NSW

Lake Macquarie police have released images of two people they want to speak with in relation to a ram raid at Cameron Park earlier this month.

"The parliament isn't something that should be an optional thing, a good thing to have when times are good. It's actually essential when times are tough as well."

The new cases have been recorded across five local government areas.

The new cases are in Port Stephens, Maitland and Lake Macquarie.

The Lower Hunter Rural Fire Service is reminding residents in these areas to keep windows and doors closed, remove washing from clothes lines and ensure pets are in a protected area.

Due to the ongoing statewide lockdowns, the rite of passage trip will be undertaken virtually, visiting some of the biggest museums, galleries and institutes over five days.

A number of new exposure sites have been listed overnight by Hunter New England Health across Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens.

The new cases are across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

Hunter New England Health says workers from Sydney worked in the Hunter between August 15 - August 31 and have since tested positive to COVID-19.

Superintendent Chad Gillies says strike force Breve has been established to investigate the incident.