JAMES THOMSON
Saturday night, The Stag & Hunter, Mayfield
One of Newcastle's quintessential Americana musicians, Thomson will finally launch his long-awaited new album, Golden Exile. The album features nine tracks recorded with producer Roger Bergodaz at Union Street Studios in Brunswick and includes musicians Sean McMahon, Ezra Lee and Tracy McNeil.
NEWCASTLE RUGBY LEAGUE GRAND FINAL
Sunday, gates open 9am, Maitland Sportsground
COVID-19 might have forced the Newcastle RL to adopt amateur status in 2020 but the grand final is serious business for Cessnock and Souths. The Goannas are chasing their first premiership since 2003 and have lost six deciders in the past 17 years, including last season. The Lions are aiming for three titles in five years. Kick-off at 3.15pm. Women's: Maitland v Souths, 9.30am; U19s: Central Newcastle v Lakes, 11.15am; Reserve Grade: Wyong v Wests, 1.15pm.
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE GRAND FINAL
Sunday, 5.30pm, Macquarie Field, Speers Point
Premiers Newcastle Olympic will start red-hot favourites against the Warners Bay Panthers, after they defeated their opponents 7-2 in their last meeting. But grand final pressure always tosses up interesting results.
NEWCASTLE MARKETS
Sunday, 7am to 1pm, Broadmeadow Showgrounds
Rain or shine, pandemic or not, these markets show up every week, with a huge variety of fresh produce from the region and further afield, as well as plants, craft, coffee, drinks, food trucks and a touch of live music. Admission is free, but $2 for a vehicle for parking.
ROSE SPECTACULAR
Saturday & Sunday, Hunter Valley Gardens, Pokolbin
Spring has sprung in a blooming array of colours. The Rose Spectacular begins on Saturday and runs until November 15 with visitors greeted by 35,000 rose bushes across the property, with 6,000 inside the rose garden itself. There are over 50 varieties of roses on display, with hundreds and thousands of blooms. Tickets begin at $30 for adults and $85 for a family pass.
SUPER ST GARAGE SALE
Saturday, 8am to 12.30pm, 32, 33 and 50 Kingfisher Circuit, Cams Wharf
Items for sale include various women's apparel including coats, dresses, bags, shoes and some household items.
CLEWS TOUR
Saturday, 9pm, Cambridge Hotel
Rising indie-rock band Clews, featuring Mollymook sisters Lily and Grace Richardson, return to the Cambridge on their Table For Two Tour which will see them perform a stripped-back show as a duo.
TOP DOG FILM FESTIVAL
Saturday, 2.30pm, Event Cinemas Kotara
The two-hour cinematic celebration honours the close bond between dogs and their owners. The screening is filled with doggy moments of joy from our beloved canine companions. One session only.
