tours & attractions

Everyone can now enjoy sweeping views of the city and Pacific Ocean from Nobbys Headland. The Nobbys Lighthouse grounds are open to the public every Sunday between 10am and 4pm (until 31 March 2013). Entry to the site is FREE. Parking is located adjacent to Nobbys Beach at Camp Shortland, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. The lighthouse is an 800 metre walk from the car park, with a steep climb at the end. Once visitors complete the climb they will be rewarded with a spectacular view of Newcastle. This view is one that has been rarely seen as most of our vantage points look out to the Pacific Ocean rather than back on the city herself! The buzz amongst the group of 2000 plus visitors, who made the trek to the lighthouse on the first official opening weekend of September 3 and 4, was that this local icon is well worth a look. There is a small kiosk on site serving tea, coffee, cakes and other light refreshments. However, visitors are welcome to pack their own supplies and make the most of the beautiful 360 degree views. If you are looking for a unique venue for small wedding ceremonies, wedding photographs, special occasions, corporate functions, special events, filming and photography then this is the place. The site is available for hire and there is also a small cottage on site suitable for exhibition space.

Grossmann House, Maitland is one of two mirror image, Victorian Regency properties, built side by side on the same lot in 1870-71 for the prosperous business partners, Isaac Beckett and Samuel Owen.