SOAKING up the weekend sunshine, Novocastrians gathered at the newly reopened skate park and Bathers Way precinct at Newcastle beach on Sunday, August 18.
In a move to encourage the community to make the most of the improved recreational facilities, City of Newcastle put on a free event.
Skateboarding, roller skating and BMX bike demonstrations were a highlight among the activities which also included a wheelchair-dedicated session to celebrate the Hunter's first wheelchair-accessible (WCMX) skate bowl.
Pop-up stalls from local business and community organisations provided bike check-ups, free coffee and face-painting stations, while Camp Quality kept the crowds well fed with a fundraising community barbecue.
Newcastle lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes said it was wonderful to see people enjoying the free community facilities which included exercise equipment, artist murals and the restoration of the 115-year-old heritage stone arches.
"Today is a celebration of these facilities that we are so proud to be delivering to our community," she said.
"It's wonderful to see young families and residents enjoying it. This is going to be the place to be in Newcastle this summer."
The upgraded shared pathway provides a more accessible connection between Shortland Esplanade and King Edward Park and forms a key link in Bathers Way coastal walk, which links Newcastle's five iconic beaches.
