We've expanded the regional reference group

On 5 May 2025 we established the Hunter-Central Coast Regional Reference Group. The new reference group replaces the Hunter Transmission Project regional reference group, which held its first meeting on 5 February 2024.

The expanded regional reference group covers:

Hunter-Central Coast Regional Reference Group

We established the Hunter-Central Coast Regional Reference Group for strategic discussions between EnergyCo and the broader Hunter Central Coast community about projects that we’re delivering in the region.  

The reference group meets to discuss:

  • the design of EnergyCo's projects in the region
  • community views on the projects
  • actions to avoid and minimise impacts on people and the environment
  • ideas and initiatives to maximise the benefits for the Hunter and Central Coast communities
  • actions to reduce the cumulative impacts of EnergyCo’s projects in the Hunter and Central Coast.

The reference group members have been selected from across the region to represent a broad spectrum of the region and different perspectives. This includes council representatives, a mix of community representatives and respected subject matter experts.  

The group consists of:  

NameOrganisationContact
Bob Pynsent (independent chair)Former Cessnock Mayor and Hunter Joint Organisation Chair[email protected]
Mayor Sue MooreSingleton City Council[email protected]
Mayor Daniel Watton (as of October 2024)Cessnock City Council[email protected]
Mayor Adam Shultz (as of October 2024)Lake Macquarie City Council[email protected]
Samantha Martin-WilliamsRegional representative (Business)[email protected]
Ashley WilliamsRegional representative (Aboriginal)[email protected]
Craig AndersonRegional representative (Environment)[email protected]
John SullivanCommunity representative (Singleton)[email protected]
Prof Phillip O’NeillCommunity representative (Cessnock)[email protected]
Dianne CrosdaleCommunity representative (Lake Macquarie)[email protected]
Mayor Jeffrey DraytonMuswellbrook Shire Council[email protected]
Amanda WetzelCommunity Representative (Newcastle)[email protected]

The reference group will provide a platform for collaborative discussions on crucial aspects of the HTP including the project design, community views, minimising impacts on landowners and the environment, and maximising benefits for the Hunter and Central Coast communities.

Read the media release.

Hunter Central Coast regional reference group documents