Bar on the Hill is a student funded initiative you are benefiting from today
Originally known as the 'Union Building', the Bar on the Hill was a project of the Newcastle College of Advanced Education Students Association, prior to the College amalgamating with the University of Newcastle.
The Association identified a need for a space for students on the College campus and the building was funded entirely with student money, on land provided by the College.
The first stage was completed in 1984 and included a small auditorium and a domestic kitchen facility, which provided basic coffee shop facilities. A Commonwealth Bank agency and a stationery shop were included in the original building.
The work of the building's architect, Mr Charles Martin, was acknowledged in December 1984 with the awarding of a Dangar Design Award for Civic Projects of Architectural or Environmental Merit.
Twelve months later the building was expanded with the addition of a licensed bar and a commercial kitchen, providing a new food outlet on campus. The extension was funded by a loan serviced by the NCAE Students Association.
A further extension of the building was completed in 1988 increasing it to its current size and providing a larger auditorium and more verandah space. Again, this was funded by loans through the students' association.
With the amalgamation of the Hunter Institute of Higher Education and the University of Newcastle in 1989, the building became the Hunter Union and has continued to be known by both students and staff as the 'Bar on the Hill'.
The Bar on the Hill has always been a centre for student engagement. It has been used for a variety of functions, events and ceremonies over the years. Many weddings have been held there, together with 21sts, anniversaries, and farewells. Each year students have celebrated hallmark events such as Valentines Day, Melbourne Cup Day and Oktoberfest. Themed parties like Toga Party, Back to School and Beach Party have seen thousands of students converge on their Bar on the Hill.
The list of Bar on the Hill gigs reads like a who's-who of entertainment, with the venue playing host to acts like Eskimo Joe, James Morrison, John Foreman, You Am I, The Whitlams, Powderfinger, Frenzal Rhomb, The Living End, Dead Letter Circus and Grinspoon.
What is your most memorable experience at Bar on the Hill?
