Powerboat races, a spectacular air show and the transformation of pools across the city into giant inflatable play zones are among the highlights of this year's Australia Day activities.
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For the first time, Newcastle will take its celebrations to the suburbs, with events in Lambton, Wallsend, Beresfield, Mayfield, Stockton and the CBD.
Blackbutt Reserve will host a family ‘bush experience’ at Richley Reserve, with a water slide and jumping castle, Segway rides, reptile show and sausage sizzle - all free.
A giant book giveaway, wildlife illustration workshop and free street-side sausage sizzle will be on offer from 10am-2pm at Wallsend Library, while city swimming centres will feature free live music, entertainment and inflatables.
In the CBD, people from all corners of the globe will make their pledge to Australia at a citizenship ceremony, starting at 9am at City Hall. It is my privilege to welcome these new Australians and to announce the recipients of this year's Australia Day Awards, including Newcastle Citizen of the Year.
Newcastle Harbour will come alive from 8am on both Australia Day and Saturday January 27, with the first round of the 2018 Australian Formula Powerboat GP.
Dinosaur puppets at Newcastle Museum and flower pressing workshops at Newcastle Art Gallery will add further colour to the day.
