The Newcastle Williamtown Air Show will be an exhilarating aviation experience giving people a rare insight into the base, people, aircraft and military capabilities of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
No matter if you are a die-hard aviation enthusiast or just looking for a fun weekend out with the family, this is a one-off event not to be missed.
Saturday 18 November
Air Force aircraft will take to the skies above the Newcastle coastline to conduct thrilling flying displays and flypasts.
Session 1: 10:00am - 12:30pm
Session 2: 1:30pm - 4:00pm
Sunday 19 November
RAAF Base Williamtown will open its gates to the public for a non-flying Open Day featuring static ground displays and a range of military equipment from across the Australian Defence Force.
For those seeking an elevated experience, book your exclusive ticket to the premium viewing area at Fort Scratchley and enjoy uninterrupted views of the flying displays from Newcastle's most spectacular vantage point.
Ticket cost: $99/person
This location is an 18+ event. Terms and conditions of entry apply.
Earp Distilling Co. will be on location at Fort Scratchley with high-end food and beverage offerings you're sure to enjoy.
For the ultimate indulgence, pre-purchase a gourmet picnic hamper and drink package for this licensed viewing area.
Newcastle
You'll feel part of the action at Nobbys Beach and Foreshore Park by watching the daring loops and precision formation unfold against the endless expanse of the ocean.
This free viewing location ensures that you won't miss a single moment of the airshow's excitement while enjoying the comforts of the beach and foreshore.
The site features static RAAF displays as well as food and beverage options for all the family.
Stockton
Parklands at Pitt Street Reserve and Griffith Park East in Stockton provide a captivating vantage point across the harbour entrance, right onto the dynamic displays above Nobbys Beach.
This location offers free access, making it an ideal choice for families, friends, and aviation enthusiasts to gather and enjoy the show together.
Vendors will be on site to offer a range of food, beverage and entertainment options.
A Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft from No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit practises an aerial handling display over RAAF Base Williamtown, north of Newcastle in New South Wales.
Saturday 18 November 2023
Session 1:
10:00am to 12:30pm
Session 2:
1:30pm to 4:00pm
Public transport is the best way to get to and from Newcastle, with extra train, bus, ferry and light rail services scheduled to help get you to and from the event.
In addition to the regular timetable, extra trains will run to help move crowds to and from Newcastle on the day along the Central Coast, Newcastle and the Hunter lines, to coincide with show times. The closest train station to Foreshore Park is Newcastle Interchange. From there, catch the light rail to the Newcastle Beach stop, which is a short walk to the event. You can also walk to the foreshore from the Interchange, following the signage in place.
A Park and Ride option will be available at McDonald Jones Stadium with buses travelling between the Stadium and Newcastle all day. Motorists could also consider parking at commuter carparks at key stations along the Central Coast, Hunter and Newcastle lines including Wyong, Morisset and Fassifern then continue the remainder of the journey up to Newcastle by train.
A Park and Walk option is available at Stockton (gold coin donation for charity), where viewing areas are only a short walk away.
Mobility Pass Holders have designated parking available on Wharf Road (between Argyle Street and Watt Street) and at Stockton Ferry Wharf carpark. A Mobility Pass must be displayed to get through the road closures.
If you are going to the event we recommend you plan ahead, allow extra time and be patient. Plan your journey by using the transportnsw.info and newcastletransport.info
Information on road closures is available on www.livetraffic.com.
Where can Mobility Pass holders park?
Designated parking for Mobility Pass holders is available on Wharf Road (between Argyle Street and Watt Street). A Mobility Pass must be displayed to get through the road closure.
What should I bring?
• A picnic rug
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, poncho and a raincoat. There are limited sheltered areas, come prepared for various weather conditions.
• There will be many food and beverage options available at the free viewing sites and plenty of restaurants and cafes close by.
• We highly recommend you bring ear protection (eg ear plugs or headphones), especially for children.
Is the venue accessible?
The Fort Scratchley Historic Site can be accessed by people with a range of mobility issues but it should be noted that there is uneven ground on site. There is also a significant incline to reach the top of the site.
The Barracks are accessible by wheelchair and accessible toilets will be available.
As the tunnels were built in the 1800s they are not suited to those with mobility issues. The tunnels have stairs, uneven ground and narrow walkways.
Where can Mobility Pass holders park?
There are a limited number of accessible parking spaces available at Fort Scratchley. Please contact sally@canvaseventsco.com.au to reserve a parking spot. Additional parking is available on Wharf Road (between Argyle Street and Watt Street). A Mobility Pass must be displayed to get through the road closure.
What should I bring?
• A picnic blanket (no chairs allowed)
• An empty or sealed clear plastic water bottle
• Your event ticket, either printed or shown on your phone at entry.
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, poncho and a raincoat. There are limited sheltered areas at Fort Scratchley so please come prepared for various weather conditions.
• Ear protection (eg ear plugs or headphones)
What can't I bring?
The following are prohibited at the event:
• Patrons under 18 years of age
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (except water). This includes juice, soft drinks, sports drinks, energy drinks, etc
• Food. There will be a variety of hot/cold food options available at Fort Scratchley. Note: you can pre-purchase drinks packages and picnic hampers from Earp Distilling Co
• Shade structures (eg tents and marquees) as this is a high wind area.
• Umbrellas (even if it's raining) due to the high winds
• Pets (other than guide dogs)
• Chairs, beanbags and blow up chairs/lounges
• Tripods
• Smoking
Don't miss out on owning a piece of airshow history – swing by the Visitor Information Centre today and take home your favorite airshow merchandise!
