newy.com.au – A heritage listed cottage overlooking the former BHP steelworks site will open to the public for a free industrial history day in Mayfield East on Sunday, October 4.
Delprat Cottage will welcome visitors from 10am to 2pm, with displays tracing the industries that shaped Newcastle and the Hunter. Members of the volunteer-run Newcastle Industrial Heritage Association, including former BHP workers, will be available during the open day.
The cottage was built in 1914 as the Newcastle residence of G.D. Delprat, the BHP manager who oversaw construction of the Newcastle steelworks. The restored building was converted into a regional industrial heritage museum in 2002.
Its collection includes historical objects, photographs and audio-visual material connected to the Hunter’s industrial past.
A special photographic exhibition will focus on the region’s industries during World War II, when Newcastle’s mines, steelworks, engineering plants and other industrial operations played an important role in Australia’s war effort. The city and its industrial assets were protected under a defence network known as “Fortress Newcastle”.
Visitors will also be able to see the nearby Muster Point sculpture and a memorial to people who lost their lives while working in the local steelmaking industry. The memorial area is in parkland at the corner of George and Selwyn streets, with entry from Rolltop Road.
Entry to Delprat Cottage is through the gateway at 133 Ingall Street, on the river side of Industrial Drive. Parking is available on the site.
Admission is free, while Devonshire tea, coffee and soft drinks will be available to buy.
| Event | Delprat Cottage open day |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday, October 4 |
| Time | 10am to 2pm |
| Entry | Free |
| Address | Enter through the gateway at 133 Ingall Street, Mayfield East, on the river side of Industrial Drive |
| Parking | Available on-site |
| Food and drink | Devonshire tea, coffee and soft drinks available to purchase |
