As you are approaching the Newcastle Museum, look to your left. You can spot it quite easily thanks to the prominent red, arch-like sculpture outside that frames the entrance. The building itself is a charming brick structure with arched windows and a grey corrugated roof. It has a blend of historic architecture with modern touches.
Welcome to the Newcastle Museum! This museum is full of intriguing stories and historical treasures. Founded in 1988 and originally nestled in the old Castlemaine Brewery building on Hunter Street, it had quite a royal inauguration by none other than Queen Elizabeth II. It found its current home in 2011, just a breezy 1.1 miles away in the former HQ of the Great Northern Railway, which includes the heritage-listed Honeysuckle Point Railway Workshops!
Ever wanted to go on a dinosaur bone heist? Well, back in 2003, bones from a 110-million-year-old psittacosaurus sinensis (try saying that five times fast) were stolen! They were on loan from China, and despite a $5000 reward offered for their return, the bones have joined the ranks of legendary lost artifacts.
But wait-there's more! In June 2024, a young man carried out quite the dramatic act by attempting a knife attack on Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp right here in the museum. Thankfully, he was arrested, and no one was injured.
So, enjoy exploring this museum where history, mystery, and a bit of drama collide in the most fascinating ways!
