It was late on a Monday, sun peaking through the gum trees only a hop, skip and jump away from the water's edge at Warners Bay.
But on the eve of spring, this wasn't any ordinary afternoon.
As the bus pulled into the long, skinny driveway a collective cheer came from the healthy crowd - gathered in a car park and decked out in all sorts of red, white and blue.
The doors opened and the Goodall Cup emerged at Hunter Ice Skating Stadium, much to the delight of faithful fans.
A "New-cas-tle" chant could soon be heard loud and proud as the Northstars arrived home as Australian Ice Hockey League champions for the first time in a decade.
Homegrown captain Liam Manwarring led the way. One by one players hoisted the silverware aloft, even the city's mayor Gavin Morris joined in the celebrations.
Finals MVP, and adopted Novocastrian, Francis Drolet produced an assist for local teammate Ethan Hawes to enjoy a refreshment from the trophy.
Autographs followed before an all-encompassing group photo.
Garry Dore, the club's general manager and rink owner, simply described the 2026 title as "magic".
"This one was sweet," Dore told the Newcastle Herald.
"We've had a good couple of chances the last few years, but the coaching and the determination of the guys and getting it right. This year it just all came together. So proud of them all."
The father of import Akihide Watanabe also died in Japan on game eve.
Dore said it was "quite emotional" for himself and the broader Northstars family.
Manwarring reckons it was "a dream come true" and "the best achievement in my life".
Drolet described supporters as "amazing. Down in Melbourne and back here, just non stop. Super grateful."
Eric Brook was among the passionate fans, Clinton Modinger donned knitted headwear in the shape of mascot Marty the Moose while Redhead's Josie Snowden designed her own sign.
It was a record extending seventh AIHL crown for the Northstars.
