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Moments worth flying for: Brisbane's big event season is calling

20 July, 2026
5 minutes

Blue-sky days, riverfront dining, live music, big sport and a packed events calendar. Brisbane is putting on a show over the next few months...

Blue-sky days, riverfront dining, live music, big sport and a packed events calendar. Brisbane is putting on a show over the next few months. Whether you’re after a family getaway, foodie weekend or festival escape, flying direct from Newcastle means you swap the highway for the runway and start your Brisbane getaway sooner.

Key event dates:

Night Feast: 29 July – 23 August
The Book of Morman: 31 July – 4 October
Broncos v Knights: 1 August
Ekka: 8-16 August
BIGSOUND: 1-4 September
Brisbane Festival: 4-27 September
Make, Believe, Magic: The Worlds of The Jim Henson Company: From 12 September
Bridge to Brisbane: 13 September
Vietjet Redcliffe KiteFest: 19-20 September
Commbank Socceroos v Brazil: 29 September
Melt Festival: 21 October - 8 November
Good Food & Wine Show Brisbane: 23-25 October
Rugby League World Cup 2026: Men’s Australia v Fiji: 25 October

Family fun, food and festivals

Ekka returns from 8-16 August bringing animals, rides showbags, entertainment and plenty of nostalgia to the city. Meanwhile Night Feast (29 July – 23 August) lights up Brisbane with street food, live entertainment and after-dark experiences. The Book of Morman runs through to 4 October, offering the perfect excuse for a theatre weekend paired with Brisbane’s dining and riverfront lifestyle.

September in full swing

BIGSOUND (1-4 September) brings emerging artists and industry energy to Fortitude Valley, while Brisbane Festival (4-27 September) fills the city with theatre, music, art and the spectacular Riverfire on 5 September.

From 12 September, GOMA hosts the Make, Believe, Magic: The Worlds of The Jim Henson Company, celebrating 70 years of beloved characters and storytelling.

For active travellers, Bridge to Brisbane on 13 September offers a unique way to experience the city, while Vietjet Redcliffe KiteFest (19-20 September) delivers giant kites, food trucks and family fun by Moreton Bay.

Food, culture and sport in October

Melt Festival (21 October - 8 November) showcases queer arts, culture and community across Brisbane, while the Good Food & Wine Show (23-25 October) serves up tastings, demonstrations and gourmet discoveries.

Then on 25 October, Suncorp Stadium hosts Australia v Fiji in the Rugby League World Cup 2026, a brilliant reason to make a weekend of it.

Make a Brisbane getaway of it

With major events running from August through October, Brisbane makes trip planning easy. Come for a festival, stay for the food, culture, live music and sunshine.

However you build your itinerary, Brisbane is ready when you are, so Fly the Newy Way.

Fly to Brisbane 7 days a week

Brisbane

How long is the flight from Newcastle to Brisbane?

The average flight time from Newcastle Airport (NTL) to Brisbane Airport (BNE) is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for travellers.

How often do flights operate from Newcastle to Brisbane?

There are up to 7 direct flights per day from Newcastle to Brisbane. This frequent schedule allows you to choose a flight time that best suits your itinerary.

Which airlines operate direct flights from Newcastle to Brisbane?

You can fly directly from Newcastle to Brisbane with Jetstar, QantasLink, and Virgin Australia. These airlines offer multiple daily flights, providing flexibility for both leisure and business travellers.

What are the typical departure times for these flights?

Flights from Newcastle to Brisbane typically depart between 6:00 AM and 7:35 PM. However, departure times can vary depending on the day and airline, so it's advisable to check the specific schedule for your travel date.

How far is Brisbane Airport from the city centre?

Brisbane Airport (BNE) is located about 20 minutes’ drive from Brisbane’s city centre. Airport transport options include rental cars, Airtrain, shuttle buses, taxis and rideshare services.

What are the top things to do in Brisbane?

South Bank Parklands: Relax at Brisbane’s inner-city beach and riverside park.
Story Bridge Climb: Take in panoramic views of the city skyline.
Mount Coot-tha Lookout: The best spot for sunrise or sunset views.
Brisbane Riverwalk & CityCat Ferry: Scenic ways to explore the city.
Queen Street Mall & Fortitude Valley: The go-to spots for shopping and nightlife.

What transport options are available from Brisbane Airport?

Brisbane Airport offers multiple transport options, including:

Airtrain: A fast rail connection to the city (20-minute journey).
Taxis & Rideshare: Rideshare and taxis are available outside both terminals.
Shuttle Buses: Direct services to hotels and regional areas.
Car Rentals: Major rental companies operate from Brisbane Airport.

Why should I fly from Newcastle to Brisbane instead of driving?

Flying from Newcastle to Brisbane saves over 9 hours of driving time. With up to 7 daily flights, you can skip the long road trip and enjoy a smooth, stress-free travel experience from Newcastle Airport’s easy parking and quick check-in.

How do I book flights from Newcastle to Brisbane?

You can book flights directly through airline websites, your preferred travel booking platform or your local travel agent. Book today and make your Brisbane getaway a breeze!

Are there business-friendly flights from Newcastle to Brisbane?

Yes! With multiple daily flights operated by major airlines, business travellers can fly out early in the morning and return the same day. Brisbane Airport also has business lounges and fast transport options to the city.

What are some great day trips from Brisbane?

Brisbane is the perfect base for exploring nearby attractions, including:

Moreton Island & North Stradbroke Island: Stunning beaches, marine life, and sand dunes.
Scenic Rim & Mount Tamborine: Rainforests, waterfalls, and wineries.
Sunshine Coast or Gold Coast: Both just over an hour away, offering iconic beaches and national parks.

Newcastle Airport

Newcastle Airport is the gateway to Australia’s largest regional economy, with more than $95.6 billion in annual gross regional product and over 59,500 businesses. Jointly owned by City of Newcastle and Port Stephens Council, we are governed by an independent, skills-based Board of Directors.