Laurie Allen
‘The Inroads of Strange Tribes’: Alliances between Aboriginal
People of the Hunter and Brisbane Water Districts
in the Early Years of Settlement

Dr Ann Hardy will talk about the ‘Channel 3’ digitisation project, a ten-year collaboration between the University of Newcastle Library and NBN Television. Since its 1962 debut as NSW’s first regional commercial station, NBN’s archives have captured the essence of the Hunter region.

Annual General Meeting

Julie Keating
‘Prominent Newcastle Buildings of the 1800s’

Due to its establishment as a penal colony, the first prominent building in Newcastle was the gaol. It was built near Parnell Place and overlooked the ocean. Other government buildings such as the Court House, and later the Post Office, Telegraph Office and Customs House were community landmarks. 

With the growth of the coal industry, investment in the  city surged and a number of substantial buildings were constructed. We are fortunate that some still stand today. Unfortunately their state varies – some are well maintained but others are derelict e.g. the former Post Office. It is due to their good design and solid building processes that we can admire and value them today. 

Christmas in July

Sach Killam – Monumental Specialist

Dr Ken Thornton – Eraring

Denis Kirkaldy – An Overview of Gallipoli