Food
For more than six decades, Dawson’s Oysters has been a cornerstone of Lake Macquarie life. From the first oysters processed in a small garage to the bustling Warners Bay shop today, generations of locals have relied on Dawson’s for Christmas prawns, Sydney Rocks and the signature friendly service that has made the store a community favourite.
People
As a mum of three, PE teacher turned researcher and Lake Macquarie’s 2025 Ambassador, Dr Alyce Barnes is using her lived experience and world-leading research to champion girls, schools and communities across the region.
People
Over two decades in Newcastle real estate means Tammy Hawkins knows more than just the market - she knows all the best places to eat, sip and unwind, too. Based in Merewether, she shares her favourite local spots and what makes this part of the world so hard to beat.
Art
A colourful new addition to Newcastle’s arts scene, Alejandro’s invites people to create, connect and feel truly welcome.
People
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards. It’s your chance to celebrate the people and groups who quietly make Newcastle a better place through care, creativity and dedication.
Culture
Personal stylist and thrifting veteran Joanne Gambale shares her top tips for striking gold at the op shop and consciously curating your wardrobe.
Art
Evolution Advisers is calling on Newcastle artists and designers to create the official t-shirt for the 2026 Surfest Evolution Charity Cup. Celebrating 40 years of Surfest, this year’s event supports Emma’s Warriors - a local charity founded by leukaemia survivor Emma Walsh - with all funds helping families through tough hospital stays.
Food
The team behind two of Newcastle’s most celebrated restaurants, Flotilla and Humbug, is bringing something completely new to the city. Papalote, opening this November in Newcastle West, is a vibrant Mexican restaurant and agave bar from friends and co-owners Eduardo Molina, Michael Portley and Stephanie Wells.
Culture
Built on values of friendship, love, and truth, Newcastle’s FLT Tattoo Studio has spent the past decade creating tattoos, and community, with care. As founder Eddy Lou and her team celebrate ten years, they reflect on what it means to build a feminist, accessible and deeply human creative space.
Culture
Hannah here, your resident Ted Lasso super fan. I was sure season three was the end, but with Jason Sudeikis confirming season four, the obsession lives on. So here’s what we know so far about Ted’s return to Richmond.
Travel
Parenting doesn’t stop when you’re on holiday, it just relocates. In this story, Hannah shares her honest (and slightly sleep-deprived) reflections on family trips over the years: the chaos, the laughter, and the unexpected moments that turn into treasured memories.
People
Newcastle author Natalie Murray returns with her second novel, Lights, Camera, Love - a warm, dance-fuelled romance set against the backdrop of Sydney’s film industry (with a little Hunter Valley magic too). We chat to her about inspiration, character backstories and the importance of writing stories with both light and shadow.
Wellbeing
Have you ever been lured by a brand of skincare purely because it was labelled natural or organic? Secondly, would you feel confident letting a baby taste any of the products currently found in your bathroom cabinet? If you answered yes and then no, you’re on your way to understanding the philosophy behind local certified organic skincare range for mothers and babies, Willow by the Sea.
Wellbeing
Born from a love of surf, coffee and helping people live better lives, Transcend Health is redefining healthcare in Newcastle - one tailored movement at a time.
Food
ACACIA Dining has launched a new evening menu, bringing refined yet approachable dining to a night out in Maitland. Swell chats to owner Reece Hignell to find out more.
