Explore wonders of the natural world this school holidays

City of Newcastle is inviting families to dive into a series of hands-on activities across its venues during January that will help create connections with the natural environment. 

From the secrets of marine life along Newcastle’s coast to the prehistoric wonders of the age of the dinosaurs, there’s plenty to keep every young explorer busy these school holidays.

CN staff member Eliza Hoyland and UoN PHD student, Hayden Swift stand alongside young participants of CN's environmental event 'Hidden Life of Sand'.Take a wander along Newcastle’s coastline guided by marine biologists to explore rock pools teeming with life or uncover intricate ecosystems in the sand as part of City of Newcastle’s popular Natural Connection program.

The Civic Theatre will also take audiences on a trip into the deep blue this January as British naturalist and wildlife presenter Steve Backshall brings the oceanic environment to life on stage with stunts, experiments, cutting-edge science and big screen footage from his two decades in TV. 

The prehistoric era will also roar to life on the Civic Theatre stage when TV’s favourite doctors Dr Chris and Dr Xand blend science and comedy with a Jurassic twist in their new show Operation Ouch – Jurassic Fart. 

Budding palaeontologists can continue their journey into the past at Newcastle Museum with an opportunity to craft, build, and dance their way through history. Experience the Brick-a-saurus LEGO challenge or enjoy dino-night adventure complete with a safari tour and silent disco, while young artists can get creative during a dino drawing workshop with Sam the Caricaturist. 

Art will meet nature at Newcastle Libraries as well, where children can design their own cactus rock gardens after exploring Jeannie Baker’s Desert Jungle exhibition or bring extinct animals to life with chalk art.

Children will have the chance to learn more about the diversity of animals at Blackbutt Reserve, where daily feeding sessions offer an up-close look at wombats, koalas, and birds, while animal encounters provide a unique opportunity to interact with some of Blackbutt’s most beloved inhabitants.

Summerhill Waste Management Centre will also make learning fun with their behind-the-scenes tour, which takes participants on an educational journey into the natural cycle of sustainability and waste management.

For more information about other fun activities on offer across Newcastle during the school holidays visit https://whatson.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/