Launch of Newcastle Geotrail to celebrate National Science Week

Monday, 17 August 2020

The amazing geology of Newcastle’s coastline is on display for science enthusiasts and nature lovers with the launch of a new digital geotrail during National Science Week.

This is a fantastic initiative hosted by the Geological Survey of NSW and supported by the University of Newcastle which gives viewers an insight into Newcastle’s changing landscape over 250 million years said Catherine Cusack, Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter.

“Newcastle’s dynamic coastline presents a unique opportunity to bring together science, history, culture and the beauty of the natural landscape through this National Science Week webinar and geotrail," Ms Cusack said.

“There are many intriguing clues to the geological and cultural history of this region visible in the rocks along the Bather’s Way coastal walk, including massive volcanoes and ancient forests, the opening of the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand and evidence of Awabakal and European use of the rocks and coal seams that underlie the city."

Associate Professor Ron Boyd from the Faculty of Science at the University of Newcastle said the geotrail was an example of the University and the Geological Survey of NSW collaborating to develop a valuable public resource.

“Newcastle has some of the best coastal geology in the world and this new geotrail allows NSW residents and visitors an opportunity to view the spectacular scenery while at the same time learning how to interpret and understand the ancient landscapes of the Newcastle area.”

Professor Ron Boyd on Nobby's beach with Nobby's headland in the backgroundAssociate Professor Ron Boyd from the Faculty of Science

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the geotrail is one of three already available in a planned network of geotrails the NSW Government is rolling out to educate locals and encourage people to experience regional NSW’s spectacular landscapes.

“This fantastic initiative during National Science Week allows participants to use hand held audio and visual guides in the world’s most famous museums and art galleries and the geotrail app provides a similar experience,” Mr Barilaro said.

“Two further geotrails are in development in Far Western NSW and each is unique, covering local geological highlights and historic and cultural facts.”

Participants can use their app provider to install the GeoTours NSW app on iOS or Android phones and tablets to download the Newcastle, Warrumbungle National Park volcano and Port Macquarie geotrails.

In addition to the app, a free Newcastle Coastal Geotrail brochure is available at the new Newcastle Visitor Information Centre, located in the former Civic Railway Station at 430 Hunter Street, Newcastle.

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