Newcastle Entertainment Centre is hosting its first major event since COVID-19 and what better event to kick off with than one that celebrates Lego.
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Matthew Johns loves it, kids love it and turns out other grown ups love it too.
"About 15 per cent of our visitors are adults," says Tim McGregor, the managing director of TEG Live, which is running the Brickman event.
"They appreciate the technical expertise and come and marvel at these models."
And the models are definitely something to marvel at. They've been put together by Ryan 'The Brickman' McNaught - Australian Lego certified professional and judge on the hit TV show Lego Masters.
"People who come along can be forgiven for thinking they've stepped inside a Lego zoo," Tim said.
"There's kangaroos, a full-sized crocodile weighing 60 kilograms and a three-metre tall orcha whale - which point of order, was made from Duplo. I give him a bit because it's made from Duplo."
But what is it about the little coloured bricks that's so appealing? A Lego store opened at Charlestown last month to huge fanfare among young and old alike.
"It's one of those really strong brands that's stood the test of time," Tim said. "It was really elevated through the films and Lego Masters.
"It's fun, it's educational and it's practical."
Tim also says checking out the display is also the perfect way to cure those lockdown blues.
"People have been trapped in their homes, they're looking for a bit of fun. This will bring a bit of light and sunshine into their lives.
"This is our first event in six months and we're absolutely delighted to have the show open to the general public."
The exhibition is on at the entertainment centre until October 18. Tickets are available via Ticketek.
Golden retrievers and golden oldies get together
The RSCPA Hunter shelter is also throwing its doors open this Saturday. But it's not for young families and couples - it's specifically for seniors.
The open day is promoting the idea of leaving a gift to the association in your will, and RSPCA gift in wills manager Helen Trussler says the people who are thinking about that most are people 55 years plus.
"It's not really 20-year-olds thinking about that," she said.
It's the first time the shelter is having a seniors day, but Helen said feedback already had been positive.
You see, there aren't too many functions around that are catered towards the oldies.
"They're a part of the community left behind with events," Helen said. "There's nothing targeting their specific age group.
"We really, really value that part of the community. Many of them have supported us for a long time. I met someone who started supporting us when she was 10 and shaking the tin and now she's 85 and is leaving us a gift.
"It's a chance for us to say thanks."
There's a booking system for the day, so it's COVID-19 safe, and the shelter will be running its "seniors for seniors" 50 per cent off adoption deal.
Yep, that's matching senior humans with golden oldie pets - eight years plus for dogs and 10 plus for cats.
"It can be an important time to own a pet," Helen said. "Plus a lot of the older dogs and cats are left behind because everyone wants young animals.
"The lifestyle is a perfect match."
The open day runs 10am-2pm at the shelter in Rutherford. Book your spot online through Eventbrite.