What is Newcastle, New South Wales, known for?
Newcastle is a port city about 160 kilometres north of Sydney, known for coal exports, its steelmaking past, surf beaches and ocean baths. It was founded as a convict outpost in 1804.
The city grew around coal mining, and its harbour at the mouth of the Hunter River became one of the world's largest coal export ports. The BHP steelworks operated in Newcastle from 1915 until closing in 1999.
On 28 December 1989, an earthquake struck the city, killing 13 people and damaging thousands of buildings. It was one of Australia's most damaging earthquakes and led to stronger building rules.
Beaches and baths
Newcastle has beaches right next to its city centre. The Newcastle Ocean Baths and the convict-cut Bogey Hole, carved into rock in the 1820s, are popular swimming spots. Nobbys Head lighthouse guards the harbour entrance.
The city has a lively arts scene, a university and a light rail line. The Bathers Way coastal walk links Nobbys Beach to Merewether, passing headlands and historic sites.
Did You Know?
The Bogey Hole was cut into the rock platform by convicts for the commandant's private bathing.