Facilities deliver digital experiences to keep community busy

City of Newcastle's cultural facilities are diving back into the digital world to help keep Novocastrians entertained during the current COVID lockdown.

The City's facilities were at the forefront of delivering online experiences to keep the community engaged and connected in the midst of the pandemic last year, from live-streamed science experiments to digital art classes and an extensive array of books, films, magazines and music available to download and enjoy.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the snap lockdown across Newcastle and the Hunter announced by the NSW Government last week provided the perfect time to take another look at these fantastic digital resources.

"Navigating the stress and challenges presented by the lockdown is a complex task, which can be exacerbated by feelings of loneliness, boredom or isolation," Cr Nelmes said.

"Whether you're living by yourself, trying to keep your children entertained at home or simply missing the sense of pleasure you get from visiting our network of cultural facilities, we've got you covered with a wide range of online activities for all ages and interests.

"Budding scientists can still enjoy the hands-on fun of Newcastle Museum with the Museum Express @ home video experiments, while crafty kids can follow the online instructions to build a Model T Ford or mini locomotive.

"Newcastle Art Gallery will also keep the youngest members of the family busy with their Art Cart at Home activities, or downloadable Art Trail activity booklets, while you can also take virtual tours to learn more about their fascinating collections.

"City of Newcastle's significant investment in expanding our online library services part of our $5.5 million Community and Economic Resilience Package (CERP) last year has also provided a legacy of resources for our community to enjoy, including extensive e-book and e-audio platforms, movie and music streaming platforms, access to online newspapers and e-magazines, as well as online learning modules for both adults and school students.

“There is also an amazing array of children's activities to watch, listen or read such as the StoryBox Library or National Geographic for Kids, while there are a large number of episodes to enjoy from Newcastle Libraries’ entertaining and informative ‘REAL’ podcast channel.”

To find out more about the digital activities being offered by Newcastle Art Gallery, Newcastle Museum and Newcastle Libraries visit https://whatson.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/Blog/What-s-On-line