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Speaking of Books: Eila Jameson-Avey & Ivy Getchell
Ivy: Refusing to Hate – From State Ward to Survivor
Cessnock Library | Wednesday 21 Jan 5.30pm-7.00pm
Punished for being neglected. She survived to be heard.
Hear this unforgettable story firsthand when survivor Ivy Getchell and author Eila Jameson-Avey visit Cessnock Library. At just 12, Ivy was thrust into the notorious Parramatta Girls Home. Her new memoir,Ivy, Refusing to Hate, chronicles her journey through institutional cruelty to become a voice for the Forgotten Australians.
It’s a powerful testament to unyielding dignity and the enduring power of love against despair. Don’t miss this inspiring evening of courage and resilience.
Books for sale & signing on the night. |
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The Local Forecast with Gavin Morris
Cessnock Library | Mon 2 Feb: 5:30–7:00pm
Kurri Kurri Bowling Club | Tue 3 Feb: 5:30–7:00pm
Weather: the topic that unites us all—whether we’re swapping tales of storms, debating the perfect raincoat, or marvelling at thunderstorms! Join Gavin Morris, the trusted voice of regional weather for decades, for a FREE, lively chat that’s anything but typical.
Gavin will share:
✨ His lifelong love affair with the weather (yes, it’s a real thing!)
☁️ Behind-the-scenes stories from years of forecasting highs and lows
�� Tips on how to make sense of weather apps, radar, and forecasts
☕ Plus: Plenty of time for a cup of tea (or coffee!) and a sweet treat.
This isn’t a lecture—it’s a cozy, no-pressure conversation with someone who’s turned weather into a lifeline for communities. Bring your questions, your weather stories, and an appetite for laughs.
Why attend? Because the forecast is always better when shared with others. Don’t miss the chance to connect over the one thing we all talk about—our ever-changing, unpredictable, gloriously wild local weather!
See you there for a slice of cake, a cuppa, and a forecast that’s anything but boring!
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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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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, making them an ideal Christmas gift. �� Secure Your Spot Today.
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| Join us for two lectures in 2026 with Ed Tonks:The Forgotten Horses of Coal Mining (Tues 17 Feb) and Pits & Pubs: Virtual Tour of the South Maitland Coalfields (Tues 12 May), both at Kurri Kurri Bowling Club, 5:30–6:45pm. Ed, a revered local historian and award-winning author, shares decades of preserving Hunter Region heritage. Bookings essential. |
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Speaking of Books: Fiona Lowe – The Drowning
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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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 Feb) at 10:30am!
Starting the morning with a warm cuppa and biscuits, our monthly Film Club returns! This month, immerse yourself into the final cinematic chapter of a beloved TV series set in a grand castle and the storied Crawley family.
While we can’t name the title directly here, this exclusive screening is a must for fans of drama, elegance, and unforgettable characters.
Don’t miss your chance to catch this elusive gem—grab a seat, settle in, and enjoy!
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Ready, Set, Read!
�� The Big Summer Read is back! �� Sign up, read, and win prizes! ��https://readbooks.com.au/bsr#BigSummerRead #LoveLibraries |
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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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Kurri Kurri Library Closure for Urgent Repair & Upgrades
Due to storm damage, Kurri Kurri Library will close temporarily for urgent repairs and 2026 upgrades. A pop-up service at Kurri Kurri Community Centre (Mon–Thurs 9-5, Fri 9-4; closed 1-1:30pm) offers reservation collections, returns, and limited loans.
Storytime is being held weekly at 10am in Kurri Kurri Citizens Hall. School holiday activities continue, relocated.
Contact the pop-up on 4937 1638 or Cessnock Library: 4993 4399.
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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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