What's On Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & the Hunter | October 2024

Get intouch with what's on this October in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & the Hunter...
TUESDAY 29 OCTOBER
GRINSPOON at Bar on the Hill
In honour of their first music release in 12 years, Grinspoon is embarking on a nationwide tour, reaching every corner of the country! The iconic rock band will stop in at Newcastle’s Bar on the Hill, playing new hits from their latest album, Whatever, Whatever, and old classics that you all know and love. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.grinspoon.com.au.
TUESDAY 29 – WEDNESDAY 30 OCTOBER
Past the Shallows at Civic Theatre
Past the Shallows is a stage adaptation of Favel Parrett’s novel by Julian Larnach, directed by Ben Winspear. The story is set on the rugged south coast of Tasmania, delving into themes of brotherhood, mortality, family secrets, and the complexities of modern masculinity, performed by a trio of young actors in multiple roles. This performance will
stay with you long after the lights come up. Get your tickets here: www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
PAST
FRIDAY 4 – SUNDAY 6 OCTOBER
Dashville Skyline at Dashville
Escape to Wonnarua Country for a long weekend of great music, bush camping, great food and better company! Showcasing some of the best in Australian alternative folk and country music over the past decade. This family-friendly camping festival is a favourite for those who like their music more laid back. This ten-year celebratory festival is stacked with amazing live shows, artistic collaborations, family activities and much more… Don’t miss out! For more info or tickets, visit www.dashville.com.au.
SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER
Seahorse Film Festival at Newcastle Conservatorium of Music
Celebrate our community's rich tapestry of creativity and talent at the Seahorse Film Festival! Newcastle is brimming with talented individuals across various artistic disciplines, and this festival aims to unite us all in a celebration of cinematic storytelling. Let's shape the future of our local film scene and create lasting connections. For more info, visit www.seahorsefilmfestival.com.
SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER
Tropical Fest at Adamstown Bowling Club
Get ready to immerse yourself in this Tropical Sounds Open Air Festival this October long weekend! Featuring an electrifying lineup of local artists across two stages, Way Lie will headline the event with support from MARNiE, Bo.Bella, Kelzy, and many more. Enjoy all-day beverage specials, $15 pizzas, and a unique pop-up stall from Lonely Lovers Vintage, all powered by Fellr and 4 Pines Brewing Co. This capped event promises an unforgettable experience on the dance floor! To get your tickets, visit www.oztix.com.au
SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER
Feast Fest at Blacksmiths Beach
Join us for a memorable evening by the water! Enjoy diverse cuisines from food trucks, savour fine beer and wine, and explore unique local stalls. Bring the family for fun in the kids’ zone, groove to live music, and bring your leashed dog along. Don’t miss this lively celebration of food and festivity! For more information, visit www.browseau.com

SATURDAY 5 - SUNDAY 6 OCTOBER
Dockfest at Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club
Celebrate the warmer season by the water at Dockfest, showcasing eight local musicians performing right on the water. With the support of Good Folk Brewing, Peter Drayton Wines, and Earp Distilling Co, this event is set to be a fantastic night. For more information, visit www.ncyc.net.au
SUNDAY 6 OCTOBER
West Best Bloc Fest at Various Newcastle Venues
Gather your pals and celebrate our booming local music scene this October long weekend! As the biggest showcase of Newcastle’s live music scene, the West Best Bloc Fest is a unique experience, taking place in over 12 local venues featuring 100 bands! Don't miss out on the perfect spring day activity for a long weekend! For more information of to purchase tickets, visit www.westbestblocfest.com
SATURDAY 12 OCTOBER
Cinema Under the Stars at Speers Point Park
Newcastle Permanent are bringing a world of imagination to Lake Macquarie. Celebrate Spring with this family-friendly event, an open-air screening of the iconic 2023 film Wonka! With free entry, free popcorn, live entertainment and local food and drink vendors, the only thing you need to bring is your picnic blankets and chairs! For more info, visit www.newcastlepermanent.com.au or visit the Facebook event.
SATURDAY 12 OCTOBER
Newcastle Pride Parade at Nobbys Beach to Honeysuckle
You’re invited to paint Newcastle Foreshore with PRIDE! As a part of the Newcastle Pride Festival, this parade is a vibrant outdoor celebration of local LGBTQIA+ pride, culture, diversity, and equality. Whether you’re waving a flag, dancing in the streets, or simply supporting from the sidelines, your presence will make this celebration unforgettable. Visit www.newcastlepride.com.au.
SUNDAY 13 OCTOBER
Drink n Draw with Wonder Mama at Earp Distilling Co
Gather your friends for an afternoon of creativity and fun at Sydney’s top-rated Drawing Workshop with The Fabulous Wonder Mama! Relax with a drink as this acclaimed drag queen and artist, known for her children's books and 20+ years in art, teaches you how to create stunning Drag Star artwork with oil pastels. From 12pm to 2.30pm, enjoy drawing and dancing to Felix DaKitty’s beats from 2.30pm to 5.00pm. For just $50 per person, this 18+ event offers a unique blend of art, music, and socialising in a gorgeous local venue! Visit fabulouswondermama.com.au
FRIDAY 18 – SUNDAY 20 OCTOBER
Fast & Loud Festival at Warners Bay Foreshore
Experience top-tier Offshore Superboat and Powerboat racing with Australian Powerboats competing from 11am to 4:30pm and Superboats from midday to 3 pm, visible from Eleebana to Speers Point. Enjoy additional highlights such as a Matt Hall Racing display, a Darlinghurst concert at Belmont Foreshore, a Show and Shine vintage car display at Speers Point Park, and various music, food, markets, and kids' entertainment throughout the festival. For more info visit www.lakemac.com.au.

FRIDAY 18 OCTOBER
Scratchleys 35th Anniversary at Scratchleys
Join the fabulous staff at Scratchleys in celebrating 35 years of one of Newcastle's most iconic restaurants! The Scratchleys team is pulling out all the stops with a spectacular five-course dinner that showcases the restaurant’s history, perfectly paired with exceptional local wines. You will savour a selection of delicious seafood alongside carefully chosen wines from around the Hunter. For more information, visit www.scratchleys.com.au.
SATURDAY 19 OCTOBER
An Evening with Tim Winton at the University Great Hall
Award-winning Australian writer Tim Winton is set to be a special guest at a Newcastle Writers Festival special event this spring. Winton will be visiting Newcastle for the first time to speak about his new book, Juice, an epic novel about determination, survival, and the limits of the human spirit. Grab yourself a copy of the new novel and get it signed by the man himself! For more info, visit www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/tim-winton.

SATURDAY 19 OCTOBER
Centennial Ball at Newcastle City Hall
The City of Newcastle RSL Pipe Band is celebrating its 100th anniversary! Formed in early 1924, the band has become a cultural icon in Newcastle, performing at major events and international stages. Known for its role in ANZAC Day ceremonies, the band will mark its anniversary with a Centennial Ball at Newcastle City Hall and a special 2025 Wall Calendar. The community is invited to join the festivities and honour the band's century of contribution. For more information, visit www.newcastlerslpipeband.com.au.
SATURDAY 19 OCTOBER
FABBA Superyacht on Newcastle Harbour
You’re invited to board the luxurious superyacht and experience an unforgettable night in Newcastle Harbour as FABBA,
Australia’s top ABBA tribute show takes the stage. You’ll have the chance to enjoy ABBA’s classic hits while cruising on the open-air, three-level yacht, boasting two floors of DJs playing beloved tunes. Guests can look forward to an evening of dancing and nostalgia! For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com
SATURDAY 19 OCTOBER
Morisset + Lake Macquarie Agricultural Show at Morisset Showground
Prepare for a day packed with horse events, carnival rides, and the Kare Clancy horse trick show. Visitors can enjoy sheep shearing, baby animals, and pavilion displays of homebrew, art, and craft. There's something for everyone with poultry, cars, ute shows, a rodeo, and fireworks. It’s a no-alcohol event with no dogs and limited seating, so bring a chair or rug! For more information or to purchase your ticket, visit www.morissetshow.org.au.
THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER
Thelma Plum at Civic Theatre
Handsome Tours, Triple J, and Select Music are thrilled to present Thelma Plum's nationwide tour, with the journey kicking off in Newcastle! This highly anticipated tour celebrates her forthcoming album, I’m Sorry, Now Say It Back, a deeply personal work crafted over five years of global writing and recording. The album weaves together stories of heartbreak, affirmation, and Plum’s signature pop songs about dogs. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.

SATURDAY 26 OCTOBER
Mayfield Day at Webb Park
Returning for a third year of free family fun, Mayfield Day celebrates the wonderful community and spirit of Mayfield. The fun day consists of a lineup of amazing stalls from local businesses, community groups, kids’ entertainers and more. Act like a local and get down to Webb Park! For more information, visit the Facebook Event Page.
SATURDAY 26 OCTOBER
Ride Along at Camp Shortland
Join Ride Along, a progressive long lunch by bike run by Newy Rides! Cyclists will enjoy a scenic route from Camp Shortland
to Frenchie in Carrington and Alfie's Italian in New Lambton. Perfect for cycling and food enthusiasts alike. The event features great views, tasty dishes, and good company. Participants should bring their own bikes and cover the cost of their food and drinks. For more info, visit www.stickytickets.com.au.