Stockton NSW 2295
Pic: Stockton Beach
Stockton is a Newcastle waterside suburb located 20 km from the CBD by road or 5 min by ferry. Original inhabitants were the Worimi Aborigines with European settlement beginning around 1830s. Early industries included salt works, tin smelter and a textile factory. The area was notorious for shipwrecks and the 'Adolphe' wreck (1904) can still be seen from the breakwater. Today this picturesque and relaxed area is a haven for surfers (30 km of beaches), fishermen (river, beach, harbour, deep sea fishing and 2 boat ramps) and holiday makers. Another popular activity is birdwatching on Stockton sandspit, part of the Kooragang Nature Reserve. Keen birdwatchers can obtain keys to the observation hide from the Fern Bay Store. Stockton Beach has largest mobile sand mass in NSW. No lifeguards, but 4WD and dogs allowed. 
Accommodation: Stockton has a motel, 2 hotels, a B&B, a caravan park and a backpackers.
Visitor Information Centre: 363 Hunter St, Newcastle. Tel (02) 4974 2999 or 1800 654 558.

Airport: Newcastle Airport (NTL) – Williamtown RAAF Base, off Nelson Bay Rd. Tel (02) 4928 9800. (16 km north).
Hospitals: Mater Hospital, Edith St, Waratah. Tel (02) 4921 1211. (15 km west); John Hunter Hospital, Lookout Rd, New Lambton Heights. Tel (02) 4921 3000. (19 km west).

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