Dudley, New South Wales facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Dudley Newcastle, New South Wales
Dudley Location in the Hunter-Central Coast Region
Population	2,505 (2021 census)
• Density	491/km2 (1,270/sq mi)
Postcode(s)	2290
Area	5.1 km2 (2.0 sq mi)
Location	13 km (8 mi) SW of Newcastle 4 km (2 mi) SE of Charlestown
LGA(s)	City of Lake Macquarie
Parish	Kahibah
State electorate(s)	Charlestown
Federal Division(s)	Shortland
Suburbs around Dudley: Whitebridge Whitebridge Gateshead Dudley Pacific Ocean Redhead Redhead

Dudley is a cool coastal suburb located south of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. It's about 13 kilometers (8 miles) southwest of Newcastle's main city area. Dudley sits on the eastern side of Lake Macquarie and is part of the City of Lake Macquarie. It's a great place with a rich history and a strong community spirit.

A Glimpse into Dudley's Past

The very first people to live in this area were the Awabakal Aboriginal people. They have a deep connection to this land.

Dudley started as a town focused on mining. People dug for coal here. After World War II, Dudley grew and changed. It became the friendly suburb we know today.

Dudley Public School: A Place of Heroes

Dudley Public School first opened its doors in 1892. Many students have passed through its halls. Two former students even received the Victoria Cross. This is the highest award for bravery in the British military.

In 1976, a special library was opened at the school. It's called the Jeffries and Currey Memorial Library. It was named after these two brave former students. Sir Roden Cutler, who was the Governor of New South Wales, opened the library. He had also received the Victoria Cross.

The names of Clarence Jeffries and William Currey are on the school's honor board. This board also lists 93 other former students who served in the First World War. Sadly, 19% of them did not return home. This was a huge contribution from a small school and community back then.