted to access child abuse material from other users of the service,” Det. Supt Doherty said.
Det. Supt Doherty said, “Producing, disseminating or possessing child abuse material are serious offences, and detectives will continue to dismantle these types of operations, so children are free from harmful situations, exploitation and abuse.”
Investigations under Strike Force Hank continue.
Images: NSW Police
The Shoalhaven Emergency Services Community awards for 2021 were announced overnight at the Dunn and Lewis Centre in Ulladulla.
Winners were NSW Ambulance officer Tara Picker, the Fire and Rescue NSW award winner was John Dun and the Rural Fire Fighter award was earned by Ronald (John) Ashton.
The State Emergency Service NSW award recipient was Allan Pheeney and William (Patch) Welch is the Marine Rescue NSW award winner.
The Shoalhaven Officer of the Year award was earned by Senior Constable Kyle Wilson from the NSW Police.
Image: Graham McGillivray
Kiama MP Gareth Ward could face charges of sexual violence against two males following a Police investigation.
NSW Police media this morning provided the following statement.
'Detectives from the Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad previously established Strike Force Condello to investigate allegations of sexual violence-related offences against a 39-year-old man.
The incidents were reported to have occurred in 2013 and 2015.
The 2013 incident involves a man, then aged 25, and the 2015 incident involves a male, then aged 17.
New South Wales Police have now submitted a brief of evidence to The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (NSW) in relation to those individual matters.
Investigations are continuing and no further information is available.'
Mr Ward has denied any wrongdoing since being informed of the allegations by a journalist and has said he is yet to be interviewed by Police over the allegations.
He has resigned from the Liberal Party to sit on the cross-bench.
Mr Ward also resigned as Families, Communities and Disability Services Minister.
Gareth Ward's Kiama electorate office said Mr Ward is aware of the Police Media statement and on advice from his lawyers is declining to make any comment at the moment.
Images: supplied
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A third man has been charged over the murder of Sanctuary Point man David McArthur.
Emergency services were called to a caravan park in Ethel Street, Sanctuary Point, about 8pm on July 25 following reports of a stabbing.
They found 49-year-old Mr McArthur on the floor of his cabin near the doorway, suffering a single stab wound to his chest.
Officers attempted CPR, but Mr McArthur could not be revived and died at the scene.
After detectives from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad took charge of the investigation under Strike Force Frawley, two men were charged over their alleged involvement in the murder and remain before the courts.
Following further inquiries, a 42-year-old man was arrested in Nowra about 7.30am Tuesday.
He was taken to Nowra Police Station and charged with concealing a serious indictable offence.
Police allege the man attended the caravan park with two other men on the night of the alleged murder, and subsequently failed to assist investigators looking into the 49-year-old man’s death.
The Nowra man has been refused bail to appear at Nowra Local Court today.
Image: NSW Police
Shoalhaven City Council has revealed the lives of three children were put at risk when they were rescued from fast flowing water after the Swan Lake entrance was allegedly illegally opened.
The artificial opening at Swan Lake was carried out by members of the public on 12 January 2022.
Shoalhaven City Council Manager of Environment Services, Dr Michael Roberts said NSW Police had advised council of three rescues involving children, who had been put at peril by the fast flowing water.
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries were alerted and will be enacting their compliance functions.
Council Rangers have also been in the area carrying out investigations as the artificial opening of the lake is an illegal activity as these works were not carried out in relation to the water trigger levels and Entrance Management Policy (EMP).
The intervention works created a 20-30-metre-wide channel, which poses a public safety risk.
People need to be made aware of the danger this has created.
The channel, when opened by natural means or by Council, is located to the south adjoining the rock platform.
This does not typically create a channel like the one that has formed from the recent artificial intervention.
Pending rainfall and tidal behaviour, it is expected that the sand bar will re-establish in four to eight weeks and return Swan Lake back to its natural form.
The entrance cannot be closed using any further artificial intervention.
In the meantime, signs have been posted by Council to alert the public to the swimming hazard.
Shoalhaven City Council Manager of Environment Services, Dr Michael Roberts said, “This channel, between Swan Lake and the ocean, has resulted in the lake artificially opening at too low a water level and in unsuitable conditions.
"This may lead to significant adverse environmental impacts on Swan Lake, such as low oxygen levels, associated fish kills as well as a significant swimming hazard," he said.
“It is an offence to open coastal lakes, or lagoons, using machinery or by hand, without a licence and could result in penalties of up to $220,000 per offence.” Dr. Roberts said.
Council operates an Entrance Management Policy for Swan Lake, and other coastal lakes in the Shoalhaven region, with licenses from various State Government Agencies.
This Policy allows Council to mechanically open Swan Lake to the ocean with an excavator to prevent flooding of low-lying properties surrounding the lake when the water level rises, typically following a large rainfall event, to a specific trigger level.
Images: Dr Michael Roberts & NSW Environment
A truck fire is causing delays on the Hume Highway near Marulan.
Emergency services responded to reports of a truck alight along the northbound lanes of the Hume Highway, Marulan at about 1.30 this morning.
The fire was extinguished by NSW Fire and Rescue.
Significant damage was sustained to the truck.
It is believed the truck was carrying a large volume of paint and batteries which are now the subject of a clean-up operation.
Officers from The Hume Police District attended and implemented a traffic diversion.
All northbound lanes of the Hume Highway are currently closed, one southbound lane is also closed.
Traffic is being diverted for 3km from George Street through the township of Marulan.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area.
Delays are expected until at least mid-morning.
There are no reports of injuries.
Inquiries are continuing into the cause of the fire.
Image: Google Maps
Two men have been extradited from Queensland and charged over an alleged armed robbery at Sussex Inlet in 2019.
The State Crime Command’s Robbery and Serious Crime Squad established Strike Force Dalwood to investigate an armed robbery at a registered club in Sussex Inlet on Thursday 25 July 2019.
Police allege in court two men forced entry to the premises, one armed with a firearm and sledgehammer, the other armed with a machete and sledgehammer, and threatened six staff members, before locking them in a room and stealing cash.
No one was injured during the incident.
Following extensive inquiries, strike force detectives raided two addresses in Broadbeach, Queensland, where they arrested two men, aged 34 and 43.
The men were taken to Southport Magistrates Court where detectives applied for and were granted their extradition to NSW.
The pair were remanded in custody and taken to Tweed Heads Police Station where they were both charged with robbery while armed with a dangerous weapon.
Images; Sussex Inlet Bowling Club
More than 140 illegal, unregistered and unwanted firearms have been surrendered to Southern Region Police during the National Firearms Amnesty which began on July 1st.
The aim of the amnesty is to reduce the number of unregistered firearms in our homes and communities, making our streets safer.
In New South Wales, the amnesty allows for,
Southern Region Police Commander Superintendent Greg Moore said, "It is in everyone's interest to get illegal or unregistered weapons handed in and out of harm's way".
"Since the first of July just in the South Coast Police District, we've had 140 firearms handed in so that's great to see, but we'd like to see that continue because we know there's more out there," he said.
Superintendent Moore is urging people to ensure weapons are stored legally and securely to, "avoid those firearms ending up on our streets in the hands of dangerous people."
Images; NSW Police & Crimestoppers
Updated NSW Ambulance information........ Emergency crews are working to free a woman, believed to be in her twenties, trapped in a vehicle which has crashed into a house on the Princes Highway at Milton on the South Coast.
The Toll rescue helicopter with a critical care doctor and paramedic on-board is on its way to the scene.
A NSW Ambulance spokesperson said the crash happened at about 7.30pm.
At this stage its not known whether anyone inside the house has been injured.
Image: Supplied
Kiama MP Gareth Ward is back advocating for his electorate in the wake of sexual violence allegations that surfaced via a journalist just over a month ago.
Ward is yet to be interviewed by police despite the allegations forcing him to step down from the Liberal party and as Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services.
"I haven't received any advice as to what the allegations are.
"They (Police) have a job to do and I'm not reflecting on that at all," Ward said.
Ward denies any wrongdoing and has maintained that position since the allegations surfaced on May 13.
"These allegations were put to me by a journalist.
"How that journalist found out about those allegations is a matter for conjecture.
"I can't allow what might be happening in the background to detract me from the important work I have as a local member of parliament," he said.
Ward has a number of items on his work agenda.
He has launched a petition calling on the NSW government to allocate much needed funding to upgrade Bomaderry High in the state budget.
"I've still been working and I think because of what's been suggested through a journalist, obviously that carries with it a huge burden but I want people to know that I'm still working and still delivering as the local member.
"That's what I'll always continue to do while I've got the privilege of being the local member of parliament," he said.
Ward said he would not seek out NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller to find out exactly where the investigation is at and what the allegations are.
"That would be entirely inappropriate.
"It's an independent Police investigation, that's a matter for Police," Ward said.
The Premier was shocked and distressed by the claims but Ward wouldn't be drawn into revealing if and what support Gladys Berejiklian has offered him since.
"I'm not going to comment on what other people may or may not be doing.
"My focus is getting on with the job.
"Whatever may be happening in the background, that's a matter for those that are dealing with those matters.
"I'm not going to let it detract from my focus as the local member which is the job I love, the community I love and is what is so important to me right now and always will be," he said.
Ward laughed off a question about whether or not he will ever return to the Liberal party.
"Oh look, let's just see what happens with the investigation.
"As I say that's a matter for Police and I have every confidence and faith that they will thoroughly investigate," Ward said.
Written by Travis Winks
Images: Gareth Ward Facebook
Police are trying to track down two men after a wild duck was killed at Mittagong.
Last Saturday, Officers from the Hume Police District received reports of alleged animal cruelty at a registered club car park on the Old Hume Highway.
It's believed two men chased a flock of wild ducks in the car park, before one of them was caught and decapitated by one of the men.
The pair fled the scene a short time later and police were contacted.
Police have released images of two men.
One is described as being of Caucasian appearance, of medium build, and is seen wearing a fluorescent yellow and blue singlet, blue football shorts, a blue cap, thongs and sunglasses.
The second male is described as being of Caucasian appearance with a slim build, and is seen wearing a grey t-shirt, blue shorts, thongs and a blue cap.
Anyone with information is being asked to contact Goulburn Detectives on (02) 4824 0736 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Image: NSW Police
The NSW SES Wingecarribee unit was activated by NSW Police to assist in locating a missing bushwalker overnight.
NSW SES teams searched and thankfully the missing man was located in good spirits and without injury.
This is a timely reminder to be prepared when embarking on a bushwalk or hike and to account for all the possibilities:
* download the emergency+ app so that we can quickly determine your location and reach you safely and efficiently
https://apps.apple.com/au/app/emergency/id691814685
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details...
* Prepare for extremes of weather and always ensure you have ample food, water, and spare clothing
* Do not embark on unfamiliar bush walks late in the afternoon
* In emergencies dial 000, stay calm, and remain in one location.
Image: Wingecarribee SES
People still aren't getting the lockdown message.
The NSW Police Highway Patrol has issued more than 30 infringements including several to Sydneysiders during a traffic and COVID compliance operation on the Princes Highway at Dunmore last Saturday.
14 people were fined for breaching the public health orders including a 37-year-old woman and 41-year-old man from Campbelltown.
They were heading to Kiama without a reasonable excuse and were fined a thousand dollars each.
Police said checks revealed that it was the fourth time the woman has allegedly breached the orders.
A couple from Cronulla were also fined and directed to return home after attempting to travel to Nowra without a permit, while a 38-year-old man from Narellan Vale was also fined for travelling to the region without a valid reason.
Police conducted 460 random breath tests during the blitz with one motorist awaiting the result of a secondary drug test.
Officers also issued 11 traffic infringement notices, two motorists were fined for speeding while four traffic-related charges were also laid.
Illawarra Highway Patrol said it plans to conduct similar operations in the future.
Images: Traffic and Highway Patrol Command
A woman has died after her motorcycle and an SUV collided at Mittagong yesterday.
Emergency services were called to Old South Road after a southbound Kawasaki motorcycle and a northbound Subaru Outback collided in the northbound lane.
The rider of the motorcycle, a 47-year-old woman, died at the scene.
The 68-year-old man driving the car was not injured.
He was taken to Bowral District Hospital for mandatory testing.
Officers attached to The Hume Police District established a crime scene and commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
It's the second fatality involving a motorcyclist in two days on the Southern Highlands.
A 62-year-old man died when his bike collided with a tree on Saturday afternoon.
A report will now be prepared for the information of the Coroner regarding both accidents..
Image: NSW Police Facebook & Google Maps
A brawl involving four males in Bomaderry has left a 19-year-old hospitalised with a serious head injury.
South Coast Police said that two men were walking along Leonard Street in Bomaderry around 4.45pm yesterday when they became involved in a fight with two other males.
"During the fight a 19-year-old man suffered a serious head injury," Police said.
"It appears the injured man may have been hit over the head with a coffee mug."
He was taken to Wollongong Hospital where he remains in a serious but stable condition.
No charges have been laid with investigators appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Images: NSW Police and Google Maps