A MasterChef favourite and a popular TV presenter will join a special program of free events to mark the reopening of Wallsend Library.
Following an extensive upgrade, the facility is set to welcome back locals and visitors alike from this weekend.
And, while celebrations kick off on Saturday 20 August, chef extraordinaire Mindy Woods and Gardening Australia host Costa Georgiadis are also scheduled to make guest appearances over the next six weeks.
Proud Bundjalung woman Woods, who placed fourth on season four of MasterChef Australia, will share her passion for food, country and culture during an Aussie Tukka afternoon tea on Sunday 21 August.
Georgiadis, a landscape architect who boasts an all-consuming passion for plants and people, is expected to talk about seeds, soil and gardening for the soul on Sunday 18 September.
The upcoming program of free events – that acknowledge creativity, collaboration, culture, inclusion and diversity – will showcase the multi-use spaces provided by the new and improved Wallsend Library amenities and technology, which includes mobile shelving, lightweight furniture and innovative book displays.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the enhancements formed part of City of Newcastle’s ongoing investment into its library network to enhance the overall customer experience and meet the changing needs of its members.
“It’s fantastic to be unveiling the reimagined Wallsend Library to the community this weekend,” she stated.
“With more than 100,000 library members across Newcastle, we know residents value our local library amenities, which is why we have allocated about $7 million over five years of capital works programs, including almost $1 million in the 2022/23 Budget.
“Wallsend Library has undergone a major refresh delivering new ways of accessing library services, improved access to technology and the creation of more inclusive spaces for the community’s enjoyment.
“Newcastle Library members and the community are invited to come and experience the reimagined Wallsend Library with a special program of events lined up during the next six weeks.”
Families are welcome to attend the Wallsend Family Fun Day at the library on Saturday 21 August from 10am to 2pm or sing along with popular children’s entertainers The Quokkas Live at The Library on Sunday 28 August.
Visit Newcastle Libraries What’s ON Events Calendar for further information on Wallsend Library’s reopening celebrations.

Upcoming special program of events at Wallsend Library:
- Saturday 20 August – Wallsend Family Fun Day 10am to 2pm
- Sunday 21 August – Aussie Tukka Afternoon Tea with Mindy Woods*
- Tuesday 23 August – ComputerPals Tech Help
- Saturday 27 August – The Boy Who Ran up a Volcano – Author Talk
- Saturday 27 August – Repairs and Alterations Sewing Workshop with Sonny & Scout
- Sunday 28 August – Quokkas Live at the Library* 1pm and 2pm
- Thursday 1 September – Christine Sykes on ‘The Tap Cats of the Sunshine Coast’ – Author Talk
- Saturday 3 September – Succulent Ways to Reuse Old Toys Workshop
- Thursday 8 September – Make a Bag Workshop with Sonny & Scout
- Saturday 10 September – Young Adult Book Bingo
- Wednesday 14 September – Make a Cushion Workshop with Sonny & Scout
- Saturday 17 September – Home Composting Workshop
- Saturday 17 September – Op-shop Emporium
- Sunday 18 September – Costa talks Seeds, Soil and Gardening for the Soul – Author Talk*
- Tuesday 20 September – Petronella McGovern on ‘The Liar’ – Author Talk
* Bookings are essential, tickets limited




