Triple J favourites to headline new youth event at Newcastle Foreshore 20th November 2025

newy.com.au – Foreshore Park will host a free youth-focused afternoon of live music, skateboarding and creative workshops on Thursday 20 November as City of Newcastle launches its inaugural Down the Park event.

The new program is aimed at young people aged 12 to 24 and their families, with organisers positioning the event as a way to support social connection, creativity and access to local services at a time of rising cost-of-living pressures. The three-hour event will run from 4pm to 7pm near the Foreshore Park tram sheds.

City of Newcastle Executive Manager Community and Recreation Lynn Duffy said Down the Park was designed to help young people and their caregivers connect in meaningful ways. “Down the Park celebrates families, caregivers and young people as the beating heart of our community,” Ms Duffy said. “At a time when many households are facing challenges with access and affordability, free events like this provide valuable opportunities to connect and develop social skills, foster a sense of identity and purpose and engage with important community services and information.”

Triple J Unearthed artists Charlie Farmer and Trophy Wyfe will headline the live music line-up, with additional performances from local musicians. The program also includes interactive stunt and magic shows by Pretty Amazing Jono, giving families multiple entertainment options across the afternoon.

Crucially, the event has been designed with a broad mix of interests in mind. Skateboarders can join free lessons run by Grundy’s Skate, while more experienced riders will be able to compete in a mini skate competition, with prizes supplied by East End Skate, Bobby Pace and Galleria Skateboards. An outdoor rock-climbing wall and bungy rides will add further sporting attractions.

On the creative side, hands-on workshops in art, henna tattoo and beading will offer low-cost ways for young people and families to express themselves. A free barbecue, raffles and relaxation zones will be available, alongside 15 stalls featuring information and resources from local community organisations.

Councillor Paige Johnson, a member of City of Newcastle’s Youth Council Standing Committee, said the event was an opportunity for young people to try something new while building confidence and support networks. “This event invites Newcastle’s youth to take part in activities that encourage social interaction, spark creativity, and strengthen their sense of belonging. An important part of this is mental health and wellbeing outcomes for young people,” Cr Johnson said. “By offering a mix of creative, sporting and cultural activities, Down the Park brings young people with diverse interests together in person, helping them build vital life skills and empowering our next generation to thrive.”

Down the Park will be delivered in partnership with the Newcastle Youth Collective, which includes local government and non-government community organisations from Newcastle and surrounding areas. Newcastle Headspace Community Development Officer Byron Williams said the event would help strengthen important social connections. “It’s a great opportunity to come along as a family to enjoy the entertainment whilst engaging with many of the supports available in Newcastle,” Mr Williams said.

To improve access, a free courtesy coach will transport young people aged 16 and over, as well as families, to and from the site, with pick-ups scheduled from Fletcher, Maryland, Wallsend, Jesmond and Mayfield West. Organisers say a full timetable for the coach service will be shared via Facebook and through local schools and services ahead of the event.