Hidden Gems on Campus

Next time you have some spare time on campus, why not explore Keighley Bradford’s list of hidden campus gems.

For most of us, we go to UON to attend class, meet up with study mates, and perhaps grab a latte or some lunch along the way. We might take a break if something cool is on, like weekly BBQs or live music in the courtyard.

But usually, after a few weeks into the semester, we have established a routine that we won’t often break. So, for those of you who are new to campus, or haven’t done much exploring, we challenge you to take a walk around campus and observe some of the cool hidden gems UON has to offer.

Callaghan Campus

The Disco Ball

This hidden gem will have you memorised for hours if you happen to stumble upon it. Nestled in a mysterious corner at the end of a magical stairwell, it’s definitely a mood booster to lift those spirits up when you’re feeling down.

Located: Auchmuty Library

The Swing

Let your inner child run wild at the swing set by the Bakehouse. It’s the perfect place to kick back and let loose when uni stress is bringing you down. Soar high into the sky and let those worries fly away!

Located: Greenspace near Uni Bakehouse

The Chessboard

Take a break with your mates by chilling out on the campus green and playing a game of chest.

Located: Greenspace next to the Social Science Building

GLAMx Lab

The ‘Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums’ Lab offers students with work-integrated learning programs the opportunity to work in the digitisation lab, adding to UON’s Living Histories/Cultural Collections while developing their skill sets for employability.

If you like GLAM things, then pop follow Living Histories / Cultural Collections on Instagram to see the work that GLAMx Lab does. Why not send them a DM to see if you can check the place out?

Located: Level 3 (L329) Auchmuty Library

Wetland Pavilion (via Don Morris Walk)

Known as one of the most beautiful spots on campus, this wetland pavilion is a nice place to chill out while overlooking the swamp. Just watch out for the mozzies when they’re out.

Located: Halfway along Don Morris Walk, behind Engineering

Rooftop Terrance

Need a place to study? Like the outdoors without the grass? There is a quiet space on a rooftop all done up for your studying needs.

Located: Level 4, Auchmuty Library

Design Road

Take a short stroll along Design Road on your way to class. As the name implies, there are a few of artsy things decorating the area that you can check out.

Located: Design Rd (Hunter-side)

NU Space

The Bogey Hole

Yes, you’ve read that right. UON has its very own Boggy Hole! The campus café is an odd shape, don’t you think? That’s because if you look at it from another perspective, it’s shape has been designed to symbolise Newcastle’s iconic swimming hole.

Located: Campus Cafe (on the Roof), Ground Floor

Ourimbah

The Duck

Three words: Giant inflatable duck.

Okay, so we don’t know how frequently UON puts the inflatable duck out on the Campus Green, but we’ve heard rumblings that our Ourimbah friends have plenty of real-life ducks waddling around the campus too. I mean, it’s not the same, but it’s better than nothing.

Located: Campus Green (selected dates)

Feature Image: Dasiy Peachman, Yak Media Designer
All Illustrations: Dasiy Peachman, Yak Media Designer