Hunter Living Histories

The Hunter Living Histories initiative, supported by the University of Newcastle, embodies a collaborative effort to explore and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Hunter Region, previously known as the Coal River Working Party. Founded in 2003, this initiative promotes interdisciplinary engagement among communities, researchers, and industry professionals across fields such as history, archaeology, and creative industries.

Hunter Living Histories hosts monthly meetings that foster collaboration, inviting community members to share insights about historic commemorations, research topics, and cultural events. The initiative features diverse projects aimed at documenting and presenting the history of Newcastle and its surrounding areas, including innovative digital reconstructions like the Virtual Time Machine and the recreation of Newcastle in 1825.

Comprising volunteers from various backgrounds, Hunter Living Histories seeks to make forgotten narratives accessible while advocating for the recognition of the region’s significance in Australia's national story. By bridging traditional knowledge with modern technology, the initiative inspires a renaissance in cultural innovation, making history relevant for future generations.