Newcastle Museum Unveils 'Model Newcastle' Exhibition
- intouch Magazine
- 9 hours ago
- 2 min read
Newcastle Museum has unveiled its next major exhibition, and there's one notable difference to the items on display – their size. Model Newcastle: Big Stories, Little Things opened on 27 September, delving into the intricate world of models and miniatures that pack maximum impact despite their diminutive scale.
The exhibition features items from the Museum's extensive collection alongside treasured creations on loan from the community, exploring how these tiny worlds serve big purposes – from exploring the past to imagining the future.
City of Newcastle Director of Museum, Archive, Libraries and Learning, Julie Baird, said the exhibition has been "a labour of love" showcasing craftsmanship from local and international designers, artists and makers.
The exhibition explores five distinct themes:
Views of the City features architectural models, including one of Australia's best model railways, Newcastle 1899, which depicts the Newcastle Railway Station precinct at the turn of the century. It also includes a model of the former Newcastle Workers' Club, used during the coronial inquest into the 1989 earthquake.
Modelling the Imagination explores creative entertainment pieces, including a 3D-printed mechanical fish tank by former Newcastle Herald cartoonist Peter Lewis and the fantastical puppetry collection of marionette performer Murray Raine.
Scale Engineering showcases expert replicas from the Lake Macquarie Live Steamers Association, one of Australia's longest-running model societies, active for more than 70 years.
On the Water taps into Newcastle's marine history with model ships, boats and ferries, including a scale model of the famous Cutty Sark sailing ship. This model was painstakingly built over 40 years by Peter Sharp, whose fascination with Newcastle Harbour history was sparked during his career with Newcastle Water Police.
Big Skills Miniaturised examines Newcastle's manufacturing legacy through apprentice pieces and demonstrator models used for competency assessments and skill demonstration.
The exhibition offers hands-on family fun with dollhouses inspired by civic landmarks, a miniature railway track, and film-making experiences using a post-apocalyptic model city.
Lord Mayor Dr Ross Kerridge praised the exhibition's multigenerational appeal, noting how models have been used for generations to "entertain, educate, investigate and explain."
Running until February 2026, tickets cost $10 for adults, $8 for concessions, and $5 for children (ages 5-16). Family passes are available for $25. For more information, visit www.newcastlemuseum.com.au.
