Model Newcastle: Big Stories, Little Things
- intouch Magazine
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
Step into a world where the tiniest details tell the biggest stories. Newcastle Museum’s headline exhibition for 2025–26, Model Newcastle: Big Stories, Little Things, invites you to experience the city and its stories through the captivating lens of miniatures and models.
As Julie Baird, Director of Museum, Archive, Libraries and Learning, explains, “Models and miniatures are tiny worlds with big purposes that can explore the past, imagine the future and transport us anywhere in between. From historical replicas to imaginative creations, all these little things have big Newcastle stories to tell as they spark joy and curiosity in audiences of all ages.”
From a bustling rail and harbour precinct frozen in 1899 to intricate dollhouses, working steam engines, and film props, this exhibition is a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and the power of storytelling in small scale.
Spread across 500 square metres, Model Newcastle brings together treasures from the Museum’s own collection and beloved creations loaned by passionate local makers. With playful, hands-on experiences, displays of technical brilliance and moments of nostalgia, this exhibition invites visitors of every age to discover the big stories told by these little things.
Discover Five Fascinating Worlds
Views of the City
Marvel at one of Australia’s best model railways, Newcastle 1899, a detailed diorama capturing the city at the turn of the century. See architectural miniatures, including the former Newcastle Workers’ Club model used in the 1989 earthquake inquest.
Modelling the Imagination
Explore the playful side of model-making with film props, 3D-printed marvels, and the whimsical puppetry of marionette master Murray Raine. Don’t miss the post-apocalyptic model city created for filmmaking by Jack McGrath and the University of Newcastle.
Scale Engineering
Be amazed by working replicas of engines and locomotives crafted by the Lake Macquarie Live Steamers Association - one of Australia’s longest-running model societies.
On the Water
Dive into Newcastle’s maritime history with model ships, ferries, and tugboats, including the legendary Cutty Sark - painstakingly recreated over 40 years by local modeller Peter Sharp.
Big Skills
Miniaturised Discover apprentice pieces and demonstrator models that highlight Newcastle’s proud manufacturing heritage. These intricate works were once used to test the skills of apprentices and craftspeople.
Suitable for Curious Minds of Every Age
Whether you're a history buff, a model enthusiast, or simply looking for something fun to do with kids of any age - especially train lovers - Model Newcastle offers hands-on fun for families. Enjoy a miniature railway track, dollhouses inspired by civic landmarks, and interactive film-making displays. And why not make a day of it? Catch the light rail to the museum, explore the exhibition, and enjoy everything the city centre has to offer.
Key Dates & Special Events
Sat 18 October, 10am–5pm & Sun 19 October, 10am–4pm
Meet the creative minds behind the models! Chat with local and visiting makers, see live demonstrations, and discover the passion and skill that goes into every miniature masterpiece.
Tues 28 October, Thurs 30 October, Tues 4 November and Thurs 6 November 2025 Cost: $15
This advanced course is designed for adults and older teenagers. It introduces participants to the fundamentals of building radio-controlled scale model ships, offering a general overview of the hobby and helping students understand the skills, resources, and commitment involved.
Plan Your Visit
Model Newcastle: Big Stories, Little Things opens Saturday 27 September
Tickets: $10 adults | $8 concession | $5 children (5–16 years) | Under 5s free | Family (2 adults + 2 children) $25.
During the NSW school holidays, Newcastle Museum is open seven days a week (closed Mondays outside holiday periods). For more information and to book your tickets, visit the Newcastle Museum website.
