Police were called to a home on Brooks Parade in Belmont, in Lake Macquarie, about 9am on Monday 9 November 2026 after reports that a hydroponic grow house had been found.[1][2][3] Officers from the Lake Macquarie Proactive Crime Team and the Lake Macquarie Criminal Investigation Unit executed search warrants at that home and two neighbouring properties.[1][2][4][3]

Police seized 521 mature cannabis plants that had been grown hydroponically.[1][2][5][4][6][3] Police put the plants’ estimated potential street value at $1,042,000.[1][2][5][4][6][3] Officers also seized cultivation equipment and lighting systems.[1][2][4][3]

No occupants were found at the homes and police said inquiries were continuing to identify those involved.[1][2][4][3] The local outlet newy.com.au reported the same 521 plants, the three Belmont properties, the $1,042,000 estimate and the absence of occupants.[7]