Get ready for a weekend of fun, creativity, and community at the 2026 Newcastle Fringe Festival! Join Richard King as he chats with festival director Carol Duncan about everything Fringe has to offer—from comedy, children's shows, and live music to cabaret, choir, and burlesque. Discover how Newcastle has become a key stop for local and international artists, with performances spreading across the city and even reaching Port Stephens. Plus, hear about standout shows, including the Gentleman Magician at Rex and the long-running “Nerds and Music” duo, Clark and Wayne. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there’s truly something for everyone this weekend. Don’t miss the Fringe Feast along Beaumont Street—fun, food, and entertainment await!

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Get ready for a top-of-the-table A-League clash as the Newcastle Jets host second-place Auckland at McDonald Jones Stadium this Saturday at 5 PM! Join us as we chat with local star and goal scorer Will Dobson, reflecting on his memorable New Year’s Day goal in New Zealand, his journey from Belmont FC and Hunter Sports High to the senior Jets squad, and his thoughts on pitch conditions and the upcoming showdown. Will shares insights on team form, challenges with multi-sport venues, and what fans can expect from this crucial 1v2 battle at the top of the ladder. Don’t miss this inside look at one of Newcastle football’s brightest talents and the game that could see the Jets extend their lead at the summit!

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Get ready for an action-packed NRL round two preview! Join Richard King as he chats with Newcastle Herald journalist and podcaster Barry Toohey about all the upcoming clashes, including the Knights vs Manly showdown at Four Pines Park, Broncos vs Parramatta, and more across the NRL.

We dive into player form, tipping predictions, stadium updates—including the $10 million Eastern Grandstand roof repair at McDonald Jones Stadium—and the impact on season ticket holders. From Dominic Young’s return to the Knights’ prospects, to tipping upsets across the league, this episode has all the insights NRL fans need for the weekend.

Whether you’re planning your match-day viewing or just love rugby league analysis, tune in for expert commentary, player updates, and the latest news from around the grounds.

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Concerns have been raised about the operation of the Port Stephens animal refuge after whistleblowers alleged healthy dogs may be being euthanised unlawfully. In this interview, Animal Justice Party NSW MLC Emma Hurst speaks with Richard King about the complaints, calls for an investigation, and the broader pressures facing council pounds across the state.

Emma explains how her office first became aware of the allegations through whistleblowers and why she has asked the NSW Government to launch a formal investigation into the facility’s operations. She also discusses existing laws around euthanasia timeframes, requirements for pounds to work with rescue groups, and why transparency is essential when councils outsource pound operations to private operators.

The conversation also highlights the growing strain on animal shelters across Australia, with the cost-of-living crisis contributing to a surge in abandoned pets and overwhelmed rescue services.

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In this episode, we dive into the controversial practices at the Port Stephens Animal Refuge. Whistleblower Kylie Wilson joins us to share her firsthand experiences working at the pound, exposing allegations of dogs and cats being euthanised prematurely instead of being rehomed. We discuss the time limits imposed on animals, the role of private operators, and calls from the Animal Justice Party MP, Emma Hurst, for a transparent investigation. From heart-wrenching stories of young pets like Noah to the wider systemic concerns, this episode highlights the urgent need for reform in animal welfare policies.

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Last night’s Newcastle City Council meeting covered plenty of hot topics, and we’ve got the full rundown. From the push for opal fare gates at Hamilton Railway Station and concerns about antisocial behaviour on Beaumont Street, to updates on the long-vacant Lee Wharf shed and the future of the Maritime Museum collection, there’s plenty to discuss.

Labour councillor Declan Clausen joins the show to share insights on council decisions, including the potential return of Supercars to the Hunter region, the success of the $2 entry trial at Newcastle council pools, and the launch of the Midtown Special Entertainment Precinct to support Newcastle’s nighttime economy and live music venues.

Tune in for a comprehensive look at the issues shaping Newcastle and what they mean for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

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Australia’s new online safety codes are now in effect, requiring websites and R-rated games to verify users’ ages to prevent minors from accessing harmful content. In this tech segment, IT and gadget expert Stephen Fenech from TechGuide joins the show to break down what the changes mean for Australians, including the privacy concerns around age verification and the response from major adult websites that have temporarily blocked Australian users.

The conversation also explores how artificial intelligence is continuing to reshape everyday life, from using tools like ChatGPT for practical advice to new AI-powered scam protection tools such as Norton’s Genie that help identify suspicious messages and links.

Plus, Stephen reviews the latest smartphones from Nothing Technology Limited, including the new Nothing Phone (4a) and Nothing Phone (4a) Pro, highlighting their unique transparent design, glyph notification system, and competitive mid-range pricing.

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Join us as we dive into the 40th edition of Newcastle’s iconic Surf Fest, one of Australia’s longest-running surf contests. Co-founder and director Warren Smith shares insights into the event’s history, the challenges of today’s conditions at Merewether Beach, and the legacy of the late Paul Scott, with a heartfelt tribute planned during the event. From top-tier surfing in the World Surf League Challenger Series to local talent making waves, discover how this community-driven festival continues to evolve while celebrating decades of surfing excellence. Plus, hear about the festival’s grom zones, exhibitions, and other festivities that make Surf Fest a highlight of Newcastle’s sporting and cultural calendar.

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In this episode, we cover the latest developments for residents affected by the New Lambton landslip in New South Wales. The NSW government has announced additional financial support to assist families with accommodation once insurance assistance expires in May. We speak with local resident Laura Jackel about what this support means, the ongoing challenges of the landslip, and the uncertainty around long-term solutions. With the geotechnical report highlighting continued land movement and increasing property impact, residents and officials are navigating complex recovery options. Hear how politicians like Jodie Harrison and Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin are advocating for the community, and what it could mean for the 16 families still displaced.

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The future of Mitch Barnett is back in the spotlight. With the former Knights forward granted leave from the Warriors for family reasons, speculation is mounting about where he’ll land next season. Rugby league journalist Barry Toohey joins the show to reveal why the Knights’ interest appears lukewarm — despite calls from club greats Kurt Gidley and Lachlan Fitzgibbon to bring him home.

We unpack Barnett’s preference to return to Newcastle, the salary cap hurdles, and the strong interest from Brisbane and Parramatta. Plus, Barry breaks down the Knights’ impressive Las Vegas season opener, Fletcher Sharp’s injury timeline, and runs through his full NRL Round 1 tips — including Storm v Eels, Broncos v Panthers, and Dolphins v Rabbitohs.

We also touch on the Newcastle Jets’ surge to the top of the A-League ladder and whether they can keep their momentum against the Wanderers.

All the latest rugby league news, sharp analysis, and bold predictions in one episode.

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