NEWCASTLE... A City to Enjoy.

Now in its third year, the Newcastle 500 Supercars finale has firmly cemented its place as our most anticipated sporting event and an exciting way to show off all there is to enjoy in our stunning city. Newcastle’s Supercars debut in November 2017 attracted a crowd of more than 190,000 to our city and last year over 2 million people watched as our coastline shone in a phenomenal three-day television showcase. Newcastle Airport announced a record number of arrivals and Supercars enjoyed a record-breaking year thanks to significant increases in audiences across television and digital platforms for the Newcastle 500.

As Newcastle positions itself as a destination city with a growing reputation for hosting world-class events, we expect the 2019 Supercars finale to bring another big influx of visitors to our region. Three big days of racing start on Friday 22 November as the best of the best vie for race positions and a coveted podium finish. The high-octane energy in the precinct is a given, and there are plenty of ways to share in the excitement.

Soak up the festive atmosphere and meet all 26 Supercar champions on Thursday 21 November from 4.30pm in Civic Park. Not only will you get an autograph from your favourite driver, you can also watch a live broadcast of Fox Sport’s Trackside program. Kids will have fun on jumping castles and face painting, and afterwards, families can enjoy a bite to eat at nearby Darby, Hunter and King Streets where you’re spoilt for choice with restaurants, bars and cafes.

Over the weekend, Hunter Street Mall, next to the race precinct, will be abuzz with billy cart challenges, pop-up shops, family-friendly activities and live entertainment. It’s all free, action-packed fun, that will help traders raise precious funds for local charities. This is a great opportunity for locals to see what’s on offer in the Mall and for event-goers to step outside the precinct and get a taste of local life.

The entertainment will continue at Civic Park throughout the weekend with a super-sized Newcastle-themed monopoly board, monster truck slide, jumping castles, obstacle course and an auto-racer simulator. There’s also a dedicated under-six play area and an adrenalin-rush obstacle course for big kids and adults.

Global superstars KISS will rock Saturday night at our very own No.1 Sportsground, one of just seven Australian venues on their End of the World tour. Known for their trademark larger-than-life blistering performances, KISS has for decades been the most iconic live show in rock and roll. Local rock stars the Screaming Jets, led by original frontman Dave Gleeson, will be special guests and a highlight for many Novocastrians who remember the 1980s and ‘90s.

For Newcastle 500 event-goers, it’s an easy 2km walk from the race precinct to the concert. Take your time and enjoy the journey - it’s dotted with eating and drinking options on Hunter and King streets, Honeysuckle and throughout Cooks Hill. Nearby Marketown is open late and has takeaway options and supermarket conveniences.

We invite everyone to enjoy Newcastle over this big weekend. The light rail is perfect for jumping on and off at key locations and getting a taste of all that’s on offer. If you’re a visitor to our beautiful city, why not venture farther afield. Take a stroll on our stunning Bathers Way, soak up the view from the top of Strzelecki Lookout and dip your toes or more in the water at Merewether Ocean Baths.

We love living here, and sharing what we treasure most is what we’re all about.

Welcome, and enjoy!

Nuatali Nelmes