Story one of ten today, about five minutes for the lot

Passengers collecting luggage from conveyor belt at busy airport terminal

New Bali route powers Newcastle Airport to record year

Passenger numbers jumped 10% to more than 1.3 million as new flights to Bali, Perth and Hobart added more than 94,000 journeys this financial year.

Why it mattersMore flights bring more tourists, investment and jobs to the Hunter region, while giving residents greater travel choices.

AustraliaNewcastle residents now have direct international flights; the airport's growth signals expanding opportunities for regional NSW tourism and trade.

✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 6 d ago

Next in today's edition

File image: Waterfront harbour view of city with Victorian clock tower

✓ Newcastle HeraldMoney & Work

Newcastle childcare centre closes without warning, parents scramble

The Little Unicorn on Honeysuckle closed after the approved provider resigned.

Why it mattersA sudden childcare closure affects families' work schedules and children's learning. It also raises questions about getting refunds and accessing children's records.