EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS FERN BAY

Air Sports started up in Newcastle at the beginning of 2002. It is owned and directed by Tony Barton, a nice american bloke who is now a permanant resident of Australia. Tony first came to Australia a little over 10 years ago while competing in International Hang Gliding competitions. He has been flying vigorously since 1978 and recevied his Instructor and Tandem rating in 1986. He was the United States National Hang Gliding Champion and Points Champion for 1990 and 1991. Tony flew as a member of the U.S. World Hang Gliding Team for six years, during which they won the World Championships in 1993. His love for flying has taken him many times around the world, happily sharing his passion and experience with others.

A hang gliding tandem flight is the absolute best way to experience the thrill of pure flight! The way it was meant to be. The tandem flight is our first step toward learning the beautiful art of hang gliding. Get hands-on flying experience, safely hanging along side an advanced, certified tandem instructor. Flight duration is approximately 20 - 30 minutes. Choose between a foot launched soaring flight or a 3000ft high altitude aero-towed flight. You can also capture your flying experience and show your friends with an in-flight video! While flying in and around the Newcastle area, we use a number of different flying sites. From coastal ridges to the inland mountains of the Watagan National Forest.

Experience the ultimate flying sensation, experience a microlight flight in the Hunter Valley NSW Australia (near Newcastle). A range of microlight aircraft is available for many applications; from farming (fence line and cattle inspection), exploration and rugged landing conditions or just for the joy of flying!

Airborne Upper Hunter Flight Training offers:

• Microlight flight training - Australia wide.
• Senic flights - around Hunter Valley and Newcastle coast.
• New and used microlight sales.
• A full range of microlight accessories and flight suites.
• Flight gift vouchers from $120

Our Chief Flight Instructors can arrange microlight flight training for all applications in your area, and then provide sales and information on the Airborne microlight range and accessories.

microlights beachAirBorne Upper Hunter is the premier provider of microlight flight training in Australia. You can learn to fly a microlight with wheels and then proceed onto floats for water landings. Although we are based in Newcastle (Hunter Valley), we conduct training all over the country, and specialise in training overseas students.

Learning to fly a microlight is an experience that is fun, challenging and offers great rewards. Australia’s airspace is relatively uncomplicated and there are few areas that are inaccessible to microlights. For microlights, there isn’t even a need to report to a Control Tower.

Built by Assegai Marine and first launched in 2001, Newcastle’s Amokura is a 21st century gameboat with many time honoured tricks from many seasons of heavy tackle fishing. It is powered by twin C-18 CAT ENGINES producing 2000 HP and is capable of hitting speeds of up to 35 knots with ease. Quite simply, Amokura is 57 ft of pure awesomness. Amokura’s handling and sea keeping ability are second to none and its low centre of gravity and deep-vee hull make for an extremely comfortable ride.

The boats interior creates the feeling of seamlessness and simplicity. A large galley is located immediately inside, close to the cockpit. Beautifully equipped, the crew and clients can access food and drinks and still keep in touch with the the fishing action. Meals are served at a U shaped dinette / lounge that can comfortably seat seven for dinner.

The fully air-conditioned interior sleeps a total of five guests. Two cabins share a large modern bathroom complete with shower, electric toilet, quality fittings and luxurious bath towels, while the master bedroom features an inviting double bed and its own large ensuite. Amokura’s onboard comforts also include a washing machine, desalinator for unlimited fresh water and a state of the art entertainment system with plasma screen, DVD, surround sound and more.

The Fort Scratchley Historical Society has a vast collection of artifacts which have been acquired over the years.

The objects illustrate life in the Fort since 1882 but part of the collection also relates to Newcastle local and military history.

This collection is presently being re-documented and refurbished and this will take some time to complete.

Currently, we are planning the best ways to display the artifacts now the fort is reopened.

Because of the huge amount of information available about the history of Fort Scratchley, this page is divided into several secondary pages covering separate stages throughout the Fort's history. We have also included some worthwhile links on our history The Fort has also undergone several name changes during its colourful history.

Newcastle Art Gallery's collection is one of the finest in regional Australia with its quality and breadth is recognised as a significant cultural asset. The collection includes over 5,000 works of art, and presents a comprehensive overview of Australian art from colonial times to the present day. In addition, the Gallery has a significant collection of Indigenous bark paintings and one of the nation's finest collections of twentieth century Australian and Japanese ceramics. In recent years, the gallery has also developed a bold collection of contemporary Australian art.

Cloakroom
Although the Gallery does not offer a formal cloakroom service, our staff will store personal and bulky items as a courtesy while you are at the Gallery.

Venue Hire
The Gallery offers groups and organisations the unique oportunity to celebrate in its splendid settings.

From intimate cocktail gatherings and exhibition tours to corporate seminars, a function at the Newcastle Art Gallery is a unique, prestigious and exclulsive event. An invitation to the Gallery sparks an immediate sense of anticipation and occasion.

Absolutely Amazing Active Aussie Adventures taking in Sydney, Port Stephens, Hunter Valley and Newcastle.

Join one of our existing safari's (menu on the left) or if you are a group, why not create one of your own.

Choose from:
Learn to surf lessons, Four Wheel Driving, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Wildlife, Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruises, Wine Tours with cheese and chocolate tastings, Snowboard and Ski Adventures. Whatever you are into we can help you.

How about something different...maybe a camel ride safari, quad bike ATV dune adventure or a Survivor Challenge day or weekend! (Groups only)

We visit remote National Parks, Massive Sand Dunes, Offshore Islands, Deserted Beaches, Lakes, Rivers and Rainforest.

Gone Walkabout Safaris was created out of passion. A passion for Australia, a passion for the environment and a passion for fun and adventure. We want to share this passion with you.

You are treated special. We cater to all individual and special needs!

HeliServices Newcastle & Hunter undertakes all types of helicopter operations and provides a range of helicopter transfers throughout NSW.  Whether local or regional, individual or groups, private or corporate, HeliServices will get you to your destination quicker and in unparalleled safety.  Over many years we have flown thousands of dignitaries, business people, corporate leaders, government bodies and general public which is testimonial to the versatility, flexibility and cost effectiveness of the many types of helicopter services we provide.

HeliServices Newcastle & Hunter is proud to have been able to carry out its clients’ helicopter requirements.

Our skilled staff take great pleasure in assisting with the itinerary or informative suggestions that may help in planning the flight and will ensure your helicopter experience is of a standard second to none.

A helicopter means excitement and nothing compares to the HeliServices experience. Our experienced and entertaining pilots will guarantee a flight you will never forget!

Gift Vouchers Available - The Perfect Gift.  An unforgettable flight over Newcastle and Hunter to be taken within 12 moinths. We can arrange for your personal message to be included within the gift voucher.

Come and enjoy a great day out with Hunter Valley Day Tours and endulge in some of Australias finest food and wine as we work our way through the marvelous Hunter Valley, stopping along the way at many winerys including Briar Ridge, Tallavera Grove, Ernest Hill, Mcleish, Tullochs, Ivanhoe, Irongate, Calais Estate, Keith Tullochs, Mistletoe, Peacock Hill and Maquariedale. Visit the Regional Food Cafe and sample some of the local produce and enjoy a private cheese tasting with the Hunter Valley Cheese Company. And if that is not enough we'll also stop to enjoy chocolate covered strawberries and a sampling plate of the finest chocolates from the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company.

Hunter Valley Day Tours is a family owned business located in Newcastle.
We operate tours for groups and individuals visiting a number of boutique wineries and local produce outlets.
Hunter Valley Day Tours Departs from Newcastle, the Lower Hunter Valley, Sydney and the Central Coast of New South Wales. We offer door to door pick-up at your home, accommodation, or other convenient location by arrangement. Catering for groups of any size our friendly staff can design a package to fit your specific needs, interests, and budget.

 iSurf Newcastle Surf School was founded by former World ranked professional surfer and talented surfboard shaper Jye Byrnes. Jye grew up surfing the beaches of the beautiful city of Newcastle and the world when competing. Jye has now turned his knowledge and experience of the water and boards, to a surf school, aimed at getting new people to enjoy the wonderful world of surfing and improving the ability of those who are already addicted.

Learn to surf in safety, with iSurf Newcastle surf school. We cater for all ages and skill levels. It’s never too early or late to learn to surf, or improve your skills on a board.

At iSurf Newcastle Surf School, all instructors are experienced qualified surf instructors holding ocean safety, blue cards (working with children check), senior first aid and are competent advanced surfers in their own right with many still to competing.

iSurf Newcastle Surf School promise to provide the safest environment to learn to surf. Our instructors get out there in the water with you, encouraging and supporting you along the way. We pride ourselves on having instructors who love to surf and are well respected members of the Newcastle surfing community.

Our lessons are well structured and individually tailored to the needs of the students. Designed to promote personal development and water awareness, through the excitement of learning to surf.

Welcome to Newcastle’s original and best Ghost Tours – established in 2010.

Mischief, malice, mayhem, murder …The dark history of Newcastle still haunts every corner of its East End.

You can almost hear the clank and groan of convicts working in leg irons  in the underground mine shafts in the settlement.

The poor rations, the allotment of slops and the floggings, You had to be tough to survive, Do you dare to hear the stories? Do you dare to be touched by the ghosts that haunt the East End?

Join us on tour as we retrace the steps of our earliest Novocastrians.

Newcastle Ghost Tours acknowledges the Awabakal and Worimi people as the traditional owners and custodians of the lands on which the city of Newcastle stands.Private Ghost Tours are now available for a minimum 2 people – flexible times. Your tour guide with accompany you on an East End experience  – a mixture of true ghost stories and history with plenty of time to ask questions, take photos and enjoy the evening with all the focus on your experience without being part of a large group – up close and personal.

What do Michael Clayton, Bob Harrison, Ross Watson, Jack Newton and Graham Papworth have in common? They are five of Australia’s top golf course architects who all rate Newcastle Golf Club in the top 10 courses in Australia (Australian Golf Digest March 2008). If you haven’t played golf on NSW’s number 1 regional golf course, then you haven’t experienced the Hunter Valley’s hidden golfing gem.

Ranked number 18 in Australia (Australian Golf Digest 2012), the Newcastle Golf Course is situated in the stunning Hunter Valley and offers golfers of all levels a spectacular and exciting challenge.

Newcastle Golf Club is excited to announce a very special offer for those wishing to book their upcoming function with us, here in Newcastle.

For any function booked with Newcastle Golf  Club before July 30th we will waive our normal room hire fee.

With superior functions facilities overlooking our stunning golf course, Newcastle Golf Club is the premier destination to hold your next important function.

Join Newcastle Kayak Tours and enjoy a leisurely guided kayak tour of Newcastle’s (Australia, NSW) world renowned harbour. See the actual workings of the world’s largest coal export port, also the many natural features on display during our 2.5 hour or 3.5 hour guided tours.

Newcastle Kayak Tours are relaxing, fun and safe for the whole family, ages from 5 – 80. No experience is required, and minimal fitness is necessary.

Our tours begin at either 8:00 am or 11:00am each day. Family (2 adults, 2 children) and group (8+ persons) discounts are available, please enquire. Also, we do offer sunrise and sunset tours on demand (min two paddlers).

Newcastle Kayak Tours launch locations are adjusted according to weather conditions and tides, and safety equipment is provided. We kayak in most weather conditions except for strong winds.

Newcastle Kayak Tours operate all year round.

Minimum group numbers are two paddlers with maximum group numbers being 15 paddlers (plus guide).

Everything about Newcastle’s Famous Tram is unique. Built from scratch in 1994, the tram is a genuine replica of the original Newcastle working tram, which was in service in 1923.

Newcastle's Famous Tram has become a tourist 'icon' within Newcastle and the Hunter Valley.

It is a novel and nostalgic way to visit Newcastle’s historic city during weekdays and the Hunter Valley Vineyards on the weekends.

The famous tram is available for Hunter Valley wine tours, weddings, school formals, christmas parties, social club and birthday party transfers.

The Newcastle Famous Tram runs two tours.

•     The Newcastle tour is a 1 hour tour of our city, beaches and historical sites. A full commentary is provided.
•     The Hunter Valley wine tour is a great fun filled day out in the vineyards.

The Newcastle Famous Tram is also available for hire by prior arrangement. We specialise in:

•     Wedddings
•     School Formals
•     Educational and History Tours
•     Christmas Light Tours
•     Group Shuttles
•     Birthday Party Hire
   

Live the adventure that promises you a Quad Riding experience like no other.

Experience the magnificence of the Worimi Sand Dunes, riding safely from bush to beach with our expert guides.

Choose between a 1 or 2 hour ride to take in the wonders of the highest sand dunes in the southern hemisphere, the glorious views of the sweeping coastline and learn about history of the land.

• Learn the basics of quad bike riding, incl safe ATV handling and riding techniques.
• Be taken for an unforgettable journey through bushland
• Be given an insight into traditional Aboriginal food,culture and history by your aboriginal guide.
• Immerse yourself in coastal wilderness
• Experience Stockton Beach and secrets to Aboriginal Culture, WWII and the wreck of the Norwegian bulk carrier the 'Sygna'.

During the tour we place a strong emphasis on interpretive tours of the Stockton Sand Dunes and beach. We pride ourselves on providing you with a full appreciation of the area with its rich cultural and historical heritage. We actually own and control the highest coastal sand dunes in the southern hemisphere and they are not open to the public. The only way to see them is through us. This way we can control the Environmental impacts and protection of our Aboriginal heritage. The public and all other tours must use the designated off road areas, low dunes and plenty of people!

Our 3- Day Northern Explorer Tour takes you through the Hunter Valley, Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and the Central Coast.with departing Sydney every weekend

The 3 -Day Southern Explorer Tour journeys through the Southern Highlands, Fitzroy Falls, Jervis Bay, Kiama blowhole, Nan Tien Buddhist Temple and the Royal National Park.Departures by reqest for groups of 6 or more.

Our personal small group 3-day tours are the perfect “break free” weekend from Sydney for young people or the "young at heart".

The tours take you to visit small family-owned vineyards, dolphin cruising, four-wheel driving, sand dune boarding, sea kayaking and more! It also includes some beautiful walks (length up to 5 km).

There's plenty of time to relax and unwind as well, with coffee and lunch breaks in fantastic locations, BBQ dinners and, of course, the chance to enjoy a drink or two in the evenings...

Visit our Northern and Southern tour pages for more injformation about our tours.

If you have a group of 5 or more people and would like us to customize a tour for you please contact us we do many tours of this type, particularly for international students. But remember our tours are perfect for people of all ages that enjoy an adventure and don't mind lending a hand at a barbie! Visit our tours pages for more information.

Surfest Surf School has been running Since 2000 along side the premier event Surfest. Originally coaching kids once a year in the Surfest Festival - sponsored by Newcastle Permient and Newcastle Herald. We saw a real need for a year round establishment. So opening full time in September 2003 Surfest Surf School has never looked back. Rhys Smith founder has a passion for surfing - competing internationally in the World Qualifying Series. luckily for us Rhys spends his off season - our summer teaching the up and comings and anyone who wants to get out there to surf.

We operate from Nobbys Beach as it is the safest beach in Newcastle. This location offers a perfect beach break for learn to surf, we nestle in to the corner that faces north east which provides consistent waves protected by a southern headland, sheltered from prevailing winds and larger swells.

Come and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Hunter Valley, take in our expert commentary and sample the local produce all for a great value for money price!

Tex Hunter Valley wine tours will take you to the magnificent Hunter Valley Wine Country with pickups from Newcastle, Maitland and surrounding areas

A DAY OF DECADENCE

• Great mix of small boutique vineyards
• Larger commercial ventures
• Relaxed and informative, we drive whilst you enjoy
• Lunch options can be included or bring your own

BIG FUN

•     Chocolate and olive tastings all included
•     Wine Tasting
•     Cheese Tasting
•     Ports and Liqueurs
•     Good Times!!!

SMALL GROUPS

•     Minimum 2 people
•     Maximum 12 people
•     Travel in air conditioned bus
•     Expert commentary and personalised service
•     Door to door pick up  from the Newcastle CBD

Why drive when you can take a Hunter Valley wine tour with TEX?
 

Welcome to the Civic Theatre Newcastle!

The dramatic Civic Theatre is one of Australia's great historic theatres and hosts a wide range of concerts, musicals, plays, dance and other events. Of state significance, the Civic has wowing audiences for more than 80 years!

Newcastle is Australia's seventh largest city and the 1520 seat Civic Theatre is one of Newcastle’s most popular and prestigious venues which holds a proud place in the hearts of Novocastrians. Designed by famed 1920's theatre architect Henry Eli White in his famous ‘Spanish Baroque’ style, a visit to the Civic Theatre with its grand marble foyer and staircase, terrazzo balcony, beautiful interiors and historic main auditorium chandelier, makes for a stunning and unforgettable experience.

The Civic Theatre Subscription Season is a diverse and entertaining program of dance, drama, comdey, cabaret, film and children's shows held in the Civic Theatre and Playhouse. Called INSPIRATIONS, subscribing to the season will ensure you get great seats and make great savings of up to 20% off normal tickets prices. Speak to our friendly Box Office staff to find out more.

Fighter World is a showcase of Australian Fighter and aircraft-related history providing a unique insight into the present day. Located adjacent to the entrance to Royal Australian Air Force Base Wiliamtown (New South Wales), the home of Australia's Strike / Fighter Force, Fighter World showcases the important role a potent Fighter Force plays in the defence of a nation. Fighter World embraces Australia's rich fighter heritage, painstakingly earned by Australian men and women of the squadrons who flew fighter aircraft.

As part of your visit to Fighter World you will experience first-hand the day to day operations of an active Fighter Base including guided tours and hands-on experiences quite unlike any other Australian aviation museum.

Fighter World is a dynamic view of the past integrated with the present and future. At Fighter World visitors enjoy the opportunity to interact so as to appreciate the surrounding exhibits which conjure images of Australia's prominent role in military aviation history.

Fighter World is a relatively new facility having been officially opened in 1991.

Since opening, Fighter World has had an active relationship with the Royal Australian Air Force and the Newcastle and Port Stephens Tourist Associations, being recognised as one of the area's most popular attractions.

Fighter World will soon take another step forward with the expansion of exhibition and retail areas including the very latest in interactive multi-media technology adding another dimension to the overall visitor experience.

By becoming a member of the Newcastle Maritime Museum Society you will be helping support the Maritime Centre.

You membership will helps fund new exhibitions, improve facilities and create challenging and diverse programs for the whole community to enjoy.

As a Maritime Centre member you will be entitled to

•     An annual pass allowing up 5 times a year at no cost
•     A 10% discount at the Museum shop
•     You will be be the first to know about upcoming events & activities
•     Receive our exclusive Membership newsletter “Scratchings” each quarter.
   

Are you looking for that special place for your party, seminar, meeting or wedding. Then look no further.

The Maritime Centre’s unique venue space will be the talking point of your function.

Functions at The Maritime Centre are catered by Silo Catering.

Located in one of Newcastle’s most significant heritage buildings, The Lock-Up is a multi-disciplinary contemporary arts space and inner city hub for creative thinking and doing.
 

Listed in the NSW Heritage Register, The Lock-Up was the Newcastle Police Station and lock up from 1861 until its closure in 1982. The building includes rare heritage listed cells, an event and installation space in what was the former exercise yard, a purpose built gallery space and an onsite apartment for artist residencies.
 

Through curated artistic and public programs, The Lock-Up’s aims to stimulate and challenge audiences and to promote current, cross platform, experimental and diverse practice from local, national and international artists. 
 

The program includes contemporary art exhibitions, events, site-specific installation and performances, residencies, creative talks, workshops and a variety of activities designed to encourage the sharing of ideas and creative vision.
 

The Lock-Up’s nationally renowned Artist in Residence (AIR) Program provides onsite accommodation, a work environment and community engagement opportunities for contemporary artists working across a broad range of disciplines. 

 Marketown has successfully serviced the burgeoning inner city suburbs of the vibrant port city of Newcastle, New South Wales. With a range of stores catering from national supermarket outlets to the business and student essentials offered at Officeworks, as well as dozens of locally owned and operated specialty stores, Marketown has something for everybody.

Recently opening a new wing to the east of the existing centre, Marketown now contains more than 70 stores with opportunities for leasing still available.

Marketown Shopping Centre is a supermarket based neighbourhood shopping centre located at the gateway to the Newcastle City Centre servicing not only the city centre but also the densely populated and growing inner suburbs of Newcastle. Marketown Shopping Centre has more than 70 national and specialty shops and services to cater for all your needs.

The Centre is situated on the southern side of King Street bordered by National Park Street, Parry Street and Ravenshaw Street. Steel Street passes through the middle of the centre.

NSW Farmers Market Pty Ltd has been operating Farmers and Makers Markets since 1999 where we trialed our very first farmers' market at the Historical River Port of Morpeth, NSW.

In March 2000, along with other creative souls, we initiated the Original Fine Food Market at the Honeysuckle Railway Sheds which were, sadly, to last a fleeting 8 months. The site is now the new home for Newcastle Museum. Since those early trials and tribulations we have seen the establishment of other farmers markets right across Australia that have mushroomed into an important industry for food producers and the public wherever they operate.

Our Company knows that the best way to promote, support and create strong food communities and centres of excellence, are through vibrant Farmers Markets operating every week for you the public.

Vibrant farmers markets are trade and business incubators creating sustainable local food producers through economic incentive thereby strengthening our own local food diversity and security. We are seeing both farmers and the public embracing this interaction and supporting each other to help this industry evolve for the long term.

Over the many years we have introduced many new farmers and artisans to a supportive hungry crowd through our market initiatives. Many of these fine food and artisan creators are still attending the market after all these years of operation. We have said for many years that Farmers and Makers markets are good for product development,  good for the local economy, good for sustainability, good for the environment, good for public well-being and good for tourism. We find it very hard to find an industry to work within that has so many positive outcomes all wrapped up in the one business model.

Our quest is "To create an ambience for relaxation, balancing the mind, body & spirit in a relaxed yet professional environment".

The Royal Day Spa is undoubtedly Newcastle's finest day spa, providing you with pure luxury and a gold class service on each and every visit.

Our aim is to cherish & delight you at every moment, so I encourage you to come with an expectant mind & heart. Today is the day for your own personal Royal experience!

We encourage you to linger in our relaxing lounge area before or after your scheduled treatment. We offer light food & refreshments complimentary of the Royal Day Spa.

Gift certificates are available for all treatments and products. We take pride in packaging your gift with delicacy to ensure your loved one is thrilled to bits!

We suggest you arrive 20 minutes prior to your service so you can change into appropriate attire and relax in the lounge before your treatment. Late arrival will mean your treatment time will be customized.

All appointments are to be secured with credit card details. Bookings can be made by telephone or directly from our website.

The Centenary Centre is Newcastle’s largest antique centre offering a wide range of antique collectables, vintage and estate jewellery, gifts, art, decorator items as well as a Vintage Grocery Museum.

With over 25 Shops under the one roof, The Centenary Centre provides  customers a wide selection of antique furniture, art, ceramics, deco, retro, jewellery, glass, militaria, linen, toys, ephemera, tools, books and a huge variety of collectables from the 1780’s to the 1980’s.

Discerning collectors as well as fashionable home decorators will find the centre a delight. There is also an eclectic mix of modern, designer and stunning antique jewellery.

The Centenary Centre houses a fascinating Vintage Grocery Store Museum containing original fixtures including old cedar counters, antique scales, vintage advertising signs as well as an amazing selection of yesteryear stock such as Arnott’s biscuit tins, Chief floor polish, tobacco tins and vintage medicinal aids.

Harold Murray, our charming resident grocer, is in attendance on the second and last Sunday of every month to entertain with his interesting stories of the old corner store of days past.

Hunter Street Outlets boasts a fantastic range of great fashion and mid range brands right in the heart of the Newcastle CBD. For choice and terrific value Hunter Street Outlets is the destination for value dressing, trendy labels, surf gear and much more. Not only this, many top brands are presented in an attractive heritage surround making every visit an enjoyable experience.

Hunter Street Outlets is also the place to discover and explore the art, music and culture of Newcastle and is conveniently located within walking distance of east end Hunter Street eateries, the Harbour Foreshore and Newcastle Beaches.

We encourage community involvement and collective celebration of the history and culture of Newcastle.

Hunter Street Outlets is owned and managed by The GPT Group. The GPT Group is one of Australia's largest diversified property groups, with investments in Australia, the United States and Europe. In Australia, the Group is one of the largest owners, managers and developers of retail assets.