Trivia & Cosplay Extravaganza – A Celebration of Fun, Inclusion, and Community!

Three young people dressed in Cosplay


The Trivia & Cosplay Extravaganza on 22 February was a wonderful success, bringing together 43 enthusiastic participants for an unforgettable evening of fun, creativity, and community spirit at The Place Charlestown.

The event was a true celebration of inclusion and individuality, with participants of all ages and abilities joining in the excitement. From the moment the first trivia question was asked to the final round of applause for the best costumes, the atmosphere was buzzing with laughter, teamwork, and friendly competition.


Cosplay Magic & Trivia Brilliance


The cosplay showcase was nothing short of spectacular! Attendees arrived dressed as their favourite superheroes, anime icons, and fantasy legends, transforming the venue into a colourful and dynamic world of imagination. The level of effort and creativity in the costumes was incredible, and it was heart warming to see the joy and excitement on participants' faces.

Meanwhile, the trivia challenge put everyone’s knowledge to the test, covering topics from pop culture and movies to anime and fantasy worlds. Whether competing in teams or as individuals, players engaged in lively discussions, strategic thinking, and plenty of laughs, making the competition a highlight of the evening.


Community Praise & Positive Feedback


The event was met with resoundingly positive feedback, with many attendees already looking forward to the next one! Some of the fantastic comments from participants included:

💬 “This was an amazing idea and fun for the whole family and community!”
💬 “Fantastic! Thank you so much for a fantastic event!”
💬 “Loved it! Great for teens!”


A Program for Inclusion and Connection


This fantastic event was proudly part of the Place Based Abilities (PBA) Program, which is offered by The Place in collaboration with ReadyUp Skills. The PBA Program is designed to create inclusive, community-driven experiences that encourage participation, skill-building, and connection for young people of all abilities.


We are grateful to everyone who participated, dressed up, played, and supported the event. A huge thank you to our PBA participants and team who made the night run smoothly—it wouldn’t have been possible without you!


The Trivia & Cosplay Extravaganza was more than just a night of fun; it was a testament to the power of community, creativity, and inclusion. We can’t wait for our next event!


Stay tuned for future events, and if you missed out this time—don’t worry, there will be more chances to join in the fun!


The Place Based Abilities Program runs consistently and participants can join at any stage. The groups meet weekly during the school term, on Monday and Thursday afternoons at The Place:


The 10-16 age group meets on Thursdays from 4pm - 7pm - REGISTER HERE


The 17-25 age group meets on Mondays from 4:30pm - 7:30pm - REGISTER HERE


You can also contact us on (02) 4032 5500 to find out more and register.


This program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. Visit www.dss.gov.au for more information.

by Cristelle Govender 28 November 2025
As we reach the end of another year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we have achieved together. 2025 has been a year of connection, resilience, and community spirit at The Place Charlestown Community Centre. Whether you participated in a program, volunteered your time, partnered with us, or simply walked through our doors with a smile, your contribution has helped make our Centre a welcoming and vibrant space for all. This year has also highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by many in our community. Cost-of-living pressures, social isolation, and complex life circumstances continue to impact people in different ways. Yet, despite these realities, we have witnessed incredible compassion, generosity, and strength from individuals and groups across our community. As we enter the festive season, I encourage everyone to take the time to “fill your cup”, to rest, recharge, and spend time with those who lift you up. It’s important to look after ourselves so that we can continue to support others. At the same time, Christmas can be a difficult period for many. There are those who may be grieving, feeling lonely, or facing financial or emotional hardship. Let’s keep these community members in our thoughts and extend kindness wherever we can. A small gesture, a smile, a conversation, a check-in, a helping hand, can make a far bigger difference than we realise. Thank you for being part of our community this year. Your presence enriches The Place and strengthens the fabric of connection we are proud to foster. We look forward to sharing a new year filled with possibility, hope, and continued collaboration. Wishing you a safe, peaceful, and meaningful holiday season. Cristelle and the team at The Place
by Cristelle Govender 28 November 2025
Reconnect with the paths that matter most to you!
by Cristelle Govender 5 November 2025
A FREE Vibrant Celebration For All!
by Cristelle Govender 5 November 2025
Every community has a story and now there’s a place to tell it!
by Cristelle Govender 5 November 2025
AEDC Community Mapping Session
by Cristelle Govender 31 October 2025
*Terms & Conditons Apply*
by Cristelle Govender 30 October 2025
Date: Thursday 4th December 2025 Time: 5pm - 6:30pm (arrive from 4:45pm) Cost: FREE Tickets: HERE Are you a Hunter Region STEM educator with an interest in building your professional connections? Join in the launch of the Hunter Region STEM Network! Connect with fellow educators, get hands-on with STEM activities, and boost your STEM teaching confidence. Meet other educators and build your professional networks, engage in hands-on STEM activities, and discuss classroom implementation, gain insights into high quality STEM resources and programs, access Q.Ed Community, Questacon’s Education Community of Practice. With the support of local educators, Questacon facilitates state-based STEM network meetings, connecting educators with each other, with resources, and with the local STEM community. Each meeting you’ll hear from local educators about their classroom practice, connect to your local Questacon Regional Leader, complete a creative hands-on STEM activity, and explore how you can extend and enrich your STEM teaching. Things to know: Suitable for NSW primary and high school teachers, school lab techs, pre-service teachers and outreach educators, as well as those with an interest in STEM education Meetings are FREE to attend, but registration is essential to secure your spot Afternoon tea provided If the location or dates don’t suit you, you can express your interest in future opportunities via the application form Meetings are held each term, but places are limited. About the Program: Questacon Regional Leaders are in every state and territory, building networks of educator communities across the country. Q.Ed community is a hub for state-based communities of practice led by teachers and facilitated by Questacon. With regular, in-person and virtual meets, a Teams channel to chat, professional learning resources and grab'n’go activities and more, Q.Ed community gives you the access, networking and resources to elevate your STEM classroom, wherever you are. For more information contact: teachers@questacon.edu.au or view the event on the Questacon website
by Cristelle Govender 22 October 2025
Experience a spooky Halloween Heist and help to solve the mystery!
by Cristelle Govender 3 October 2025
A Monster Bash For All!
by Cristelle Govender 3 October 2025
Are You Ready To Power Through Menopause?
Show More