Supercars action begins

The second instalment of the Newcastle 500, the city's biggest event, has begun with the SuperUtes first on track this morning.

The City of Newcastle is supporting Hunter woman Charlotte Poynting in the SuperUtes class.

Poynting, 19, is driving a SuperUte emblazoned with the colourful Newcastle brand.

Pit crews in action this morning.

Crowds started gathering just after sunrise to score the best vantage points.

City staff are out there greeting fans and promoting Newcastle.

Hundreds gathered in Gregson Park, Hamilton, yesterday afternoon for signings by Supercars drivers before their star power lit up Beaumont Street in a parade of vintage cars.

Diners spilled out of restaurants as the procession passed in the first celebration of the four-day Entertain Newcastle festival, organised with our partners to spread the high-octane atmosphere across the city.

Darby Street will light up tonight with live music and early Christmas lights, before tomorrow sees the staging of the Supercars concert at No.1 Sportsground.