A man will face court today charged following an investigation into two alleged arsons at a Newcastle gym earlier this year.
About 10pm on Tuesday 20 January 2026, emergency services were called to a gym on Albert Street, Wickham, following reports of a fire.
At the scene, police located a smashed front door and minor fire damage in the lobby area of the building.
About 11.50pm on Friday 23 January 2026, emergency services were called to the same gym following reports of smoke coming from the building.
Fire and Rescue NSW attended and extinguished a fire burning on the ground floor of the building. The fire caused significant damage.
A crime scene was established and Newcastle detectives commenced inquiries into the incident under Strike Force Halesworth.
About 6.40pm on Wednesday 4 February 2026, a vehicle allegedly involved in the incidents was found burning in bushland at Salamander Bay.
Following extensive inquiries, police executed a search warrant at a home on Keel Street, Salamander Bay, about 7.30am today (Thursday 5 March 2026).
A 42-year-old man was arrested at the home and taken to Nelson Bay Police Station where he was charged with three counts of damage property by fire/explosion.
He was refused bail to appear before Bail Division Court 2 today (Thursday 5 March 2026).
Inquiries under Strike Force Halesworth continue.
