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…

Discover what's happening in your local community this April...

Discover what's written in the stars for you this month with the April horoscopes!

My grandmother was born in 1936 in a small country town in western New South Wales. She was one of the smartest women I’ve ever known, which is even more impressive because she never got to go to high school. She trained as a nurse and married my grandfather when she was 18. They had two children soon after.

Ask Zdenka Young what it's like running one of Newcastle's most enduring family businesses, and she laughs warmly.

Chipmunks Playland & Café Belmont is a large indoor children’s play centre located at 1 High Street, Belmont, on the site of the former Belmont Bowling Club. The venue was fully repurposed and refurbished into a two-level indoor playland and café, designed for children aged 0–11 years.

Right in the heart of Newcastle’s CBD, The Art Department’s ceramics studio is a warm reminder that creativity isn’t just for a select few—it’s for anyone willing to give it a go (and maybe get a little clay under their nails).

New signage has been installed along the Fernleigh Track to address anti‑social behaviour and help ensure the popular shared pathway remains safe and welcoming for all users.

Local community groups and organisations are encouraged to apply for funding through Maitland City Council’s Biannual Community Grants Program, which supports initiatives that strengthen community connections and contribute to a connected and thriving city.

After near decimation during the lockout era, the NSW live music scene is experiencing a surge in venues offering live music and accessing vibrancy incentives including extended trading hours.

Sporting clubs in Maitland’s west will have top-tier facilities at their disposal this season, with a $3.1 million amenities building now open at Max McMahon Oval in Rutherford.

Young people aged 12 to 24 across Maitland are invited to participate in Youth Week 2026, taking place from 16 to 26 April. The week features a variety of free and low-cost events, including live music, creative workshops, outdoor adventures and skill-building activities.