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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, 5:30pm‑6:45pm
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, 6pm-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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Sarah Barrie – Dark Sanctuary
Cessnock Library | Saturday, 9 May 2026, 11am – 12pm
Join us for an exclusive reading by Sarah Barrie, author of the gripping thriller Dark Sanctuary.
Detective Sergeant “Hex” Rexford—renowned for capturing serial killer Dr Witcherton—faces his toughest case yet. A series of brutal murders plagues Coast Sanctuary, a hospital for the criminally insane, and theenigmatic Witcherton claims to know the killer’s identity. As Hex’s health declines, he races against time to uncover the truth.
Meanwhile, Beth Thompson battles a stalking ex‑partner and the unsettling changes in her son’s behaviour—his beloved teddy, Theo, may be more than a toy. An elderly woman offers Beth a secluded cottage that proves more illusion than refuge. True‑crime podcasters Eve and Zane chase the trail, but as Eve closes in, danger tightens, the body count rises, and something unseen watches from the shadows.
Sarah Barrie has penned numerous best‑selling novels. With degrees in arts, science and education, she’s worked as a teacher, vet nurse, horse trainer and magazine editor before turning to crime fiction.
Her favourite place in the world is the family property, where she writes her stories overlooking mountains crisscrossed with farmland, bordered by the beauty of the Australian bush, and where, at the end of the day, she can spend time with family, friends and a good book.
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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, 10am-11am
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, 10am-11am
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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Saving the Regent Honeyeater with guest speaker Mick Roderick
Cessnock Library | Wednesday 20 May, 6pm-8pm
Cessnock City Council is proud to present Mick Roderick who will talk about the local recovery effort he is leading to save the threatened Regent Honeyeater - no easy feat with only 300 center in the wild!
Mick will talk about how changes to the biodiversity of the Hunter Valley have impacted the threatened Regent Honeyeater. He will discuss the recovery efforts and ways people can contribute to its success.
This will be an engaging talk with plenty of opportunity to ask Mick questions and learn about the program to save this beautiful bird.
Light supper will be provided. Bookings essential.
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Join Kerrie Basha of Bohomofo for a guided Meditation Series
Commencing Wednesday, 18 Feb, 6pm–7pm 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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Experience Serenity: Sound Healing Workshops at Your Library!
Prepare for deep relaxation and inner harmony!
Join holistic therapist Kristy Woods for crystal singing bowl sound baths at Cessnock Library & Kurri Kurri Bowling Club. Vibrational sound therapy promotes rest, stress relief, and renewal. 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM. Bookings essential. Nourish your well-being with this transformative practice.
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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Saturday History Walks with our Local Studies Librarian – $5 per person
Exploring Greta
Date: Saturday, 18 April 2024 Time: 10am – 12pm
Stroll through Greta and discover the story behind its open‑air cinema, historic hotels, and hidden gardens. The walk ends with an exclusive tour of the Greta Museum.
��Reserve your place
Exploring Aberdare Cemetery
Date: Saturday, 2 May 2024 Time: 10am – 12pm
A walk among the headstones offers a quiet moment to reflect on life, death, and the untold stories buried beneath the surface.
��Reserve your place
Exploring Ellalong
Date: Saturday, 13 June 2024 Time: 10am – 12pm
Nestled beneath majestic mountains, Ellalong was once home to cedar cutters and coal miners. Today it’s a tranquil haven in the Hunter Valley. Join us to hear its many fascinating tales.
��Reserve your place
Exploring Kurri Kurri
Date: Saturday, 10 October 2024 Time: 10am – 12pm
Founded in 1904, Kurri Kurri quickly flourished—boasting its own newspaper and, for a short time, its own council. Learn about these and other captivating stories on our guided town walk.
��Reserve your place
All walks are led by our Local Studies Librarian and cost just $5 per person. Spaces are limited, so book early to secure your spot!
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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 Library & Kurri Kurri Bowling Club, hosted by the brilliant Harry from Seniors, Tech & Tea. |
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Spirit of Cessnock Exhibition
Be inspired by the tales of local individuals and groups who define our region's DNA and help shape our collective future.
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 10 Apr) at 10:30am
Born in a mining town, a restless boy named Rich dreams beyond the soot‑filled hills. His father’s bottle empties faster than the coal carts, leaving the youth to seek escape in schoolyard theatrics. A sharp‑tongued teacher named Philip spots the raw talent, coaxing the lad to adopt a new name, a legacy of thespian grandeur. He learns to harness a booming Welsh baritone, to command Shakespeare’s verses, and to charm cameras worldwide. The journey from ragged apprentice to the nation’s most celebrated actor unfolds, echoing the rise of a legend whose voice still haunts cinema and inspires generations beyond ever. |
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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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