There’s something quietly extraordinary about a festival that not only survives but thrives - growing year after year without losing its soul. In a landscape where even major events have fallen by the wayside, The Gum Ball has done the opposite. It has deepened, expanded, and embedded itself into the cultural fabric of regional New South Wales, located in the bush, on the property of Dashville in Lower Belford.

Tickets for the Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest 2026 are on sale now, with two of New South Wales’ most celebrated steam locomotives confirmed to headline this year’s ARTC Rail Program.

This winter, treat yourself to a luxurious, cozy getaway to the nation’s capital at Jamala Wildlife Lodge right in the heart of Canberra. This exclusive, world-class accommodation boasts 18 African-inspired suites, a 4-course gourmet dining experience and opportunities to make lifelong memories for the whole family.

There's something quietly magical about the Hunter Valley in autumn. The vines flush gold and amber, the air crisps up just enough to justify a second glass of Shiraz, and the crowds begin to thin — leaving you with that rare, unhurried feeling that the whole place was made just for you.

While Pokolbin and Lovedale attract much of the Hunter Valley spotlight, the historic town of Singleton — just 45 minutes further up the valley — rewards those willing to venture beyond the well-worn wine trail.

The Hunter Valley is home to more than 150 wineries, making it one of Australia's most celebrated wine regions and also one of the trickiest to navigate independently.

Direct flights from Newcastle Airport open the door to one of the world's most extraordinary cities…

In a region defined by choice, few Hunter Valley estates offer the sheer breadth of experience that Bimbadgen does. Wine of pedigree, multiple dining styles, an on-site distillery, premium accommodation, concerts, weddings and vineyard experiences - all anchored by two of the region’s oldest vineyards and one of its most recognisable hilltop sites, framed by century-old fig trees and sweeping views to the Brokenback Range.

A long time ago, when dinosaurs roamed the earth, the Hunter Valley was a land of volcanoes and untamed wilderness. Every Easter school holidays, Hunter Valley Gardens brings that ancient world back to life with its annual Mega Creatures event. And in 2026, the adventure takes a whole new level.

The Gum Ball Music & Arts Festival is back to celebrate its 21st birthday! Returning to Dashville over the long weekend, Friday 24 – Sunday 26 April 2026, following last year's 20th anniversary which made history as the biggest festival ever held at Dashville as a bumper crowd of music lovers descended on the Lower Belford site, proving that The Gum Ball has well and truly become a cultural institution for regional NSW.

The iconic Coates Newcastle Show returns to the Newcastle Showground from Friday 27 February to Sunday 1 March 2026, and this year it arrives with a powerful new hero attraction set to redefine opening night.

Newcastle Art Gallery will officially reopen to the public on Saturday, 28 February, following its estimated $47 million expansion. The landmark reopening will be celebrated with a three-day festival and the debut of the major exhibition Iconic Loved Unexpected.

Few names in Australian wine carry the weight, respect, and recognition of Brokenwood Wines.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Maitland, and this year the celebrations roll right through summer with a vibrant program of family-friendly events and community activities. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, from outdoor movie nights and Christmas lights to New Year’s celebrations and roller discos.

When the festive season arrives, there's something undeniably special about wandering through the historic streets of Morpeth. This charming village transforms into a Christmas shopping haven where every purchase feels personal, meaningful, and delightfully unique.