One case of COVID was also announced in the Upper Hunter LGA in Scone.

Across the HNE region, 82 cases of COVID-19 were confirmed by HNE Health, including 28 in Lake Macquarie, 14 in Cessnock, ten in Tamworth, nine in Newcastle, seven in Maitland, four in Mid-Coast LGA, four in Port Stephens and two in Gunnedah.

Of the cases announced today, 62 were linked to previous infections and at least 47 were infectious in the community.

There are now 1,136 active COVID cases across the Hunter and 24 people are currently hospitalised, including three people in intensive care.

More COVID exposure sites were released by HNE Health in the Upper Hunter yesterday, including bowling clubs in Scone and Aberdeen.

Across the state, NSW Health announced 496 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 in the 24 hours to 8pm last night.

The deaths of eight people were also announced, including six men and two women all from Greater Sydney.

One person was in their 40s, one in their 50s, three in their 60s, one in their 70s, one in their 80s and one person was in their 90s.

There have been 439 COVID-19 related deaths in NSW during the current outbreak since June 16, 2021.

Across NSW there are currently 769 people admitted to hospital with COVID-19, including 153 people currently receiving intensive care.