Welcome to this week's edition of The Newy List!
Winter in the Hunter region is far from sleepy. As we move into July, the cultural calendar is brimming with vibrant performances, cozy culinary experiences, and community events that celebrate the season. Whether you’re looking to laugh out loud at the Newcastle Comedy Club, marvel at the time-twisting tunes of Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox, or simply enjoy a relaxed Sunday at the Pokolbin Market, this week offers a diverse array of activities. Wrap up warm and explore the hidden gems and major events that make our region so special.
Featured Events
The Libertine
HER Productions presents a provocative and darkly comic work that challenges audiences with a searing duet between destruction and creation. Experience The Libertine across two distinct productions, a gripping historically-set piece and an exciting contemporary reimagining—exploring gender, power, and desire.
When: Thursday 2 July – Saturday 11 July 2026
Where: Playhouse, Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter Street, Newcastle
Link: Book Tickets
Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox - The Future Is Vintage Tour 2026
The world’s foremost purveyors of time-twisting hits return to Australia. Enter a parallel musical universe where modern-day earworms and iconic pop tracks are reimagined in vintage styles, from '70s rock classics to '80s Britpop hits. Dress in your vintage best for the full time-travel experience.
When: Saturday 4 July 2026, 7:30 pm
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter Street, Newcastle
Link: Book Tickets
Sourdough Class at Historic Arnott Bakehouse
Master the art of sourdough bread making in an immersive, hands-on class led by Stephen Arnott, a master baker from one of Australia's oldest baking families. Learn the science of sourdough in the historic bakehouse built in 1850.
When: Saturday 4 July and Sunday 5 July 2026, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Where: Historic Arnott Bakehouse, 148 Swan Street, Morpeth
Link: Book Now
MUSIC
Al Jardine and The Pet Sounds Band
Founding member of The Beach Boys, Al Jardine, joins forces with The Pet Sounds Band to celebrate one of the most iconic catalogues in music history. Experience timeless hits and rare tracks in a stunning celebration of The Beach Boys’ harmonies and energy.
When: Thursday 2 July 2026, 8:00 pm
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter Street, Newcastle
Link: Book Tickets
Fanny Lumsden - Only Fans HINTON: A Story Club Special
Join the multi-award-winning Fanny Lumsden for her Solo Story club show. She shares wholesome stories from the road and brings her songs to you in the form they were written, creating an intimate book club for songs.
When: Saturday 4 July 2026, 6:30 pm
Where: Hinton School of Arts, 279 Hinton Rd, Hinton
Link: Book Tickets
Sunset Sessions at Bimbadgen
Ease into the weekend as golden hour settles over the vines. Enjoy happy hour, small bites on the balcony, live music in the courtyard, sweeping sunset views, and a vibey atmosphere.
When: Friday 3 July 2026, from 5:00 pm
Where: Bimbadgen, 790 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin
Link: More Information
ARTS & CULTURE
Tom Gleeson - Out of Touch
Hard Quiz and Taskmaster Australia host, Gold Logie winner Tom Gleeson is completely out of touch. Come along to his brand new stand-up show and take him down a peg in an hour of solid, charismatic comedy.
When: Friday 3 July and Monday 6 July 2026, 7:00 pm
Where: Civic Theatre, 375 Hunter Street, Newcastle
Link: Book Tickets
Dahn Rozario: Live at the Newy Comedy Club
Dahn Rozario is coming back to Newcastle! After performing around Australia, the UK, Europe, and the US, Dahn returns with a brand-new hour of stand-up comedy.
When: Saturday 4 July 2026, 6:00 pm
Where: Newcastle Comedy Club, 139 Maitland Rd, Islington
Link: Book Tickets
ArchipelaGO! Exhibition
This exhibition brings together four female artists, Vanessa Turton, Aksara Harriram, Jen Denzin, and Fran Johnston, whose distinct practices form a shared yet fragmented landscape.
When: 19 June – 12 July 2026
Where: Newcastle Art Space, 91 Chinchen St, Islington
Link: More Information
Salote Tawale: The Tide Continues
Step into an immersive new exhibition by Australian-Fijian artist Salote Tawale, inspired by the waterways, mangroves, and colonial impacts of Lake Macquarie.
When: 26 April – 19 July 2026
Where: MAC yapang (Museum of Art and Culture Lake Macquarie), 2A First Street, Booragul
Link: More Information
Mr Squiggle and Friends at Newcastle Museum
Hurry up, it's Squiggle time! Take a nostalgic trip down memory lane with this playful exhibition exploring the puppetry, cartooning, and art of Norman Hetherington. A wonderful outing for both the young and the young at heart.
When: Saturday 4 July onwards, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Where: Newcastle MuseumTickets:
Free entry
FOOD, WINE & MARKETS
Duck Sensations - Friday's in July @ Gartelmann Wines
Join Gartelmann Wines fireside inside the cellar door for a “Duck Sensations” 4-Course Degustation experience. Cleverly designed by Chef Matt Dillow to perfectly pair with some of Gartelmann Wine’s finest drops.
When: Friday 3 July 2026, 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Where: Gartelmann Wines Cellar Door, 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale
Link: Book Tickets
Newcastle City Farmers Market
A showcase of the best and freshest local produce and gourmet delights. Interact directly with farmers, producers, and artisans, and enjoy a great community atmosphere with delicious food trucks.
When: Sunday 5 July 2026, 6:30 am – 11:30 am
Where: Newcastle Showground, Broadmeadow (Griffiths Rd Entry)
Link: More Information
Earth Market Maitland
Operating in The Shared Zone at The Levee, this market offers fresh, locally grown, and seasonal produce directly from the farmers. Organised by Slow Food Hunter Valley, it values good, clean, and fair food for all.
When: Thursday 2 July 2026, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Where: The Levee Shared Zone, High Street, Maitland
Link: More Information
Pokolbin Market
The heart of Hunter Valley wine country comes alive with the vibrant atmosphere of this weekly market. Discover fresh artisan breads, locally made goods, gourmet food stalls, and live acoustic music set among the vineyards.
When: Sunday 5 July 2026, 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Where: 691 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin
Link: More Information
SPORT & COMMUNITY
2026 NRL Round 18: Knights vs Dolphins
As the NRL season heads into its final third, the Newcastle Knights take on the Dolphins in a fast-paced, family-friendly showdown. Head to the stadium to support the home team as they fight to climb the ladder.
When: Sunday 5 July 2026, Kick-off 4:05 pm
Where: McDonald Jones Stadium, 294 Turton Road, Broadmeadow
Link: Book Tickets
Harlem Globetrotters
100 Year TourThe team that redefined basketball is bringing their most legendary tour ever to Newcastle. Enjoy epic pre-game magic, unforgettable post-game interactions, thrilling athleticism, and laugh-out-loud fun against the Washington Generals.
When: Sunday 5 July 2026, 2:00 pm
Where: Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Broadmeadow
Link: Book Tickets
Port Stephens Creative Crawl
Your favourite local creative businesses have united for the Port Stephens Creative Crawl. Grab a passport and adventure through local art, community, and culture, collecting stamps for a chance to win fantastic prizes.
When: 1 July – 19 July 2026
Where: Various locations across Port Stephens (Passports at Nelson Bay Visitors Information Centre)
Link: More Information
Little Yengo Gallery, Wollombi
Tucked away in the picturesque Wollombi Valley, Little Yengo Gallery is a beautiful spot to view and purchase artworks and giftware by talented Aboriginal artists. Open across NAIDOC Week, it’s a serene place to appreciate First Nations culture while exploring the historic village of Wollombi. Take a drive out, grab a coffee at the local cafe, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Got a secret spot we should know about? Hit reply and tell us your favourite hidden gem!
LOOKING FORWARD
Hunter Valley Wine & Beer Festival 2026
Mark your calendars for a full day of tasting, food, and fun. The Hunter Valley Wine & Beer Festival returns to Rydges Resort with over 45 local wineries, breweries, and distilleries, plus live music and entertainment.
When: Saturday 11 July, 11:00am – 5:00pm
Where: Rydges Resort Hunter Valley
Tickets: huntervalleywinefestival.com
GRACE MOVEMENT PILATES X KRINKLEWOOD
A Long Lunch Experience, July 25- 12 noon. Join us for a special day @krinklewood in the Hunter Valley. This private event, curated to bring together movement, relaxation, and a shared dining experience. The day begins with a gentle Pilates class, followed by a relaxing sound bath to help you unwind. Afterwards, we gather for a long lunch, linen tablecloths and fresh blooms. Enjoy a shared dining experience by Cézan, inspired by European-style festing and seasonal Australian flavours, fresh vibrant dishes designed to be enjoyed together.
When: July 25th. 12pm.
Where: Krinklewood Estate.
Tickets: BOOK HERE
Disney On Ice: Magic In The Stars
A magical musical adventure awaits as Elsa, Anna, Mickey, and Minnie take to the ice. This spectacular show is always a hit, so secure your seats before they melt away.
When: 9 – 12 July
Recommendation:
If The Newy List is what's on this week, Marram.com.au is the slower companion to it, a Sunday letter about the people and places that make this stretch of coast what it is.
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That's your week, Up the Knights! 9-5. See you out there. 🙌
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