1. Lake Macquarie International Children's Games sailor embraces the Game's motto and spirit December 10

Never give up is a common theme running throughout the Lake Macquarie International Children’s Games. One athlete living by this motto is Joseph Powell, 12, of Marion, Indiana.

2. A little help from friends November 24

Without friends by her side, Edgeworth's Lyndsey Clark says she would not have coped with her terminal cancer diagnosis. Mrs Clark's days are numbered.

3. Merewether Public School wrapped up in Easter egg-citement April 14

EASTER eggs, feathers, sparkles and drawings were popular hat decorations at Merewether Public School.

4. Whitebridge Community Alliance petition against housing development strikes chord with locals February 3

More than half of the Whitebridge adult population have signed a petition opposing a $22 million housing development in the suburb's main street, according to the community's alliance organiser.

5. A couple with disabilities could be separated by state government's plans to privatise disability services July 30

Mount Hutton group home resident Ian Loughnan fears he will be separated from his long-time girlfriend because of the state government's plans to privatise disability services.

6. Bald badge for bravery across the Hunter for World's Greatest Shave March 17

The Hunter’s bravest took on the scissors last week as they volunteered to participate in the World’s Greatest Shave.

7. Newcastle and Lake Macquarie SES volunteers help flood-hit Philippines: Photos September 29

TWENTY-THREE volunteers from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Cooranbong NSW SES units gave up their Saturday morning to help others in need.

8. Dads on deck for Father's Day at Swansea Skatepark for National Skate Park Day September 1

Father's Day was one filled with firsts for Australian street skateboarding champion Russell Grundy.

9. Swansea Fire Station ready for NSW Firefighter Championships July 7

Five everyday blokes who live and work in Swansea will proudly represent their community when the NSW Firefighter Championships come to town for the first time in a decade.

10. Hamilton South Public School celebrate Education Week August 4

Hamilton South Public School welcomed their local community into the school grounds with open arms with a Friends Day and Art Show in celebration of Education Week.