Novocastrians are in for a mixed bag over the next few days, with a brief run of sunshine and cool winter mornings before rain and strong wind blow in at the weekend.
A cooler, westerly change is on its way, but Friday and Saturday are shaping up to be the pick of the forecast, with clear skies, crisp mornings and daytime temperatures around 18 to 20 degrees.
Overnight temperatures are expected to dip into the single digits inland.
The settled conditions will be short-lived, with a fresh weather system forecast to move across the region from Sunday.
Showers are expected to develop throughout the day and become more widespread on Monday, when rain, gusty wind and cooler temperatures return.
Wet conditions will probably continue into the middle of next week, with daily rainfall possible and maximum temperatures hovering around 17 to 18 degrees.
Anyone planning outdoor activities should make the most of Friday and Saturday before the time comes to whip out the umbrella again from Sunday.