Former Newcastle lord mayor John McNaughton faced investigation over a chain dispute but was cleared of misconduct; he and his wife are now barred from certain city events.

The City of Newcastle investigated former lord mayor John McNaughton after he confronted deputy lord mayor Callum Pull during a May 23 citizenship ceremony over Pull’s use of a ceremonial chain historically worn by lady mayoresses. Allegations included verbal berating, unwanted physical contact, and harassment, with witness statements supporting some claims. McNaughton denied touching Pull, saying he only examined the chain and followed to express concern, and criticized the lack of access to complaint details. On September 17, the council concluded the investigation without finding formal misconduct but requested McNaughton avoid in-person contact with Pull to prevent psychosocial harm. As a result, McNaughton and his wife, both Freemen of the City, were not invited to the September ceremony and will not attend the councillor-only area at future events involving the chain, though ceremonies remain open to the public.