How Coal Shaped Newcastle

Next date: Friday, 06 November 2026 | 05:00 PM to 09:00 PM

Drawing on more than 60 in-depth interviews with miners, geologists, train drivers, activists, historians, power station workers, nurses, industry leaders and mine owners, the series presents one of the most comprehensive oral and visual histories of coal's impact on Newcastle and the Hunter ever produced.

Through personal stories, expert insight and rarely told perspectives, How Coal Shaped Newcastle explores the industry that shaped a city, built communities, powered generations, and continues to influence the region's future.

"Liddell Colliery, man in hardhat, 1963" from the Hannan Photographic Archive, held by the University of Newcastle Special Collections.