Once upon a time, the couch was where Australians gathered to watch television.
Now, it’s a place where we scroll.
People’s lives, personalities and moments are delivered to us in bite-sized form.
In Newcastle, a new wave of local influencers has become the “programming” of that scroll.
They’ve turned into the city’s latest storytellers and, for many, it’s new prime-time entertainment.
Here’s the fourth story in NW’s four-part series.
DAN NILSSON
If something big happens in Newcastle, chances are Dan Nilsson has already posted about it.
The creator behind What’s New in the Castle has built an online audience through turning local sport, community stories and some Newcastle wit into daily entertainment.
His videos range from quick reactions to breaking local news and sporting moments to comedy skits celebrating the quirks of life in Newcastle.
One of his most recognisable series saw him run one kilometre for every point the Newcastle Knights lost during the NRL season – a challenge that quickly gained attention well beyond the Hunter.
“I’ve always wanted to showcase how good Newcastle is,” Dan said.
“My niche is being from Newcastle… there wasn’t really anyone doing it at the time.
“It’s also all about making someone laugh.”
His path into digital media began in carpentry before moving into local radio with Triple M and 106.9 Newcastle, where he worked in entertainment-style content and promotions.
Over time, those videos evolved into short-form content centred entirely around Newcastle.
Rather than chasing national trends, Dan doubled down on local stories.
This decision helped build an audience that now looks to his page for everything from community events to sporting reactions.
Speed has also become part of the formula.
“The fast-paced nature of social media means content can’t really be carefully planned,” Dan explained.
“If a story breaks or an idea comes to mind, you’ve got to pick up your phone and record instantly.
“And if you don’t, then you’re going to miss the boat.”
Despite his growing following, Dan still works full-time as a firefighter, fitting content creation around shift work and everyday life.
He believes the real reason people continue to return to his page isn’t simply the jokes, but the connection.
“People love interaction,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“I have a loyal following who care about what I do and the content I post.
“If someone reaches out and I respond, they feel connected.
“Having that sense of belonging is what matters.”
For more lifestyle stories:
- Fia Hamilton: Promoting a more sustainable lifestyle… and balance
- Newcastle Art Gallery unveils first paid exhibition
- Your guide to markets in our region
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