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Join Kerrie Basha of Bohomofo for a guided Meditation Series
Commencing Wednesday, 18 Feb, 6.00–7.00pm at Cessnock Library
Join us for a guided exploration combining storytelling, meditation, and intuitive practices to deepen self-awareness and connect with your inner wisdom. Kerrie’s experience supports personal growth, offering a welcoming space for all.
No prior experience is needed—just bring your favourite comfort items (e.g., cushions, blankets) and an open mind. A journal is optional for reflecting on insights. Discover well-being through creativity, reflection, and connection. Embrace your journey in a nurturing environment that fosters growth and understanding. See you there! ��
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Beading Wicked Women: meet artist & author TESSA MORRISON
Cessnock Library | Thursday 26 Feb, 5.30-6.30pm
Tessa Morrison’s Enamel Necklaces: Beading Wicked Women
Explore 14 handcrafted pieces inspired by women labelled “wicked” by male chroniclers from 1500 BCE–1542 CE.
Each bead reveals power, politics, and hidden meanings, blending adornment and protective symbolism.
Talk: Thu 26 Feb, 5:30–6:30pm
Exhibition: Cessnock Library Foyer—open during February business hours.
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Speaking of Books: Sue Williams – The Duke’s Secret
Cessnock Library | Saturday 21 Feb, 11am–12pm
Uncover a Tangled Tale of Love and Legacy at Cessnock Library!
Join bestselling historical fiction author Sue Williams for a captivating talk onThe Duke’s Secret—a riveting novel inspired by her own family’s enthralling past. Explore the forbidden romance between a maid named Mary Ann and the future Duke of Wellington during the Napoleonic Wars, and the web of secrets that binds their descendants. Fast-forward 200 years to modern Australia, where a woman embarks on a quest to verify her family’s shocking claim.
Blending real history with gripping fiction, Sue brings the past vividly to life. Known for works like Elizabeth & Elizabeth and The Governor, His Wife and His Mistress, she’s praised as “a masterful storyteller” (Belinda Alexandra) and “a rollicking good story” (Kyra Geddes). Discover the truth behind a Duke, a maid, and a legacy of passion and betrayal.
Don’t miss this chance to delve into history with a beloved Australian author!
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Seniors Fest is back with a packed schedule of your favourite activities!
From engaging pub history talks and gentle chair yoga to the lively antics of Fat Elvis, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy wellness workshops, fun drumming sessions, and cozy movie screenings.
We also have a "Dying to Know" presentation, an essential event designed to empower all adult Australians to confidently advocate for their future care and personal planning. This session equips attendees with tools to make informed decisions about their lives ahead, ensuring their voices are heard and their wishes respected.
Whether you’re looking to learn, connect, or simply enjoy some fun, Seniors Fest offers a vibrant mix of activities to inspire, uplift, and empower.
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Celebrating Cessnock’s hidden Herstories
(International Women’s Day event)
Cessnock Library | Thursday 5 March, 1.00-3.00pm
We don’t have to look outside our own backyard to find amazing women, doing wonderful work. So why don’t we know more about them? Hear the inspiring stories of hidden, local heroines at this annual event. Gold coin donation to Jodie’s Place.
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An Evening With Peter Fitzsimons: The Courageous Life of Weary Dunlop
PACC | Saturday 28 March 2026, 6.30pm -7.30pm
Australia's favourite storyteller, Peter FitzSimons, is coming to Cessnock to share the truly epic tale of Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop!
Hear the gripping true story of the surgeon, prisoner-of-war, and life-saving leader whose unwavering courage on the infamous Thai-Burma Railway inspired thousands. This isn't just history; it's a profound journey into resilience and heroism.
Don't miss this unforgettable night! Books available for purchase & signing. Presented by Cessnock City Library in partnership with Newcastle Writers Festival.
��️ Tickets are available for just $30.�� Secure Your Spot Today.
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Ed Tonks Talk | Pits & Pubs – A Virtual Tour of the South Maitland Coalfields
Kurri Kurri Bowling Club | Tuesday, 12 May, 5:30‑6:45 pm
The coalfields that once powered New South Wales have faded, but the sturdy hotels of Heddon Greta, Kurri Kurri, Weston, Abermain, Kearsley, Cessnock and surrounding towns still stand as living museums of early‑1900s architecture and community life. Join us for a guided walk through these historic taverns, memorials and cemeteries and discover the stories behind their names.
Ed Tonks – a retired social‑sciences teacher and celebrated local historian – has delivered more than 1,400 talks on the Hunter Region’s industrial heritage. He has written 23 books on rail, coal‑mining and hotel history, and has been honoured with a Centenary Medal, the John Turner Memorial Lecture, a Bona Perpetual award and the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for services to education and community history.
A special thank‑you to the Kurri Kurri Bowling Club for hosting this free event while the library is under repair. Bookings are essential.
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Speaking of Books: Fiona Lowe – The Drowning
(In conversation with Tea Cooper)
Cessnock Library | Monday 23 Mar 26, 6.00-7pm
A stormy inheritance and a body on the beach fracture the Friend family. Australian Award-winning author Fiona Lowe weaves secrets, loyalty, and legacy into a gripping tale. Don’t miss this RITA and RuBY-winning author explore family tensions and second chances. Join us! |
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Unearth the Underground Symphony: May Workshops Revealing Soil's Microbial Magic & Food Web Wonders
Introduction to the Soil Food Web
Cessnock Library | Saturday 2 May, 10.00-11.00am
Introduction to the Soil Food Web - the secret to successful growing Presented by Cessnock City Council Environment & Waste Team, this workshop covers the Soil Food Web, soil health, and microbes. Dr Ernie Harbott from Singleton Soil Sisters will discuss key critters and how to foster healthy soil. Suitable for gardeners and farmers, the workshop includes morning tea and a chance to share experiences.
Meet the Microbes
Cessnock Library | Saturday 23 May, 10.00-11.00am
Meet the Microbes Presented by Cessnock City Council Environment & Waste Team. Join Dr Ernie Harbott to learn about the Soil Food Web, its importance for healthy plants, and the planet. This interactive workshop welcomes backyard and commercial growers.
Bring a soil sample for examination under the microscope. Content will be tailored to questions and reactions from participants. As Franklin Delano Roosevelt said, "The nation that destroys its soil, destroys itself." Come and learn about the Soil Food Web in a fun and interactive way. All are welcome to attend.
Please send an email to environment@cessnock.nsw.gov.au if the cost of this workshop is an issue for you. Council has imposed a cost on tickets to limit 'no-shows' on the day but does not wish for cost to prevent anyone from attending.
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Experience Serenity: Sound Healing Workshops at Your Library!
Prepare for deep relaxation and inner harmony!
Join Kristy Woods, an experienced holistic therapist, for unique crystal singing bowl sound baths at Cessnock and Kurri Kurri libraries. These powerful sessions use high vibrational frequencies to guide your mind, body, and soul into profound relaxation. Promote deep rest, stress release, and an energetic reset, leaving you with renewed vitality and clarity.
All sessions run from 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM. Don't miss this unique opportunity to nourish your well-being! Bookings essential.
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Tech Savvy Seniors: Get Tech Savvy!
Upcoming sessions
Feeling a bit bamboozled by all things tech? We've got just the thing! Our fantastic FREE tech workshops for seniors are back at Cessnock & Kurri Kurri Libraries, hosted by the brilliant Harry from Seniors, Tech & Tea.
Come and join in - all are welcome. Booking your FREE spot is essential as places fill fast! Give your library a call: Cessnock (4993 4399) or Kurri Kurri (4937 1638). Or, for program details and online booking, simply click on the image!
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Spirit of Cessnock: Exhibition Launch and Curator’s Talk
Saturday 7 March 11.00am – 12.00pm
Discover the resilient heart of Cessnock! Join us for the launch of 'The Spirit of Cessnock: stories of strength', a powerful exhibition celebrating our community’s courage and cohesion. Hear the stories firsthand at a special curator's talk, beginning at 11.00am on Saturday, 7 March, at Cessnock Library.
Be inspired by the tales of local individuals and groups who define our region's DNA and help shape our collective future.
This free, catered event is open to all—but bookings are essential.
Can't make the talk? The exhibition will be on display in the library foyer from 1–31 March for everyone to enjoy. |
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Cessnock Library Film Club – First Friday (Fri 6 Mar) at 10:30am
Join our monthly Film Club with a warm cuppa and biscuits. Our next film, from STUDIOCANAL, is a heart-warming family movie about a TV personality rescuing orphaned joeys in the Australian Outback, inspired by a true story.
Catch this epic adventure about unlikely friends. Book now: |
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Cessnock Library Foyer Book Sale | commences Monday 2 February, 9am
Calling all bargain hunters! Our fantastic Foyer Booksale is back! Drop into the Cessnock Library Foyer from Monday 2 Feb until Wednesday 25 Feb to bag a bargain.
We’re clearing the shelves with a huge selection of books, DVDs, CDs, and magazines at amazing prices. Hurry in, because when it's gone, it's gone! See you there. |
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| Available for download on all iOS and Android devices, the Cessnock City Library app allows members access to its services and resources at the touch of a button. |
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