Hi Lain, as mentioned Newcastle light polution extends for a great distance so usually a trip of around 1hr gets you to dark sites however i have setup my scope in areas around 30 to 45 mins from Newcastle with semi dark sky (Mulbring sports field, Wybung area at Mummorah recreation reserve) there may be many more areas within 30 mins but usually not dark just semi dark.
Try looking at the light pollution map at
www.darksitefinder.com