LOCAL NEWS FOR THE NEWCASTLE AREA

The jobs market spiked and unemployment dropped in the Hunter region in February, bucking the national trend and buffering the region’s workforce against the economic shocks of the escalating Middle East crisis.

A key section of Wolfe Street has been reopened as City of Newcastle puts the finishing touches on the latest phase of the East End Village revitalisation project.

Lake Mac Libraries have been booking big wins in 2026 with a series of novel initiatives enticing residents to drop in to their local branches.

After three electrifying weekends of bold ideas, boundary-pushing performances and packed houses, the Newcastle Fringe Festival 2026 has wrapped, celebrating a record-breaking year for Australia’s Biggest Little Fringe.

City of Newcastle has shared a first look at its plans to renew Wickham’s village heart as it calls for tenders to deliver pedestrian and public domain upgrades on Union Street.

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

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.

The community is invited to provide feedback on Council’s draft Operational Plan and Budget 2026-2027, after it was approved to go on public exhibition at tonight’s Council meeting.

Psycho or Psychic is a playful clowning, physical theatre comedy show built from real psychic encounters. Shaped through character, movement, and storytelling, the audience is invited into the world as it unfolds.

An unexpected encounter in a French cafe is among the stories set to entertain audiences when the Lake Macquarie One Act Play Festival returns to Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba this Saturday 28 March.

Six newly hatched Little Terns are helping boost the population of their endangered species, following a successful and unexpected breeding season at Blacksmiths Beach this summer.

City of Newcastle and Port Stephens Council have joined forces to progress the development of a new kerbside collection service designed to reduce the amount of food waste ending up in landfill.