Bar on the Hill & UNSA
Live on the Hill
Hockey Dad + Jem Cassar-Daley + Loons + The Sweet Heaps + Nina Romeru
Newcastle University - Bar On The Hill (Newcastle, NSW)
Friday, 30 January 2026 6:00 pm
Bar on the Hill is set to ignite the start of the 2026 University of Newcastle calendar, bringing back its biggest welcome week celebration in decades. Formerly known as the O’Ball, the event has been reimagined for 2026 as Live on the Hill, marking a bold return to the venue’s legendary live music roots.
Taking place Friday 30th January, 2026, Live on the Hill will feature a stacked lineup led by surf-rock favourites Hockey Dad, known for their filthy riffs and sing-along anthems. They’ll be joined by rising indie-pop star Jem Cassar-Daley, local high-energy indie outfit Loons, plus locals The Sweet Heaps, and Nina Romeru.
The party will sprawl across the venue with two stages, 12 hometown DJs, and a late-night silent disco, creating a multi-zone festival atmosphere. With a mix of national talent, emerging artists, and local heroes, Live on the Hill promises to deliver a vibrant, diverse, and unforgettable start to the academic year.
Tickets go on sale Thursday 11th December for UoN Students and the General Public.