Book Launch: Newcastle - The Lives and Times of a City by Scott Bevan
Thursday 16 October 2025
27 days from now
6 - 7pm
1 hour
One of Newcastle’s most celebrated journalists and broadcasters Scott Bevan is back with a new book, Newcastle: The Lives and Times of a City. We’re thrilled to invite you to the launch at Newcastle Museum, where Scott will be in conversation with radio producer Cara O’Brien.
In this book, Scott examines the character and the soul of the city he grew up in, its past and where it’s likely to head. We are taken on a journey from early contact between the Awabakal people and the missionary Threkheld, through to Newcastle’s convict and industrial past, highlighting its famous exports such as Silverchair, The Knights and William Dobell along the way.
On this journey, we hear from dozens of locals, from community leaders to champion surfers, from rock and rollers to architects and environmentalists, all the while finding out how this place once renowned as ‘Steel City’ is revealing the ‘new’ in Newcastle.
Don't miss this opportunity to meet Scott and enjoy some light refreshments. Books will be available to be purchased from MacLean’s on the night and Scott will be signing copies after the talk.
Cost: Free
Bookings essential
If you have any access or inclusion needs, you will be able to advise us when booking.
About Scott Bevan and Cara O'Brien:
Scott Bevan was born in Newcastle and is a writer, journalist, broadcaster and playwright. He has written several books, including The Harbour, Return To The Hunter, Battle Lines: Australian Artists At War, Water from the Moon: A Biography of John Fawcett and Bill: The Life of William Dobell. When he’s not writing or broadcasting you can find him kayaking or trying to surf.
Cara O'Brien is an experienced radio producer who spent over 12 years at the BBC before making acclaimed podcasts for Audible and Listen UK. Three years ago, she relocated with her family to Australia. After collaborating with some of the best in radio and journalism, it felt only natural for Cara to continue that tradition here, working with Scott Bevan at ABC Newcastle.
With a career shaped by storytelling and thoughtful conversation, Cara has honed her skills in crafting interviews that connect audiences with compelling ideas.
In this book, Scott examines the character and the soul of the city he grew up in, its past and where it’s likely to head. We are taken on a journey from early contact between the Awabakal people and the missionary Threkheld, through to Newcastle’s convict and industrial past, highlighting its famous exports such as Silverchair, The Knights and William Dobell along the way.
On this journey, we hear from dozens of locals, from community leaders to champion surfers, from rock and rollers to architects and environmentalists, all the while finding out how this place once renowned as ‘Steel City’ is revealing the ‘new’ in Newcastle.
Don't miss this opportunity to meet Scott and enjoy some light refreshments. Books will be available to be purchased from MacLean’s on the night and Scott will be signing copies after the talk.
Cost: Free
Bookings essential
If you have any access or inclusion needs, you will be able to advise us when booking.
About Scott Bevan and Cara O'Brien:
Scott Bevan was born in Newcastle and is a writer, journalist, broadcaster and playwright. He has written several books, including The Harbour, Return To The Hunter, Battle Lines: Australian Artists At War, Water from the Moon: A Biography of John Fawcett and Bill: The Life of William Dobell. When he’s not writing or broadcasting you can find him kayaking or trying to surf.
Cara O'Brien is an experienced radio producer who spent over 12 years at the BBC before making acclaimed podcasts for Audible and Listen UK. Three years ago, she relocated with her family to Australia. After collaborating with some of the best in radio and journalism, it felt only natural for Cara to continue that tradition here, working with Scott Bevan at ABC Newcastle.
With a career shaped by storytelling and thoughtful conversation, Cara has honed her skills in crafting interviews that connect audiences with compelling ideas.
