Why We Love Newcastle
/Every now and then we ask an interesting local what makes Newcastle, New South Wales, special for them, and why everyone should check it out. This month: Lee Illfield
Lee Illfield has been photographing the people of Newcastle for the last 15 years. She is an expert at ‘capturing connections’ and finding energy amongst local families and community. Lee has recently become known for her gorgeous photos of people behind many of Newcastle’s local independent businesses, including Newcastle Afoot! Lee is a pile of energy and she tends to both speak and write with exclamation points - we have decided to keep them in for this interview.
Catching up for coffee at The Kiosk at Newcastle Beach. Photo by Lee Illfield for The Kiosk and Hello Newy East.
What do you want people from interstate and overseas to know about Newcastle?
It is a beautiful, ever growing town that embraces community and people. And apparently it has the perfect balance of beach, weather, and accessibility!
You're very vocal about your love for Newcastle and it's community. What do you think makes it unique?
The mix of people who have decided to reside here! Newcastle has that big country town feel and people are willing to welcome strangers and engage with them! Newcastle’s size, affordability and friendliness mean that people feel comfortable moving here, and embracing a new life with so many possibilities. Personally I’ve found it perfect for raising my two boys. I value the local community, access to different social groups, the feeling of safety, and a population that feels familiar.
Meeting friends at Momo Wholefood Newcastle. Photo by Lee Illfield for Makers X Traders of Newcastle.
You are the photographer for Makers X Traders of Newcastle, a collective of like-minded, creative, community focussed independent businesses. What have you learnt about Newcastle from working with these businesses?
They are first and foremost my friends and great people!! Newcastle’s heart and soul comes from the independent businesses and the people that patronise them. The conversations and connections that are made in these places weave a beautiful web around the city. Often on foot, you can run into multiple people in a day!
Popolo Artisan Gelateria - Photo by Lee Illfield for Makers X Traders of Newcastle
Meeting local creatives on a Newcastle Afoot walking tour. Photo by Lee Illfield.
What's your favourite fact or story from Newcastle's past?
The change that has been experienced by my generation, from industry to community, with the main industry shutting down. The cleanliness of the city!
Where is the most photographic place for visitors to go in Newcastle?
Newcastle Ocean Baths at sunrise!! It’s like heaven. Any Newcastle beach, really. The hours I have spent capturing amazing families in locations with such beautiful energy and connection - we all love the beach! (Lee also regularly visits the Bogie Hole and Bar Beach with her friends)
What are your top 5 tips for things to do in Newcastle?
Get on a bike!!! Ride as much of the coast as you can. Newcastle bike paths are great. Stop at all of the cafes along the way, and talk to the people that are sitting there. I’ll talk to you if you run into me!!
The Newcastle Farmers Markets on a Sunday
Newcastle Afoot walking tours of course!
Catch the ferry over to Stockton
Bombala walking track in Glenrock State Conservation Area, less than 10km out of the city
Top tip for Newcastle - Having a chat at the beach! Photo by Lee Illfield for Hello Newy East
See more of Lee’s view of Newcastle at her photography website leeillfieldphotographer.com